Saudi Arabia, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and economic influence, is revolutionizing its travel industry. As of August 2024, Saudi Arabian passport holders enjoy unparalleled travel freedom, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 88 countries worldwide.
This remarkable achievement is attributed to the kingdom's strategic initiatives and reforms, catapulting its tourism sector to unprecedented heights. In 2023, demand for tourism activity licenses surged by 39%, with tourism's contribution to non-oil GVA expected to exceed 7%. The sector's direct contribution to GDP is projected to surpass 4%, showcasing Saudi Arabia's resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence.
Saudi Arabian passport holders can travel visa-free to a diverse range of countries, including Albania, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Bermuda, Bolivia, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Georgia, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong (SAR China), Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Macao (SAR China), Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritania, Mauritius, Micronesia, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niue, Oman, Pakistan, Palau Islands, Panama, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Türkiye, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Vanuatu, Yemen, Zambia.
The Saudi Arabian tourism industry witnessed a remarkable surge in outbound travel, with a 37% increase in tourists and a 74% rise in spending compared to the first half of 2022. This growth can be attributed to the easing of global travel restrictions and the onset of summer. Non-Saudi residents accounted for 45% of outbound tourists, marking a 24% increase, and their spending comprised 66% of total expenditure. Notably, their average length of stay extended from 19.3 nights to 45.5 nights, resulting in a 109% increase in spending. Saudi tourists primarily favoured neighbouring countries, with a 49% increase in numbers and a 32% rise in spending. However, the average expenditure per night for Saudis decreased from 599 Saudi Riyals (US$160) to 332 Saudi Riyals (US$88).
Top Destinations for Saudi Arabian Tourists
Saudi tourists' most popular outbound destinations include Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, the United Kingdom, India, the United States, and Malaysia.
Tourism's Contribution to GDP
Travel and tourism contributed approximately 6.5% to Saudi Arabia's GDP in 2022, with forecasts predicting a continued growth to reach 635 billion Saudi Riyals by 2032.
Saudi Arabia's World-Class Airports
The country's strategic location and thriving tourism industry have led to the development of state-of-the-art airports, including King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, is a major hub for international and domestic flights, featuring a new terminal and a dedicated Hajj Terminal.
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, offers extensive flight options and modern amenities, including VIP lounges and dining options.
King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, the largest airport in the world by land area, provides luxurious facilities and extensive parking.
These airports serve as crucial gateways, supporting Saudi Arabia's vision of becoming a global travel hub.
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