Indonesia’s Top Travel Secrets, Why Saudi Tourists Are Choosing Bali, Puncak, and More for Their Dream Vacations

Published on November 24, 2025

In recent years, Saudi tourists have increasingly become a significant part of the tourism sector in Indonesia. Their growing preferences for luxury travel, extended stays, and destinations that offer cooler climates have greatly influenced how the country markets and develops its tourism offerings. As visitors from Saudi Arabia seek relief from the extreme desert heat, they are drawn to Indonesia’s lush landscapes and its more temperate climate. The increasing demand for luxurious accommodations and the trend of long-term vacations are driving a shift in Indonesia’s tourism development strategies. This change reflects a broader global trend where travelers, especially those from more affluent markets like Saudi Arabia, are placing greater value on personalized, high-quality travel experiences. Understanding these evolving preferences is crucial for shaping the future of both Indonesia’s tourism and the broader global travel industry.

The Shift Toward Luxury and Upscale Accommodation

The demand for luxury within Indonesia’s tourism sector has been significantly influenced by the growing number of Saudi tourists. These travelers have become some of the highest spenders, particularly in terms of accommodation. Unlike many other tourist groups, Saudi visitors tend to favor exclusive, high-end resorts and luxurious hotels—including five-star and even seven-star options. The emphasis for these tourists is not primarily on the cost but on the comfort, privacy, and world-class service that these properties can offer.

In places like Bali, it has been noted that some of the most sought-after properties among Saudi tourists include renowned brands such as St. Regis and Jumeirah. These properties are popular because they are known for their top-tier services and impeccable standards of luxury, which align with the preferences of Saudi visitors. Indonesia’s tourism industry is responding to this growing demand for luxury by expanding its high-end offerings, particularly during peak seasons, and ensuring that services meet the expectations of this affluent market.

This shift towards luxury travel reflects a larger trend in the global tourism industry. As more affluent tourists seek premium experiences, destinations across the globe are investing in upscale infrastructure and refining their offerings to cater to this growing demographic. The trend underscores a broader transformation in travel behavior, where personalized, high-quality experiences are no longer a luxury but a standard expectation for high-end travelers. For Indonesia, this growing focus on luxury tourism not only increases its attractiveness to Saudi tourists but also contributes to the local economy by driving higher visitor spending in the hospitality sector.

The Allure of Cooler Climates and Natural Beauty

One of the most significant factors influencing Saudi tourists’ attraction to Indonesia is the country’s climate. Compared to the extreme heat of the Saudi desert, Indonesia’s cooler regions offer a refreshing change. One such destination that has become a favorite among Saudi visitors is Puncak, located in the highlands of Bogor. The cooler weather, coupled with the lush green landscapes, provides the ideal escape for those seeking respite from the intense desert heat. The misting clouds and temperate climate of Puncak make it an attractive option for Saudi travelers, who prefer destinations that provide both natural beauty and a break from the harsh conditions of home.

Moreover, many Saudi tourists have developed a particular fascination with rain, a phenomenon that is relatively rare in their home country. This unique interest leads many visitors to seek out the experience of rainy weather while in Indonesia. Regions like Pelabuhan Ratu, with its coastal scenery and unpredictable weather, have become particularly popular among Saudi visitors. These places offer a dynamic weather experience, which, when combined with the stunning natural surroundings, enhances the overall appeal of the location for those wanting to experience nature’s unpredictability.

This growing preference for cooler climates and natural beauty aligns with a broader global tourism shift. More and more travelers are prioritizing untouched landscapes and natural environments over artificial, commercialized attractions. Destinations that offer cooler weather and authentic natural beauty are seeing an increase in popularity, especially among travelers from regions with harsh climates like Saudi Arabia. The growing trend suggests that other tourist regions around the world may benefit from emphasizing their climatic diversity and natural offerings to attract tourists seeking a similar escape.

Family-Oriented Travel and the Desire for Extended Stays

A defining feature of Saudi tourism in Indonesia is the strong preference for family-oriented travel. Many Saudi visitors prefer to travel with extended family members, and these trips often extend beyond the typical holiday length. This trend toward long stays indicates that Saudi tourists are seeking a more relaxed pace of travel, with enough time to both rest and explore their destinations. The growing inclination for longer vacations is driving the demand for spacious accommodations such as private villas and luxury resorts, which provide the privacy, space, and comfort that families desire.

Additionally, Saudi tourists have shown a strong preference for nature-based destinations that offer tranquility and an escape from the bustle of city life. They tend to favor beaches, forests, and mountainous regions, where they can enjoy the peace and beauty of natural environments. This focus on natural attractions marks a significant departure from more traditional, technology-driven entertainment or urban tourist destinations. Many Saudi visitors are also keen to explore local cuisines, often seeking organic and healthy food options that are not easily found back home. This interest in cultural authenticity and natural experiences underscores a growing global shift towards multi-generational tourism, where families seek meaningful travel experiences that allow them to reconnect in peaceful settings.

As more Saudi families travel to Indonesia, the trend highlights the growing global interest in family-friendly tourism. Destinations that cater to families by offering authentic, nature-focused experiences will continue to see rising demand. This shift also signals the importance of offering immersive, cultural travel packages that allow families to explore new environments together, deepening connections through shared experiences.

Strengthening Ties for Future Growth

In order to sustain and enhance the flow of Saudi tourists, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has been placing increasing emphasis on strengthening its ties with Saudi Arabia. One important avenue for this collaboration is working closely with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, particularly to attract more visitors during the Hajj season. Many Saudi tourists travel to Indonesia before or after performing their Hajj pilgrimage, and the goal is to offer them additional, unique experiences during their extended stays. By providing tailored post-Hajj vacation experiences, Indonesia aims to tap into this market and extend the length of stay for these travelers.

According to Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency, the number of Saudi tourists visiting Indonesia in 2024 was recorded at 135,643, a slight drop from 157,512 in 2019. Despite this decrease, there is optimism that the numbers will increase moving forward. Saudi Arabia remains a critical market for Indonesia’s tourism sector, and government officials are hopeful that stronger bilateral relations between the two countries will help boost the flow of visitors in the coming years. By working more closely with Saudi authorities, Indonesia seeks to ensure that Saudi tourists have a memorable, extended stay and are encouraged to return year after year.

This increasing focus on long stays and high-value experiences is part of a broader global shift in tourism, where travelers are increasingly seeking personalized and culturally enriching experiences. As Saudi visitors continue to prioritize comfort and authenticity, Indonesia stands poised to capitalize on these preferences by offering luxury accommodations and authentic cultural experiences tailored to this high-value demographic.

The Global Impact on Tourism Trends

The rise of Saudi tourists in Indonesia is not only reshaping local tourism patterns but is also having a profound impact on global tourism trends. As Saudi travelers increasingly choose luxurious accommodations, cooler climates, and authentic cultural experiences, the entire tourism industry is evolving. Destinations around the world are recognizing the growing demand for personalized, high-quality experiences and are focusing on providing unique offerings that emphasize natural beauty and climate diversity.

This shift is a clear signal that many destinations globally will need to invest in luxury tourism infrastructure and create sustainable, nature-based travel experiences that cater to the increasing demand for authentic and meaningful travel. As more tourists seek out destinations that align with their preferences for comfort, luxury, and cultural immersion, the competition among destinations will intensify. Those regions that embrace these trends and cater to the evolving needs of travelers will be better positioned to thrive in the global tourism market.

The increasing presence of Saudi tourists in Indonesia offers valuable insights into the future trajectory of global tourism. As demand rises for luxurious, authentic, and family-friendly travel experiences, destinations will need to adapt quickly to meet these changing expectations. Indonesia’s success in meeting the needs of Saudi visitors exemplifies the broader trend toward more personalized, culturally rich travel experiences. Ultimately, the key to remaining competitive will be the ability to offer a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences that align with the evolving desires of today’s global travelers.

In summary, as Saudi tourists continue to shape Indonesia’s tourism sector, their preferences for luxury, family-oriented experiences, and natural beauty are helping to define the future of the global tourism industry. The trends set by this growing demographic underscore the importance of embracing personalized and high-quality services in order to remain competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace. Destinations that prioritize luxury, nature-based travel, and authentic cultural experiences will lead the way in the evolution of global tourism.