Jeddah Autumn: World-class sporting events boost Saudi tourism
During the autumn season, Jeddah transforms into a vibrant open-air stage, blending the allure of nature with the excitement of sporting competitions. Various sectors collaborate to deliver a rich program of events that seamlessly integrates land and sea. This dynamic tourism and sporting activity not only showcases the beauty of the "Bride of the Red Sea" but also underscores the success of Saudi Arabia in establishing its cities as major global destinations, leveraging its pleasant climate and diverse landscape to offer visitors an exceptional experience.
Formula 4: A leap towards the future
At the heart of Jeddah's Corniche Circuit, one of the fastest street circuits in the world, the excitement began with the Saudi Aramco Formula 4 Championship. This championship is of particular importance as it is a vital platform for discovering and developing young talent in motorsport, paving the way for a new generation of professional drivers.
The circuit hosted the third round of competition on November 10th and 11th, followed by the fourth round on the 14th and 15th of the same month, amidst a remarkable turnout. All eyes are now on the highly anticipated fifth and final round of the championship, scheduled for December 5th and 6th, 2025, further solidifying the city's commitment to year-round sporting events.
Saudi Arabia Rally: A world-class finale amidst the dunes
Away from the asphalt, amidst the rugged desert landscape that characterizes Jeddah's geography, a major global event took place: the hosting of the 14th and final round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). This event represents a turning point in the history of Saudi Arabian sports, showcasing the Kingdom's diverse terrain to the world.
The competition ran from November 26 to 29, and included 17 stages with a total distance of 320 kilometers. Drivers tested their skills on varied surfaces that combined dirt tracks, gravel sand, and asphalt tracks, all the way to the finish line at the Roshan waterfront, creating a unique visual blend that connects the depth of the desert with the beauty of the coast.
Formula 1 powerboat racing... excitement on the waves
Jeddah didn't confine its activities to the land; it extended the excitement to the Red Sea by hosting the Jeddah Grand Prix, part of the F1H2O World Powerboat Championship, for the first time in the Kingdom's history. In the Obhur Corniche area, the roar of engines harmonized with the crashing waves, creating a scene that reflected the city's immense maritime potential.
The three-day event (November 27-29) began with free practice and qualifying sessions, culminating in the main race, which lasted between 40 and 45 minutes. This event's impact extends beyond the sporting aspect, contributing to the revitalization of marine tourism and attracting watersports enthusiasts from across the globe.
Economic and tourism impact
These diverse events are part of a broader strategy aligned with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources and increase the tourism sector's contribution to the GDP. Hosting tournaments of this scale directly contributes to higher hotel occupancy rates, stimulates the service sector, creates seasonal and permanent job opportunities, and promotes Jeddah as a comprehensive tourist destination that caters to those seeking entertainment, adventure, and culture.
