Riyadh, September 21, 2024—Saudi Arabia has achieved the highest growth in international tourism among G20 countries in the first seven months of this year, according to recent data from the United Nations Tourism Organization. The Kingdom saw an impressive 73% increase in international tourist arrivals and a staggering 207% rise in tourism revenues compared to the same period in 2019, as reported in the September 2024 World Tourism Barometer. During this timeframe, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 17.5 million international tourists, highlighting a significant enhancement in its global tourism appeal. In 2023, the Kingdom attracted 27.4 million visitors, reflecting a 56% increase compared to 2019, making it the leading country in tourism growth among major destinations according to the UN. Additionally, the travel sector recorded a historic surplus of SAR 48 billion in 2023, representing a 38% year-on-year growth.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) praised the remarkable progress of Saudi Arabia's tourism sector in its 2024 Article IV Consultation report released in September, recognizing its crucial role in diversifying the Kingdom's economic landscape as part of Saudi Vision 2030. The IMF specifically highlighted tourism's impact on the services sector, which has emerged as a key driver of growth, contributing to visitor numbers, spending, job creation, and GDP.
These accomplishments reinforce Saudi Arabia's status as a premier global tourism destination, with the ongoing increase in tourist arrivals reflecting a growing confidence in the country's diverse and appealing tourism offerings.