To many Westerners, Saudi Arabia might seem like an unfamiliar choice for a holiday, but for Malaysians, particularly Muslims, it has always been high on the list of dream destinations. Home to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, where the Kaa’bah is located (which serves as the exact point that Muslims all around the world face when performing their prayers), the kingdom welcomes millions of Muslim pilgrims each year, including a significant number from Malaysia.
However, there’s a new chapter unfolding for Saudi Arabia: the kingdom has embarked on a bold mission to diversify its economy away from oil, investing a staggering $800 billion into its tourism sector through multiple giga projects. And it’s already paying off. Since opening its doors to international visitors in 2019, Saudi Arabia has become one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). In 2023, the country had achieved an impressive milestone: over 100 million visitors, smashing its national tourism target a full seven years ahead of schedule.
During the recent Saudi Travel Fair 2024 at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, I had the pleasure of catching up with Mr Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of the Asia-Pacific markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority. His excitement about Saudi Arabia’s evolution as a leisure destination was palpable.
“We’ve been fortunate to welcome millions of Malaysian pilgrims over the years for Hajj and Umrah,” he said. “But now we’re ready to introduce Saudi Arabia as a leisure destination to the world. We believe it’s a fantastic destination for Malaysian families to relax and be entertained.”
And he’s absolutely right. One of the crown jewels in Saudi Arabia’s giga projects is The Red Sea Project. This ultra-luxury initiative aims to develop 90 islands along the kingdom’s western coast, powered entirely by renewable energy. By 2030, the project is set to include hotels, world-class diving centres, a marina, a golf course, high-end shopping, and dining experiences. Three exclusive resorts have already opened their doors: The St. Regis Red Sea Resort; Nujuma (a Ritz Carlton Reserve); and Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea.
“The Red Sea is renowned worldwide as a top diving destination,” Mr Alhasan shared. “Its rich marine life, including endangered species of turtles, makes it an underwater paradise for divers and snorkellers.”
But don’t think Saudi Arabia is resting on its laurels. The kingdom has its sights set on attracting a wide range of visitors with diverse interests. Mr. Alhasan explained that Saudi Arabia is home to over 10,000 archaeological sites just waiting to be explored, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Al Balad in Jeddah, the ancient city of Hegra in AlUla, and Turaif in Diriyah – the birthplace of the Saudi state.
For sports enthusiasts, the kingdom has firmly planted itself on the global stage, hosting the Jeddah Grand Prix since 2021, the Esports World Cup, and recently clinching the bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034. There’s just something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker.
“And most importantly,” Mr Alhasan added with a smile, “Saudi people are incredibly welcoming. We want everyone to come and discover the hidden gems of our country. No matter your background, nationality, religion, or language, you’ll be greeted with warmth and hospitality.”
Safety is naturally a top priority for any traveller, and Saudi Arabia takes this very seriously. According to Numbeo’s safety index, the kingdom ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. When it comes to accessibility, things have never been easier, especially for Malaysians. Saudi Arabia’s e-visa programme covers 66 countries, including Malaysia, allowing multiple entries over 12 months. Malaysian passport holders with valid UK, Schengen, or US visas are also eligible for e-visas or visas on arrival. Applications are quick and can be completed online in minutes.
For those looking to break up a long-haul flight, Saudi Arabia’s new 96-hour Stopover Visa is the perfect solution. It allows travellers to explore the kingdom for a few days, even squeezing in a visit to perform Umrah. And if you’re already planning your Umrah, know that your visa will also grant access to regions beyond Makkah and Madinah.
Before wrapping up my chat with the ever-charming Mr Alhasan, who is an intrepid traveller himself, I had to ask: what’s his favourite experience that one ought to try when in Saudi Arabia?
“I’m a fan of road trips,” he revealed. “There’s a fantastic route from Jeddah that takes you south, passing through At-Turaif, and on to Al Bahah and Abha. As you travel along the route, you’ll notice the landscape turning greener and the weather becoming cooler. It’s a breathtaking journey, full of charming villages and friendly locals.”
With Saudi Arabia now open for exploration year-round, there’s never been a better time to discover this rising destination. Head over to visitsaudi.com and start planning!
Filed in: saudi arabia
