Riyadh: Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global tourism powerhouse, with ambitions to elevate the sector into the Kingdom’s second-largest economic contributor after oil by 2030.
During the Saudi–US Investment Forum 2025 held in the capital on Tuesday, Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb highlighted the nation’s transformation from an oil-dependent economy into a destination celebrated for its majestic mountain landscapes, pristine Red Sea islands, and rich cultural heritage.
The panel, which also featured Housing Minister Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail and was chaired by Arab News Editor-in-Chief Faisal J. Abbas, underscored the strategic role of tourism under Vision 2030.
Since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has significantly diversified its economic foundations.
Tourism, once a minor sector, now stands at the forefront of this transformation. The number of domestic and international tourists surged from 50 million in 2019 to 115 million in 2024 well beyond the original target of 100 million by 2030.
This growth propelled the Kingdom into the list of the world’s top 10 most-visited countries, with 30 million international arrivals in 2024 alone.
Al-Khateeb stressed the untapped potential the country offers, sharing his enthusiasm for building a sector that invites the world to discover Saudi Arabia’s heritage and hospitality.
With oil’s share of GDP now reduced to around 55 percent from its previous 85–90 percent dominance, the Kingdom has also expanded visa accessibility to citizens of nearly 65 countries through streamlined e-visa systems since 2019.
Tourist hotspots like the mountain ranges of Asir, the ancient city of AlUla, the dynamic capital Riyadh, and the Red Sea coastline are gaining popularity alongside the spiritual destinations of Makkah and Madinah.
Al-Khateeb pointed out that the tourism sector's workforce has grown from just 2 percent to 7 percent in under ten years, driven by a new generation of highly educated young Saudis.
The ministry’s roadmap includes attracting 50 million international tourists by 2030, with a broader goal of placing Saudi Arabia among the top five global tourist destinations.
It also aims to raise tourism’s GDP contribution from 5 percent to 10 percent within the same timeframe.
Al-Khateeb emphasized that the sector has been structured to serve all types of travelers from business and leisure to religious pilgrims.
He further noted that the Kingdom is drawing inspiration from the United States, a global leader in tourism, particularly in areas like conferences, entertainment, and aviation.
Saudi Arabia is also investing in human capital by sending young nationals to the US for top-tier education and vocational training in tourism.
These efforts reflect a broader vision to redefine the country’s image and secure a sustainable, diversified economic future.
