Saudi Arabia has firmly established itself as the fastest-growing G20 country in tourism, according to the latest UN World Tourism Barometer report. The Kingdom experienced a staggering 73% increase in international tourist arrivals during the first seven months of 2024, compared to the same period in 2019. This remarkable growth underscores Saudi Arabia’s rapid emergence as a leading global destination, fueled by its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy.
The UN World Tourism Barometer, a respected global tool for tracking tourism performance, highlights not just the numbers but also Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. Central to this success is the Kingdom’s innovative visa facilitation, including the introduction and expansion of its e-visa program. These efforts have opened the doors to millions of tourists from around the world, making Saudi Arabia more accessible than ever before.
Among the G20 countries, which include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Republic of Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, and the African Union, Saudi Arabia stands out as the fastest-growing in tourism. Traditionally, countries like France, Italy, and the United States have dominated global tourism. However, Saudi Arabia’s 73% increase in international tourist arrivals during the first seven months of 2024 signifies a significant shift in the global tourism landscape.
This impressive growth, driven by Vision 2030 and large-scale projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project, distinguishes Saudi Arabia from its G20 counterparts, showcasing its rapid ascent as a top global destination.
Massive Investment in Transformative Projects
Key to Saudi Arabia’s tourism growth has been its investment in transformative “giga-projects.” These include the Red Sea Project, NEOM, and Diriyah, all designed to reshape the global tourism landscape. These initiatives have positioned Saudi Arabia as a leader in offering world-class tourist experiences, ranging from futuristic cities to historical and cultural attractions. The UN report praises these developments, which are central to the country’s long-term plan to diversify its economy through tourism.
As part of the Vision 2030 strategy, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million annual visitors by 2030, significantly boosting its tourism sector. In 2023, the country welcomed 109 million tourists, a landmark achievement that highlights its readiness for further growth. The Kingdom’s plan includes elevating tourism’s contribution to 10% of its GDP and creating one million new jobs in the sector, which will increase the tourism workforce to 1.6 million.
Leading Post-Pandemic Tourism Recovery
Saudi Arabia’s role in global tourism recovery following the pandemic is another highlight of the UN World Tourism Barometer report. The Kingdom has fostered collaboration between governments, private enterprises, and global investors to revitalize international tourism. This collaborative approach has earned recognition from prestigious global bodies, including the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
A Focus on Sustainable Tourism
A key focus for Saudi Arabia has been its commitment to sustainable tourism. The Kingdom emphasizes responsible development, ensuring that its growth in tourism doesn’t come at the expense of its natural and cultural heritage. With sustainability as a core pillar, Saudi Arabia works closely with international organizations to align its tourism sector with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This approach ensures that tourism benefits both local communities and visitors, creating an inclusive and balanced tourism experience.
A Blueprint for Global Tourism Success
Saudi Arabia’s rapid rise in global tourism offers valuable insights for other nations looking to boost their tourism sectors. The Kingdom’s blend of visionary planning, strategic investment, and inclusive policies has created a model for sustainable growth in the competitive tourism industry. Through innovation, large-scale infrastructure development, and a focus on sustainability, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating that growth and responsibility can go hand in hand.
Saudi Arabia’s remarkable success in 2024 is not only a testament to the power of long-term planning but also a reflection of its determination to become a global tourism leader. With ongoing projects, new investments, and a strong focus on sustainable and inclusive tourism, the Kingdom is poised to continue its trajectory as a top destination for travelers worldwide. The Saudi Tourism Authority has proudly announced that the Kingdom welcomed over 100 million tourist visitors in 2023, marking a significant milestone with a 56% growth compared to 2019. This achievement is particularly remarkable as it surpasses the target initially set for 2030, reaching the milestone seven years ahead of schedule. The rapid progress highlights the success of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, which has placed tourism at the heart of its economic diversification efforts, transforming the Kingdom into a global tourism hotspot in record time.
