Saudi Arabia Targets Top Seven Global Tourist Destinations By 2030 With Major Growth Plans

During the 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb discussed Saudi Arabia's tourism growth. He mentioned that the country welcomed nearly 30 million international tourists last year. By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 70 million tourists annually, aspiring to be among the top seven global tourist destinations.

Al Khateeb attributed this success to effective governance and strategic planning. Initiatives like e-visas and new airports in key locations have significantly increased international arrivals. The Kingdom is enhancing the tourist experience from flights to destinations, with ongoing developments in new sites and modern airports.

King Salman International Airport is one of the major projects expected to handle over 120 million travelers. Additionally, Riyadh Air has been launched to further support tourism goals. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve the entire travel experience for visitors.

European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas commended Saudi Arabia's progress in tourism. He noted the Kingdom's collaborations with various countries and destinations, highlighting its strong performance in this sector.

Al Khateeb also engaged in discussions with notable figures such as Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Avolta AG CEO Xavier Rossinyol, and Trip.com CEO Jane Sun. These exchanges aimed at sharing insights and fostering partnerships in tourism development.

The Kingdom's focus on developing new tourist attractions and infrastructure is crucial for achieving its ambitious targets. By improving connectivity and visitor experiences, Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a leading destination globally.

The initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia demonstrate a commitment to sustainable tourism growth. By investing in infrastructure and fostering international partnerships, the Kingdom is paving the way for a thriving tourism industry that benefits both visitors and local communities.

With inputs from SPA