Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has achieved a new milestone, recording a record-breaking 60 million tourists overall (domestic and international) and generating SR143 billion in expenditure in the first half of 2024. Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb announced the figures during a press conference held by the Saudi Center for International Communication in Abha City, Asir region.
Al-Khateeb attributed this success to the support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He stated, “Vision 2030 focuses on enhancing the tourism sector as a key driver for economic and social development. The National Tourism Strategy, launched in September 2019, promotes the exploration of Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions, including its coastlines, mountains, plains, cultural heritage, and rich history. The introduction of the tourist visa allows visitors to discover the Kingdom’s treasures, customs, and traditions.”
Preliminary data for the first half of 2024 indicates that among the 60 million tourists, 44 million were domestic tourists who spent over SR52 billion, while 15 million were international tourists with a total expenditure exceeding SR90 billion. It is worth noting that an estimated 56% of international tourists visit for religious purposes, highlighting the significance of Saudi Arabia’s religious sites as major attractions.
The minister emphasised the ambitious goals of the National Tourism Strategy, aiming to attract over 150 million tourists by 2030. In 2023, the Kingdom welcomed 109 million local and international tourists, a growth that is expected to contribute 10% to the total GDP by 2030 and increase employment from around 650,000 jobs in 2019 to 1.6 million jobs by 2030.
Al-Khateeb highlighted the vital role of the Tourism Development Fund in financing remarkable tourism projects, contributing SAR 7.4 billion to support over 100 projects across different regions, with a total value exceeding SAR 35 billion. Additionally, the Kingdom has allocated a special budget to train and qualify nationals in collaboration with top tourism institutions in Switzerland, Britain, and Spain, ensuring that local talents provide top-notch tourism services.
Moreover, the minister announced the release of the ministry’s annual statistical report, documenting the achievements and targets of the tourism sector in 2023. The report reveals a 16% growth in the total number of domestic and international tourists, reaching 109 million in 2023.
The impact of electronic visas on attracting tourists has been significant. Implemented in 2019 for selected countries, the number of eligible countries has now reached 66, making Saudi Arabia one of the fastest countries to obtain a visa. This ease of access has played a crucial role in boosting international tourist numbers.
Saudi Arabia continues to establish itself as a premier destination for both religious and leisure tourists, supported by strategic investments and robust infrastructure development under Vision 2030.
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Photos courtesy of SPA
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