As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to escape to one of the world’s most exciting emerging destinations. Whether you dream of a serene desert retreat or a vibrant urban getaway, Saudi Arabia offers exceptional stays and a calendar packed with world-class events through late 2025 and early 2026.

From desert adventures and cultural festivals to glamorous city experiences, this is the perfect moment to plan a holiday filled with family time, discovery, and indulgence. With plenty of seasonal offers and hotel promotions available, elevating your escape has never been easier.

Here’s your curated guide to the best places to stay and experiences you won’t want to miss:

1. The Red Sea: Serenity Meets Adventure: For those seeking complete disconnection, the Red Sea coast delivers dramatic landscapes, restorative wellness, and an ever-growing list of nature-immersive activities.

Where to stay

Six Senses Southern Dunes – A sanctuary tucked between sweeping dunes and mountain views.

Experience: Unwind in the stunning Wadi King or Twin Rooms with private terrace views of the majestic mountain ranges. The resort features a holistic spa offering desert meditation, yoga, quartz sand beds, and workshops where you can craft your own clean skincare products.

Dining: Savor ingredients grown in the Chef’s Garden at restaurants like Al Sarab and Bariya or join a wholesome cooking class.

What to do

Outdoor Adventure: Explore rocky desert trails with the Alsukhour Biking experience or take a guided Southern Dunes Hike.

Accessibility: The Red Sea destination is designed to be fully inclusive, offering bespoke therapeutic programs for guests with disabilities.

2. AlUla: Living History & Festivals: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living open-air museum, AlUla blends 200,000 years of history with modern luxury, bold architecture, and a vibrant festival season.

Where to stay

Banyan Tree AlUla: A desert oasis with private villas and one of the world’s most Instagrammable pools. Enjoy romantic experiences, spa treatments, and curated dining.

Habitas AlUla: A sustainable retreat infused with music, art, and community. Relax in an otherworldly spa, mix your own scrubs at the alchemy bar, and swim in a vast infinity pool against the desert rocks.

Event highlights (Winter 2025/2026)

• Winter at Tantora (18 Dec 2025 – 10 Jan 2026): The iconic festival featuring musical performances and immersive installations inspired by the ancient sundial.

• AlUla Arts Festival (5 Jan – 16 Feb 2026): A fusion of heritage and contemporary art with exhibitions and artist residencies.

• AlUla Skies Festival (16 Apr – 27 April 2026): Hot-air balloon flights and stargazing concerts.

3. Riyadh: Urban Luxury & Mega Entertainment: Saudi’s capital pulses with energy – glittering towers, cutting-edge entertainment, luxury shopping, and some of the region’s most exciting nightlife and dining. 

Where to stay

Jeddah: Art, Heritage & Coastal Living: Jeddah balances old-world charm in Al Balad with modern seaside luxury, dynamic dining, and a thriving arts scene.

4. Jeddah: Art, Heritage & Coastal Living: Jeddah balances old-world charm in Al Balad with modern seaside luxury, dynamic dining, and a thriving arts scene.

Where to stay

Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Saudi’s first art hotel, housing more than 2,000 original works. Enjoy rooftop pool views and great family offers like "Kids Stay and Eat Free" or discounts for 3-night stays.

Boutique Heritage Hotels (Al Balad): Stay in exquisitely restored family homes like Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al Rayess, and Beit Kedwan. Designed by historians and artists, these hotels offer authentic local food, rooftop stargazing, and personalized touches like incense scents.

What to do

Winter Wonderland (1 Dec 1 – 15 Jan): A winter-themed festive experience with rides, games, and attractions for all ages.

Must-do: Visit the Jeddah Open Air Museum on the waterfront and explore the buzzing markets of Souq Al Alawi in the UNESCO-protected Old Town.

Whether you are seeking luxury, adventure, heritage, or entertainment, Saudi Arabia promises a holiday season full of unforgettable moments for you and your loved ones. With its extraordinary lineup of events in the Saudi Unreal Calendar, running through late 2025 and early 2026, now is the perfect time to plan your getaway and experience a destination that is as dynamic as it is welcoming.

With a wide range of seasonal offers, your trip can be as indulgent or adventurous as you like.

Book your stay today and make this year’s festive break truly extraordinary.

About ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’

https://www.visitsaudi.com/en is a vibrant consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travelers to explore all the country has to offer. The brand's role is to drive forward the country’s tourism industry through awareness-raising campaigns and to provide a comprehensive array of information and resources for travelers to plan and enjoy unforgettable journeys. It aims to inspire travel to and within Saudi Arabia, enriching lives, and bridging cultures through the discovery of our unique wonders and warm hospitality. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi, the heart of Arabia, is the most exciting new year-round destination.