Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry is soaring to new heights. With a goal of welcoming 70 million tourists annually by 2030, aiming to rank among the top seven global tourist destinations. Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb announced this ambitious goal during the 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos.
Record-Breaking Tourist Arrivals
Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed nearly 30 million international tourists, marking a significant milestone in its tourism journey. Al-Khateeb attributed this success to sound governance, integrated planning, and strategic initiatives like the introduction of e-visas and the development of modern airports.
Vision 2030: Ambitious Targets and Strategic Initiatives
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030, revising its earlier target of 100 million. The Kingdom is investing heavily in infrastructure, including new destinations and modern airports, to support this ambitious goal. The upcoming King Salman International Airport will accommodate over 120 million travelers, significantly boosting the country’s tourism capacity.
To further its tourism ambitions, Saudi Arabia launched Riyadh Air, a new airline expected to serve over 100 destinations by 2030. Despite delays in aircraft deliveries, the airline remains confident about starting operations by the third quarter of 2025. This initiative will enhance connectivity and support the Kingdom’s tourism growth.
The Red Sea Project is transforming 90 remote islands into a luxury resort network, offering unique experiences to visitors. Additionally, Soudah Peaks, a $7.7 billion mountain tourism destination in ‘Asir Province, aims to attract adventure and nature enthusiasts. These projects highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversifying its tourism offerings and appealing to a global audience.
International Recognition and Economic Impact
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has gained international recognition, ranking third globally in growth rate of international tourist arrivals in 2024.
Experts expect that the sector’s expansion will contribute significantly to the national GDP and create thousands of jobs, aligning with the broader goals of Vision 2030.
Emphasizing sustainability, Saudi Arabia is shaping the future of luxury tourism with eco-friendly innovations, setting new standards in the Middle East. This approach ensures that tourism growth aligns with environmental preservation and cultural integrity.
With its strategic geographic location, innovative projects, and commitment to sustainability, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a leading global tourism destination. The Kingdom’s efforts to enhance visitor experiences and infrastructure demonstrate its dedication to achieving its ambitious tourism targets.
