Saudi Arabia Surges to Third Place in Global Tourism Rankings with Explosive 61% Growth

Saudi Arabia has firmly established itself as a top global tourism destination, now ranking third in the world for international arrivals. According to a recent UN Tourism report, the Kingdom experienced an impressive 61 percent increase in tourism during the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2019, as reported by Saudi Press Agency (SPA). This growth reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing appeal and highlights its significant strides in the global tourism sector.

The success is the result of the Kingdom’s concerted efforts to diversify its economy and attract international visitors. With the Ministry of Tourism at the helm, Saudi Arabia has rolled out ambitious plans under Vision 2030 to transform its tourism landscape. Key investments in infrastructure, a focus on cultural and historical landmarks, and the development of new attractions have positioned the country as a vibrant and unique destination for travelers from around the world.

In addition to this, Saudi Arabia saw a remarkable rise in inbound tourist spending, advancing 15 places in global rankings in 2023, now sitting in 12th place. This shift marks the Kingdom as one of the fastest-growing tourism economies, outpacing many other nations in terms of attracting high-spending visitors.

Further cementing its place as a tourism leader, Saudi Arabia also led the G20 countries in growth in international tourist arrivals in the first seven months of 2024, compared to 2019. This surge underscores the Kingdom’s increasing popularity and the success of its tourism strategies in enticing visitors from all corners of the globe.

This rapid rise in tourism is not just about numbers; it’s part of a broader economic transformation outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. As the Kingdom invests heavily in sustainable tourism infrastructure, from ancient sites like AlUla to the futuristic city of NEOM, the tourism sector is becoming a driving force in diversifying the economy, creating jobs, and offering visitors unforgettable experiences. With this momentum, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a central player in global tourism for years to come.

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