## Madinah’s Tourism Boom: 14 Million Visitors in 2023, a 124% Surge
The Madinah Region Development Authority has announced a remarkable milestone for the city’s tourism sector, reporting an astounding 14 million visitors in 2023. This represents a staggering 124% increase compared to 2014, solidifying Madinah’s position as a key religious and cultural hub in Saudi Arabia.
As the second holiest city in Islam, Madinah holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. It is home to the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi), where Prophet Muhammad is buried, a site of immense spiritual importance. The mosque has undergone numerous expansions over the years to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims seeking to experience its religious and historical value.
The steady rise in visitor numbers is a testament to Madinah’s growing appeal. In 2014, the city welcomed 6.3 million visitors, a figure that remained relatively consistent in 2015. By 2016, the number climbed to 6.5 million, followed by a surge to 7.5 million in 2017. This upward trajectory continued, reaching 8 million in 2018 and 9.8 million in 2019, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The average stay of visitors has also increased, with tourists now spending an average of 10 days in the city.
Beyond the Prophet’s Mosque, Madinah attracts visitors to other historically significant religious sites, such as the Quba Mosque, the first mosque built by Prophet Muhammad, and Mount Uhud, a location deeply rooted in Islamic history.
To further enhance its tourism sector, the Madinah Region Development Authority is working with numerous partners to prepare over 100 additional sites. These sites are aimed at elevating the experience for both pilgrims and tourists, contributing to Madinah’s goal of becoming a premier destination for religious and cultural tourism.
Madinah’s ongoing expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, particularly through the Pilgrim Experience Program. This program seeks to elevate the spiritual and cultural experiences of visitors to the Kingdom’s sacred cities. Significant investments in infrastructure, accommodation, and services underscore the city’s commitment to providing a comfortable and enriching experience for all visitors.
As Madinah continues to grow and evolve, it remains a crucial pillar of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding tourism industry, with further developments anticipated in the years ahead.