Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector continued its rapid expansion in 2025, with total tourism spending reaching a record SR304 billion ($80 billion), highlighting the industry’s growing contribution to the Kingdom’s economic diversification ambitions under Vision 2030.

According to the Ministry of Tourism’s 2025 Annual Statistical Report, total tourism expenditure, including both domestic and international spending, increased by 7% compared to 2024, while the total number of tourists reached approximately 123 million, reflecting a 6% year-on-year increase.

Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the sector’s record performance reflects the impact of ongoing efforts to position tourism as a key pillar of Saudi Arabia’s economy.

“The figures in the 2025 annual statistical report reflect the growing economic impact of the sector, clearly demonstrated by the Kingdom recording its highest-ever total tourism spending, both domestic and international,” he said.

Al-Khateeb attributed the sector’s progress to the support of the Kingdom’s leadership and the implementation of the National Tourism Strategy, which aims to transform tourism into a major driver of economic growth and development.

Beyond visitor numbers, the report highlighted tourism’s increasing role in the broader economy. The sector’s direct contribution to gross domestic product reached 4.9% in 2024, up 14% from the previous year.

The industry also contributed to a travel surplus of SR49.4 billion in Saudi Arabia’s balance of payments during 2025, with travel accounting for more than 61% of total services exports.

International tourism continued to gain momentum, with 29.3 million inbound visitors generating SR176.6 billion in tourism spending. Domestic tourism remained a significant contributor, with 93.3 million local travelers spending SR127.1 billion during the year.

The report also points to a shift in travel patterns. Overnight stays for non-religious purposes accounted for approximately 52% of all inbound tourism in 2025, up from 44% in 2019, reflecting the Kingdom’s expanding leisure, entertainment, and business tourism offerings.

Employment within the tourism sector also saw substantial growth. The industry employed approximately 1.03 million people in 2025, while Saudi women accounted for 47% of tourism jobs held by Saudi nationals, a significant increase from just 5% in 2018.

The ministry said the figures demonstrate tourism’s growing social and economic impact, from job creation and destination development to improving quality of life and expanding opportunities for Saudi talent.