Tourism Ministry releases official 2023 statistics: Bahrain & Egypt top source markets

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global tourist destination, with the latest Annual Statistical Report 2023 from the Ministry of Tourism revealing record-breaking growth in inbound tourism.

This comprehensive analysis highlights the significant trends, key source markets, and strategic initiatives that have contributed to the Kingdom’s increasing allure. As Saudi Arabia continues to unveil its diverse attractions and simplify travel processes, it is set to capture the interest of tourists worldwide.

Presenting the report, Tourism Minister, Ahmad Al-Khateeb said, “The statistics shown in the report not only reflect the success of our tourism policies but also demonstrate the vibrant economic activity driven by this sector. The influx of tourists has bolstered local businesses, from hospitality to retail, and has notably invigorated the national economy. The dynamic growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector presents enormous opportunities for investors, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s appeal for tourism investments. Additionally, it is helping to introduce more young talent, both male and female, into the workforce.”

He added, “The report has been prepared by the Deputyship of Data & Decision Support at the Ministry of Tourism, on the System of Tourism Statistics, aligned with UN Tourism standards. It provides a comprehensive resource for both government and private entities, facilitating collaborative planning and project development.”

Record-breaking growth in inbound tourism

In 2023, Saudi Arabia witnessed an unprecedented surge in inbound tourism, with the number of tourists reaching 27.4 million—a remarkable 65% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the Kingdom’s successful efforts in promoting its attractions and enhancing its global tourism appeal.

Key source markets

The report identifies several important source markets for Saudi Arabia:

Kingdom of Bahrain: 3.4 million tourists (12.4% of total inbound tourists)
Egypt: 2.6 million tourists (9.5%)
Pakistan: 2.5 million tourists (9.1%)
Kuwait: Significant contributor within the GCC
Indonesia, India, UAE, Jordan, Qatar, Bangladesh: Other notable source markets

Regional breakdown:

GCC Countries: 8.6 million tourists (31% of all inbound trips)
Asia and the Pacific: 7.9 million tourists (29%)
Middle East: 5.6 million tourists (20%)
Europe: Turkey, with 680,000 tourists (2.5%)
Americas: United States, with 331,000 tourists (1.2%)
Africa: Algeria, with 523,000 tourists (1.9%)

This diverse mix reflects Saudi Arabia’s broadening appeal across different regions and its successful outreach to a global audience.

Popular destinations

Makkah Al-Mukarramah remains the most visited city, attracting 15.4 million tourists, which is 56.2% of the total inbound tourists. Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah follows with 9.6 million visitors (35%). Other key cities include Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar, each offering unique attractions and experiences that draw international tourists.

Tourist spending

Inbound tourist spending reached an impressive SAR 141.2 billion (approximately USD 37.6 billion) in 2023, marking a 44% increase from the previous year. This surge in spending is driven by the increasing number of tourists and the enhanced tourism infrastructure and services in the Kingdom. The average spend per trip is SAR 5,150 (USD 1,370), with an average length of stay of 15.8 nights, indicating that tourists are not only visiting but are also engaging deeply with the country’s offerings.

Strategic initiatives driving growth

Several strategic initiatives have been pivotal in driving this growth. The introduction and expansion of the e-visa system have made it easier for tourists from around the world to visit Saudi Arabia. Effective marketing campaigns showcasing the Kingdom’s diverse attractions—from cultural and historical sites to modern entertainment and leisure activities—have also played a crucial role.

Moreover, the focus on developing and promoting unique destinations, such as the Red Sea Project and Al-Ula, has attracted tourists seeking new and exotic experiences. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil revenues by boosting the tourism sector.

Overall, the 2023 Annual Statistical Report highlights the dynamic and rapidly growing inbound tourism sector in Saudi Arabia. With strategic initiatives, effective marketing, and a focus on enhancing the tourist experience, the Kingdom is well on its way to becoming a premier global tourist destination. This growth not only boosts the local economy but also offers immense opportunities for investors and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industries. As Saudi Arabia continues to unveil its treasures to the world, the future of its tourism sector looks exceedingly bright.

For detailed insights and further information, stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the full report provided by the Ministry of Tourism, which offers comprehensive data and analysis on the trends and factors driving the growth of inbound tourism in Saudi Arabia.