As part of the broader efforts to boost domestic tourism, the STA’s new venture seeks to attract both local and international visitors to Hail. This move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes tourism as a vital sector for economic diversification and cultural development. The launch of Ramlah Company is expected to provide a robust platform for both adventure tourism and cultural immersion, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism infrastructure.
The Saudi Winter Season is designed to offer a variety of experiences across seven destinations, with Hail serving as one of the star attractions due to its rich history and unique natural surroundings. The region is famed for its vast deserts, ancient archaeological sites, and stunning rock formations, making it an ideal location for a variety of activities such as off-road adventures, heritage tours, and more. The STA’s decision to spotlight Hail in this season comes as part of a larger strategy to diversify Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings and promote lesser-known regions alongside major urban centers like Riyadh and Jeddah.
Ramlah Company’s offerings are expected to include guided tours through the historical sites of Hail, including the Al-Ula Heritage Village and Jebel al-Naqra, known for its rock art and inscriptions that date back thousands of years. In addition to historical and cultural tours, adventure tourism will play a major role, with desert safaris, camel rides, and trekking opportunities in the surrounding wilderness.
Tourism experts see this as a significant development, noting that Hail’s underexplored potential as a tourist destination has long been overshadowed by more prominent locations within Saudi Arabia. The introduction of Ramlah Company’s activities will likely open new avenues for local businesses and generate employment opportunities within the region. Local guides, craftsmen, and hospitality services are expected to benefit from the influx of tourists, which aligns with the STA’s goal of creating sustainable, community-driven tourism projects.
The expansion of tourism in Hail will also support broader initiatives to highlight Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural diversity. The country has long been home to diverse tribal groups, each with its own traditions, dialects, and customs. The STA’s Winter Season aims to showcase this diversity, with local events celebrating the region’s music, food, and crafts. Hail’s role in this cultural narrative is expected to be bolstered by the involvement of Ramlah Company, which plans to collaborate with local artisans and performers to enhance the authenticity of its tours and events.
The Winter Season itself is a pivotal part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to become a global tourism hub. Beyond Hail, the season includes several other key destinations, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Red Sea coast, each offering distinct experiences ranging from modern city attractions to natural retreats. The strategy behind the season is not only to draw international visitors but also to encourage domestic tourism, helping to foster national pride and awareness of the country’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.
The STA’s support for tourism ventures like Ramlah Company comes at a time when the kingdom is actively working to increase its tourism revenue. The Saudi government has set ambitious targets for tourism, aiming to attract 100 million visitors annually by 2030 as part of its Vision 2030 objectives. This includes the development of new tourist destinations, the expansion of infrastructure, and the promotion of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural attractions. Hail’s inclusion in the Winter Season is a direct result of these efforts, positioning it as a growing destination for both leisure and adventure tourism.
One of the key drivers behind the STA’s tourism push is the growing number of international visitors to the country. As part of its strategy to attract a global audience, Saudi Arabia has implemented a number of measures to make it easier for tourists to visit. This includes the introduction of a new visa system, which offers greater flexibility and access to a range of tourist activities. The Saudi government is also heavily investing in transportation infrastructure, with major projects like the expansion of airports and the development of high-speed rail lines to facilitate travel within the kingdom.
As the region positions itself as a year-round destination, the inclusion of the Winter Season’s offerings is an essential component of Saudi Arabia’s broader marketing strategy. Hail’s climate, which offers cooler temperatures during the winter months, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking to escape the extreme summer heat that characterizes much of the country. The region’s proximity to major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah makes it an accessible weekend getaway, ideal for tourists looking for a combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Local authorities are already preparing for an uptick in visitors, with an emphasis on ensuring the region is equipped to handle the increased tourism demand. Hotels, resorts, and transportation services in Hail are expected to see significant growth, with the STA’s backing ensuring that standards are met for both international and domestic tourists. Local businesses are also gearing up for the economic opportunities presented by the new influx of visitors, with entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to tap into the tourism industry by offering services tailored to the needs of tourists.