Saudi Arabia has emerged as the world’s fastest-recovering tourism destination after recording a 67% increase in international visitor arrivals between 2019 and 2025, according to the OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2026 report. The Kingdom secured the top position globally for tourism recovery, reflecting the impact of Vision 2030 reforms, expanded visa access, stronger international air connectivity and large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure, heritage preservation and entertainment. The latest rankings place Saudi Arabia at the forefront of global tourism growth as the country continues attracting increasing numbers of international travellers.
Saudi Arabia tops global tourism recovery rankings
The OECD’s latest tourism assessment identifies Saudi Arabia as the strongest-performing destination in terms of international visitor recovery since 2019.
Between 2019 and 2025, international arrivals increased by 67%, outperforming every other destination included in the report. The growth reflects sustained expansion across leisure, cultural, religious and business tourism while strengthening Saudi Arabia’s role within the global travel industry.
The achievement also highlights how the Kingdom has expanded its tourism sector beyond its traditional visitor markets by welcoming travellers from a wider range of international destinations.
Vision 2030 continues transforming tourism
Tourism has become one of the central pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.
Over the past several years, the Kingdom has introduced reforms designed to expand tourism opportunities, improve visitor accessibility and diversify travel experiences across the country.
Investments have focused on developing cultural attractions, heritage sites, coastal tourism, entertainment districts, luxury resorts and major international events.
These developments continue supporting the country’s long-term objective of increasing tourism’s contribution to the national economy while creating new opportunities across the hospitality and travel sectors.
Easier visa access encourages international travel
Simplified visa policies have played an important role in supporting international tourism growth.
Saudi Arabia has expanded access through its electronic visa programme while introducing streamlined entry procedures for eligible international travellers.
Improved visa accessibility has made it easier for visitors to explore destinations across the Kingdom, encouraging both first-time and repeat travel.
Combined with growing airline connectivity, the expanded visa framework has contributed to higher international visitor arrivals throughout the recovery period.
Air connectivity opens more gateways
International aviation continues supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism expansion.
Airlines have increased capacity to major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, while new international routes continue strengthening connections with Europe, Asia, Africa and North America.
Improved accessibility allows travellers to combine multiple destinations within Saudi Arabia, supporting longer stays and broader regional exploration.
Ongoing airport expansion projects are also enhancing passenger capacity while improving the visitor experience.
Heritage and cultural destinations attract global attention
Saudi Arabia’s tourism growth has been supported by increasing international interest in its cultural and historical attractions.
Visitors continue exploring destinations such as AlUla, known for its archaeological heritage and desert landscapes, the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif District in Diriyah, the historic district of Jeddah, and cultural experiences throughout Riyadh.
Nature tourism has also expanded through destinations along the Red Sea coast, mountain regions in Asir and protected natural landscapes.
These diverse experiences are helping position Saudi Arabia as a destination that combines heritage, culture, nature and modern tourism infrastructure.
Entertainment and events broaden tourism appeal
Major entertainment, sporting and cultural events continue attracting international visitors throughout the year.
Large-scale festivals, exhibitions, concerts, international sporting competitions and business conferences are drawing travellers beyond traditional pilgrimage-related tourism.
The continued expansion of event tourism contributes to year-round visitor demand while supporting hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and local businesses across multiple regions.
Tourism investment continues reshaping destinations
Saudi Arabia continues investing in major tourism developments including the Red Sea Project, NEOM, Diriyah Gate and new hospitality infrastructure across the Kingdom.
These projects are expanding accommodation capacity while creating new leisure, wellness, luxury and sustainable tourism experiences.
Investment in transportation, visitor services and destination management also supports future tourism growth.
Together, these developments strengthen Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness within the global tourism market.
Looking ahead
The OECD report highlights Saudi Arabia’s sustained tourism momentum as international travel continues recovering worldwide.
Continued investment, expanding international connectivity, diversified tourism experiences and ongoing Vision 2030 initiatives position the Kingdom for further growth in international visitor arrivals over the coming years.
Tourism authorities continue focusing on enhancing visitor experiences while supporting balanced and sustainable destination development across the country.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia has established itself as the world’s fastest-recovering tourism destination, recording a 67% increase in international visitor arrivals between 2019 and 2025, according to the OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2026 report. Supported by Vision 2030 reforms, expanded visa access, stronger global air connectivity and continued investment in heritage, entertainment and tourism infrastructure, the Kingdom has strengthened its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations. As international demand continues rising, Saudi Arabia remains a key driver of tourism growth across the Middle East and the global travel industry.
