The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has officially launched the Saudi Travel Fair in Malaysia, a captivating event designed to showcase the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and diverse travel experiences. This fair, running until September 1, 2024, promises to be an unmissable experience for Malaysian travelers seeking unique adventures.
Over 15 new travel packages to destinations like Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla are being offered, each promising a captivating journey through the heart of Saudi Arabia. These packages include exclusive deals and prizes, making the Saudi Travel Fair an exciting opportunity for those seeking to explore this fascinating land.
Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of Asia-Pacific Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We’re delighted to be here in Malaysia to celebrate the rich culture and heritage that binds both our nations.” He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s diverse offerings, stating, “Saudi Arabia is a year-round destination full of history, diverse offerings, and warm Arabian hospitality. As the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination, we offer something for everyone—whether you seek a spiritual journey, cultural attractions, or an exciting adventure.”
Unveiling Saudi Arabia’s Treasures
Saudi Arabia boasts a wealth of historical and cultural sites that offer visitors a deep connection to its rich past.
*
Jeddah:
This vibrant city, considered the cultural heart of Saudi Arabia, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of AlBalad. This historic district showcases the region’s traditional architecture and rich history, inviting visitors to step back in time. Explore the city’s oldest mosque, Al Shafei Mosque, standing tall for over 1,400 years, and indulge in the traditional delights at AlSaedei Bakery, serving its famous treats for two centuries.*
Riyadh:
The capital city, Riyadh, offers easy access to key Islamic landmarks, including Diriyah’s At-Turaif, the 300-year-old birthplace of Saudi Arabia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the local culture at Souk Al-Zal, one of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets, boasting over 100 years of history. Families visiting Riyadh will delight in Boulevard City, a sprawling shopping and entertainment hub offering a wide array of activities and attractions.*
AlUla:
Located just a 3.5-hour drive from Madinah, AlUla is a destination unlike any other, boasting over 200,000 years of heritage. Discover Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage site at Hegra, where ancient Nabatean tombs stand as a testament to the region’s rich history. The iconic Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, offers a unique blend of modern architecture and ancient landscapes, making it another must-see attraction in AlUla.*
Khaybar:
Just a 2-hour drive from Madinah, Khaybar is renowned for its scenic oasis and rich cultural heritage. This ancient site offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the history of the region while enjoying the natural beauty of its surroundings.*
The Red Sea Global:
For those seeking a luxury getaway, The Red Sea Global offers an unparalleled experience. Home to the 4th largest barrier reef in the world, this destination is perfect for exploring Saudi Arabia’s natural wonders in style. Three luxury hotels have already been launched in this area: Six Senses Southern Dunes, St. Regis Red Sea, and Nujuma, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, one of only seven such reserves in the world.Exclusive Deals and Prizes
The Saudi Travel Fair isn’t just about learning about Saudi Arabia’s cultural treasures; it’s also a chance to take advantage of exclusive travel deals. The Saudi Tourism Authority has partnered with over 13 of Malaysia’s top leisure and Umrah travel agencies, offering more than 15 new packages to destinations like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. These packages come with exclusive deals available only during the Saudi Travel Fair. For example, Ikhlas is offering discounts of up to RM1,067 and 1,067 AirAsia Big Points, while SAUDIA is offering a buy-one-ticket-get-50%-off promotion.
In addition to these deals, attendees of the Saudi Travel Fair have the chance to win exciting prizes, including flight tickets for two to Saudi Arabia, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
Simplified Travel for Malaysians
One of the significant developments highlighted at the Saudi Travel Fair is the ease of traveling to Saudi Arabia for Malaysians. The country is now one of 66 nations eligible for the e-visa program, simplifying the process for obtaining a visa for travel to Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Umrah visas have been extended to 90 days, providing visitors with ample time to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of Saudi Arabia.
Strengthening Tourism Ties
The Saudi Travel Fair in Malaysia signifies a significant step forward in strengthening the tourism ties between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse travel offerings, and warm Arabian hospitality, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a top travel destination for Malaysians. The exclusive travel packages, deals, and prizes offered at the Saudi Travel Fair, combined with the ease of obtaining a visa, make this the perfect time for Malaysians to explore the wonders of Saudi Arabia.
As Alhasan Aldabbagh aptly stated, “Travelling to Saudi has never been easier for Malaysians.” The Saudi Tourism Authority’s continuous efforts to promote Saudi Arabia as a year-round travel destination ensure a bright future for the tourism relationship between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.
For more information on the travel packages and deals available at the Saudi Travel Fair, visit the official Saudi Tourism Authority website or attend the fair before it concludes on September 1, 2024.
