Saudi Arabia is widely seen as the final frontier of tourism. As the birthplace of Islam, and a millennia-old crossroads of pilgrims and traders, the Kingdom’s rich culture and diverse heritage has no equal.
The launch of the Kingdom’s tourism visa saw visitors from around the globe flock to explore Saudi’s ancient history, striking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed 67 million visitors, a sure sign that Vision 2030 is shaping the future of the Kingdom’s travel and tourism sector.
Saudi Arabia’s planned megaprojects highlight the Kingdom’s efforts toward economic, social, and cultural diversification and are the crown jewel of Vision 2030. Some of these projects include: AMAALA, NEOM, AlUla and The Red Sea.
Where once, sport looked west for investment and inspiration, now it looks east.
In 2022 Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games in Trojena, a newly constructed mountain resort which will be part of NEOM.
Travel and tourism had a contribution of about 6.5% of the GDP of Saudi Arabia in 2022. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Travel & Tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow at an average of 11% annually over the next decade, making it the fastest growing Travel & Tourism in the Middle East.
According to the forecast from WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR), this annual growth, more than six times the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy, will bolster the economic recovery of the Kingdom. By 2032, the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP could reach nearly SAR 635 billion ($ 169 billion), representing 17.1% of the total economy.
“We have all the means to achieve our dreams and ambitions. There are no excuses for us to stand still or move backwards.”
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz