Saudi Arabia has seen a significant increase in spending by visitors coming from abroad, with a growth of 22.9% reaching SR45 billion during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. The Kingdom recorded an estimated travel surplus of SR24 billion, representing a growth rate of over SR46 billion compared to the same period in 2023, according to data released by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). Additionally, spending by Saudi residents traveling abroad was estimated at about SR21 billion during the same period. This surge in spending by international visitors highlights the success of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia, which has been making strides in becoming a leading global tourist destination.
The Kingdom’s tourism sector has achieved remarkable success, emerging at the top of the United Nations Tourism List for growth in the number of international tourists and tourism revenues among leading tourist destinations in the world in 2023 compared to 2019. The data released by SAMA underscores the effectiveness of the efforts made by the tourism system in Saudi Arabia to elevate the sector by implementing best practices in tourism development and enhancing tourism services and products. This success can be attributed to the continuous collaboration with government agencies to support the growth and development of the tourism sector in the Kingdom.
The accomplishments in the tourism sector reflect the significant efforts made by the Ministry of Tourism and other relevant agencies in Saudi Arabia to strengthen the tourism industry and its contribution to the national economy. These efforts are part of the National Tourism Development Strategy aimed at positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in tourism. The positive growth in spending by international visitors showcases the successful implementation of strategies to attract tourists and enhance their experiences in the Kingdom. This achievement serves as a testament to the commitment to advancing the tourism sector and maximizing its potential for economic growth.
The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing a continuous upward trend, with efforts focused on enhancing the overall tourism experience for visitors. By implementing best practices in tourism development and collaborating with various government agencies, the Kingdom has successfully positioned itself as a leading global tourist destination. The growth in spending by international visitors highlights the success of initiatives aimed at attracting tourists and providing them with high-quality tourism services and products. This achievement is a testament to the commitment and dedication of the tourism system in Saudi Arabia to realizing its full potential and contributing to the growth of the national economy.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector continues to showcase significant growth and development, with a focus on enhancing the tourism experience for visitors. The Kingdom’s efforts to position itself as a leading global tourist destination have been reinforced by the positive growth in spending by international visitors. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships with government agencies, the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia has successfully implemented best practices and enhanced tourism services and products. This success signals the commitment of the Ministry of Tourism and other stakeholders to driving the growth and development of the tourism sector in the Kingdom, in line with the National Tourism Development Strategy. With a clear focus on sustainable growth and excellence, Saudi Arabia is set to further elevate its position as a premier tourist destination on the world stage.
