ar- العربية Saudi Arabia has cemented its position as a global leader in tourism, recording the highest growth among G20 nations during the first seven months of 2024. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Kingdom witnessed a staggering 73% increase in international tourist arrivals, a significant achievement that underscores the country’s growing appeal as a major travel destination.
During this period, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 17.5 million international tourists, a testament to its ongoing efforts to boost the tourism sector as part of Vision 2030. In addition to the rise in visitor numbers, tourism revenues also surged by 207% compared to the same period in 2019, reflecting the sector’s remarkable contribution to the national economy.
This impressive growth follows a strong performance in 2023, when Saudi Arabia attracted 27.4 million visitors, marking a 56% increase from 2019. The surge in tourism has been driven by the country’s commitment to diversifying its economy beyond oil, with tourism playing a central role in that transformation. The Saudi travel sector recorded a surplus of SAR 48 billion in 2023, highlighting a 38% year-on-year growth and solidifying the Kingdom’s status as a top global tourism destination.
Key projects, including the Red Sea, Diriyah Gate, and AlUla, continue to bolster the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure, drawing visitors from around the world. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recognized 2023 as a landmark year for Saudi tourism, noting that the country surpassed its Vision 2030 goal of 100 million annual visitors, years ahead of schedule. The sector’s overall contribution to GDP in 2023 was 11.5%, with projections indicating it could reach 16% by 2034.
As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its tourism sector, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a premier global destination, offering a wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With strategic investments and forward-thinking policies, the future of Saudi tourism looks brighter than ever.