International Tourism Sees Massive Growth in Saudi Arabia in 2024

Saudi Arabia has registered the highest growth among G20 countries in the first seven months of 2024. According to the United Nations Tourism Organization’s September 2024 World Tourism Barometer, the Kingdom saw a 73% increase in international tourists compared to the same period in 2019, alongside a 207% surge in tourism revenues.

During this period, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 17.5 million international tourists, highlighting its rising global appeal. In 2023, the Kingdom had already attracted 27.4 million visitors, reflecting a 56% increase since 2019.

Additionally, the country recorded a historic travel surplus of SAR 48 billion in 2023, marking a 38% year-on-year increase. The International Monetary Fund praised these achievements in its 2024 Article IV Consultation report, highlighting tourism’s vital role in diversifying Saudi Arabia's economy, particularly under the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.