Saudi Arabia has solidified its status as a premier global tourist destination, recording a 73% increase in international visitors during the first seven months of 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. This growth, driven by the kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy, highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in tourism expansion among G20 nations.

With 17.5 million international tourists welcomed during this period, Saudi Arabia’s rising appeal as a global travel destination aligns with its broader economic goals to reduce dependency on oil and expand its tourism sector. Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, increasing tourism’s contribution to GDP from 6% to 10%.

During the G20 tourism ministers’ meeting in Brazil on September 21, Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb emphasized the kingdom’s focus on fostering cultural exchange and promoting sustainable growth. The report also showed a 207% surge in Saudi Arabia’s international tourism revenues compared to 2019, reflecting the success of these efforts.

Globally, international tourism rebounded to 96% of pre-pandemic levels through July, with 790 million tourists traveling during this period. Demand in Europe and the reopening of Asian and Pacific markets drove this increase, which marked an 11% rise over 2023.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili acknowledged that international travel demand remains strong despite economic and geopolitical challenges. He stressed the importance of thoughtful planning to balance tourism’s socio-economic benefits with sustainable practices.

The Middle East led the global tourism growth, with international arrivals increasing by 26% compared to 2019 levels, while Africa experienced a 7% rise in visitors during the same period.

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