Saudi Arabia’s leisure tourism to grow 93% by 2030

Saudi Arabia’s international leisure tourism industry is expected to grow by 93% between 2025 and 2030, according to information presented at WTM Spotlight Riyadh, where developments in the tourism market were discussed.

For many years, Saudi Arabia was known internationally primarily for religious tourism. Each year, 2 million to 3 million Muslim pilgrims travel to Mecca to worship. However, tourism, entertainment and leisure have become key priorities under the country’s Vision 2030 plan.

Dave Goodger, managing director for EMEA at Tourism Economics, said Saudi Arabia was rapidly becoming one of the world’s most dynamic tourism economies. He said the country had accounted for about 15% of global travel growth since 2019 and three-quarters of growth in the Middle East.

International leisure spending’s share of total tourism expenditure rose from 9% in 2019 to 28% in 2025. The figure is projected to reach 31% by 2030. New opportunities are also emerging in international markets, including China.

The shift reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to diversify the economy and develop tourism, culture and entertainment alongside the country’s established religious tourism sector. The World Travel Market, or WTM, is an international tourism industry platform that brings together governments, destinations, travel companies and tourism professionals.