Riyadh, October 6, 2024 – The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has unveiled an exciting new initiative with the launch of the “Saudi Winter” events calendar, featuring a diverse array of activities and experiences set to unfold across seven key destinations in the Kingdom. Spanning from October 2024 through the end of the first quarter of 2025, this ambitious program aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's reputation as a premier tourist destination.
As part of the broader Saudi Winter Program for 2024-2025, the calendar boasts over 1,000 unique tourist experiences and events, complemented by more than 500 special offers. Key locations highlighted in this initiative include Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea, the Eastern Region, Madinah, and Hail. Notable seasons and events featured in the calendar encompass the highly anticipated Riyadh Season, Diriyah Season, AlUla Season, Madinah Season, and the Jeddah Calendar. Additionally, major international events such as the Dakar Rally, MDL Beast, Saudi Cruise, and the Islamic Arts Biennale are set to attract both local and international visitors. The program also promotes outdoor activities including hiking trails, camps, and caravans in some of the most picturesque winter destinations.
Tourists and visitors eager to explore the offerings of this year’s Saudi Winter Program can access the “Spirit of Saudi” platform. This digital resource showcases various offers, packages, and exclusive discounts designed to cater to diverse interests and preferences. The initial phase features over 50 special offers, developed in partnership with private sector collaborators, ensuring a rich array of options for all types of travelers.
During a recent workshop that brought together key stakeholders from the tourism industry, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the STA, announced the launch of the “Saudi Winter” program. He emphasized the collaborative efforts between government entities and private sector partners, stating, “With unprecedented support from the country's leadership for the tourism sector, we are proud to launch this year’s winter events calendar as part of the Saudi Winter Program. This initiative reflects our aspirations to achieve new record-breaking milestones, showcasing the continuous growth of the tourism sector and our ongoing campaigns aimed at both local and international markets.”
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and board member of the STA, also highlighted the impressive progress within the Saudi tourism sector. He noted that the sector has seen remarkable growth and record-breaking achievements through synergistic collaboration between public and private sectors. Hamidaddin welcomed tourists from around the globe, inviting them to experience the rich diversity of events and programs featured in this year’s Saudi Winter Program. He remarked that the number of global and specialized activities has tripled compared to last year, along with unprecedented offers and packages tailored to meet the needs of travelers from all demographics.
As Saudi Arabia continues to cultivate its position as a dynamic tourist destination, the Saudi Winter Program stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to providing enriching experiences that resonate with visitors and highlight the Kingdom's unique cultural and natural attractions.