Saudi eyes booming women group travel demand

Once off the radar for most Indian women travellers, Saudi is now fast becoming a destination of intrigue and discovery. Not just for its breathtaking desert landscapes and coastal escapes, but because it’s quietly—and confidently—opening its arms to solo women, friend groups, and first-time travellers. Yes, Saudi, which is more accessible, safer, and more surprising than you would expect.

A Country Where Women Feel Seen and Safe

Let’s talk about the number one concern for most women when they travel solo: safety. Saudi not only meets this concern but goes above and beyond in ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for women travellers. Madinah has been named the safest city in the world for solo female travellers by InsureMyTrip, a US-based travel insurance company, after surveying women who have been there.

This isn’t just a checklist win—it’s a cultural one. From Jeddah to Riyadh, you will find people eager to help women out. Women feel a sense of space that feels both respectful and secure. In Jeddah, first woman tour guide also opens up doors for a high home experience, a perfect example of Saudi welcome.  

Designed for Comfort

Saudi isn’t trying to replicate the tourist buzz of other destinations. Instead, it’s quietly investing in thoughtful infrastructure that works—especially for women. Public transport is expanding, ride-hailing apps like Careem are reliable, and hotels now offer women-only wellness zones and family lounges for extra comfort.

While modest clothing is appreciated, women are free to dress in what feels comfortable and culturally respectful. This could include Indian attire like long kurtas or even jeans paired with a tunic—whatever best suits your style. An abaya is not required in most places.

Where Are Women Going in Saudi?

Here’s where it gets fun. AlUla is straight out of an adventure film—think ancient tombs, art installations in the middle of the desert, stargazing sessions, and moonlit concerts under sandstone cliffs.

Al Balad in Historic Jeddah feels like walking through a sepia-toned postcard. Coral stone buildings, coffee stalls tucked into alleys, and boutiques run by local women make this UNESCO site unexpectedly cool.

Diriyah, near Riyadh, is perfect for architecture lovers. Think mud-brick palaces, palm-dotted courtyards, and museums that reveal the story of Saudi’s origins. You would not want to miss its evening light and sound show.

The Saudi Red Sea coast is for those who prefer flip-flops to hiking boots. From Umluj beaches to the coral reefs of Yanbu, this is the must-explore side of Saudi.

And naturally, shopping and lively conversations over good food are all part of the experience. Add a lunch at Najd Village in Riyadh to savour authentic Saudi Najd cuisine of Kabsa, Mogalgal, Margoog, Jreesh, and Gursan. Vegetarian? No problem. There are Indian restaurants like Chennai Express in Jeddah, The Yellow Chilli by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor in Riyadh, even Saravanaa Bhavan in Riyadh serving what you crave for. 

Why Now?

Because Saudi is telling its story—and Indian women are listening. With campaigns like Shandar Saudi, there’s a clear invitation to come experience the country through your own lens. Not rushed, not filtered—just authentically, and on your own terms.

Saudi's luxury hospitality scene is flourishing, offering women travellers options of boutique properties and luxury resorts, where they can let their hair down, indulge in spa sessions, enjoys me-time by the pool, and immerse themselves in cultural authenticity. Some notable hotels are to consider Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The St. Regis Red Sea and Shebara Resort in Saudi Red Sea, Desert Rose Luxury Villas in Riyadh, Assila and Shangri-La Jeddah, Shaden Resort, Banyan Tree ad Habitas in AlUla.

(**Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author on behalf of Saudi Tourism and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the publication or its editorial team.)