Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, underscored on Wednesday the growth of the tourism sector in the Kingdom and unveiled the details of Saudi Summer Program 2024, according to the Saudi Gazette.
Incredible Figures
In a press conference in Abha, Aseer, Al-Khateeb announced that Saudi Arabia has received 60 million tourists in the first half of 2024, with a total spending of SAR150 billion, accounting for a 10% growth compared to the same period last year.
The Saudi Tourism Minister said that the Kingdom welcomed around 109 million tourists in 2023, including 27 million international tourists and 81 million domestic tourists. This places Saudi Arabia in the 11th position globally in terms of tourist numbers.
Outstanding Growth
Furthermore, Al-Khateeb revealed that tourism growth in Saudi Arabia reached 153% compared to 2019. Hence, the Kingdom has become one of the G20 fastest-growing countries.
The Saudi Minister also noted that the tourism sector contribution to the local economy currently stands at about 5%, pointing to plans to increase this figure to 10%, equivalent to SAR600-700 billion.
Outlining the details of Saudi Summer Program 2024, Al-Khateeb said: “Saudi Arabia is like a continent, featuring diverse historical and tourist sites. We have opened the Kingdom’s doors to visitors who wish to explore beyond religious and business purposes.”
Human Resources
Al-Khateeb also underscored the accelerated growth in the Saudi tourism sector, which has provided 3.5% of the new job opportunities in the Kingdom.
He noted that the Ministry of Tourism invests SAR400 billion annually to train 100,000 Saudis, males and females, in various tourism fields. It also increased salaries to SAR6000, and appointed 1,500 individuals in leadership positions. These efforts aim to enhance national cadres and boost the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
In this regards, Al-Khateeb hailed the Kingdom’s incredible human resources. He said: “We place our bets on a great people… Saudis have proven their excellence on all fronts.”
Additionally, the Saudi Tourism Minister stressed that collaboration with relevant entities is a key reason for the growth and success of the tourism sector.
Boosting Tourism
During the press conference, Al-Khateeb praised Aseer Region as a prominent summer destination, highlighting its continuous development to be an established tourist destination. He said that Aseer received 8 million visitors and employed 50,000 employees in the tourism sector, according to Al Yaum newspaper.
Moreover, the Saudi Minister announced the launch of a Tourism College at King Khaled University. The new college will provide advanced training programs based on international best practices, with the aim of preparing a new generation of Saudi cadres who can lead the tourism sector towards sustained growth and a promising future.
