Armenia and Hong Kong Take the Lead Among Visa-Free Travel Destinations for Saudi Travelers
Searches for select visa‑free destinations surged by strong double‑digit rates year‑on‑year
Saudi travelers are increasingly favoring visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations that offer not only convenience but also meaningful cultural experiences. According to recent travel insights, Armenia recorded the highest year-on-year surge in search volume at 98.96%, followed closely by Hong Kong SAR (96.66%), the Philippines (62.86%), and South Korea (60.24%).
The data reflects a notable shift in Saudi travel preferences. Travelers are moving away from traditional leisure-focused tourism and opting instead for shorter, more immersive trips that emphasize authentic cultural engagement and seamless entry procedures.
Wego, the leading travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), attributes this rising interest to the combination of simplified entry requirements and the growing appeal of culturally rich destinations.
From Ancient Monasteries to K-Culture
From Armenia’s centuries-old monasteries and the immersive energy of South Korea’s K-Culture, to Manila’s historic Intramuros district and Hong Kong’s vibrant contemporary art scene, these destinations offer diverse cultural experiences that deeply resonate with Saudi travelers seeking depth beyond the typical tourist trail.
Policy Shifts and Promotional Campaigns Boost Visibility
Recent government-led initiatives have further enhanced the appeal of these destinations. Armenia’s decision to waive visa requirements for citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, effective July 2025, is expected to significantly boost inbound tourism from Saudi Arabia and neighboring states.
Similarly, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has launched “Summer Viva 2025,” a comprehensive cultural campaign featuring year-round live performances, visitor vouchers, and experiential events aimed at culture-focused travelers.
In addition to simplified entry, these destinations offer practical advantages. These include shorter flight durations, more affordable costs compared to traditional tourist hotspots, and an expanding infrastructure that caters to Muslim travelers, such as halal food options and family-friendly facilities.
Wego: Enabling Smart, Personalized Travel
Commenting on the findings, Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego, said: “Saudi travelers are seeking destinations that are easy to reach and provide enriching, authentic cultural experiences.
The popularity of countries like Armenia, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and South Korea reflects a growing demand for practical and inspiring alternatives to conventional luxury tourism, particularly those with geographic proximity and well-connected urban layouts.”
He added that Wego supports this trend by offering intelligent tools that help travelers filter visa-free destinations, discover trending attractions, and receive personalized recommendations powered by AI.
“Our platform allows users to compare prices, tailor their search results, and find experiences that align with their interests, behavior, and budget,” Hmidan explained.
2025 Travel Trends: Meaning Over Luxury
In terms of broader travel behavior, Wego’s data shows a rising appetite among Saudi travelers for culturally immersive itineraries. Rather than focusing on sightseeing or entertainment-heavy trips, many now prefer to interact with local communities, explore heritage sites, and connect with a destination’s cultural identity.
This cultural shift is also accompanied by a growing emphasis on efficiency. Travelers are increasingly planning short, well-structured trips that maximize both time and cost. They seek soulful experiences such as sampling traditional cuisine, exploring artisan markets, or listening to local storytelling, prioritizing authenticity and connection over luxury or status.
