Saudis Search for International Flights Surge 33.58% This Winter

Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, said that the searches from international flights from Saudi Arabia have surged by 33.58% compared to last winter.

This growth is paired with an encouraging decrease in average costs, Wego said while unveiling the latest insights into the travel trends of Saudi travellers this winter. The data illustrates a significant increase in travel activity among Saudi travellers, reflecting a robust appetite for both regional and international destinations.

Wego’s analysis also reveals that flying this winter has been 25.47% cheaper compared to the summer 2024 peak season. However, y-o-y airfares remain stable, with a modest 3% decrease compared to last year.

The company was founded in 2005 and is dual headquartered in Dubai and Singapore with regional operations in Bangalore, Riyadh, Cairo, Lahore, and Kuala Lumpur.

Preferred Destinations

According to Wego’s latest search data, Egypt, Pakistan, and India have emerged as the top destinations for Saudi travellers this season, with Turkiye and the UAE following closely behind.

This pattern underscores a significant trend among Saudi residents many of whom are expatriates, opting to travel to their home countries for year-end holidays. These destinations offer the perfect opportunity for reconnecting with family and friends, celebrating cultural traditions, and immersing in familiar surroundings during the festive season.

Additionally, the popularity of Turkiye and the UAE reflects their appeal as versatile destinations that combine cultural familiarity with leisure attractions, excellent hospitality, and accessibility.

Turkiye continues to attract Saudi travellers with its blend of rich history, scenic landscapes, and diverse culinary offerings, while the UAE’s proximity, luxury experiences, and family-friendly attractions make it a perennial favourite for quick getaways.

The data indicates that year-end travel among Saudi residents is not only about leisure but also about creating meaningful connections and celebrating shared cultural experiences, making these destinations top choices for the festive season.

Wego also observed a growing interest among Saudi travellers in exploring distant destinations this winter. In Southeast Asia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Philippines are top picks, while over in Europe, the UK, Azerbaijan, and Italy pop up as the most popular destinations.

Saudi nationals benefit from visa exemptions or simplified visa procedures in many of these countries. Thailand, Indonesia, the UAE, the Philippines, and Turkiye offer visa-free entry for Saudi passport holders, while countries like Pakistan, India, Azerbaijan, and the UK require only an e-Visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), making it easier for travellers to plan international trips.

Mamoun Hmidan, chief business officer at Wego, said that the data shows a clear preference for both regional trips to family and culturally significant destinations, and international journeys that offer new experiences.

“With the rising interest in long-haul travel and easier visa processes, we anticipate continued growth in travel activity for the remainder of the season. Wego is committed to providing the best travel options and experiences for its users,” Hmidan added.