Saudi Arabia leads G20 in tourism growth for 2024
Tourist arrivals reached approximately 17.5 million from January to July 2024, fueled by the country’s investment in modern tourism infrastructure and the expansion of its entertainment and cultural offerings. This growth not only highlights Saudi Arabia’s ability to attract global tourists but also underscores the Kingdom's growing prominence as a tourism powerhouse in the Middle East.
The substantial influx of international tourists has been matched by an even more dramatic rise in tourism revenues. Reports from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism show that international tourism revenues surged by 207% during the first half of the year, further reinforcing the success of Saudi Arabia's tourism sector. The Ministry attributed this increase to the Kingdom’s diversification into leisure, adventure, religious, and cultural tourism, alongside the strengthening of partnerships with international travel agencies and airlines.
Much of the growth can be linked to the major projects launched under Vision 2030, including the development of key tourist hubs like the Red Sea Project, the futuristic city of Neom, and the historic Diriyah Gate. These projects are designed to attract a mix of luxury travelers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure tourists, aiming to position Saudi Arabia as a global travel destination. Additionally, the opening of the Kingdom to international tourists for leisure, beginning in 2019 with the introduction of e-visas for over 49 countries, has provided a significant boost to inbound tourism.
Religious tourism continues to be a major contributor to the growth, with millions of Muslims visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages each year. While pilgrimage tourism is a steady source of visitors, the diversification into leisure and adventure tourism has helped expand the country’s appeal to a broader audience. Saudi Arabia's expanding airline network and improvements in tourist facilities have also played a crucial role in accommodating this growing demand.
The Kingdom’s tourism targets remain ambitious, with plans to attract over 100 million visitors annually by 2030. According to UNWTO data, Saudi Arabia recorded the highest growth rate of international tourists among major tourist destinations, significantly outpacing global averages and the performance of other G20 nations. The Ministry of Tourism has also set aggressive goals for expanding domestic tourism, launching promotional campaigns and improving accessibility to tourist sites across the country.
Experts in the tourism industry credit Saudi Arabia's rapid development of infrastructure, investments in mega-projects, and a focus on creating a diverse range of tourism experiences as key drivers of its success. Initiatives such as the Saudi Seasons festivals, which feature international cultural, sporting, and entertainment events, have also contributed to the sharp rise in visitor numbers, positioning the Kingdom as a new hotspot for travelers seeking unique experiences in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy is also supported by significant financial backing from the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has poured billions into developing hotels, resorts, and other tourism-related ventures. This has allowed the Kingdom to create world-class destinations, including the Red Sea coast, which is being developed into a premier beach destination with luxury resorts and eco-tourism opportunities.
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