Best Winter Destinations for Travellers from Saudi Arabia
Winter is one of the best travel seasons from Saudi Arabia: the weather in most nearby destinations turns ideal, and prices outside the European peak season drop. Whether you're after warm sun and sea or snow and winter markets, here are the destinations travellers from the Kingdom love most in winter — and what makes each one worth it.
Find a hotel→For sun and sea: Egypt
The Red Sea coast is at its best in winter — mild, sunny weather all season. Sharm El Sheikh with its all-inclusive resorts and coral reefs is the top family pick, and Hurghada is an excellent lower-priced alternative. Either pairs well with a few days in Cairo for the pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
The Gulf in its finest season: Dubai and Doha
From November to March the Gulf's weather is perfect for outdoor plans: Dubai hits its golden season with the Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February plus open beaches and parks, while Doha fills its winter with sporting and cultural events alongside its corniche and world-class museums.
For warm Asian escapes: Phuket
Winter is Thailand's dry season, and from November to April Phuket is at its peak: calm seas, clear skies and daily boat trips to nearby islands. Book early — winter is high season there and resort prices climb.
For snow and European winter atmosphere
For a real European winter: Istanbul is calmer and clearly cheaper than in summer, and its cafés and restaurants in cold weather are a different experience altogether. Vienna turns into a city of Christmas markets and lights in December — see our detailed guide to Vienna winter tourism. And Sarajevo is the closest ski destination for Arab travellers, with the Jahorina and Bjelašnica resorts — hosts of the 1984 Winter Olympics — less than an hour from the city.
Search flights to Istanbul at the best prices→When to book your winter trip
For December and January — especially the mid-year school break — book at least a month ahead: it's peak family travel season from the Kingdom and prices rise fast. November and February are quieter and cheaper if your dates are flexible. Always compare the final price including taxes and review the cancellation policy before confirming.
FAQ
What is the best warm winter destination from Saudi Arabia?▾
Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are the closest for a sunny beach holiday in winter, Dubai is in its ideal season from November to March, and Phuket is the best Asian option since winter is its dry season.
Where can travellers from Saudi Arabia find snow in winter?▾
The closest snow destinations are Sarajevo with its Olympic ski resorts nearby, Vienna with its winter markets and atmosphere, and Istanbul, where snow can fall in January and February.
When should I book a mid-year break trip?▾
At least a month ahead — the mid-year school break is one of the highest-demand travel periods from the Kingdom, and booking early makes a clear difference in flight and hotel prices.
Pick your destination, compare hotels and prices on Tjwaal, and book at the final price including taxes with instalment payments via Tamara. Planning winter events inside the Kingdom? Don't miss our Riyadh Season guide.
