Saudi Arabia achieved first place globally in international tourism revenue growth during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2019, according to the World Tourism Barometer report issued by the UN World Tourism Organization in May 2025.

The achievement reflects the kingdom's transformation into a major tourism destination since opening its borders to international leisure tourists in 2019. Saudi Arabia welcomed 30 million international visitors in 2024, marking a new record, whilst the country targets 70 million visitors by 2030 under its Vision 2030 diversification programme.

The kingdom ranked third globally in international tourist arrival growth during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2019, and second in the Middle East for the same period, Akhbar 24 reported on July 13.

Saudi Arabia recorded 102% growth in international tourist numbers during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2019, surpassing the global growth rate of 3% and the Middle East growth rate of 44%.

Makkah remains the most visited destination, attracting 9.4 million visitors in 2022 due to its religious significance for Muslim pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. Religious visits accounted for 5.9 million international visitors in 2022, representing the largest category.

Al-Ula has emerged as a major cultural tourism destination, featuring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra with its ancient Nabatean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs. The historic city showcases archaeological sites, rock formations and preserved monuments from ancient civilisations.

Riyadh, the capital, attracts visitors with modern landmarks including the Kingdom Centre Tower offering panoramic city views, alongside historical sites such as Masmak Fortress and the National Museum. The city combines contemporary architecture with traditional Saudi heritage.

Jeddah's Red Sea coastline, particularly the Corniche promenade, draws tourists seeking coastal experiences, whilst the historic Al-Balad district represents a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring traditional architecture and ancient souks.

The kingdom's diverse offerings include religious tourism to holy cities, adventure tourism in desert landscapes like the Edge of the World near Riyadh, and luxury developments along the Red Sea coast through projects like NEOM and the Red Sea resort destinations.

International visitors from Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Pakistan and Indonesia comprise the largest source markets, with tourists spending an average of 16.7 nights in the kingdom, significantly longer than many global destinations.