Saudi Tourism Hits 116M Visitors, Creates 1M+ Jobs

Saudi Arabia just proved that smart investment in tourism can transform an entire economy, and the numbers tell an incredible story.

The country's tourism sector created more than one million jobs by August 2025, according to Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb. These positions span hospitality, travel services, restaurants, transportation, and related industries, offering new opportunities to workers across the kingdom.

The success goes beyond employment. Saudi Arabia welcomed about 116 million domestic and international visitors in 2024, crushing its Vision 2030 target of 100 million tourists seven years ahead of schedule.

Tourism now contributes around 5% of the country's GDP, with plans to double that to 10% by 2030. The sector's share of national exports jumped from 6% in 2019 to 11% in 2024, making it an increasingly vital part of the economy.

Al Khateeb highlighted how the growth is creating opportunities for groups often left behind. Women are joining the workforce in rising numbers, while small and family-owned businesses are thriving alongside major tourism operators.

Historic and natural destinations are coming alive with visitors. Places like AlUla's ancient rock formations, the heritage district of Diriyah, vibrant Jeddah, and the stunning Red Sea coast are seeing renewed activity after years of limited tourism.

The government made strategic moves to fuel this growth. Massive infrastructure investments, expanded aviation routes, digital system upgrades, and destination development created the foundation for success.

Regulatory reforms removed bureaucratic barriers, while an expanded electronic visa system now covers citizens from 66 countries. These changes made it dramatically easier for international tourists to visit and explore.

The Ripple Effect

This tourism transformation is reshaping entire communities across Saudi Arabia. Small business owners who once struggled to find customers now serve visitors from around the world. Young people graduating from hospitality programs have actual career paths waiting for them.

The economic boost reaches beyond tourist hotspots. Transportation workers, food suppliers, construction teams, and countless support industries all benefit from the visitor surge. When tourism thrives, entire supply chains light up with opportunity.

Perhaps most encouraging is how this growth is inclusive. Women entering the workforce and family businesses gaining traction show that progress can lift multiple groups at once. The jobs created aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet but real paychecks supporting real families.

The speed of this transformation matters too. Hitting a 2030 goal in 2024 shows what's possible when countries commit resources and remove obstacles. Other nations watching might find inspiration in Saudi Arabia's playbook.

A million jobs created in just over four years represents genuine economic progress that's changing lives today, not someday.