What's Happening?
Intrepid Travel has announced the expansion of its tour offerings in Saudi Arabia, introducing two new trips: the 9-day Saudi Arabia Highlights and the 7-day Saudi Arabia Expedition: Asir Adventure. This
expansion follows the success of their inaugural 12-day Women's Expedition, which launched in 2024 and saw a 491% increase in passenger growth year-on-year. The new trips are designed to offer immersive experiences across Saudi Arabia, including cultural highlights and lesser-known regions like Asir. These tours are conducted in partnership with a local operator, a Saudi mother of two, and aim to support women in tourism by increasing the number of female tour leaders and promoting women-owned businesses.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Intrepid Travel's offerings in Saudi Arabia is significant as it supports the growth of women in tourism, a sector traditionally dominated by men in the region. By partnering with local female operators and increasing female tour leadership, Intrepid Travel is contributing to gender equality and economic empowerment for women. This move also aligns with the broader global trend of promoting sustainable and responsible tourism that benefits local communities. The tours offer travelers unique cultural experiences while supporting local economies, particularly women-owned businesses, which can lead to increased economic opportunities and social change in Saudi Arabia.
What's Next?
The new trips are available for booking, with departures starting from April 25, 2026. Travelers can combine the 7-day Saudi Arabia Expedition: Asir Adventure with the 9-day Saudi Arabia Highlights or the 12-day Women's Expedition for a comprehensive exploration of the country. As Intrepid Travel continues to expand its offerings, it is likely to further enhance its support for women in tourism and explore additional partnerships with local operators. This expansion may also encourage other travel companies to adopt similar models, promoting sustainable tourism and gender equality in the region.
Beyond the Headlines
Intrepid Travel's expansion in Saudi Arabia highlights the potential for tourism to act as a catalyst for social change, particularly in regions with traditional gender roles. By focusing on women-owned businesses and female tour leaders, the company is not only providing economic opportunities but also challenging cultural norms and promoting inclusivity. This approach may inspire other sectors to adopt similar strategies, fostering a more equitable and diverse workforce across industries.
