In a significant milestone that underscores the impact of long-term national planning, Saudi Arabia has officially ranked first globally in the growth of international tourism revenues for the first quarter of 2025, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This achievement comes just six years after the launch of the Kingdom’s eVisa program and signals a turning point in Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global tourism leader.

A Historic Growth Surge

UNWTO’s World Tourism Barometer (May 2025) reports that international tourist arrivals to Saudi Arabia grew by 102% in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2019. That rate vastly exceeds the global average of 3% and positions the Kingdom as the fastest-growing tourism economy in the world.

Even more telling:

  • Saudi Arabia recorded $13.2 billion (SAR 49.4 billion) in international tourism receipts in Q1 2025.
  • The travel account surplus grew by 11.7% on an annual basis.
  • The Kingdom ranked #3 worldwide in the growth of international arrivals, reinforcing its reputation as an increasingly attractive global destination.

A Vision Led by H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb

This transformation has been personally led by His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, whose leadership has been central to aligning Saudi Arabia’s tourism agenda with Vision 2030. Under his direction, the Kingdom has adopted a data-driven, globally benchmarked strategy, prioritizing:

  • Ease of access through streamlined visa policies.
  • Experience design that reflects Saudi culture and global luxury standards.
  • Global positioning through participation in international tourism forums and partnerships.

Minister Al Khateeb’s approach has emphasized both scale and sustainability, resulting in a tourism sector that is globally competitive while preserving the Kingdom’s rich heritage.

Sector Analysis: Tourism as an Economic Engine

This surge in tourism revenue is more than a temporary spike. It reflects a deep structural change in the Kingdom’s economic strategy. Through Vision 2030, tourism has shifted from a supplementary sector to a core pillar of national growth.

Key developments fueling this momentum include:

  • Mega-projects like NEOM, Red Sea Global, and Diriyah Gate, which are redefining global standards for sustainable and cultural tourism.
  • Cultural seasons and national events such as Riyadh Season and the Islamic Arts Biennale.
  • The Quality of Life Program, enhancing the infrastructure for entertainment, heritage, and hospitality.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the sector now supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and contributes billions to non-oil GDP annually. The Kingdom aims to welcome 150 million visitors annually by 2030, a goal that now seems more achievable than ever.

What This Means for Investors and Operators

Saudi Arabia’s momentum presents a unique window of opportunity for:

  • Tourism-focused startups (tech, mobility, F&B, bookings, etc.)
  • International hospitality brands looking to expand in untapped destinations
  • Infrastructure investors, particularly in airports, transport, and smart mobility
  • SMEs in cultural production, retail, and lifestyle services

In short, the Kingdom is evolving into a destination market, not just for travelers, but for innovators and builders.

Final Thought

Saudi Arabia’s Q1 2025 ranking is more than a news headline—it is proof of execution. Under the leadership of H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, the Kingdom is demonstrating how vision, policy, and investment can converge to create one of the most dynamic tourism markets in the world.

The tourism sector is no longer just catching up.
It’s setting the pace.