Saudi Arabia recorded a landmark year for tourism in 2025, attracting more than 122 million domestic and international visitors and generating approximately SR300 billion in tourism-related spending, according to preliminary estimates released by the Ministry of Tourism.
The figures mark a 5 per cent increase in visitor numbers compared with 2024, while total tourism expenditure rose by 6 per cent year on year, highlighting the sector’s growing weight in the national economy. The strong performance reflects the kingdom’s steady progress toward its Vision 2030 goal of welcoming 150 million tourists annually.
Officials said the results underscore the impact of sweeping legislative and regulatory reforms, rising investment levels, and the rapid diversification of tourism offerings. These now span leisure, culture, nature-based attractions and business travel, supported by an expanding calendar of high-profile international events.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has accelerated upgrades to tourism infrastructure and services, alongside initiatives designed to streamline licensing, support investors and enhance visitor experiences. These measures have helped extend average stays and boost per-capita spending across the sector.
Iconic destinations such as Elephant Rock in AlUla have played a central role in drawing global attention, while targeted domestic and international marketing campaigns have opened the market to new visitor segments.
The ministry also highlighted ongoing efforts to build local talent and increase Saudi participation in tourism-related jobs, strengthening the industry’s long-term resilience.
Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to lift tourism’s contribution to 10 per cent of GDP, diversify income streams beyond oil, and cement its position as a competitive global destination through sustained private-sector partnerships and a focus on sustainable growth.
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