Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has reported a 156% increase in international arrivals in 2023 compared to 2019, as revealed in the World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Barometer report.
This leap not only signifies a full recovery from pre-pandemic levels but also cements the Kingdom’s position as a pivotal player in revitalizing tourism in the Middle East, a region that saw a 22% overall increase in 2023.
The global tourism sector, while still 12% below pre-pandemic levels, showed signs of recovery with around 1.3 billion international arrivals in 2023.
International tourism revenues approached $1.3 trillion, nearing 93% of the 2019 figure.
Tourism’s direct contribution to global GDP was about 3%, equating to $3.3 trillion.
The UNWTO anticipates a complete global tourism recovery by 2024, projecting a 2% growth over 2019 levels.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector particularly stands out, leading the G20 in international arrivals growth and ranking as the second…