Saudi Arabia Surpasses 2030 Tourism Goal With Over 100 Million Visitors In 2023

Saudi Arabia has been lauded by UN Tourism and the World Travel & Tourism Council for a significant milestone in its tourism sector. The Kingdom has welcomed over 100 million tourists in 2023, a feat that not only garners international recognition but also surpasses the target set for 2030, marking Saudi Arabia as an emerging leader in global tourism.

This achievement comes seven years ahead of schedule, with the latest data revealing the Kingdom's success in attracting a vast number of visitors. In light of this, Saudi Arabia has now set an even more ambitious goal of hosting 150 million tourists by 2030. The tourism sector's contribution to the economy is evident, with spending by domestic and international tourists exceeding SAR250 billion in 2023, accounting for more than 4% of the GDP and 7% of the non-oil GDP.

Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb highlighted the transformation witnessed in the Kingdom since the launch of the National Tourism Strategy five years ago. He emphasized tourism as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's economic transformation under Vision 2030, generating employment and revenue. Al Khateeb expressed gratitude towards UN Tourism and WTTC for their support and commitment to fostering a sustainable and thriving tourism sector.

The minister also noted the alignment of the tourism sector with international standards and practices, aiming to enhance tourist experiences, diversify offerings for visitors, and improve hospitality services. This strategy is poised to elevate the quality of life within the Kingdom and strengthen its position on the global tourism map.

According to recent figures, the total number of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia in 2023 reached 106.2 million, marking a significant increase from previous years. This includes 27.4 million international tourists, showcasing a remarkable growth compared to both 2019 and 2022 figures.

With inputs from SPA