Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant milestone by advancing 15 positions to secure 12th place globally in tourist spending for 2023, as per the latest report from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This remarkable leap represents the most substantial improvement among the top 50 countries, underscoring the Kingdom’s dedication to developing its tourism sector in alignment with its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative.
The UNWTO report revealed that between January and July 2024, Saudi Arabia witnessed a 73% surge in international visitors and a 207% increase in international tourism receipts compared to the same period in 2019. These figures underscore the country’s growing prominence as a global tourism hub, driven by strategic initiatives and substantial investment in tourism infrastructure.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia’s tourism spending exceeded USD 37 billion, a figure supported by a notable expansion in hotel capacity and enhanced visitor experiences. During the first seven months of 2024, the Kingdom welcomed approximately 17.5 million international tourists, while the entire year of 2023 recorded 27.4 million visitors. This marked a 56% increase from 2019 levels, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader among emerging tourist destinations.
The Kingdom also achieved a tourism surplus of SAR 48 billion (USD 12.8 billion) in 2023, reflecting a 38% increase from the previous year. This financial growth aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the national economy by reducing reliance on oil revenues and promoting other sectors, including tourism.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recognized the Kingdom’s progress in its 2024 Article IV Consultation report, highlighting the sector’s role in boosting visitor numbers, increasing tourism-related expenditures, creating job opportunities, and contributing to GDP growth.
On a broader scale, the UNWTO Barometer report showed that global international tourist arrivals from January to July 2024 reached approximately 790 million, recovering to 96% of pre-pandemic levels and marking an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Middle East led this resurgence with a 26% rise in international arrivals relative to 2019 levels, with Saudi Arabia playing a pivotal role in driving this regional growth.
Saudi Arabia Achieves 12th Position in Global Tourism Spending, Leading Regional Growth in 2023
As Saudi Arabia continues to transform its tourism landscape, the Kingdom’s achievements serve as a testament to its commitment to becoming a premier global tourism destination, reflecting the broader success of the Vision 2030 initiative.
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