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How Did the Nation's Vision Change Our Summer Vacation Map?

Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Ghamdi

Publication date: 12 July 2026 23:19 KSA

With the summer sun shining each year, the usual scene in Saudi streets was monotonous: crowded international airport lounges, hastily packed bags, tickets booked months in advance. The compass automatically pointed toward cold capitals or nearby beaches in search of moderate weather and entertainment, in a phenomenon that almost became a fixed annual ritual for Saudi families. But behind every story of transformation lies an inspiring vision. Today, as we live in the glow of the comprehensive renaissance of Saudi Vision 2030, the equation has completely changed and the scales have tipped. Domestic tourism has become the first and most attractive choice for both citizens and residents alike. When the traditional question 'Where are you spending your summer vacation?' is asked, the answer comes full of pride and honor. This transformation was not a coincidence, but rather the result of giant projects and advanced infrastructure that changed the features of Saudi cities. The capital Riyadh has turned into a non-stop hub of global events and entertainment centers that attract families all year round, while Jeddah continues to offer an exceptional coastal experience blending ancient history in its historical area with the charm of the Red Sea. On the other hand, our historic mountain resorts such as beautiful Abha, Al-Baha, and Taif (the Bride of Resorts) stand as ideal destinations offering pleasant weather, fog, and pristine nature. Added to this this year is a wide network of international hotels, luxury resorts, and integrated services that ensure privacy and comfort for families. On the other side, Dammam and Khobar in the Eastern Region offer waterfronts and unique entertainment projects that have made the Arabian Gulf an irresistible tourist destination, in addition to the futuristic city of NEOM... and the turquoise Red Sea coast in Umluj and Al Wajh. Indeed, the tourism renaissance has extended to AlUla, Hail, Jazan, Al-Ahsa, Al-Qassim, Tabuk, and other cities, presenting the Kingdom as an integrated tourism canvas combining history, culture, nature, entertainment, and adventure. The total number of domestic and inbound tourists in the Kingdom has jumped to exceed the 100 million tourist mark, achieving the Vision's targets seven years ahead of schedule, which prompted the wise leadership to raise the ceiling to 150 million tourists by 2030. Domestic tourists spent approximately 284 billion riyals, figures reflecting a real change in society's culture. Saudi families now find in the Kingdom's cities everything they used to seek abroad: international hotels, upscale resorts, diverse restaurants, entertainment events, cultural experiences, advanced road networks and airports, along with an invaluable factor: the sense of safety, comfort, and privacy. Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of domestic tourism is that it is not limited to enjoying the vacation, but contributes to supporting the national economy, creating job opportunities, and enhancing sustainable development in various regions. Today, we no longer need to cross oceans, as our dear homeland encapsulates the world in its cities and resorts, and the answer to the vacation question begins and ends here... in the land of the Kingdom.

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