Saudi travellers are set to widen their horizons for 2026, turning towards smaller, less-explored destinations that promise fresh experiences beyond familiar favourites.
That’s according to data from Skyscanner’s just-released Travel Trends report, which shows that Saudi residents are gravitating towards Shanghai in China, with searches up a whopping 285%, and Da Nang on Vietnam’s central coast, trending up 206%, as the most popular choices for holidays in the year ahead.
Other rising stars include Rize on Türkiye’s north-eastern coast, up 115%, Armenia’s capital Yerevan, with a 71% rise in searches, and Jaipur, India’s Pink City, with a 65% surge in searches.
Hong Kong, Zanzibar, Munich, Kathmandu and Luxor round out the top 10 trending international getaway spots.
Together, the list signals a shift among Saudi travellers towards destinations rich in “culture and character” and offering “fresh horizons”, reports Skyscanner.
1 Shanghai Benefitting from Saudia’s codeshare partnership with China Eastern, Shanghai has recorded a remarkable 285% leap in flight searches from the kingdom. Despite the 10-hour journey time, the city’s fusion of futuristic skyline and tranquil temples is drawing renewed attention, especially as the Chinese yuan offers strong value for Middle Eastern visitors.
2 Da Nang Vietnam’s central coastal hub Da Nang has recorded a 206% uplift in Saudi travel interest. With its long beaches, mountain scenery and proximity to several Unesco World Heritage Sites, the city’s appeal continues to grow.
The broader Vietnam market is also gaining traction across the GCC, with Wego recently reporting a staggering 322.43% surge in search volume by Saudi travellers to Vietnam, largely thanks to the increase in luxury halal-compliant resorts.
3 Rize Türkiye remains a firm favourite with Gulf travellers, yet Rize – famed for its tea plantations and lush valleys – is emerging as a hidden gem. The city has seen searches climb by 115%, with Saudi travellers drawn to its greenery, peaceful pace and halal-friendly offerings. Positioned on the country’s Black Sea coast, it offers a refreshing new lens on a well-loved destination.
4 Yerevan Search activity for Armenia’s capital has increased by 71%, supported by the country’s recent introduction of visa-free access for Saudi residents, allowing stays of up to 90 days.