Saudi travellers are increasing embracing the spirit of exploration both domestically and internationally, as revealed in a new travel trend report by Almosafer, Saudi Arabia’s leading travel company. The report, unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, offers comprehensive insights into the booking habits and travel preferences of Saudi travellers based on proprietary booking data across Almosafer’s consumer travel platforms for the first four months of 2024.
“Almosafer’s travel trend report showcases a vibrant domestic and international tourism sector, while Saudi travellers continue to explore their own country and destinations further afield,” said Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer. “Our customers are finding more ways to get value from their trip, with convenience being a key factor in their travel decision-making. With affordable flight options, new accommodation offerings, and flexible payment options, there is nothing holding travellers back from going on trips and making lifetime memories.”
Dubai, Doha, Manama, Cairo, and Istanbul remain top international favourites among Saudi travellers. Meanwhile, there’s a noticeable increase in interest towards South Asia and the Far East, with Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok seeing a significant uptick in footfall. European capitals such as Madrid and Amsterdam are also emerging as trending destinations based on bookings made in early 2024.
Domestically, Makkah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Abha continue to draw the most Saudi travellers, but new hotspots like AlUla, Tabuk, and Hail are also gaining popularity. With 53% of total bookings across Almosafer’s platforms recorded for domestic travel, interest in exploring the Kingdom remains strong. This surge reflects the success of government and private-sector initiatives to boost local tourism, resulting in a 29% increase in total domestic booking volume across Almosafer channels.
Flights alone saw a 27% increase, while hotel bookings nearly doubled at 40%, showcasing robust domestic growth.
Saudi travellers are increasingly leveraging online booking channels, with 91% of bookings made through Almosafer’s web, app, or mobile platforms. For more complex itineraries or personal travel advice, travellers turn to retail channels, including branches, call centres, and WhatsApp, which accounts for 9% of total bookings.
Interestingly, 12% of retail bookings come via WhatsApp, which saw a 14% growth in volume this year. Apple Pay continues to grow in popularity (41% of all bookings in 2024 versus 36% in 2023), while Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) is gaining traction, making travel more accessible for new customer segments.
Luxury stays, but budget-friendly flights
Saudi travellers are keen to make the most of their breaks, with 51% of hotel bookings for 5-star properties. However, they are also taking advantage of budget-friendly flight options. Data shows a jump from 55% in 2023 to 62% in 2024 in travellers opting to fly low-cost.
Internationally, 46% of total bookings this year were for low-cost carriers compared to 44% in 2023. Domestically, low-cost carrier bookings increased from 68% in 2023 to 72% in 2024.
Recommendations from peers are also gaining traction, with 48% of online travellers interacting with hotel reviews to ensure their chosen property offers value for money.
Apartment rentals and aparthotels offer a convenient alternative to hotels, especially in destinations with lower hotel availability or for a more flexible, affordable stay. Aparthotels saw a 73% growth in booking volume for international stays and an 84% increase domestically.
Key domestic destinations like Riyadh (+31%), Jeddah (+134%), and Al Khobar (+43%) are seeing tremendous growth in alternative accommodation bookings. Internationally, Dubai (+43%), Manama (+60%), and Doha (+29%) are also experiencing significant growth.
Saudi travellers are making the most of local activities, with concert tickets, Riyadh season passes, and access to attractions among the most in-demand experiences. The average booking window for these is as short as 3.5 days. Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Dammam are the top cities for leisure activities domestically, while international travellers are booking activities in Dubai, Bangkok, Phuket, and Abu Dhabi.
View the full report HERE.
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