Saudi Arabia tourism growth sees 27% surge in international arrivals

The travel and tourism sector in Saudi Arabia has reported a 27% increase in incoming tourist numbers during the first nine months of 2024, compared to the previous year’s 14% rise.

This information was released by the Saudi Press Agency, citing the kingdom’s tourism minister, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, at the 2025 Budget Forum in Riyadh.

Al-Khateeb highlighted the sector’s significant strides towards achieving the ambitious Vision 2030 goals and that international tourist arrivals for recreational purposes soared by 600% from 2018 levels to 2023.

This surge was complemented by an increase in visitors arriving for religious purposes, with Saudi Arabia encouraging travellers to explore other cities and experience its natural and…