Riyadh : Saudi travelers are increasingly exploring new international destinations, with recent data pointing to strong growth in travel beyond traditional hotspots and toward emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
An analysis of Saudi outbound eSIM usage by Airalo, covering the period from November 2024 to October 2025, shows notable year-on-year growth in destinations such as Vietnam, Lebanon, Lithuania, and Uganda—highlighting a broader shift in Saudi travel preferences.
While established destinations in Europe and Turkey continue to attract high volumes, the data indicates that Saudi travelers are becoming more confident in exploring non-traditional routes, reflecting changing lifestyles and a more outward-looking travel mindset.
“Saudi travelers today are more globally aware and open to discovering new cultures,” said Ahmed Elficky, Regional Director at Airalo. “We’re seeing growing interest in destinations that offer authentic experiences and cultural depth, which signals a clear evolution in how Saudis approach international travel.”
Reflecting Lifestyle Shifts in Saudi Arabia
The rise of emerging destinations mirrors wider social and lifestyle changes taking place across the Kingdom. As international travel becomes more accessible and frequent, Saudi travelers are diversifying where they go and how they travel—placing greater value on meaningful experiences and flexibility.
Countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe are attracting increased attention due to cultural richness, competitive travel costs, greater visibility through digital platforms and social media, and improved access to reliable digital services while abroad.
Connectivity as a Travel Essential
As Saudis travel to a wider range of destinations, staying connected has become an essential part of the journey. Reliable mobile connectivity supports navigation, communication, and access to digital services—particularly in less familiar markets.
“Whether traveling for leisure or exploration, connectivity gives travelers confidence,” Elficky added. “It allows people to focus on the experience itself, knowing they can stay connected wherever they are.”
Looking Ahead
With outbound travel from Saudi Arabia continuing to grow, emerging destinations are expected to play a larger role in shaping travel patterns in the coming years. The trend reflects a Saudi traveler who is increasingly global in outlook, digitally enabled, and eager to engage with the world beyond traditional tourism routes.
