Saudi travel bookings up 28% on...

The data reflects a strong appetite for consumer travel as pent-up demand is unleashed

According to a new study released by travel brand Almosafer, the volume of bookings in Saudi Arabia for consumer travel in June 2022 has exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 28% for the same period in 2019.

The study was based on data collated across Almosafer’s omnichannel booking platforms, and also revealed that Saudi travellers continue to enjoy luxury experiences, with five-star hotels accounting for almost 50% of hotel bookings.

Spending on experiences has also increased along with average booking values for hotels (by 66%) and flights (by 19%), compared to the summer travel season in 2019.

Travellers are also displaying resilient confidence in the travel industry as they continue to book their holidays in advance, with an average booking window of 36 days in summer 2022.

Spending on domestic travel in Saudi Arabia has also increased by 7% as Saudis continue to explore attractions closer to home.

Abha, the capital of the Aseer region, is becoming an increasingly popular destination this summer with bookings up by 125% compared to 2019

With regards to international travel, Dubai, London, Cairo, Paris and Sharm El Sheikh remain popular destinations for Saudi travellers.

Bookings for London this summer have increased by 133% compared to summer 2019, driven by the introduction of the electronic visa waiver for Saudi nationals on 1 June 2022. However, following the announcement of the exemption of Saudi nationals from entry visas to visit Thailand on 7 June, the country is now the most sought-after destination for international travel.

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Commenting on the data, Almosafer executive vice president Muzzammil Ahussain said: “Confidence in travel has been fully restored as we experience unprecedented demand for consumer travel. Saudi travellers are eager to make the most of the season this summer following the pandemic years of restricted travel and are opting for destinations that are either all-time favourites or newly accessible.

“Overall, Almosafer consumer data reveals that travel is well and truly back and we are excited for the season as we continue to meet this increasing demand by providing the very best products and services for our customers.”

For more information, visit www.ae.almosafer.com