With the summer vacation halfway through, the academic year 1448 AH will start on Sunday, August 24, 2026, as international travel bookings peak during the first half of August, in a race to seize the last days of the holiday before school begins.

Based on booking indicators from Saudi travel companies, increased seat capacity on several international routes, and opinions from tourism and travel specialists, five destinations top Saudis' choices in August, thanks to moderate weather, availability of direct flights or easy air connections, and diverse tourism options that suit various budgets.

Turkey:

Turkey continues to top the list of favorite destinations for Saudis in August, supported by frequent direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah, along with diverse tourism options between coastal and mountain cities.

Istanbul, Trabzon, Rize, Uzungöl, and Bursa attract thousands of Saudi families seeking moderate weather and green nature, while Turkish resorts continue to offer competitive summer deals, making them the first choice before returning to schools.

Egypt:

Egypt ranks second, driven by high demand for the North Coast and New Alamein, which are at their peak tourism season in August, along with continued demand for Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Hurghada.

The significant increase in flights between the Kingdom and Egyptian cities this summer has facilitated travel, making Egypt one of the most attractive destinations for Saudi families, especially with diverse resorts and prices.

London:

Despite high travel costs, London continues to maintain its position as one of the most attractive European destinations for Saudis, especially for families who prefer to spend the last days of summer in moderate weather that combines shopping and entertainment.

Many travelers are keen to combine London with other European cities in one trip before returning to the Kingdom in preparation for the start of school.

France:

France continues to maintain its place among the top European destinations for Saudis in August, with moderate weather in Paris, rural areas, and southern France. Visitors flock to the French capital for shopping and cultural landmarks, while cities like Nice, Cannes, and Annecy attract families seeking nature and summer activities, supported by direct flights from the Kingdom.

Maldives:

The Maldives maintains its presence among the most requested destinations for Saudis, especially for couples, newlyweds, and families seeking privacy and tranquility. Luxury resorts overlooking the Indian Ocean provide an exceptional experience, while direct flights and connections via Gulf carriers have boosted demand during the summer season.

Booking Trends:

The results of a survey conducted by 'Sabq' covering more than 60 travel and tourism companies and agencies in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Khobar, and Madinah confirmed that Turkey, Egypt, Britain, France, and the Maldives indeed top booking requests during August as the return to school approaches. Travel company officials stated that demand is mainly focused on Saudi families wishing to make the most of the last weeks of summer vacation, noting that bookings on these destinations are seeing high rates thanks to the availability of direct flights, diverse accommodation options, and summer offers from airlines and hotels during this period, as well as flexibility in travel options that suit different segments of travelers.

A number of travel agents confirm that the period from August 1 to 15 represents the peak of summer bookings, while the wave of return to the Kingdom begins from mid-August, in preparation for the start of the academic year on August 24.

They pointed out that airfare and accommodation prices usually rise during the first two weeks of August before starting to decline as the return to school approaches, which prompts many families to book early to secure the best prices and options.