January 21, 2026 | 11:50 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The beginning of the year is the busiest travel period for tourists, including those who now make sports the primary reason for traveling.
This trend has become apparent in Saudi Arabia in the first few months of 2026. Various international sporting events will be held, alongside an atmosphere supportive of experience-based tourism. Several cities in Saudi Arabia have also transformed into dynamic activity centers.
Stadiums, city streets, the Red Sea beaches, and desert expanses have become stages for world-class sporting events. Meanwhile, stadiums, city streets, desert expanses, and coastlines have become tourist destinations for sports enthusiasts. However, this sports-inspired travel is not about quickly moving from one destination to another.
It's about balancing enthusiastic moments with space for physical, emotional, and mental recovery. Here are various sports agendas and cultural festivals in Saudi Arabia that can inspire your next journey, as reported by the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Sports Events in Saudi Arabia
1. Jeddah Formula 1 STC
The 2026 Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will take place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit from April 17 to 19. This night race, held on one of the fastest street circuits in the world, offers a high-speed motorsport experience against the backdrop of an iconic coastal landscape. The Corniche area comes alive outside the track with various culinary options, fan zones, and city entertainment, making the F1 event a celebration for all of Jeddah.
2. Riyadh Marathon
Riyadh kicks off the year with a marathon on January 31, 2026, bringing together elite athletes and amateur runners in an inclusive atmosphere. With a route that traverses Diriyah to the modern city center, participants can feel the pulse of history and Riyadh's progress while conquering the distance.
3. International Sporting Spectacles Season
The beginning of the year in Saudi Arabia has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts from around the world, including:
- The Dakar Rally from January 3-17, 2026, is a major attraction for motorsport enthusiasts and adventure seekers, showcasing thrilling action as racers conquer the Saudi desert.
- On January 31, 2026, Riyadh also hosts the famous WWE Royal Rumble, known for its grand entertainment. On January 19-20, the Saudi Darts Masters offers top-level precision competition.
- Moving into February, the focus shifts to LIV Golf Riyadh on February 5-7, 2026, bringing together international golfers in a progressive tournament format, followed by Premier Padel on February 9-14, 2025, strengthening Saudi's position as a host for multiple sports.
These events affirm Saudi Arabia as an active travel destination where spectators can participate directly. They can run alongside thousands of participants, cheer on athletes from the stands, or soak up the atmosphere in the city center fan zone.
4. Tourism at a Gentle Pace
For tourists who prefer a relaxed pace, the Yanbu Flowers and Gardens Festival offers a beautifully serene alternative. Flower gardens, sea air, and open spaces offer visitors the chance to enjoy reflective experiences and a slower-paced recovery journey.
Putri Az zahra Suherman contributed to this article
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