4 days ago10 min read
Short Summer Holidays: The Perfect Escape for Saudi Citizens
- Almosafer
- Mar 19
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 20
Whether you're searching for cool summer destinations in Saudi Arabia, a beach holiday near Saudi Arabia, or an easy international trip, there are plenty of options for a quick and refreshing escape from the heat.
Why Are Short Summer Getaways Popular Among Saudis?
1. Better Work-Life Balance
Planning one long holiday can be stressful and disrupt work responsibilities. Instead, weekend getaways allow Saudis to relax frequently without affecting productivity.
2. Escape the Heat with Cool Summer Destinations in Saudi Arabia
Instead of staying indoors during the peak summer months, many Saudis prefer visiting cold places in Saudi Arabia such as Abha, AlUla, or Taif to enjoy refreshing weather and scenic nature.
3. Easy and Convenient Travel
With well-connected airports and high-speed roads to nearby travel destinations from Saudi Arabia, planning a short vacation is easier than ever.
Best Short Travel Destinations for Saudis in Summer
Cool Summer Destinations in Saudi Arabia (No Flights Needed!)
If you’re looking for a quick break without leaving the country, here are the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia
1. Abha & Asir Region – Coolest Summer Destination in Saudi Arabia
Best time to visit: July – September (Coolest weather, lush landscapes)Why visit? Escape the scorching heat and enjoy green mountains, mild temperatures, and vibrant culture. Top Attractions:
Rijal Almaa Village – A stunning historic village with unique architecture
Al Soudah Park – Saudi Arabia’s highest peak, perfect for hiking & cool breezes
Fog Walkway in Abha – Experience breathtaking views above the clouds
Abha & Asir Region – 3 to 4 days
Explore the misty mountains, visit Al-Soudah Park, and experience the local culture in Rijal Almaa village.
A flight from Saudi Arabia to Abha or the Asir Region takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Explore More: Top 6 Places to Visit in Abha Saudi Arabia - 2025
2. Taif – The City of Roses & Mountain Breezes
Best time to visit: May – September (Mild summer temperatures)Why visit? A cool retreat near Riyadh and Jeddah, famous for its rose gardens and mountain landscapes.Top Attractions:
Taif Rose Gardens – Witness the famous Taif rose harvest
Al Hada Cable Car – Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains
Shubra Palace – A historic royal residence turned museum
Taif – 2 to 3 days
It's perfect for a quick escape to enjoy the cool weather. Don’t forget to visit Shubra Palace and explore the rose gardens.
A direct flight to Taif from Saudi cities typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours.
Explore More:
3. The Red Sea Coast (Jeddah, Umluj, Yanbu) – Beachside Paradise
Best time to visit: October – April ( Mild weather), summer is ideal for morning or evening water activities.
Why visit? Crystal-clear waters, island hopping, and world-class snorkelling & diving.Top Attractions:
Umluj "The Saudi Maldives" – Stunning white-sand beaches & turquoise waters
Farasan Islands – An untouched island paradise in the Red Sea
King Fahd Fountain (Jeddah) – The tallest fountain in the world
Jeddah, Umluj, Yanbu – 4 to 5 days
Enjoy Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad, relax on Umluj’s beaches (Saudi’s "Maldives"), and go diving in Yanbu.
A direct flight to Taif from Saudi cities typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours.
Explore More:
Quick International Trips (Less Than 5 Hours by Flight)
For those looking to travel abroad, here are the best weekend getaway destinations for Saudis:
1. Dubai, UAE – The Ultimate Weekend Getaway
Best time to visit: November – March, but great in summer for indoor attractions & shopping deals Why visit? Luxury shopping, world-class attractions, and endless entertainment.Top
Attractions:
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall – The world’s tallest building & largest shopping mall
Ski Dubai – An indoor ski resort perfect for escaping the heat
Desert Safari – Adventure-packed dune bashing & traditional Bedouin experiences
Dubai – 4 to 5 days
Experience the skyscrapers, shopping, desert safaris, and theme parks.
The flight duration from Saudi Arabia to Dubai ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours.
2. Bahrain – Relaxing & Easy Weekend Escape
Best time to visit: November – March, but great in summer for beach resorts & spa retreats Why visit? A quick getaway for fine dining, island resorts, and cultural experiences.Top
Attractions:
Amwaj Islands – Luxury resorts & private beaches
Bahrain National Museum – A deep dive into Arabian Gulf history
The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park – Family-friendly fun in the summer
Bahrain – 2 to 3 days
A quick getaway for luxury resorts, history at Bahrain Fort, and vibrant nightlife.
A short flight from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Explore More:
3. Turkey (Istanbul, Trabzon, Bursa) – A Perfect Mix of History & Nature
Best time to visit: April – October (Summer is great for cooler northern cities)Why visit? A mix of cultural experiences, cool mountain retreats, and stunning coastlines.Top Attractions:
Istanbul – Hagia Sophia & Bosphorus Cruises
Trabzon – Uzungöl Lake & Sumela Monastery (Cool summer weather! )
Bursa – Mount Uludağ & Thermal Spas (Perfect for a summer retreat!)
Turkey (Istanbul) – 5 to 7 days
Explore the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and Bosphorus cruise, and take a day trip to Cappadocia if possible.
Travelling to Istanbul from Saudi Arabia takes between 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
Explore More:
4. Maldives – A Tropical Paradise with Direct Flights
Best time to visit: November – April, but great for summer beach relaxation
Why visit? Overwater villas, crystal-clear waters, and ultimate relaxation.Top Attractions:
Snorkelling & Diving in Coral Reefs
Private Overwater Villas with Infinity Pools
Sunset Cruises & Dolphin Watching
Maldives – 5 to 7 days
Enjoy private overwater villas, snorkelling, and island hopping in this tropical paradise.
A flight to the Maldives from Saudi Arabia lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours.
5. Azerbaijan (Baku, Gabala) – A Hidden Summer Gem Near Saudi Arabia
Best time to visit: May – September (Mild summer temperatures in the mountains!)
Why visit? A mix of modern city life, lush mountains, and rich history.
Top Attractions:
Baku – Flame Towers & Old City (UNESCO Site)
Gabala – Tufandag Mountain Resort (Cool weather & adventure sports)
Sheki – Historic palaces & scenic landscapes
Azerbaijan (Baku) – 4 to 6 days
Discover the blend of modern and ancient architecture, visit Gobustan National Park, and explore the nightlife.
A direct flight to Baku, Azerbaijan, takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Explore More:
No matter your preference—beach, mountains, history, or adventure—these destinations make for the perfect short and frequent summer getaways!
How to Plan a Stress-Free Short Trip from Saudi Arabia
A well-planned trip ensures that you make the most of your weekend trip from Saudi Arabia without stress.
1. Best Time to Book: Get the Best Deals
Book flights & hotels early – Prices tend to rise closer to travel dates. Aim to book at least 2-4 weeks in advance. Book Cheap Flight Tickets With Almosafer.
Travel mid-week – Flights and hotel rates are often cheaper on Tuesdays & Wednesdays compared to weekends. Book Your Next Stay with Almosafer.
2. Packing Smart: Essentials for a Short Summer Trip
Travel light – A carry-on bag is ideal for quick getaways, saving time at the airport.
Essentials for hot destinations:
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Light, breathable clothing
Power bank for your phone
Travel-size toiletries
For adventure trips: Comfortable shoes, a hat, and a small backpack.
3. Itinerary Tips: How to Maximize Fun in Just a Few Days
Plan around top attractions – Prioritize 2-3 must-visit spots instead of cramming too much.
Book activities in advance—this saves time and often costs less (e.g., guided tours, and adventure experiences).
Use local transport or ride-sharing apps – Faster and more affordable than renting a car in many cities. Or rent a car at the best price with Almosafer.
Leave some flexibility – Don’t over-schedule; allow time for spontaneous experiences and relaxation.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a stress-free, fun-filled short holiday without wasting time or money. Ready to plan your next trip?
Travel Trends Among Saudis: Why Short Trips Are Gaining Popularity?
Summer short and frequent getaways are becoming a major trend among Saudi travellers. Here’s why:
1. Social Media Influence: The Rise of Instagram-Worthy Trips
Travel influencers and bloggers showcase quick weekend escapes, inspiring Saudis to explore new destinations with minimal planning.
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat make travel more accessible, with recommendations for short yet exciting trips.
2. Easier Travel with Visa-Free & Visa-on-Arrival Destinations
Many nearby countries now offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for Saudi passport holders, making last-minute trips more convenient.
Popular destinations like UAE, Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Maldives allow quick travel with minimal paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions About Short Summer Holidays for Saudis
Q1: What are the best short trips for Saudis in summer?A: Top picks include Abha, AlUla, and Taif (for cool weather), Jeddah and Umluj (for beach holidays), and Dubai, Bahrain, and Baku for quick international getaways.
Q2: What’s the best time to book flights for short trips?A: 2-4 weeks in advance for the best prices. Mid-week flights (Tuesdays & Wednesdays) are usually cheaper.
Q3: What are the top visa-free destinations for Saudi travellers?A: UAE, Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and the Maldives allow visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel for Saudi passport holders
In conclusion
With the growing trend of short and frequent summer holidays, Saudis can now enjoy more travel experiences, less stress, and better work-life balance. Whether it’s a cool retreat in Abha, a beach escape in Umluj, or a weekend shopping spree in Dubai, there’s no need to wait for a long annual vacation.
Start planning your next quick getaway today and maximise the summer! Where will your next adventure take you?
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