RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has secured its position as the world’s second fastest-growing tourism destination. In the first quarter of 2023, international tourism in the Kingdom surpassed pre-pandemic levels by an impressive 64%, attracting approximately 7.8 million tourists.
This remarkable growth has propelled Saudi Arabia from the 25th to the 13th position on the WTO Index of the most visited countries by international tourists in 2022.
According to data released by the World Tourism Organization (WTO), with a total of 16.6 million international tourists visiting the Kingdom in 2022, Saudi Arabia has successfully improved its ranking on the international tourism stage.
Furthermore, the country’s international tourism revenue index climbed to the 11th position in 2022, a significant jump from the 27th place in 2019. These achievements are a testament to the Saudi leadership’s commitment to elevate the Kingdom’s global tourism standing and enhance its contribution to the national GDP.
Saudi Govt Efforts to Promote Tourism
Minister of Tourism Ahmed al-Khateeb attributed these positive results to the concerted efforts undertaken by the Saudi government. Streamlined travel visa procedures, extensive promotional campaigns across the globe, and the diverse range of attractions within Saudi Arabia have all contributed to making the country an appealing destination for tourists.
These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic reform plan, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the economy and develop non-oil sectors.
Minister al-Khateeb emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism will continue to collaborate with public and private sector partners to transform Saudi Arabia into a global tourism hub.
The ongoing commitment to this goal reflects the country’s determination to solidify its position as an attractive and thriving destination for travelers worldwide.
Overall, the recent data from the WTO paints a promising picture of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, highlighting its rapid growth and increasing prominence on the global tourism map.
