Saudi Arabia’s tourism spending reaches $40.5 billion in first half of 2026

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has shown resilience amid wider regional challenges, welcoming 61.2 million tourists in the first half of 2026, a 1% increase from the same period last year.

Tourism expenditure reached $40.5 billion during the period, a relatively modest 6% decline from the previous year. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb revealed the figures at the opening of Saudi Land, the kingdom’s national tourism pavilion at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026.

“Resilience is built before you need it, and this year Saudi tourism has demonstrated the strength of its foundations,” Al-Khateeb said, acknowledging the challenges currently facing travelers and industry partners across the region.

“Our commitment to them is long-term,” he added, reaffirming the kingdom’s ambition to welcome 150 million tourists annually by 2030.

The figures come as Saudi Arabia seeks to sustain tourism growth amid a broader slowdown in regional travel. At WTM London, the kingdom brought together 37 tourism partners to strengthen commercial ties with international airlines, tour operators and travel distributors, with a focus on attracting visitors during the upcoming winter season.

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) highlighted destinations including Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea and AMAALA, alongside a growing calendar of cultural and entertainment experiences.

Among the highlights was AMAALA, Saudi Arabia’s newest luxury coastal destination, where seven resorts, including properties from Four Seasons, Six Senses, Rosewood and Nammos, have welcomed guests since June. The openings are part of the kingdom’s efforts to expand its luxury hospitality offering and attract high-end travelers.

The pavilion also featured Riyadh Season and Winter at Tantora in AlUla, alongside attractions such as Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia.

Saudi Arabia has also continued to expand its accommodation capacity. The kingdom recorded approximately 623,000 licensed room keys across hotels, apartments and other accommodation in the first half of 2026, including more than 44,000 in newly licensed facilities, according to the STA.

“Our trade partners have been instrumental in Saudi tourism’s growth, and their success remains our priority,” said STA CEO Ageel Alshaibani, emphasizing the importance of continuing to “create opportunities and grow together.”

Beyond its commercial focus, Saudi Land offered visitors a glimpse of the kingdom’s cultural heritage through traditional music and dance, Arabic calligraphy and interactive experiences inspired by destinations across the country.

Saudi Land was inaugurated by Al-Khateeb alongside Alshaibani and RX Global President Rachel Travers. The pavilion remains open at ExCeL London through November 5, offering international travel partners a closer look at Saudi Arabia’s tourism destinations and experiences as the kingdom works to strengthen visitor demand beyond the winter season.