Best Trip Ideas for the Saudi National Day Holiday
Saudi Arabia celebrates its National Day on September 23 every year, marking the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932. Cities fill with celebrations, air shows and concerts, and airlines and hotels launch special offers for the occasion. The holiday is also a perfect window for a short trip — within the Kingdom or to a nearby destination that doesn't burn a full day in transit. Here are the best options, with early-booking tips since prices climb as the date approaches.
Find a hotel→Destinations within Saudi Arabia
Abha is a great September pick: its mountain climate is cooler than most of the Kingdom, and the Asir and Al-Soudah parks suit families. If you prefer the sea, Jeddah's corniche, waterfront and restaurants make a different kind of break, while Riyadh hosts celebrations, air shows and dedicated National Day events across the city. Don't overlook Taif near Jeddah either — mild weather, rose farms and the Al Hada cable car make it an ideal family long-weekend.
Quick Gulf getaways
For travel without a long flight: Manama is an hour away by air — or a drive across the King Fahd Causeway — and works perfectly for a weekend of restaurants and souqs. Dubai is about two hours away with endless shopping and family entertainment, while Doha combines Souq Waqif, world-class museums and its corniche in a calm, easy trip.
Short-haul destinations beyond the Gulf
If your break stretches to four days or more: Sharm El Sheikh offers a beach-and-resort holiday about two and a half hours from Jeddah, Cairo mixes history, restaurants and shopping, and Istanbul is milder and far less crowded in late September than at its summer peak.
Search flights from Riyadh to Istanbul→Booking tips for the National Day holiday
- Book early: demand for hotels and flights spikes in the holiday week — booking two to three weeks ahead makes a clear price difference.
- Confirm your actual days off first: the length of the break varies by employer and by where September 23 falls in the week.
- Compare the final price: always compare totals including taxes and fees, and check the cancellation policy.
- Keep short breaks short-haul: don't spend a full day of a short holiday on flights and transit.
FAQ
When is Saudi National Day?▾
Saudi National Day falls on September 23 every year, commemorating the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932.
What is the best nearby destination for the National Day holiday?▾
For short breaks, Manama, Dubai and Doha are the quickest to reach from Saudi Arabia. With a longer break, Sharm El Sheikh, Cairo and Istanbul are excellent options only a few hours away.
When should I book hotels and flights for the National Day holiday?▾
At least two to three weeks in advance — prices rise and the best options sell out as the holiday week approaches.
Whatever your destination, compare hotel and flight prices on Tjwaal and book at the final price including taxes, with instalment payments available via Tamara. Planning beyond the holiday? See our guides to the best winter destinations from Saudi Arabia and Riyadh Season.
