Published on
November 14, 2025
Philippines is strengthening its tourism ties with Saudi Arabia through a series of strategic initiatives aimed at attracting more Saudi visitors. With the launch of new direct flight routes and the introduction of Halal-friendly services, the Philippines is positioning itself as a premier destination for Saudi nationals seeking family-friendly, culturally enriching travel experiences. These efforts come at a time when Saudi Arabia’s outbound tourism market is rapidly expanding, and the Philippines is keen to leverage this growth by offering a welcoming environment that aligns with Saudi values and preferences. The combination of enhanced air connectivity and tailored services is set to open new doors for tourism between the two nations, fostering stronger cultural and economic ties.
Expanding Air Connectivity with New Direct Routes
During the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly held in Riyadh, the Philippines and Saudi Arabia discussed various ways to improve travel options between the two countries. As a result, new direct flight routes have been announced, including new connections from Riyadh to Cagayan de Oro and Riyadh to Zamboanga, alongside the existing Riyadh-Manila and Jeddah-Manila routes.
These new routes will enhance access to the Philippines for Saudi tourists, providing more direct options and making it easier for travelers to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty and warm, welcoming culture. The improved air connectivity is expected to support the Philippines’ ambitions of becoming a leading travel destination for Saudi nationals.
The Growing Appeal of the Philippines to Saudi Tourists
Saudi Arabia has become one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets, largely driven by its youthful, affluent population eager to explore new destinations. The Philippines has increasingly caught the attention of Saudi nationals, who are drawn to its exceptional hospitality, English-speaking services, and diverse travel options.
In 2024, the Philippines saw a remarkable increase in tourism receipts from Saudi Arabia, with figures reaching USD 37.86 million, reflecting a 46 percent growth from the previous year. Popular destinations such as Cebu, Boracay, Palawan, Pampanga, and Cavite are attracting Saudi travelers, who seek family-friendly resorts, beautiful beaches, and a range of premium experiences.
Embracing Halal Tourism for Saudi Travelers
To cater to the growing number of Saudi visitors, the Philippines is enhancing its Halal-friendly tourism offerings. These include Halal-certified food, prayer facilities, and other services that meet the needs of Muslim travelers. The country’s efforts to build a more inclusive and welcoming environment for Muslim tourists are aimed at making the Philippines one of the top destinations for Halal tourism in Southeast Asia.
In addition to these initiatives, Saudi nationals benefit from a visa-free entry policy, which allows them to stay in the Philippines for up to 30 days without needing a visa. This policy makes it easier for Saudi visitors to explore the Philippines and enjoy everything the country has to offer, from its beaches and resorts to its rich cultural heritage.
A Bright Future for Philippines-Saudi Tourism Relations
The expansion of air routes and the introduction of Halal-friendly initiatives are expected to strengthen the Philippines’ tourism position in Saudi Arabia. As Saudi Arabia’s outbound tourism market continues to grow, the Philippines is well-positioned to take advantage of this trend and attract more visitors from the Middle East.
The Philippines’ natural beauty, warm hospitality, and Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives will continue to make it a top destination for Saudi tourists. With new flights, more accessible visa processes, and a focus on providing a comfortable, inclusive experience for Muslim travelers, the Philippines is set to become a key player in the growing Middle Eastern tourism market.
Conclusion
The growing collaboration between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, marked by new direct flight routes and Halal-friendly tourism initiatives, highlights the Philippines’ commitment to becoming a more accessible and attractive destination for Saudi nationals. As the Middle Eastern outbound tourism market flourishes, the Philippines stands ready to capture a larger share of this dynamic growth, offering Saudi visitors a memorable and culturally enriching experience.
