Saudi National Day 2025 holiday with Almosafer: Plan your trip like a pro

The Saudi National Day is a special annual opportunity to celebrate the nation and take pride in its journey. This year, it falls on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, the date the Kingdom was unified by the founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud, may he rest in peace.

As this year’s date comes midweek (a Tuesday), it presents a golden opportunity: a long holiday that can easily be extended from Sunday to Tuesday, giving you three consecutive days of rest without heavily affecting your work schedule.

In this blog, we’ll take you on a quick tour of the best ideas and destinations to help you make the most of the National Day break for travel, entertainment, or simply recharging away from routine. Ready to plan your holiday? Let’s get started.

How to plan your long holiday professionally?

This year, the National Day break falls midweek, which is why we strongly recommend that you don’t miss the chance for an extended holiday (five days). Yes, apply for leave on Sunday and Monday! Now let us help you organise an unforgettable holiday.

From Friday 19 September to Tuesday 23 September 2025 – that’s five continuous days. It’s the perfect time to travel and relax, whether inside the Kingdom or abroad.

First: Book Early and Travel Stress-Free

The closer we get to the holiday, the more crowded and limited the options become.

Whether you’re planning to travel abroad or explore local destinations like Abha or AlUla, don’t leave it to the last minute. Book your flights and hotels early, and be mindful of travel requirements (like visas for Turkey or Egypt, for instance).

Stay Ahead: Choose a Nearby Destination

With limited time, it’s best to pick a destination with a flight duration of no more than three hours. Here are the top options:

• UAE (Dubai): A city full of vibrant daytime and nightlife entertainment. Enjoy diverse shopping experiences, delicious cuisine, and a fun-packed holiday.

• Turkey (Istanbul or Trabzon): A blend of cultural tourism, stunning nature, and pleasant weather. Don’t miss out on trying authentic Turkish sweets.

• Egypt (South Sinai – Dahab, Sharm el-Sheikh, or Taba): Enjoy the warmth of the sun by the Red Sea, rich with marine life and coral reefs – perfect for diving enthusiasts.

• Oman (Salalah): Green landscapes and refreshing weather, especially in the autumn season.

• Abha or AlUla: Enchanting Saudi destinations with mountainous scenery and cultural experiences.

 Red Sea in Sharm el-Sheikh, Sinai, Egypt.

Don’t Miss National Day Offers

Many airlines and hotels launch special offers in celebration of the National Day holiday.

Keep an eye on travel apps and websites for promotions – you might land a great deal or a package that includes meals and transport.

Check Almosafer website for the latest offers 

Suggested Itinerary:

• Thursday Evening (18 September): Pack your bags and get ready to leave early.

• Friday (19 September): Begin your trip – arrive and explore.

• Saturday to Monday (20–22): Fully enjoy your destination with sightseeing and relaxation.

• Tuesday (23 September – National Day): End your trip with a special experience or a fine meal before heading back.

Discover the Most Beautiful Saudi Destinations for the National Day Holiday

If you prefer to spend the National Day holiday within the Kingdom, you’re in for natural and cultural treasures – no passport or long flight required. From north to south, here are four distinctive Saudi destinations worth visiting, each offering a unique experience suitable for families and friends:

AlUla – A Blend of History and Nature

• Activities: Visit Hegra (Madain Saleh), explore the Old Town, experience “Maraya,” go horse riding, and camp in the tranquil AlUla desert.

• Recommended duration: 2 to 3 days.

• Flight time: 1.5 hours from Riyadh or Jeddah.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Habitats AlUla

  • Banyan Tree AlUla

  • Shaden Resort

Abha – Capital of Mountain Beauty

• Activities: Take the cable car, visit Jabal Al-Soudah, tour Rijal Almaa Heritage Village, enjoy the Cloud Parks, and explore the Asir Museum.

• Recommended duration: 3 days.

• Flight time: 1.5 to 2 hours from Riyadh or Jeddah.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Blue Inn Hotel

  • Bayat Hotel

  • Abha Palace Hotel

Jeddah – The Bride of the Red Sea

• Activities: Explore Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), walk the new Corniche, visit Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum, go on a boat tour, and dine at international restaurants.

• Recommended duration: 2 to 3 days.

• Flight time: Less than 1 hour from Riyadh, or by car from Makkah.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Jeddah Hilton

  • Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel

  • Narcissus Obhur

Taif – The Eternal Spring in the Mountains

• Activities: Ride the cable car in Al-Hada, visit Souq Okaz, explore Al-Ruddaf Park, tour rose farms, and enjoy coffee in the mountains.Recommended duration: 2 to 3 days.

• Flight time: No major international airport, but reachable by car from Jeddah or Makkah (1 to 2 hours).

• Recommended hotels:

  • InterContinental Taif

  • Ramada Al Hada

  • Velar Inn Hotel

Each of these destinations has its own distinct charm, and all are perfect for a short holiday packed with memorable moments.

Short-Haul Travel Destinations from Saudi Arabia

If you’re looking to break the routine and travel abroad during the National Day break, you’ve got plenty of easy-to-reach options that don’t require long flights or complex planning.

These destinations are ideal for a 3 to 5-day holiday, offering a variety of activities suitable for families or groups of friends:

Dubai – A Global Experience Nearby

• Why it’s ideal: A vibrant, easily accessible city with everything – shopping, entertainment, beaches, fine dining, and sometimes even parallel National Day festivities in the UAE.

• Top activities: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Aquarium, Wild Wadi Waterpark, Ski Dubai, Marina boat tours.

• Flight time: Around 2 hours from Riyadh or Jeddah.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Atlantis The Palm

  • Address Downtown

  • Rove City Walk

Oman – Natural Beauty and Tranquillity

• Why it’s ideal: Close by, with refreshing weather in September, perfect for escaping the crowds and enjoying serene natural landscapes.

• Top activities: Al Qurum Beach, Jebel Shams, Mutrah Souq, historic forts, and dolphin-watching boat tours.

• Flight time: Around 2 hours to Muscat.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Kempinski Hotel Muscat

  • The Chedi Muscat

  • InterContinental Muscat

Bahrain – A Quick and Easy Getaway

• Why it’s ideal: The nearest international destination, even accessible by car from Eastern Province. Great for a long weekend without the hassle of flying.

• Top activities: Manama Souq, City Centre Bahrain, Bahrain National Museum, seafood dining, beaches and cafés.

• Flight time: Less than 1 hour, or 2 hours by car from Dammam.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Four Seasons Bahrain Bay

  • The Ritz-Carlton Manama

  • The Gulf Hotel

Georgia – Natural Beauty and Cultural Warmth

• Why it’s ideal: A favourite among Saudi travellers, visa on arrival or e-visa available, mild September weather, and reasonable costs.

• Top activities: Tours of Old Tbilisi, Turtle Lake, Kazbegi Mountains, cable car rides, and sampling Georgian cuisine.

• Flight time: Around 3 hours from Riyadh or Jeddah.

• Recommended hotels:

  • Rooms Hotel Tbilisi

  • Radisson Blu Iveria

  • Stamba Hotel

Top National Day 2025 Events in Saudi Cities

The Kingdom will come alive with dazzling events that revive the spirit of joy and national pride, including fireworks, aerial displays, and major races. Here are the highlights:

Fireworks Displays

Participating cities include Riyadh (Boulevard World), Jeddah (Jeddah Promenade), Dammam (Waterfront), Abha (Al-Mutla Park), Taif (Al-Ruddaf Park), and many others across the Kingdom.

• Timing: Typically begins at 9 PM on 23 September.

• Why attend: A stunning visual experience bringing families and friends together under a sky lit with celebration.

Aerial Shows

Often featured in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, aerial displays are part of larger entertainment festivals for National Day. These shows combine skill with breathtaking visuals, creating a proud and memorable evening.

Horse Racing Events – "National Day Cup 2025"

• Venue: King Khalid Racecourse – Taif City.

• Date: Saturday, 20 September 2025 (two days before National Day).

• Key features:

  • A race resembling the National Day Cup for purebred horses, with a prize of 500,000 SAR.

  • Includes 10 races, live music, competitions, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere for families.

  • Tickets: Free for general entry, booking required online via the official horse racing club website.

Musical and Sporting Festivals

On 19 and 20 September, Taif will host music concerts and entertainment events in conjunction with the race season. Other regions will also feature cultural and traditional activities, with Taif offering the most notable programme.

Get Ready for a Holiday to Remember

The National Day break is a rare chance – five days of uninterrupted rest is the perfect time to travel, unwind, or discover somewhere new within the Kingdom. All you need is a simple plan, smart booking, and a destination that suits your preferences.

Whether you spend it among the mountains of AlUla and Abha, or exploring the vibes of Istanbul and Dubai, one thing’s for sure – it’ll be a trip to remember. Don’t let these days slip by. The 2025 National Day deserves to be lived to the fullest.

Think, plan smart, and book with Almosafer at unbeatable prices and offers... your journey starts with one step.

FAQs About the Saudi National Day holiday

When is Saudi National Day 2025, and how many days off do we get?

1. Saudi National Day in 2025 will be celebrated on Tuesday, 23rd September. 

2. Some organisations might attach the day off to a weekend if possible, but officially, the holiday is only for September 23

   
   

What are the best destinations for a short National Day trip?

If you prefer a city break, nearby capitals like:

• Dubai, United Arab Emirates

• Bahrain

• Amman, Jordan

• Cairo, Egypt

• Istanbul, Turkey

How far in advance should I book travel for National Day?

In order to have a better chance of getting stays and flight booking, you should start booking from the end of July to mid-August.

Book Your Trip Easily with the Almosafer App

With access to over 1 million hotels worldwide and 450+ airlines, everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Start your smart journey today – Download  Almosafer App and enjoy (Almosafer points and many loyalty programs). Make the most of exclusive National Day offers before they’re gone.

• App store 

• Google Play Store