JEDDAH: As families across Saudi Arabia prepare for the Eid Al-Adha break, many are seeking an escape that balances celebration with stillness, a setting where shared meals, nature and meaningful moments take precedence overcrowded malls and busy streets.
From the untouched islands and desert dunes of The Red Sea to the cool highlands of Asir and the mountains of Taif, the country’s diverse landscapes are shaping a new kind of Eid getaway — one defined by proximity, authenticity and shared experience.
The Saudi Tourism Authority has identified domestic travel as a key growth driver under Vision 2030, with the Kingdom aiming to increase tourism’s contribution to gross domestic product to 10 percent by the end of the decade.
Eid holidays remain among the highest-demand periods in the local travel calendar as residents increasingly look inward, rediscovering a breadth of experiences ranging from coastal retreats and desert hideaways to mountain escapes and urban staycations.
Rania Asaad, from Jeddah, said: “Eid Al-Adha has always been a perfect opportunity for us to escape to Cairo. The weather is pleasant, the prices are reasonable, and there is always something new to explore. Now, with the remarkable tourism projects taking place across the Kingdom, I’m excited to discover the incredible escapes we have right here at home.”
The Red Sea — a destination-wide Eid program
At The Red Sea, a collection of resorts presents a program of dining, entertainment and cultural experiences from May 26-30. Set across desert, mountains and sea, the destination has positioned itself as a natural retreat for families and friends looking to spend the long weekend together.
It will include a five-course tasting menu by Michelin-starred chef Osman Sezener at Desert Rock, beachfront barbecues, late-night jazz and heritage music performances. Saudi retail brands will be highlighted at Shura Marina and families can also expect poolside activities, marine-themed edutainment and a dedicated kids’ DJ festival.
The destination is accessible via Red Sea International Airport, with increased domestic and regional flights over the holiday period including from Riyadh and Jeddah as well as Dubai and Doha.
Island, desert and mountain retreats
Among the resorts marking Eid is The St. Regis Red Sea Resort. Set on pristine shores and enjoying uninterrupted sea views, the center’s celebrations are shaped around signature rituals, family-style dining and children’s programming, alongside water activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Further inland, Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea offers a contrasting desert experience with 15 percent off on villa stays with breakfast included. Framed by vast dunes and open skies, the resort emphasizes wellness, stillness and nature-led experiences, an option for families seeking a quieter pace.
Abdullah Shaheen, from Alkhobar, said, “I recently experienced Six Senses Southern Dunes in the Red Sea, and it truly left me in awe. As someone who makes it a point to explore a new country every holiday, I was pleasantly surprised by how exciting my staycation felt. With this new wave of tourism destinations, I discovered a whole new horizon of travel in my beloved country, one that is fun, safe, and incredibly comforting.”
Set on a private island, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers privacy and rituals, with activities ranging from stargazing to Saudi coffee masterclasses.
Carved directly into dramatic mountain rock formations, Desert Rock Resort provides a striking architectural backdrop to the holiday, while SLS The Red Sea Resort offers a more design-led, energetic atmosphere for those looking to blend relaxation with social vibrancy.
For a more understated stay, InterContinental The Red Sea Resort frames its Eid offering around tranquil waters and thoughtful hospitality.
Coastal celebrations in Jeddah and KAEC
Along the shores of King Abdullah Economic City, Rixos Obhur Jeddah features a family-focused Eid program from May 20-31. The Rixy Kids Festival will feature water activities, inflatable games and interactive entertainment during the first three days of Eid, alongside a traditional breakfast at its Turquoise restaurant.
At Rixos Murjana, celebrations will center around an evening Eid Carnival from May 26-30. Families can explore a petting zoo, caricature artists and pottery workshops, while live music and fire shows animate both the carnival grounds and Solara Beach Club. Daytime activities extend to Murjana Waterpark and wellness treatments at Anjana Spa, offering a balance between festivity and relaxation.
A city break in the capital
For those remaining in Riyadh, W Riyadh – KAFD positions Eid as a vibrant urban escape within the King Abdullah Financial District. The hotel’s program revolves around culinary exploration, with breakfast at SIRA, dining credits across its venues, and interactive elements. AWAY Spa and FIT gym facilities provide space to reset, while poolside cabanas create a social yet relaxed atmosphere.
Adventure in AlUla
Beyond the resorts, some travelers are choosing active experiences. In AlUla, visitors can combine farm stays with aerial adventure through tandem skydiving and paragliding experiences. The dramatic sandstone landscapes provide a distinctive backdrop for those seeking adrenaline during the holiday break.
Highlands and heritage in Asir
In the southwest, Asir offers cooler temperatures and mountain scenery. In Soudah, visitors can hike the historic Uqbat Al-Qurun trail, one of the oldest mountain paths in the area, explore cultural landmarks such as Abo Noghta castles, and wander through Souq Al-Thulatha. Sunset views from the highlands provide a tranquil counterpoint to busier urban destinations.
Disconnecting in Taif
Meanwhile, in the mountains of Taif, Ahway offers a more intimate form of escape. The Saudi tourism project places well-equipped caravans in the Al-Shafa Mountains, encouraging guests to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature. With privacy between units and a focus on simplicity, the concept reflects a growing appetite for quiet retreats during the holiday period.
