Saudi Arabia Breaks Records in Q1 2025 International Tourism Spend as Vision 2030 Gains Momentum
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has achieved a significant milestone in early 2025, posting a record SR49.4 billion in international visitor spending during the first quarter of the year. This marks a 9.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the latest travel item data released by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism in May. The data was published in coordination with the balance of payments report, reflecting the ongoing acceleration of the Kingdom’s tourism economy as a pillar of national transformation.
In tandem with the increase in visitor spending, the Kingdom registered a travel account surplus of SR26.8 billion in Q1 2025—an 11.7% year-on-year growth. These impressive figures underscore Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding tourism sector and affirm its critical role in diversifying the nation’s economy under the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy.
Driving Diversification Through Tourism
Tourism has emerged as one of Saudi Arabia’s most promising non-oil economic sectors. The Ministry of Tourism attributes this growth to the government’s sustained commitment to implementing international best practices in tourism development, along with a strategic focus on improving the visitor experience through enhanced infrastructure, hospitality services, and destination accessibility.
“The remarkable growth in international visitor spending is a testament to our whole-of-government approach and public-private collaboration,” said a ministry spokesperson. “Tourism is not just growing—it’s transforming lives, economies, and perceptions of Saudi Arabia globally.”
The surge comes amid a broader economic diversification strategy that aims to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP to 10% by 2030, create one million new jobs, and welcome 150 million domestic and international tourists annually.
Key Contributors to the Boom
The first quarter’s results are being driven by several factors:
- Increased international air connectivity through Saudi-based carriers like Saudia and flynas, and expanded routes from global airlines.
- Major hospitality investments, with international hotel brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and Accor rapidly expanding in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Red Sea Project.
- Cultural and heritage tourism promotion, including events like Diriyah Season, AlUla Moments, and the opening of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Eased visa policies, such as the streamlined eVisa program available to over 60 countries.
The kingdom’s year-round calendar of sports, entertainment, and cultural events—many of which are attracting global audiences—has also been a critical growth engine.
Vision 2030 at the Forefront
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative remains central to the tourism sector’s success. Spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the vision sets out to transform the Kingdom into a leading global destination through mega-projects like:
- NEOM, a $500 billion futuristic city on the Red Sea coast
- Red Sea Global, which is building a sustainable luxury tourism destination spanning islands, deserts, and mountains
- AMAALA, an ultra-luxury wellness destination
- AlUla, a heritage tourism hub with partnerships including the Royal Commission for AlUla and global institutions
These developments are not only reshaping Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings but also redefining its international image—from a conservative oil economy to a modern, open, and innovative travel destination.
Public and Private Sector Synergy
The Ministry of Tourism has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration between government entities, local communities, and private sector investors. From large-scale hotel developments to local tour operator support, the synergy between stakeholders has been crucial to delivering world-class services that meet international standards.
“Creating a sustainable tourism economy means aligning public policy with investor confidence, and both are converging at scale in Saudi Arabia,” noted Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism.
Local communities have also been engaged through training programs and employment initiatives designed to upskill young Saudis for careers in hospitality, tourism management, and customer service—ensuring that growth is inclusive and socially impactful.
The Road Ahead: Continued Expansion
Saudi Arabia is far from finished. The Ministry of Tourism plans to deepen international partnerships, increase global marketing efforts, and further diversify its tourism product. Initiatives are underway to enhance eco-tourism, adventure travel, medical tourism, and religious tourism for Muslims worldwide.
In 2025 alone, the Kingdom is expected to host numerous international forums, including the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, and expand promotional campaigns in key source markets like China, India, Europe, and North America.
In tandem, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) continues to upgrade airport infrastructure across major hubs—ensuring seamless arrivals and departures for growing numbers of visitors.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry is writing a new chapter in the global travel narrative. With a record-breaking SR49.4 billion in international visitor spending and a solid travel account surplus in Q1 2025, the Kingdom is proving that tourism is no longer an ancillary sector—it is a mainstay of its economic and social transformation.
As Vision 2030 gains momentum, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as one of the most ambitious and dynamic destinations in the world. Through strategic investment, policy reform, and cultural engagement, the Kingdom’s tourism sector is poised to exceed expectations and redefine the future of travel in the Middle East.
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