THE TRANSFORMATION: VISION 2030 •
Riyadh Season 2025 attracted more than 17 million visitors
TOURISM SCALE REACHES NEW HEIGHTS NOVEMBER UN Tourism General Assembly hosted in Riyadh Saudi Arabia hosts the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, focused on AI, sustainability and the future of travel. The event, staged at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh, reinforces the kingdom’s growing leadership role in global tourism. DECEMBER Six Flags Qiddiya rolls in with thrilling rides Hotly anticipated theme park, Six Flags Qiddiya, opens with record- breaking attractions including Falcon’s Flight, the world’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster. The opening marks a major milestone for Saudi entertainment tourism.
TOURISM TARGET REACHED EARLY
2025 SUCCESS IN NUMBERS Saudi Arabia records 123 million visitors and $81 billion in tourism spending as the sector continues rapid expansion. Riyadh Season brings in more than 17 million visitors, Saudi Summer 2025 reports 24 million domestic tourists and $10 billion spend, while giga-projects continue scaling operations and attracting more visits.
Saudi Arabia surpasses its original Vision 2030 target of 100 million annual visitors seven years ahead of schedule, recording 106.2 million visits in 2023. The kingdom subsequently raises its goal to 150 million annual visitors by 2030.
2025
2024
TOURISM ENTERS THE GLOBAL MAINSTREAM
MAY Tourist e-visa expanded Saudi Arabia broadens its e-visa programme to include 66 countries, simplifying entry for millions of travellers. The move supports the kingdom’s push for higher international arrivals.
OCTOBER Sindalah officially opens
NEOM opens Sindalah, its first completed luxury island destination in the Red Sea. The development targets the global yachting and high-end leisure market.
DECEMBER Saudi Arabia confirmed as FIFA 2034 host
FIFA officially awards the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia. The tournament is expected to drive major investment across tourism, hospitality and transport infrastructure.
DECEMBER AROYA Cruises makes waves
2024: Saudi’s Red Sea coast profile elevated with new destinations and a cruise line
AROYA Cruises enters service as the first Arabian cruise line. The brand introduces a regional cruise experience tailored to Middle Eastern travellers, with its first voyage setting sail in the Red Sea.
SPOTLIGHT RIYADH | 15
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