Saudi Arabia to double tourism GDP as sector grows to 5%

Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry posted record growth in 2025, cementing its role as a key driver of the kingdom’s economic transformation. At the Public Investment Fund (PIF) Private Sector Forum, Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb reported that tourism’s GDP contribution rose from 3.5% in 2019 to 5% last year, with a goal of reaching 10% by 2030.

The sector is now targeting SAR600 billion (US$160 billion) in GDP contribution by the end of the decade, up from SAR300 billion (US$80 billion) in 2025.

Employment has already surpassed one million jobs, a 6.4% year-on-year increase, with Saudi nationals now making up nearly a quarter (24.3%) of the workforce. The aim, supported by hospitality brands including Hilton, is to boost total employment in the sector to 1.6 million by 2030, with the group planning to create 20,000 new roles – more than half for Saudi nationals – across its 21 existing properties and 80 more in the development pipeline

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Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector grows 5% in 2025

Visitor growth continues apace. In 2025, Saudi welcomed more than 122 million domestic and international tourists, a 5% increase over 2024, keeping the kingdom firmly on course for its 2030 goal of 150 million visitors. Tourism spending also rose 6% to SAR 300 billion (US$80 billion), according to the Ministry of Tourism.

Supporting infrastructure has expanded rapidly. The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) reported a 40.6% year-on-year surge in licensed tourism accommodation during Q3 2025 to 5,622 properties – early half of which are hotels – alongside steady workforce growth. Knight Frank projects a 29% jump in quality hotel room supply by 2026, from 159,790 rooms to around 205,500, highlighting a wave of imminent openings.

Among the key developments slated for 2026, Red Sea Global will unveil nine ultra-luxury resorts at Amaala, its wellness-focused destination, while Shura Island will add further resort options. Meanwhile, Envi Lodges will make its Saudi debut with nature-centric retreats in Al Ahsa and Taif.