Saudi Arabia’s international leisure tourism is projected to expand by 93% between 2025 and 2030, according to data presented by Tourism Economics at the WTM Spotlight Riyadh event. The findings show the Kingdom expanding its visitor volume faster than regional and international averages.
Expansion Across Global and Regional Travel Markets
Between 2019 and 2025, international travel to Saudi Arabia increased by 67%. In comparison, travel across the Middle East grew by 20%, while the global average increased by 5% during the same timeframe. Consequently, the Kingdom accounted for approximately three-quarters of all international travel growth in the region.
The Kingdom generated roughly 15% of total global travel growth since 2019. Furthermore, international visitors now account for nearly half of all overnight stays recorded across the country in the tourism sector.
“Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic visitor economies, driving around 15% of global travel growth since 2019 and accounting for three-quarters of the Middle East’s expansion.”
Dave Goodger, Managing Director, EMEA, Tourism Economics
Shifts in International Leisure Tourism Spending
Spending patterns among incoming travelers have shifted toward vacations and recreation. Leisure travel accounted for 9% of international visitor expenditure in 2019, rising to 28% by 2025. Projections indicate this share will reach 31% by 2030 as inbound international leisure tourism expands.
This commercial expansion links directly with broader economic objectives in the national economy, creating higher-value demand across local supply chains.
Chinese Market Potential and Luxury Travel Demand
Research conducted by Dragon Trail International revealed substantial interest from Chinese travel trade operators. The study indicated that 52% of surveyed Chinese travel agents actively sell Saudi Arabian destinations, while 32% identified the Kingdom as holding significant future growth potential.
Specifically, 42% of agents pointed to high-net-worth and luxury travelers as the primary growth segment. In terms of activities, 54% of agents cited nature and scenery as major draws, followed by outdoor adventure at 45%, cultural landmarks at 41%, and luxury resorts at 37%.
Hospitality Sector Outlook in Riyadh and Jeddah
Data from hospitality analytics firm STR projects revenue per available room (RevPAR) in Riyadh to rise by 18.6% in 2027. Corporate and consultancy demand is anticipated to exceed new hotel supply in the capital city.
Meanwhile, Jeddah continues to record stable performance driven by summer travel alongside Hajj and Umrah transit traffic. In addition, Jeddah expects more than 2,300 new hotel rooms to enter the market in 2027 as both cities prepare for higher conference and exhibition traffic.
