Read About Saudi Arabia's Investment in Tourism

From Sand to Splendor: Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Renaissance and Vision 2030 Triumphs?

Harnessing its vast reservoir of archaeological wonders, sun-kissed beaches, and lush mountains, Saudi Arabia has masterfully tapped into a novel economic avenue: tourism – a venture that has proven resoundingly successful.

Tourism is the new oil!

Dubbed as the “new oil,” tourism has become the focal point of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious agenda.?

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has set its sights on a remarkable objective: elevating tourism to become its second-largest revenue generator, potentially outshining the traditionally dominant oil sector by 2030.

Although achieving this goal is challenging, early signs from the tourism sector are encouraging.?

In 2021, just three years after Saudi Arabia opened its borders to tourists, visitors spent $21 billion, according to official figures.

Moreover, the ambitious goal of attracting 100 million visitors by 2030 has already been nearly achieved, with the kingdom welcoming a remarkable 93.5 million visitors last year, more than double the figure from 2019.

The development of its tourism industry - ongoing projects

With a massive budget of $1 trillion, the kingdom’s projects are competing to be the most extravagant.?

One exciting project is the Red Sea Project, a huge area of 28,000 square kilometers.?

It’s all about luxury eco-tourism near the Red Sea, with several beautiful islands featuring white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.?

There are also coral reefs, volcanoes, dunes, and canyons to explore.?

Another extraordinary project is Neom, a brand-new city in the northwestern Tabuk Province.?

It’s meant to tackle global urban challenges and promote a different way of living.?

Neom will protect 95% of the natural environment around it, showing the important connection between people and nature.

Among the ongoing projects is also Trojena, a desert ski resort, which has been designated to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games.

But it’s not just about The Line, Trojena, and the Red Sea, as Saudi Arabia boasts many captivating destinations – including forests and mountains, the world’s largest oasis and...deserts spanning the entire country.

Two-pronged plan for Saudi Arabia’s tourism transformation

Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy is focused on two aspects. They want to change why people visit and increase the number of tourists from other countries.

First, the country aims to shift focus towards leisure tourism - and far from religious tourism - offering activities like sightseeing, cultural experiences, and entertainment to attract a wider range of visitors seeking unique experiences.

Second, Saudi Arabia recognizes the economic and cultural benefits of attracting visitors from various countries.?

By diversifying its tourist base, the country can reduce its reliance on specific source markets and create a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry.

For example, recently, it announced the expansion of its visitor e-visa scheme to eight countries.

The countries include Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, South Africa, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Tourism said.

Saudi tourism provides everything!

From its profound cultural and historical heritage to its inviting sun-kissed shores and the embrace of its unspoiled natural beauty, the kingdom extends a warm invitation to explore, discover, and experience.

As Saudi Arabia strides forward, it stands ready to showcase the harmony of culture, relaxation, and adventure it holds within its borders.

A destination of manifold wonders, Saudi tourism truly offers everything, ensuring an enriching and memorable journey for every kind of traveler.