Saudi Arabia Welcomes 122 Million Visitors in 2025

Saudi Arabia just proved that bold vision can reshape an entire economy, welcoming 122 million visitors in 2025 and generating $81 billion in tourism revenue.

The numbers tell a remarkable story of transformation. International arrivals jumped to nearly 30 million tourists in 2024, an 8 percent increase from the previous year, while domestic travelers took 86 million trips exploring their own country. Tourism spending rose 6 percent in a single year, fueled by simplified visa procedures and massive investments in world-class attractions.

The Kingdom hit its original target of 100 million annual visitors back in 2023, six years ahead of schedule. That success prompted officials to dream bigger, setting a new goal of 150 million visitors by 2030, split between 70 million international and 80 million domestic travelers.

Major development projects are turning heads globally. The Red Sea Project, NEOM, Qiddiya, and Al-Ula blend luxury hospitality with environmental sustainability, offering experiences travelers cannot find anywhere else. Museums, heritage sites, and cultural centers are drawing history enthusiasts, while entertainment venues and sports facilities attract adventure seekers.

Visa reforms have opened doors that were previously closed. Electronic visas and visa-on-arrival programs now welcome visitors from dozens of countries with minimal paperwork. The changes have made Saudi Arabia as accessible as neighboring destinations while offering fresh experiences.

The Ripple Effect

Tourism now accounts for 5 percent of Saudi Arabia's GDP, with projections showing enormous room for growth compared to the global average of 18 percent. The economic impact spreads far beyond hotel bookings, supporting restaurants, shops, transportation services, and local artisans across the Kingdom.

Job creation is exploding in the sector. Tourism employment could double over the next five years, eventually accounting for 10 percent of all jobs in Saudi Arabia. Training programs in hospitality, tour operations, and event management are equipping young Saudis with skills that will serve them for decades.

Infrastructure built for tourists benefits everyone. New airports, improved roads, and upgraded urban facilities serve local communities long after visitors leave. Coastal resorts and desert attractions give Saudi families new places to create memories together.

Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah are becoming major hubs for international conferences and business events, adding another dimension to the tourism economy. The blend of religious tourism, cultural exploration, business travel, and pure leisure creates a resilient sector that can weather global economic shifts.

Sustainability guides the growth. Green technologies and conservation practices are built into mega-projects from the start, while restoration efforts protect cultural landmarks for future generations. The Kingdom is proving that rapid tourism growth and environmental stewardship can advance together.

Saudi Arabia is writing a new playbook for economic transformation through tourism, one that balances tradition with innovation and creates opportunities for millions.