Tourism momentum has surged in Saudi Arabia as Riyadh becomes the new global hub for events, culture and business travel

Posted on October 30, 2025

The tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia is changing faster than ever, transforming the Kingdom into one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. As part of Vision 2030, the country is working to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil, using tourism as a key pillar of national growth.

The tourism sector currently contributes about five percent of the country’s GDP, and is on track to double its share over the next five years. This bold transformation aims to boost job opportunities, strengthen local communities, and position Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable global tourism.

Riyadh: The new pulse of global events

Riyadh has become a symbol of the Kingdom’s modernization – a city bursting with energy, culture and innovation. Once known as the commercial capital, Riyadh is now one of the world’s most active destinations for hosting large-scale international events, exhibitions and conferences.

Modern infrastructure, new entertainment areas and a rapidly growing hospitality network have transformed Riyadh into a magnet for regional and international visitors. From cultural celebrations to major sporting tournaments, the capital is redefining what modern tourism looks like in the Middle East. This shift is not only reshaping the way the world sees Saudi Arabia, but it is also creating an economic ripple that benefits every corner of the Kingdom.

Diversity is the core of the Kingdom’s tourism strength

Besides its event-driven appeal, Saudi Arabia’s greatest strength lies in its amazing diversity. The country offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes – from the coral reef-filled Red Sea islands to the peaks of the Asir Mountains and the timeless heritage sites of Diriyah and Al Ula.

This geographic and cultural richness gives visitors the opportunity to experience the Kingdom’s heritage in authentic and modern ways. Each destination tells a story – of history, art, architecture and tradition – woven together with the hospitality that has long defined Saudi culture. This diversity makes the country an ideal destination for explorers, history lovers, and luxury travelers alike.

Artificial intelligence and data transformation for Saudi tourism strategy

Innovation has become the backbone of the new era of tourism in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia is using artificial intelligence to map global tourism trends and identify areas of growth. Studies conducted across more than sixty international markets – representing the majority of global tourism flow – are shaping how the country positions itself to attract new visitors.

These data-driven insights help improve travel connectivity between key destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla and the Red Sea region. Through guiding AI decisions on marketing, infrastructure and visitor experience, Saudi Arabia is building a future where technology and hospitality work hand in hand to redefine travel efficiency.

Air connectivity fuels global reach

Improving air connectivity forms the backbone of tourism expansion in Saudi Arabia. Airlines are increasing routes and frequencies to meet growing international demand, connecting the Kingdom to major cities across Europe, Asia and Africa.

The country’s goal of welcoming fifty million international tourists by 2030 reflects its ambition to become a leading global destination. Infrastructure upgrades, seamless digital visa systems and modern airport facilities make travel easier than ever. These improvements not only facilitate international access, but also ensure visitors experience the best of Saudi Arabia from the moment they arrive.

The growing economic and social impact of tourism

Tourism stands out as one of the strongest economic engines in the Kingdom. It creates thousands of jobs in aviation, hospitality, culture and transportation while encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation in local communities. The rise of small and medium-sized enterprises in the tourism ecosystem demonstrates how this sector works to empower citizens and develop new skills.

A focus on sustainable tourism ensures that growth benefits people and the planet. From eco-lodges along the Red Sea to cultural restoration in heritage cities, Saudi Arabia’s tourism vision is as much about preserving its identity as it is about shaping the future.

Sustainable tourism for the next generation

Sustainability is at the heart of every tourism initiative in Saudi Arabia. The projects are designed to balance environmental stewardship, cultural preservation and economic opportunities. Renewable energy systems, eco-friendly resorts and community-led tourism models are strengthening the country’s commitment to responsible travel.

The Kingdom’s long-term vision is not only to welcome visitors, but also to inspire them, providing experiences rooted in authenticity, innovation and respect for nature. As Riyadh leads the event revolution in the region, and destinations like AlUla and the Red Sea open new chapters in exploration, the development of tourism in Saudi Arabia represents a powerful example of progress meeting environmental conservation.