Madinah, December 10, 2024 – Madinah has cemented its place as a premier global tourism destination, earning recognition in the prestigious 2024 Euromonitor International report of the world’s top 100 cities. The report, which ranks cities based on a wide range of factors, has placed Madinah as the leading Saudi city, securing an impressive 88th spot globally. Additionally, it ranked fifth in the Gulf, sixth in the Arab world, and seventh in the Middle East, further solidifying the city’s status on the international stage.
The Al Madinah Region Development Authority attributes this remarkable achievement to the collaborative efforts of both government entities and private sector stakeholders. Their coordinated initiatives are aligned with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing the Kingdom’s tourism sector, diversifying the national economy, and boosting the global competitiveness of Saudi cities. These efforts have proven successful in transforming Madinah into a dynamic tourism hub that attracts both regional and international visitors year-round.
Euromonitor's ranking methodology evaluates cities across 55 diverse metrics spread across six key pillars: economic and business performance, tourism performance, tourism infrastructure, tourism policy and allure, health and safety, and sustainability. Madinah’s ranking highlights its exceptional progress in all these areas, underlining its readiness to deliver unparalleled services to visitors and provide an enriching experience. As the site of the Prophet’s Mosque, the second holiest site in Islam, Madinah’s significance as a religious destination has long been established. However, the city’s recent transformation has positioned it as a modern tourism hub that caters to the evolving needs of a global audience.
The city’s remarkable advancement is attributed to several key initiatives launched in recent years, including strategic projects aimed at improving the overall visitor experience. These projects have focused on enhancing services for the millions of pilgrims who visit the Prophet’s Mosque each year, improving infrastructure, and making tourism facilities more efficient. In addition, Madinah has worked to promote its rich cultural and historical heritage, ensuring that visitors can fully appreciate its unique blend of spiritual significance and modern amenities.
Moreover, Madinah’s strategic initiatives have not only attracted tourists but have also contributed to the qualitative improvement of life for its residents. These include programs designed to enhance sustainability, health and safety, and the quality of public services. This holistic approach to development ensures that both residents and visitors benefit from the city’s progress, enhancing its reputation as a place that offers a high standard of living for its people and a memorable experience for tourists.
Madinah’s prestigious ranking is a testament to the Kingdom’s successful strategy in boosting the global competitiveness of Saudi cities. It reflects the Kingdom’s broader goal to position itself as a major player on the global tourism map, offering an inclusive experience that combines cultural heritage, religious significance, and cutting-edge infrastructure. The ongoing growth and development of Madinah are driven by the unwavering support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, whose leadership continues to guide the city toward a future of sustainable growth and international recognition.
This global recognition not only underscores Madinah's importance as a global religious and tourism center, but also marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to invest in and enhance its tourism sector. With millions of visitors flocking to the city each year, Madinah stands poised to continue its growth, offering a unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and modernity, making it a destination of choice for travelers from all corners of the world.