Domestic travel in Saudi Arabia is on the rise, as more Saudis set out to rediscover the rich heritage, and the breathtaking landscapes within their own borders. While domestic tourism has traditionally thrived during specific seasons—like in summer when travelers head to the cooler southern cities of Abha and Al-Baha—there is a growing interest in these destinations all-year-round, and Saudi nationals are fueled by a deeper desire to connect with the Kingdom’s history and culture, beyond religious tourism, which continues to be an essential aspect of the tourism landscape in the Kingdom. This shift aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country’s economy by elevating tourism and encouraging its locals to explore the vast beauty and cultural diversity of their homeland.
In recent years, regional travel within the Kingdom has surged in popularity, with many Saudis choosing to explore the beautiful landscapes of AlUla, or the rugged mountains of Taif over international destinations. Southern cities, in particular, offer a refreshing retreat from the heat, but it is the allure of the authentic, immersive experiences that truly captivated them. Immersing in their culture, food, and traditions allows them to appreciate the age-old traditions and natural beauty of their country. With improved accessibility and increasingly affordable travel options, once-overlooked destinations are becoming must-visit spots, fueling a domestic tourism boom that shows no signs of slowing down.
Gathern is empowering Saudi hospitality by bringing local hosts into the experience.
The hospitality sector is evolving alongside these trends: local hosts are playing a central role in the appeal of domestic tourism. In many ways, Gathern has built a community of hosts who take pride in sharing their spaces and the memorable experiences they offer, with some even contributing to the immersive journey by creating content that shows the hospitality they provide. This gives travelers a fresh way to experience different parts of Saudi Arabia.
Part of Gathern’s success is driven by community-driven content on TikTok, where both hosts and travelers bring their experiences to life. Since its launch in 2017, Gathern has grown threefold, now offering thousands of diverse accommodations, from city apartments to private chalets. Just two years after its inception, Gathern became the first peer-to-peer platform licensed by the Ministry of Tourism in 2020, democratizing travel by making it easier for Saudis to discover stunning, under-the-radar locations. By combining local expertise with digital accessibility, Gathern has made travel more inclusive, opening up new experiences for people across the Kingdom.
With easier access and unique storytelling, the Kingdom’s local tourism sector is more accessible than ever.
The ease of booking travel has allowed Saudis to embrace domestic tourism like never before, with more locals eager to explore lesser-explored destinations across the Kingdom. Adapting to shifting travel trends, Gathern has created a platform where hosts can share their homes and culture, enriching the travel experience for guests. This exchange fosters a genuine connection between visitors and the local communities, turning each trip into a journey of cultural immersion and discovery.
By focusing on authentic storytelling and leveraging the voices of both hosts and travelers, Gathern has created a travel experience that feels personal and community driven. Through platforms like TikTok, it has cultivated a grassroots movement towards shared stories and meaningful connections, redefining how Saudis explore their own country.
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