Saudi Arabia’s inbound tourism sector has recorded another year of robust growth, underscoring the Kingdom’s emergence as a premier destination for international travellers — particularly in the luxury segment. According to the Tourism Statistics 2024 report, the country welcomed 30.5 million international visitors in 2024, up from 27.4 million the previous year — an 11% year-on-year increase.
Rising visitor numbers and sustained demand
The growth in arrivals reflects continued momentum from recent years, fuelled by Saudi Arabia’s global marketing campaigns, expanding air connectivity, and the rollout of high-profile attractions linked to Vision 2030. Iconic developments such as Diriyah, AlUla, NEOM, and the Red Sea project have helped position the Kingdom as a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern luxury.
Visitor nights also increased from 190 million in 2023 to 210 million in 2024, showing that travellers are staying longer to explore more of the Kingdom’s diverse regions. The average length of stay remained stable at just under seven nights — long enough for multi-city itineraries combining heritage, desert landscapes, and coastal escapes.
High-value tourism on the rise
Perhaps most significant for high-end travel advisors is the jump in total international visitor expenditure: from SAR 135 billion (USD 36 billion) in 2023 to SAR 150 billion (USD 40 billion) in 2024. This signals not only a higher volume of visitors but also an increasingly affluent traveller profile, with more guests opting for luxury accommodation, bespoke experiences, and private tours.
Premium hotel brands have expanded rapidly in Riyadh, Jeddah, and coastal destinations, while exclusive cultural experiences — such as private access to UNESCO World Heritage sites in AlUla or curated Red Sea diving expeditions — are gaining traction with discerning clients.
Opportunities for luxury travel advisors
For the luxury segment, Saudi Arabia’s tourism trajectory offers a wealth of opportunity:
- Multi-destination journeys: Combine cultural icons like Diriyah and Mada’in Salih with leisure escapes to the Red Sea or Asir Mountains.
- Exclusive experiences: Arrange private heritage tours, helicopter transfers, or behind-the-scenes access at major cultural festivals.
- Wellness and nature retreats: Capitalise on the growing wellness travel trend with secluded resorts in pristine coastal and desert locations.
With the Kingdom aiming to welcome 70 million international visitors annually by 2030, the market for premium, tailor-made travel is set to expand further. For high-end travel advisors, building Saudi Arabia into client itineraries now means being ahead of the curve as the destination cements its place on the global luxury travel map.
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Read also: Saudi Arabia eyes India’s booming tourism market: strategic partnerships and ITB India 2024
