Saudi Arabia ranked first globally in the growth of international tourism receipts in Q1 of 2025 compared to Q1 of 2019, according to the World Tourism Barometer published by UN Tourism in May. As outlined in the report, the Kingdom secured third place worldwide in the growth of international tourist arrivals and second in the Middle East during Q1 of 2025, compared to the same period in 2019.
During Q1 of 2025, the Kingdom recorded an impressive 102 percent increase in international tourist arrivals compared to the same period in 2019, far exceeding the global average of 3 percent and the Middle East average of 44 percent. This remarkable growth underscores Saudi Arabia’s position as a key player in both regional and global tourism and highlights its unwavering commitment to advancing the sector and realizing its objectives set forth in Saudi Vision 2030.
Record number of tourists in 2024
In 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 116 million domestic and inbound tourists, reflecting a 6 percent increase from 2023, according to a recent official report. The Ministry of Tourism’s 2024 Annual Statistical Report highlighted key tourism indicators and emphasized the sector’s growth following significant advancements in 2023.
Total tourism spending for domestic and inbound travel reached approximately SAR284 billion ($75.7 billion), demonstrating an 11 percent year-over-year growth. The Kingdom recorded its highest-ever number of inbound tourists, with around 30 million visitors in 2024, marking an 8 percent rise from 2023. Inbound tourism spending totaled SAR168.5 billion, up 19 percent from the previous year.
Domestic tourism also experienced strong growth, with 86.2 million domestic tourists in 2024, a 5 percent increase from 2023. Domestic tourism spending reached SAR115.3 billion.
Launch of Saudi Summer 2025 program
In June 2025, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) launched the “Saudi Summer 2025” program to showcase the Kingdom’s openness to the world through a diverse and immersive travel experience. Running until the end of September, this year’s campaign, themed “Color Your Summer,” invites visitors to explore six key destinations that seamlessly blend nature, adventure, and culture.
The Aseer region will be the highlight this summer, featuring a renewed edition of the Aseer Summer Season, filled with cultural, musical, and artistic events such as Al-Muftaha Village and the Plato Event. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and outdoor adventures in a moderate climate, surrounded by towering mountains and centuries-old stone houses that reflect the region’s rich heritage.
