Saudi Travelers Gravitate Towards Wellness Tourism This Eid
Riyadh: For many Saudi travelers, the desire to experience bustling environments has now subsided; an increasing number of people are now opting for quieter, more relaxing, and wellness-focused destinations.
Many local wellness resorts across Saudi Arabia—from AlUla to the coastal shores of Jeddah—are currently hosting guests for the Eid festivities, and Saudis are now embracing wellness on a global scale as well.
Vogue Arabia has hailed Saudi Arabia as “the world’s most exciting retreat destination,” specifically citing AlUla and Amaala. Under ‘Vision 2030,’ this heightened appreciation for wellness within the country has also influenced the travel decisions of Saudis venturing abroad.
According to Blue Sail, a travel consultancy firm, this trend of traveling to wellness destinations is primarily driven by the younger generation (aged 18–40), who prioritize mental health and wellness even during their travels and vacations.
Saudis have expressed a distinct preference for destinations that offer tranquility, relaxation, and unique experiential elements. Speaking to Arab News, they shared the reasons behind these choices.
For instance, many are choosing Gstaad over St. Moritz in Switzerland, or prioritizing Koh Samui over Phuket and Bangkok. Lujain Al-Alami, a resident of Riyadh, told Arab News: “I prefer boutique hotels over large commercial establishments. I appreciate the intimate and cozy atmosphere they offer. Whenever I need a place to stay—such as in Philadelphia, USA—these are the types of places I choose. I truly love supporting establishments that prioritize customer care and are family-owned.” This preference for tranquil settings was echoed by Ghayda Al-Wasiyah. A senior medical student, she is eagerly looking forward to spending a quiet and peaceful holiday during Eid. She remarked: “Especially since the month of Ramadan has been filled with work and shifts at the hospital for me; consequently, this year I feel drawn toward quiet places more than ever before… a place devoid of the hustle and bustle of nightlife, yet not entirely deserted.”
Another Riyadh resident, Nawal Al-Naif, also expressed her desire to visit peaceful destinations after Ramadan during a conversation with Arab News. She stated: “For me, this serves as an opportunity to rejuvenate myself and step away from the environment I have been immersed in for so long. During this time, I enjoy quieting my mind. I view it as a way to break my daily routine and make a fresh start. After Ramadan, such a change of pace and atmosphere is truly essential.” Another seasoned traveler from Riyadh, Lama Al-Suhaimi, told Arab News that while she enjoys lively atmospheres, she also recognizes when it is necessary to opt for a quiet and relaxing approach to her holidays.
She noted, “Sometimes, after Eid, I prefer to spend a portion of my vacation at a private villa situated in a tranquil location. To me, relaxation and privacy mean being free from any form of pressure or constant social engagement; however, I wouldn’t want my entire trip to be like that.”
The wellness tourism industry is projected to reach a value of $436 billion by 2025. Trends among Saudi citizens regarding the 2026 Eid indicate that this industry is here to stay—whether experienced locally or abroad.
