Saudi’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’, is announcing “Where Winter Lights Up” – the second phase of the iconic global Saudi tourism campaign “This Land is Calling”.
Encouraging travelers from around the world to unearth Saudi’s legends and wonders this winter season, “Where Winter Lights Up”, is an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery across several destinations: Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Red Sea. The event calendar will run from October 2024 through the end of the first quarter of 2025.
At every turn, Saudi beckons with wonder – from sporting and entertainment events to immersive cultural and heritage experiences, Saudi’s calendar of events this season will bring the world together to enjoy a magical winter.
Visitors can escape the cold winter and be rejuvenated by sun, sea and thrilling events, and ultimately experience the generosity, joy and adventures that are intrinsically Saudi.
Repeatedly referenced as one of the best places to travel alone as a woman and an increasingly popular destination for those seeking authentic, immersive experiences, Saudi’s expansive geography, diverse terrain, and human and natural wonders await discovery.
From the clear turquoise waters of the Saudi Red Sea to the buzzing capital of Riyadh, and the cosmopolitan coastal cities of Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City, visitors can follow the sun to Saudi, and partake in much anticipated cornerstone events such as Riyadh Season, AlUla Festival and Events, Jeddah Calendar, Diriyah Season, Dakar Rally, Fontana Circus and MDLBEAST, joining the cheer and good vibes to create unforgettable memories.
This season marks the return of flagship annual events across Saudi’s ever-expanding calendar, including Riyadh Season, one of the world’s largest winter entertainment events in the bustling capital. This year, Boulevard Riyadh City and Boulevard World will feature a new 25,000 square meter Harry Potter Experience—the first of its kind in the capital and a must-visit for kids of all ages. Highlighting Riyadh Season’s sporting fixtures is the highly anticipated boxing heavyweight world title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, taking place on December 21 at Kingdom Arena.
Venues across Riyadh will celebrate the country’s rich Najdi heritage and dynamic spirit and offer visitors experiences at new destinations and luxurious new hotels. Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace will allow visitors to enjoy a savory selection of cuisine from around the globe at exclusive restaurants such as Maiz, which will serve traditional Saudi dishes such as Kabsa and feature a live station making Saudi bread.
In AlUla, visitors can enjoy the Ancient Kingdoms Festival from December 8, 2024, to January 7, 2025, celebrating the rich history and cultural heritage of the region with immersive experiences that include live performances, art installations, and culinary delights. The AlUla Wellness Festival will be held from January 18 to 20, 2025, focusing on holistic well-being and mindfulness, will offer workshops, fitness classes, and wellness retreats, providing a rejuvenating escape set against the stunning backdrop of AlUla’s breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the All Day I Dream experience is scheduled for March 1, 2025, promising a magical day filled with music, art, and community.
The perfect place to escape and rejuvenate, Saudi’s Red Sea coastline is dotted with world-class new luxury hotels including on the newly-opened Ummahat Islands, accessible only by seaplane or chartered boat, home to the St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East. Plus, the luxury NEOM resort of Sindalah is set to welcome guests later this year.
There are more iconic tourism offerings and immersive experiences than ever in 2024, with activities including serene wellness retreats, stargazing and beach horse riding, and itinerary items for thrill-seekers such as heritage diving, WingSUP (paddleboarding and kitesurfing), and the Bayada Island Snorkeling Boat Trip experience. There are things to do for every type of traveler, especially with Saudi Red Sea now being the first destination in the country to have its diving centres certified First PADI Adaptive Dive Centers.
Visit Riyadh’s At-Turaif, the 300-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site in Diriyah, and Historic Jeddah where history pulses through the walls of the intricately preserved UNESCO-protected Old Town. And don’t miss the Al Ahsa Oasis, one of the largest natural oases in the world, filled with date palm grove and natural springs.
As the Heart of Arabia, Saudi offers real cultural immersion – experience the country’s famed hospitality and meet the generous locals with an afternoon at a Saudi home in Riyadh, step back in time at a 150-year-old Hijazi house in Jeddah, and learn to cook traditional Hijazi food.
