Saudi Arabia’s leisure tourism has surged by a massive 656% since 2019, with a staggering 17.5 million international visitors in 2024.
This growth is due to new attractions, investments in luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast, and cultural sites, including Diriyah and AlUla.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector aims to create 1.2 million jobs by 2030 and enhance the Kingdom’s position as a premier global destination.
Saudi Arabia’s Leisure Tourism Growth
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed an extraordinary surge in international tourists arriving for leisure and entertainment purposes, marking a pivotal moment in its journey towards becoming a premier global destination.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the first 7 months of 2024 saw a staggering 656% increase in leisure tourists compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
This remarkable growth has propelled the Kingdom to the forefront of the global tourism landscape, solidifying its position as a rapidly emerging travel hotspot.
Saudi Arabia’s Visitor Statistics
The statistics released by the ministry paint a compelling picture of Saudi Arabia’s increasing tourism industry.
From January to July 2024, the Kingdom welcomed an impressive 17.5 million international visitors, representing a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2023 and a remarkable 73% surge from 2019 figures.
Of these visitors, an astonishing 4.2 million arrived explicitly for leisure and entertainment purposes, marking a 25% increase over the previous year and a staggering 656% leap since 2019.
Unlocking Leisure Tourism
The surge in leisure tourism can be attributed to several factors, including developing world-class attractions, expanding luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast, and promoting cultural sites such as Diriyah Gate, AlUla, and Hira Cultural District.
- The Diriyah Project
The expansive Diriyah project, valued at $63.2 billion, is anticipated to cover an area of 14 square kilometers. When finished in 2030, it will feature 42 hotels, more than 100 restaurants, nine museums, and 30,000 residences. The project aims to generate over 178,000 jobs and draw in more than 50 million visitors each year.
In support of this initiative, Diriyah Company has become an Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization to enhance international tourism cooperation and promote Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.
Diriyah aims to become the Silicon Valley of Saudi Arabia, with plans for 500 tech companies, 100 media firms, and 50 entertainment businesses. This surge in companies is expected to generate a need for various housing choices, including studio apartments and two-bedroom homes.
- AlUla
AlUla, a well-known site in Saudi Arabia, is celebrated for its breathtaking desert landscapes. Since the nation opened its doors to travelers, it has become a favored tourist destination worldwide. It also holds the title of being the first place in the Middle East to earn the Destinations International Accreditation.
AlUla is home to numerous archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the lives of the civilizations that once called this region home.
AlUla is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, an impressive Nabataean city shaped from the sandstone cliffs. Admire the elaborate carvings and fine details that decorate the tombs and buildings, and discover the captivating history of this ancient culture.
Visitors to AlUla can look forward to an immersive experience that perfectly combines art, culture, nature, wellness, and thrilling adventures at attractions, including Elephant Rock, Jabal Ikmah, AlUla Old Town, and AlUla Oasis.
- Hira Cultural District
The Hira Cultural District, located at the foot of Jabal Al-Nour in Makkah, is a vibrant hub of history, art, and heritage. Spanning 67,000 square meters, it offers a captivating journey through Islamic culture, intertwining the past and present.
This enchanting destination invites visitors to explore its rich tapestry of spiritual significance, making it a memorable addition to any pilgrimage or cultural exploration.
Visitors to the Hira Cultural District can enjoy a range of attractions, including the Visitor Center, which provides insights and maps for exploration. Key highlights include Hira Cave, the Exhibition of Revelations, the Holy Quran Museum, and the Saudi Coffee Museum.
The opening of the Red Sea Project, a luxury tourism development spanning an archipelago of more than 90 islands, has garnered global attention and attracted discerning travelers seeking unique and sustainable experiences.
The Red Sea, one of RSG’s flagship destinations, welcomed its first guests last year, with three of its hotels now open and operational. These hotels include:
- Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, which is open for reservations, is located on the stunning Ummahat Island in the Saudi Red Sea.
This impressive reserve, inspired by the shape of a shell, boasts 63 luxury villas with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can choose from 1 to 3-bedroom options and 18 exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences.
The resort also offers top-notch amenities like a diving center, fitness center, and various high-end restaurants. To reach the reserve, guests can take a chartered boat or seaplane from the recently launched Red Sea International Airport. Prices start at 9250 SAR per night.
- Six Sense Southern Dunes
Six Sense Southern Dunes, The Red Sea was the first hotel to officially open in the Red Sea Project, with a special opening offer. This stunning resort offers 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas situated against the backdrop of the Majestic Arabian Desert and Hijaz Mountains.
The resort combines visionary tourism with sustainability and heritage. Nestled in The Red Sea Destination, this resort is a testament to innovation, adventure, and a rich cultural legacy.
- St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, which is also officially opened to the public, is the first private island resort along the stunning Saudi Red Sea coast.
Situated on the unspoiled Ummahat Island, the resort’s access is facilitated through chartered boat services or seaplane transportation from the recently established Red Sea International Airport.
Featuring a collection of 90 spacious overwater villas, including overwater and beachfront options equipped with exclusive private pools, the resort boasts various luxury offerings, including its renowned signature spa and five distinct dining venues.
These cultural sites and new modern resorts have captivated international visitors and sparked a renewed interest among locals in exploring the Kingdom’s diverse offerings.
Enhancing Global Connectivity
Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in enhancing its global connectivity to cater to the growing demand for leisure travel.
The expansion of international air routes, including Virgin Atlantic’s new flights from London to Riyadh, Flynas’s 8 New UAE Saudi Routes, Wizz Air’s New London to Jeddah flights, and Qatar Airways New Weekly Fights to Abha and NEOM, have contributed to the growing demand for leisure travel.
Additionally, the development of new airports, including the $50 Billion Worth World’s Largest Airport, King Salman International Airport, in Riyadh, and the streamlining of visa processes have made the Kingdom more accessible to visitors worldwide.
The Kingdom has also introduced various visa facilitation measures, including issuing 90-day E Visas to E Sports Worldcup ticket holders, Saudia’s 96-Hours Stepover Visa, and extending visa validity periods to enhance the overall travel experience.
Elevating the Visitor Experience
In addition to developing world-class attractions and infrastructure and offering visa support, Saudi Arabia has strongly emphasized elevating the visitor experience.
The Ministry of Tourism has launched initiatives to promote Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary heritage, offering visitors a chance to savor authentic local cuisine and immerse themselves in the Kingdom’s gastronomic traditions.
Cultural events and festivals, including the Saudi Summer Season, Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, Aseer Season, and AlUla’s Skies Festival, have been organized to showcase Saudi Arabia’s vibrant arts, music, and entertainment scenes, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience.
Economic Impact
The remarkable growth in leisure tourism has far-reaching implications for Saudi Arabia’s economy. Tourism is poised to create 1.2 million jobs by 2030, contributing significantly to the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its workforce and foster economic prosperity.
The influx of leisure tourists has generated substantial revenue streams, fueling investment in infrastructure, hospitality, and ancillary services.
Developing new tourism projects has created employment opportunities across various sectors, from construction and transportation to hospitality and cultural preservation.
Vision 2030: Driving Transformative Change
This unprecedented growth in leisure tourism can be attributed to the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, a comprehensive roadmap designed to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and position the Kingdom as a leading global destination.
The Kingdom had initially set a target of welcoming 100 million tourists by 2030, a goal that was remarkably achieved seven years ahead of schedule in 2023.
United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has also ranked the Kingdom as the fastest-growing G20 nation in terms of international tourist arrivals and tourism revenue in its September 2024 report.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Revolution
Saudi Arabia’s remarkable 656% surge in leisure tourism arrivals is a testament to the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to transforming its tourism landscape.
By leveraging its rich cultural heritage, investing in world-class infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a premier destination for travelers seeking unique and enriching experiences.
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