Saudi Arabia Leads Arab World in Tourism: Welcomes 18 Million Visitors in 2022
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia emerged as the top tourist destination in the Arab world in 2022, with a staggering 18 million visitors gracing its shores, according to the World Tourism Organization. This remarkable growth, surpassing the UAE’s 14.8 million visitors, reflects the Kingdom’s astonishing transformation from a near-inaccessible nation to a global tourism hotspot.
The rapid social and economic evolution in Saudi Arabia has been the driving force behind this surge in tourism, making it an increasingly sought-after destination worldwide. The country boasts six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, numerous heritage sites, new hotels, museums, and captivating natural landscapes.
At the recently concluded Future Investment Initiative, it was revealed that the Kingdom contributes 6.4 percent to its annual GDP while emitting only 3.3 percent of global greenhouse gases, as indicated by research in “The Environmental Impact of Global Tourism.”
In a panel titled “What Is the Vision for High-Growth Industry?” at the forum, Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb outlined the Kingdom’s ambitious goals. Saudi Arabia aims to increase the travel and tourism sector’s contribution to GDP from 3 percent in 2019 to 10 percent by 2030, attracting 100 million local and international tourists.
Al-Khateeb emphasized that Saudi Arabia leads the G20 nations in tourism growth, with tourist numbers now exceeding 30 million, representing 40 percent of the targeted total. This sector plays a pivotal role in the Kingdom’s economic growth.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia recently launched a global tourism research hub to explore climate sustainability in the industry. The Sustainable Tourism Global Center, in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, partnered with 100 institutions worldwide to establish this research hub.
The opening of the World Tourism Organization’s regional office in Riyadh in 2021 signifies Saudi Arabia’s rising prominence in regional and international tourism.
Experts, both local and international, highlight the Kingdom’s unique approach to tourism, emphasizing innovation while preserving and celebrating its rich heritage and history. Nancy Villanueva Garcia, CEO of Iberia & Middle East, noted the global significance of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination and encouraged brands to engage with Saudi culture and citizens.
Saudi-born Sara Faisal, a senior strategist at Imagination Saudi Arabia, underlined the dual nature of Saudi tourism, catering to both international tourists and religious pilgrims visiting Makkah and Madinah.
The rapid development of the tourism sector is enhancing infrastructure, showcasing Saudi Arabia to the world, and shedding light on local culture and stories. Initiatives like the Royal Commission of AlUla’s collaboration with the local community are making culture a central element of Saudi tourism, allowing visitors to meet locals, witness their crafts, and hear their stories.
Saudi women are increasingly participating in tourism as a means to showcase their culture and identity, highlighting the Kingdom’s longstanding tradition of welcoming guests from around the world.
Faisal concluded by emphasizing the Kingdom’s newfound focus on its rich culture and values, recognizing them as essential to the sector’s growth.
