Workforce Expansion in 2024 Tourism Sector
Saudi Tourism Industry continues to thrive. According to the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), it employed 966,500 workers in Q4 2024, marking a 4% year-on-year increase. While Saudis make up 25% of the workforce, non-Saudis dominate at 75%. Gender gaps remain evident, with 86.7% male employees compared to just 13.3% female workers.
Despite a slight drop in tourism’s share of total employment, the rise in licensed hotels—now 2,163 strong—has fueled job demand in hospitality. Saudi women play a growing role, with 112,000 employed in tourism, marking a 67% increase from previous years.
Tourism investment surged from $314.67 million in 2021 to $3.95 billion in 2024, driving massive infrastructure expansion, including 475,900 hotel rooms.
International Tourism Revenue Leads G20 Growth
According to the 2024 annual performance report, Saudi Arabia’s international tourism revenue skyrocketed 148% in 2024 compared to 2019, making it the fastest-growing among G20 nations. The surge stems from Vision 2030 initiatives, which propelled international arrivals to 29.7 million in 2024 and domestic travel to 86.2 million.
Surpassing its 100 million visitor target seven years early, the Kingdom has now set its sights on 150 million tourists annually by 2030.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Leads G20 in Tourism Growth in 2024
Mega Projects Reshaping the Saudi Tourism Industry
Ambitious developments continue to redefine Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape:
- The Red Sea Project is home to carbon-neutral resorts like Shebara and St. Regis, alongside the sustainable Red Sea International Airport.
- Diriyah, with 3 million visitors, merges historic heritage with luxury hospitality.
- Qiddiya’s Aquarabia Park nears completion at 81%, while Six Flags Park is 87% done.
- AlUla, Madinah, and Asir received international tourism accolades for cultural excellence.
Pilgrimage Services Advance Under Vision 2030
Pilgrimage remains central to Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions. In 2024, 16.9 million foreign Umrah pilgrims and 1.61 million foreign Hajj pilgrims visited the Kingdom. Innovations like the Makkah Route Initiative helped streamline entry for 322,900 travelers, a dramatic leap from 1,700 in 2017.
With transportation upgrades, 69.5 million passengers moved efficiently between holy sites, and 390,000 pilgrims received medical care across 189 facilities.
Saudi Arabia Strengthens Global Tourism Presence
Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence goes beyond traditional travel.
- The Kingdom secured the 2034 FIFA World Cup, set to feature 48 national teams and 230,000 hotel units.
- Riyadh hosted the first Esports World Cup, with 1,500 pro players and 500 elite clubs.
- Riyadh Season 2024 drew 19 million visitors, fueling entertainment sector growth.
Saudi Tourism Industry’s Next Growth Phase
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia aims to solidify its position as a global tourism powerhouse. With $800 billion earmarked for tourism investments, including giga-projects such as NEOM, Amaala, and Trojena, the Kingdom is pushing boundaries in sustainable travel, adventure tourism, and luxury hospitality. The expansion of the e-visa program to 66 countries and the growing international flight network will further boost accessibility. With ambitious visitor targets and a dynamic hospitality landscape, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry is poised for continued growth, redefining its global standing.
Also Read: Tourism to Double Saudi GDP Share as Kingdom Targets 150M Visitors
