Saudi Arabia Leads World in Tourism Growth, up 56%

Doaa Yassin February 16, 2024

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Saudi Arabia Leads World in Tourism Growth, up 56% — KSA Is First in Tourism Growth

The UNWTO congratulated Saudi Arabia for achieving a 56% growth in international tourism in 2023, the highest among nations compared to 2019.

Interestingly, Saudi Arabia is one of the destinations that welcomed more than 5 million international tourists.

This achievement was highlighted in the January 2024 issue of the “Global Tourism Scale”. This accomplishment reflects the Kingdom’s effective strategies and commitment to tourism development and promotion worldwide.

Table of Contents

Saudi Arabia Achievements in Tourism

The tourism sector in the Kingdom has achieved the targets of Vision 2030 with over 100 million tourists: 77 million domestic and 27 million international.

Notably, Prince Mohammed bin Salman has set a new target of 150 million tourists, with 80 million domestic and 70 million international. Additionally, the tourism sector contributed 7% to the non-oil GDP.

It is worth mentioning that the Ministry of Tourism focuses on human resource development. It stimulates the private sector by funding 50 projects through the Tourism Development Fund with a value of up to 35 billion riyals.

Saudi Arabia Tourism in 2024

Industry experts predict that Saudi Arabia will see an unparalleled increase in tourism investments in 2024.

KSA seeks to stimulate tourism sector to diversify the economy through non-oil industries, in line with Vision 2030.

KSA Efforts to Develop Tourism Sector

Saudi tourism is expected to reach new heights in 2024 thanks to many investments planned for several high-profile projects. These projects include the development of the AlUla area into a world-class cultural and heritage site.

It also include the development of the Red Sea shoreline into a posh tourist destination. Moreover, Saudi Arabia offers entertainment alternatives such as theme parks and cultural events.

Example of Tourism Project in KSA

Boulevard World is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists. It never ceases to amaze guests with its immersive experience blending Eastern and Western cultures.

Moreover, it enables people to visit the most well-known sites without a visa. It is noteworthy that it has twenty sub-zones, one of which is a worldwide part that highlights different cultures.

Boulevard World also includes 24 skill-based games and 14 entertaining games. Approximately 200 food and beverage establishments and 621 shops offering a variety of international items.