Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector enters Ramadan 2026 with extraordinary momentum after welcoming 122 million visitors during 2025. This remarkable achievement represents a 5% year-on-year increase and generated SR300 billion in tourism spending nationwide. Consequently, the Kingdom accelerates confidently toward its ambitious Vision 2030 target of attracting 150 million annual visitors by decade’s end. Welcome to Arabia, the consumer brand of Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), launched exclusive travel packages on 26 January to showcase authentic Ramadan hospitality.
The “Embrace the Radiance of Ramadan Lights” campaign features over 35 meticulously curated packages across more than 12 premium properties. Travelers can now access significant savings of up to 35% at world-renowned resorts including Banyan Tree AlUla and Desert Rock. These offers unlock immersive experiences at Saudi Arabia’s most iconic destinations such as The Red Sea giga-project and the ancient heritage site of AlUla. Furthermore, visitors will witness illuminated night markets, festive streetscapes, and deeply rooted cultural traditions across Riyadh, Jeddah, and historic Diriyah.
Authentic Spiritual Experiences Define the Season
Abdullah Al-Dakhil, spokesperson for the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the campaign’s cultural significance during its launch announcement. “Saudi welcomes travellers with an invitation to discover more and connect with the true essence of Ramadan, a season defined by tranquillity, reflection, and the warmth of shared moments.” His remarks highlight how Saudi Arabia uniquely blends spiritual contemplation with vibrant community celebrations during Islam’s holiest month.
Ramadan 2026 begins approximately 18 February, offering visitors moderate fasting hours of 12 to 13 hours daily across the Kingdom. Therefore, travelers can comfortably experience pre-dawn suhoor gatherings, sunset iftars beneath starlit skies, and post-evening Taraweeh prayers in historic mosques. Meanwhile, Diriyah’s Layali Diriyah festival transforms Bujairi Terrace into a lantern-lit wonderland featuring heritage trails, traditional coffee ceremonies, and artistic installations beneath ancient palm trees. AlUla anticipates record visitor numbers this year as its Phase Two development prioritizes deeper cultural immersion over mere volume.
Vision 2030 Tourism Transformation
Saudi Arabia’s tourism revolution continues reshaping the national economy as visitor spending climbs toward the 10% GDP contribution target by 2030. The Kingdom’s strategic focus on regenerative tourism distinguishes destinations like The Red Sea, where 16 luxury resorts prioritize environmental stewardship alongside unparalleled guest experiences. Additionally, AlUla’s Royal Commission invests $3.73 billion annually to develop sustainable infrastructure that honors 200,000 years of human history while welcoming global travelers.
These Ramadan offers represent more than seasonal promotions; they showcase Saudi Arabia’s successful transformation into a year-round global tourism destination. International visitors increasingly recognize the Kingdom’s unique ability to offer spiritual depth alongside world-class hospitality and natural wonders. As tourism creates 1.6 million jobs by 2030, local communities benefit directly from this economic diversification strategy.
The Saudi Tourism Authority invites travelers worldwide to witness firsthand how tradition and innovation harmoniously coexist during this sacred season. For complete details about exclusive Ramadan packages and booking availability, visit the official Visit Saudi today.
