Sustainable Tourism in Saudi Arabia

Hello explorers! Knowing about sustainable tourism is just as important as having a fantastic trip.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia and the responsibility of travelers to help preserve the environment, culture, and local communities in this beautiful country. Let’s get into it.

What is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable tourism is a mode of travel that protects the country's environment, promotes local cultures, and benefits local communities. It is about conserving the beauty of the destinations we visit for future generations.

Exploring Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has everything to offer to travelers. There are vast deserts, stunning landscapes, mountains, and the Red Sea with many beautiful beaches, spiritual & cultural destinations, luxurious sites, etc.

Moreover, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is embracing sustainable tourism to protect its natural and cultural heritage.

Saudi Visa Online is an electronic travel authorization or travel permit to visit Saudi Arabia for travel or business purposes. International visitors must have a Saudi e-Visa to visit Saudi Arabia. Foreign citizens can apply for a Saudi e-Visa Application in minutes. The Saudi Visa Application process is automated, simple, and completely online.

Let’s Explore Saudi Arabia’s Natural Wonders

Asir National Park

Asir National Park is filled with lush green valleys, stunning landscapes, various flora & fauna, and picturesque views. While exploring this region please do remember to stay on designated paths and respect the wildlife.

Farasan Islands Marine Protected Area

The Farasan Islands is situated in the Red Sea. This place has many beaches where tourists can witness different marine animals and coral reefs. It is vital to obey all the rules and regulations of this marine protected area and to follow safe diving practices.

Al-Hofuf Oasis

This oasis is a natural wonder located in the middle of a desert. Here tourists can relax and walk through palm groves. Not only that, travelers will get a chance to taste fresh and juicy dates from local farmers. Buying some of those for yourself and your loved ones will support sustainable agriculture.

Al-Nofan Eco-Park

This eco-park is located near Riyadh. Here, travelers can enjoy nature walks, bird-watching, cycling, etc. Please follow the park guidelines to protect its ecosystem while enjoying this beautiful park.

Empty Qatar (Rub’ Al Khali)

Empty Qatar is the largest sand desert in the world. Travelers will get a chance to witness golden dunes, and beautiful sunsets, and also participate in different desert activities. It is essential to follow all the rules and regulations and leave no trace by respecting nature.

Edge of the World

This is a dramatic cliff made by nature. Here, travelers can explore the breathtaking views of the desert below this cliff. Please stay on marked spots and paths and enjoy this natural wonder.

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In this article, we will unveil the top tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia that await eVisa holders, showcasing the country's diverse attractions and inviting you on a remarkable journey. Learn more at The Top Tourist Destinations in Saudi Arabia.

Support Local Communities

Do you like to buy handicrafts from the countries you explore to collect memories of the journey? Okay, by doing this you are not only collecting memories but also helping and supporting the local people of that country. This is how you support and create economic opportunities for the local communities. Let’s see how travelers can collect memories by supporting the country’s communities.

Visit Local Markets and Souks

Travelers can explore Saudi Arabia’s traditional markets/ souks where handicrafts, textiles, spices, etc. from local artisans can be found. Buying them for yourself or your loved ones will make good memories by supporting the local artists.

Choose Homestays and Local Accommodations

Choosing homestays and local accommodations would be an excellent way for you to experience the authentic essence of the nation. This allows you to experience the true atmosphere of the country while also helping local communities.

Participate in Local Experiences

Tourists can participate in local festivals, exhibitions, and traditional crafts, and also relish the Saudi Arabian cuisines. This helps the local artisans and chefs.

Engage with Local Guides

Planning trips with local guides would be a knowledgeable experience to learn about the history and culture of the country. Also, this will be helpful to the local guides.

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Saudi e-Visa is a required travel authorization for travelers visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. This online process for Electronic Travel Authorisation for Saudi Arabia was implemented in 2019 by the Saudi Government, to enable any of the future eligible travelers to apply for an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia. Learn more at Saudi Visa Online.

Respecting Cultural Heritage

It is very crucial to understand and respect Saudi Arabian culture before traveling to the country. Here is how you can be mindful about it-

Learn About Local Customs

Please familiarize yourself with Saudi Arabian customs like respecting the culture, traditions, dressings, and religious sites.

Be Careful with Photography

Please do not take any photographs of people or religious sites without permission. It is very necessary to obtain permission because most people don’t like to get photographed and some places prohibit photographs.

Preserved Historical Sites

Historical sites are the treasures of every country. They are preserving it for future generations. So please do not touch or harm any artifacts, structures, etc.

Choosing Sustainable Accommodation

While choosing accommodation travelers can choose eco-friendly stays that help both the people and the environment. Here is a list of such accommodation options-

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Try to opt for eco-friendly hotels where that use renewable energy and follow environment-friendly rules. This helps the environment and the people living around that place from any harm.

Green Certification

When looking for environmentally friendly hotels, look for LEED or Green Globe certification. Hotels with these certifications meet sustainability standards.

Locally Owned Hotels

Staying in such locally owned hotels, or homestays would help the local communities.

Sustainable Dining

To explore a place one should explore their cuisines. So, tourists should relish Saudi Arabia’s delicacies to learn about their culture. Here are some options for sustainable dining-

Locally Sourced and Organic Food

Choose restaurants where travelers can taste the Saudi delicacies. Opting for such local restaurants may help the farmers and people of that area.

Waste-Reduction

Please do not waste food. Pack the leftovers. Also, encourage environment-friendly packaging.

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Travelers can skip lengthy lines at the border by applying for a Saudi Arabia eVisa before travel. A visa on arrival (VOA) is available to nationals of certain nations in Saudi Arabia. There are many options for international tourists to Saudi Arabia to receive travel authorization. Learn more at Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival.

Responsible Wildlife Interactions

There is so much wildlife to explore in Saudi Arabia. However, please follow all the regulations and protect their habitats. Here is how-

• Keep Your Distance- Please observe wildlife from far away without disturbing them.
• Follow Local Guidelines- Tourists must obey rules set by guides and authorities to protect the animals and the environment.
• Avoid Feeding Wildlife- Feeding wild animals is strictly prohibited. Feeding them may affect their natural behaviors or spread diseases.

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Planning to visit Jeddah to perform Umrah this year? Then, you should know everything about the latest Saudi marine transit visa. Check it out here. Learn more at Overview of Saudi Arabia Marine Transit Visa.

Apart from these things, tourists should take full responsibility for protecting the environment of the places they are visiting. Travelers should avoid using and throwing plastics. Instead, use reusable bottles, utensils, bags, etc. Try your best to use public transport and walk or cycle for short distances. Following these things will positively impact the environment and the people living there.

One should respect each country and its uniqueness while traveling. This will help the government to enhance its sustainable tourism.

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Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. South African citizens, South Korean citizens, Swiss citizens, Romanian citizens and Belgian citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa.