Riyadh Achieves Record Tourism Numbers and High Hotel Occupancy in 2024

Riyadh

The Saudi capital, Riyadh, has experienced remarkable growth in its tourism sector during the first half of 2024, welcoming an impressive 8.8 million domestic tourists and 1.3 million international visitors, according to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism.

A key indicator of this success is the city’s hotel and apartment occupancy rates, which exceeded 90% during the period. Five-star hotels, in particular, saw extraordinary demand, with occupancy soaring to 97% during the recent mid-year school break, This surge highlights Riyadh’s growing appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travelers.

The Ministry of Tourism attributes this significant growth to several factors. One major driver was the Saudi Winter events calendar, which featured a variety of cultural and entertainment activities. Additionally, Riyadh Season—one of the Kingdom’s most prominent festivals—attracted millions of visitors with its diverse offerings. The city also hosted numerous international conferences, further establishing itself as a global hub for events and gatherings.

To sustain and enhance this momentum, the ministry has introduced measures to streamline the licensing of hospitality facilities. This initiative aims to improve the quality of services available to both domestic and international guests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism’s efforts underscore Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to transform Riyadh into a leading global destination. By combining large-scale events, cultural attractions, and robust infrastructure, the city continues to set new benchmarks in tourism growth.

With these achievements, Riyadh is solidifying its position as a dynamic and vibrant destination, capable of offering world-class experiences to travelers from around the globe.