The Kingdom is buzzing with exciting festivals and innovative events this summer — an indication of its blooming domestic tourism sector.

Abdullah Al-Jehani, vice president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), said all preparations were in place for the 27 festivals and events to be held across the length and breadth of the Kingdom, which comprise five festivals in Qassim, four in Baha, four in Tabuk, two in Al-Jauf, Al-Ahsa and Riyadh, and one in Jeddah, Najran, Jazan, Abha, Madinah, Dammam, Hail and Taif.

Here’s a roundup of some of the big events that will be organized by the SCTA in cooperation with tourism development councils across the Kingdom’s regions and cities.

Jeddah Ghair: Starting today, Jeddawis will be treated to a range of exciting activities under the aegis of the Jeddah Summer Festival 2012, popularly known as Jeddah Ghair. This year’s festival, which runs until July 12, features over 150 activities including cultural, social, sports, and entertainment events to be held at the Jeddah Corniche, leading malls, parks, and public squares.

Riyadh Shopping and Entertainment Festival: With the participation of a number of commercial and entertainment centers and hotels in the Kingdom in addition to eight international teams adding to the entertainment quotient of the festival, the Riyadh festival is all geared up to provide the best in fun and pleasure within the frameworks of community values to its visitors.

Hail Summer Festival: An adventure-filled, month-long festival (June 15-July 15) comprising of many recreational activities, competitions, poetry readings and exhibitions and popular markets will be held in different places of Hail. Highlights include Saudi Ardah (folklore dance), arts and photo exhibitions, poetry events, sky gliding, heritage expos, children’s theater, tours with cartoon characters, and a blood donation campaign, among other programs.

Abha Brings Us Together Festival:

The festival, held from June 14-July 18, features various entertainment activities, such as theatrical performances, a productive families expo, shopping outlets, Asiri folklore, games, and prizes worth SR500,000 for the visitors, among a number of other wide-ranging programs.

Festival of Diving: The first festival dedicated to diving events will be held on the shores of Magna, Tabuk, from July 2 until July 6, 2012. Not only does the festival promise an experience of a lifetime to diving aficionados in the Kingdom, it also celebrates the status of Magna as a top dive destination in the country.

Aramco Summer Festival:

The popular festival in Riyadh has been praised in the past by SCTA Chief Prince Sultan bin Salman for its contribution in encouraging national tourism through organizing a number of events. The fest (June 19-Jul 13) is expected to witness heavy turnout both by citizens and expatriates for its distinguished programs and activities.

Qassim summer festivals:

This year, the region is hosting five festivals, namely Buraidah Recreational Festival, Unaizah Tourism Festival, Al-Methnab Summer Festival, Al-Bukayriah Summer Festival and Al-Asyah Summer Festival, all of which promise to attract visitors from all segments of society. Qassim is home to several picturesque gardens and farms, and there are lots of recreational activities here, especially for families looking to spend quality time together.

So mark your calendars for a roaring good time. See you at the festivals!