Saudi’s spectacular campaign woos Indian travellers with culture, history, and hospitality

Saudi’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome to Arabia’ has launched its first-ever integrated consumer campaign for the Indian market. The ‘Spectacular Saudi’ will be launched in English across the country across social media, digital platforms, TV, and OTA channels. It will take viewers on an immersive journey through the country’s golden sands, pristine waters, and endless skies, revealing the country’s iconic landscapes and experiences.

Saudi has introduced exclusive packages from 12 trade partners, tailor-made for Indian travellers. Speaking on the campaign, Alhasan Aldabbagh, president of APAC markets at Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “With iconic destinations like Diriyah, Al Balad, and Hegra in AlUla—three of Saudi’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, they can walk through history dating back millennia, and with tailor-made packages, experience world-class culture, adventure, and cuisine”

With a 240% surge in leisure visits from India as compared to last year, Saudi Arabian claims that it has never been easier to visit the country. It now has over 330 direct weekly flights and eight airline operators.

Indians holding a valid tourist or business visa from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen country, with stamped proof of entry are eligible for the e-visa and visa upon arrival at Saudi international airports. Those not eligible under the above-mentioned criteria can apply for the visa through 11 Tasheer Centres across India. 

Noting that India holds an incredibly special place in the nation’s hearts, Aldabbagh said that Saudi Arabia is committed to making it the number one source market by 2030. In 2023 alone, 1.6 million Indians travelled to Saudi. “We are thrilled to welcome Indian visitors to truly experience the Heart of Arabia,” he noted.

Campaign’s take: Alright, let's dive into why Saudi Arabia's ‘Spectacular Saudi’ campaign is likely to make Indian travellers pack their bags and head for the desert sands. Indian travellers are all about soaking in rich, authentic experiences. They love to venture beyond the usual tourist traps and dive deep into cultures, cuisines, and histories that tell a story.

Well, Saudi Arabia is serving up exactly that, with a side of warm hospitality that’s surprisingly familiar. Through this campaign, the Middle Eastern country isn't just saying, "Hey, come visit us." It's more like, "We’re so excited to share our world with you!"

The visuals show ancient mud-brick palaces, the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, historic streets that echo with the past, and those jaw-dropping Nabataean tombs in AlUla. It’s like stepping into a living, breathing history book, but one that also has a foot firmly planted in the modern world.

What really clicks here is how this campaign taps into something close to home. Saudi’s culture of warmth and openness mirrors Indian hospitality in a big way. This shared cultural vibe makes that country feel like a place where Indian travellers would feel right at home, even while exploring the unfamiliar.

‘Spectacular Saudi’ is not just about promoting a destination; it's about creating a connection, weaving a narrative that resonates with the Indian love for culture, history, and heartfelt hospitality. That is why this campaign has all the right ingredients to make it the next must-visit spot on every Indian traveller's list.