Saudi families planning summer holidays could save thousands of riyals by adjusting their travel dates, according to Skyscanner’s latest Summer Travel Insights.

 A family of four travelling to one of the season’s most popular destinations could reduce return flight costs by up to SAR4,128 ($1098.71) by choosing the cheapest week to fly.

The findings come as 44% of Saudi travellers have yet to book their summer holidays and are still searching for the best options.

With rising airfares, fixed school holidays and limited flexibility, comparing departure dates could significantly reduce overall travel costs.

Skyscanner’s analysis found that the week beginning August 31 offers the best overall value for summer flights from Saudi Arabia, challenging the belief among 41% of travellers that July is the cheapest month to travel.

While late-season travel may not suit everyone, the data highlights the savings available by checking different dates before booking.

Denpasar, Indonesia, offers the biggest potential saving among the destinations analysed.

Average return flights cost around SAR 2,544 per traveller, but fares drop to approximately SAR 1,512 during the cheapest week starting 24 August.

This represents a saving of SAR1,032 per person, or SAR4,128 for a family of four.

Travellers heading to Milan could also benefit, with flights during the week starting 31 August averaging SAR1,379 compared with the summer average of SAR1,730. The difference could save a family of four around SAR 1,407.

The report noted that the cheapest travel period varies by destination, making fare comparisons essential.

Saudi travellers expect to spend an average of SAR1,312 per person on overseas summer flights, but only 33% have flexibility over travel dates, while school holidays and other commitments limit options for many.

Skyscanner advised travellers to compare fares across multiple weeks, monitor changing prices and review monthly flight options to secure better value.

Even small adjustments to travel timing can help families maximise their holiday budgets without changing their preferred destinations.

Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, said: “Summer travel planning has become increasingly complex, particularly for families balancing school calendars, budgets and changing flight prices. Our data shows that travellers do not necessarily need to compromise on their preferred destination to find better value. Checking a wider range of dates and comparing the cheapest weeks can uncover substantial savings, which can then be put towards accommodation, experiences or simply making the overall holiday more affordable.” -TradeArabia News Service