Saudi Arabia has registered the highest international tourism growth among G20 countries during the first seven months of 2024, according to the latest statistics released by UN Tourism. According to the report, he Kingdom experienced a 73% surge in international tourist arrivals compared to the same period in 2019, alongside a 207% increase in international tourism revenues.
Between January and July 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed 17.5 million international tourists, continuing the momentum from 2023, when the Kingdom attracted a record 27.4 million visitors. This growth aligns with Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan to diversify its economy by positioning Saudi Arabia as a top-tier global tourism hub. The tourism sector also contributed to a SAR48 billion (approx. US$12.8 bn) travel surplus in 2023, a 38% year-on-year increase.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister at G20 Summit in Brazil
The announcement of Saudi Arabia’s exceptional tourism growth comes as Tourism Minister Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb has been leading the Kingdom’s delegation at the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Belem, Brazil. Al-Khateeb, who also chairs the UN Tourism Executive Council, played a key role in discussions around sustainable tourism growth under the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.”
The meeting is highly important, as G20 economies represent over 70% of all international tourist arrivals and receipts generated worldwide and 82% of tourism’s global GDP. In 2023, the sector accounted directly for 3.1% of the GDP of the G20, 5% of all exports of the group and 23% of all its service exports.
At the Ministers’ meeting, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that the sector is on track to fully recover pre-pandemic levels by the end of this year. Given this, the focus must now shift to the future, with an emphasis on empowering and including local communities, fighting climate change, and progressing nature net positive and circularity.
Minister Al-Khateeb emphasised that Saudi Arabia’s progress in tourism extends beyond mere economic benefits, offering an opportunity for people from across the world to experience the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage while also allowing Saudis to explore global wonders.
During his address, Al-Khateeb emphasised Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform its rapidly expanding tourism sector into a sustainable industry. He highlighted the importance of enhancing global tourism connectivity, improving sustainability, and fostering cultural exchange, all key elements of the Kingdom’s strategy since its presidency of the G20 in 2020.
Al-Khateeb also reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism projects, including Diriyah and NEOM, as well as the Kingdom’s leadership in establishing the Sustainable Tourism Global Center, a joint initiative between KSA and WTTC supporting global sustainability efforts in tourism.
Saudi Arabia’s global tourism surge
On the sidelines of the meeting, Al-Khateeb held discussions with key tourism leaders, including ministers from Brazil, Italy, India, Spain, and Japan, as well as the UN Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, and World Travel and Tourism Council President and CEO, Julia Simpson. These talks covered topics including youth and women’s employment in the tourism sector and strategies for boosting post-pandemic recovery.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector continues to exceed expectations, having already surpassed its Vision 2030 target of 100 million tourists by 2030—a milestone achieved seven years ahead of schedule. Key drivers of this success include the expansion of air routes, airport upgrades, and the introduction of the electronic visa system, which has streamlined access for international visitors.
Creating jobs and promoting inclusive growth
In 2023, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry created 925,000 jobs, with 45% of these roles filled by women, underscoring the sector’s contribution to inclusive growth.
With international tourist arrivals now 121% higher than pre-pandemic levels, Saudi Arabia has solidified its reputation as the fastest-growing tourist destination among G20 nations.
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Photo – top of page – NEOM
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Read also: Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector surpasses $17 billion in 2023
