
Saudi Arabia is making significant progress toward its ambitious goal of becoming one of the world’s top seven tourist destinations, with plans to welcome 70 million tourists annually by 2030. Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb recently shared updates on the Kingdom’s tourism and transportation strategies during the 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Record Growth in Tourism
Saudi Arabia recorded nearly 30 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, highlighting the sector's strong growth trajectory. This success is attributed to effective governance and comprehensive planning, which have enabled the Kingdom to develop its tourism industry in a sustainable and impactful way.
The introduction of initiatives such as e-visas and the development of key infrastructure, including modern airports, has significantly enhanced the travel experience for international visitors. These efforts aim to ensure that the tourist journey—from flights and landing points to transportation and destinations—is seamless and enjoyable.
Key Investments in Transportation
To complement its tourism objectives, Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in its transportation infrastructure. The construction of King Salman International Airport, which is expected to handle up to 120 million travelers annually, stands out as a centerpiece of these efforts.
Additionally, the Kingdom recently launched Riyadh Air, a new national carrier designed to further support its tourism sector by offering enhanced connectivity and service to global travelers.
Regional Transportation Developments
Neighboring UAE is also making strides in transportation development. Etihad Rail announced a new train line that will connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi, reducing travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes. Such projects reflect the region’s commitment to enhancing mobility and accessibility for residents and tourists alike.
Collaboration and Recognition
Saudi Arabia’s advancements have drawn international praise. During the WEF panel session "The Way We Will Travel," European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas commended the Kingdom's efforts and emphasized its collaboration with global partners.
Minister Al Khateeb also engaged in discussions with notable leaders, including Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Avolta AG CEO Xavier Rossinyol, and Trip.com CEO Jane Sun. These exchanges underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit both the tourism and transportation sectors.
The Road Ahead
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in tourism and infrastructure, it is positioning itself as a global leader in the travel industry. The combination of strategic initiatives, world-class infrastructure, and strong international collaboration sets the stage for achieving its ambitious targets by 2030.
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