Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is entering an unprecedented growth phase. Driven by Vision 2030 reforms—spanning visa liberalisation, world-class attractions, and massive infrastructure investment—the Kingdom is positioning itself as one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Analysts now project that Saudi Arabia could rank among the top five global tourist destinations by 2040, with some forecasts suggesting over 80 million international arrivals annually by that point.
According to recent insights from Google and Deloitte, the Middle East is set to see the world’s fastest growth in inbound tourism through 2040, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading the charge. This surge is fuelled by giga-projects such as NEOM, Expo 2030 in Riyadh, and ultra-luxury developments on the Red Sea coast.
Saudi tourism is already breaking records. Already in 2023, the country counted over 100 million tourists (including domestic and international)—seven years ahead of its original Vision 2030 target. This has prompted the government to raise its goal to 150 million by 2030. Of these, international arrivals grew sharply, reaching over 27 million in 2023 (primarily religious tourism). Tourist spending also surged in 2024, with inbound expenditure exceeding SAR 153.6 billion (about USD 41 billion), contributing 12.45% to national GDP.
Luxury travel is at the heart of this transformation. The Red Sea Project, comprising 22 island resorts, aims to host 50 luxury hotels by 2030. NEOM’s Sindalah Island, designed for the ultra-wealthy, will feature a luxury marina, a world-class golf course, and over 35 fine-dining establishments. AlUla’s “Journey Through Time” masterplan is set to generate USD 32 billion in GDP and create over 38,000 jobs by 2035. Diriyah Gate, the historic birthplace of the Saudi state, is being reinvented as a cultural and lifestyle destination of global standing.
The hospitality sector is expanding rapidly. As of 2025, Saudi Arabia has over 426,000 licensed hotel rooms. Major international brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Accor are scaling their presence, particularly in Riyadh and the giga-project zones. The capital alone is adding over 360,000 rooms by the end of the decade. These projects are being carefully positioned to attract high-net-worth travellers looking for bespoke experiences in desert, mountain, and coastal settings.
Complementing this growth is a dramatic expansion in infrastructure and access. Saudi Arabia’s e-visa program now covers over 60 countries, with flexible entry options for tourists, including 90-day stays for many. By 2030, the Kingdom will have invested over USD 800 billion into its tourism economy, including in next-generation airports, high-speed rail links, and signature entertainment and cultural venues such as Qiddiya and AMAALA.
While religious tourism remains foundational—Mecca and Medina continue to draw millions—non-religious travel is now the main driver of growth. Leisure, business, and cultural visits are increasing year-round, supported by mega-events like Riyadh Season, international sports tournaments, and the development of heritage zones like Jeddah’s Al-Balad. These efforts are helping to smooth out seasonality and diversify the visitor base. In 2024, over half of all inbound visitors came for reasons unrelated to pilgrimage.
KSA: 80 million international visitors by 2040?
Looking ahead to 2040 and beyond, Saudi Arabia’s ambitions remain bold. The Google/Deloitte Travel 2040 report projects global tourism to grow by 60% by that year, with Saudi Arabia among the biggest beneficiaries. If trends continue, the Kingdom is expected to join the ranks of the world’s top 15 tourist destinations by 2040. Some scenarios suggest it could welcome over 80 million international visitors annually.
Forecasts for 2050 are less defined, but if current momentum is sustained, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to become a dominant player in the global travel landscape. Industry experts expect continued growth in high-end offerings—eco-resorts, luxury cruises, cultural heritage experiences, and curated wellness retreats. By 2034, tourism is projected to contribute over SAR 836 billion to GDP. Extrapolating this trend, the sector’s share of GDP could surpass 20% by mid-century.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism revolution is no longer theoretical—it is happening in real time. Backed by strong policy support, strategic global partnerships, and a new generation of traveller-focused projects, the Kingdom is not only attracting visitors but reshaping expectations of what travel in the region can be. From luxury coastal hideaways to cultural deep dives, Saudi Arabia is crafting a destination portfolio unlike any other in the world.
Sources: Google & Deloitte “Travel 2040” Report, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Saudi Ministry of Tourism, Red Sea Global, NEOM, UN Tourism, Zawya, Arab News, Saudi Press Agency.
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