Saudi Arabia’s international leisure tourism market is forecast to grow 93% between 2025 and 2030, significantly outpacing projected growth in the Middle East and globally, according to a Tourism Economics report presented at WTM Spotlight Riyadh.
Measured by overnight arrivals, international leisure travel to the Kingdom is expected to rise more than three times faster than the global forecast of 30% and ahead of the Middle East’s projected 64% growth.
Saudi Arabia recorded 67% growth in international travel between 2019 and 2025, compared with 20% across the Middle East and 5% globally. The Kingdom accounted for around three-quarters of the region’s international travel growth during that period.
Its share of international leisure visitor spending increased from 9% in 2019 to 28% in 2025 and is expected to reach 31% by 2030.
China is emerging as a potential growth market. Research by Dragon Trail International found that 52% of surveyed Chinese travel agents currently sell Saudi Arabia, while 32% see strong future potential. Nature and scenery were the most attractive Saudi experiences, followed by adventure and outdoor activities.
Saudi Arabia’s hotel sector is also expected to benefit. STR forecasts Riyadh’s revenue per available room to rise 18.6% in 2027, while demand in both Riyadh and Jeddah is expected to strengthen through meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
