Saudi Arabia Soars: Inbound Visitors Increase by 8% in 2024
Saudi Arabia has welcomed a remarkable 29.7 million inbound visitors in 2024, marking its highest number yet and reflecting an impressive 8% increase year-on-year. This surge supports the kingdom’s ambitious agenda to enhance its tourism sector as a sustainable pillar for economic diversification.
The Peaks and Highlights of 2024
The inbound tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia reached new heights, particularly in March 2024, when the kingdom witnessed an astonishing 3.2 million visitors in just one month. This boom can largely be attributed to strategic initiatives aimed at attracting international travelers.
Leading Source Markets
Egypt emerged as the top source market for inbound tourism in 2024, contributing 3.2 million visitors to this momentum. Meanwhile, the regions of Asia and the Pacific collectively provided an impressive 9.7 million travelers, underscoring the kingdom’s global appeal.
Makkah: The Crown Jewel of Tourism
In a testament to its enduring significance, the holy city of Makkah was celebrated as the most popular destination for the second consecutive year, hosting 17.4 million inbound overnight tourists. This level of interest highlights Makkah’s pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s tourism narrative.
Domestic Tourism on the Rise
Domestic tourism has also experienced an impressive trajectory. From 47.8 million tourists in 2019, prior to the pandemic, domestic visitation skyrocketed to nearly 81.9 million in 2023 and further to 86.2 million in 2024. Notably, June marked a peak, with 9.6 million domestic visitors flocking to various attractions.
Leading Destinations and Economic Impact
The statistical report revealed that the Makkah Province captivated the hearts of 23.5 million visitors, while the vibrant city of Riyadh attracted 12.7 million tourists. This surge in tourism has a direct impact on the economy; inbound tourists spent a staggering 168.5 billion Saudi riyals in 2024, reflecting a 19% increase from the 141.2 billion riyals recorded in 2023.
Domestic Spending: A Steady Climb
Domestic visitor spending saw a modest rise from 114.4 billion riyals in 2023 to 115.3 billion riyals in 2024, further contributing to the national economy.
Looking Ahead: Saudi Arabia’s Global Aspirations
Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the Saudi tourism minister, emphasized the kingdom’s intent to establish itself as a premier global destination. “On the global stage, Saudi Arabia continued efforts to solidify its leadership in tourism, captaining impressive figures and leaving a distinct mark at major international forums,” he asserted in the report’s introduction.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia led the G20 countries in the growth of international tourism numbers last year, reinforcing its status as a rising star on the world tourism map.
Final Thoughts
As Saudi Arabia drives forward with its strategic tourism initiatives, the kingdom stands poised to continue attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. With a commitment to enhancing its tourism offerings and a focus on sustainable economic growth, the future looks bright for Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.
