I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the first-ever Saudi Travel Fair at IOI Putrajaya Mall, held from 28 August to 1 September 2024. This event, organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority, offered an immersive experience for travelers looking to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes of Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re planning a spiritual journey, a cultural escape, or an adventure, the Saudi Travel Fair had something for everyone.
To celebrate Malaysia’s National Independence Day, visitors were treated to exclusive deals, such as the buy one SAUDIA ticket and get the second at 50% off. The fair also featured exciting giveaways, including the chance to win a ticket for two to Saudi, along with daily prizes and thrilling experiences.
One of the highlights was the introduction of 15 brand-new experiential packages, tailored by over 13 top Malaysian travel agencies. These packages offered special discounts, making it easier for travelers to explore destinations like Jeddah, Riyadh, Taif, and AlUla. For example, Ikhlas, the travel agency arm of AirAsia, launched a new platform for Free Independent Travelers (FITs) to customize their spiritual journeys beyond Umrah. This platform allows travelers to book everything from flights to hotels and experiences in one seamless process.
The fair also featured engaging activities, such as virtual reality adventures, interactive displays, and cultural workshops, including Misbaha making and Zamzam stations. Attendees were also entertained by captivating performances showcasing Saudi’s rich cultural heritage.
During the event, I learned about some of Saudi Arabia’s most intriguing destinations:
- Jeddah: Known as Saudi’s cultural hub, Jeddah blends tradition with modernity. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Balad, with its coral stone houses and vibrant arts scene, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Jeddah is also the gateway to Makkah and Madinah, making it a key destination for spiritual travelers.
- Riyadh: The bustling capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, is not just an economic powerhouse but also a gateway to spiritual tourism. Key landmarks include Diriyah’s At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical significance. The city also offers a dynamic events calendar, luxurious shopping, and unique experiences like desert safaris.
- AlUla: A hidden gem in the northwest, AlUla is home to ancient sites like Dadan and Jabal Ikmah. Recently recognized in TIME’s 2024 ‘World’s Greatest Places,’ AlUla has transformed into a hub for heritage, culture, art, and adventure.
- Taif: Known for its cool climate and rose gardens, Taif is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. With activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the Taif Rose Factory, this mountain oasis promises an unforgettable family vacation.
Traveling to Saudi Arabia has never been easier, thanks to the increased flight frequency and improved visa initiatives. With new routes from Kuala Lumpur to Madinah by AirAsia and Johor Bahru to Madinah by Malaysia Airlines, reaching Saudi Arabia is more convenient than ever. Malaysians can also take advantage of the free 96-hour Stopover Visa or opt for an eVisa, valid for up to 90 days.
The Saudi Travel Fair was a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse offerings of Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re planning a spiritual retreat or an adventurous getaway, the fair provided all the tools and information needed to make your Saudi dream a reality.
For more information, log on to VisitSaudi.
About ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’
‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ is a vibrant consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travellers to explore all the country has to offer. The brand’s role is to drive forward the country’s tourism industry through awareness-raising campaigns and to provide a comprehensive array of information and resources for travellers to plan and enjoy unforgettable journeys. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi, the heart of Arabia, is the most exciting new year-round destination.
dixonthum 