656% Growth in Holiday Tourists: Saudi Arabia Welcomed 17.5 Million Visitors in 7 Months
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, particularly in the leisure and holiday segments, has experienced significant growth, driven by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 directives. In a statement marking World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27, the ministry revealed that between January and July 2024, the Kingdom welcomed 17.5 million international tourists. This marks a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2023 and a 73% rise compared to 2019 figures.
One of the most remarkable achievements is the 656% increase in tourists arriving for leisure and holiday purposes. The ministry stated that 4.2 million tourists visited for these reasons in the first seven months of 2024, reflecting a 25% growth compared to the previous year and a substantial jump from pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
These impressive results highlight the success of Saudi Arabia’s long-term tourism strategy under Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a leading global tourism destination. Notably, Saudi Arabia had set a target of 100 million tourists by 2030, but it achieved this milestone in 2023, seven years ahead of schedule. Read: Riyadh Season to Host Mass Wedding Ceremony for 300 Couples
The latest UN World Tourism Barometer report for September 2024 acknowledged Saudi Arabia as the fastest-growing G20 country in terms of both international tourist numbers and tourism revenues. These achievements underscore the Kingdom’s strategic focus on developing a sustainable tourism sector, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting Saudi Arabia as a premier global destination.
The ministry’s success in achieving these milestones reflects the effectiveness of its efforts and cements Saudi Arabia’s role as a key player in global tourism. Also read: Is Saudi Arabia Really Heading for a Harsh Winter? Meteorology Center Clarifies