Under the stewardship of the Ministry of Culture, Saudi Arabia’s cultural sector is experiencing rapid growth, driven by a strategic commitment to preserving and promoting the Kingdom’s rich history, national identity and heritage. Driving sustainable cultural transformation is a key focus of this growth strategy, with the sector projected to contribute 3% to GDP by 2030 – generating…
Interview: Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism Which strategies are being implemented to develop tourism following the Covid-19 pandemic? AHMED AL KHATEEB: In the wake of the pandemic, Saudi Arabia is continuing its journey to transform its tourism sector, guided by Vision 2030. This initiative is not just about boosting tourism numbers but reshaping the Kingdom into a premier tourism destination. Central…
Interview: Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, Diriyah Company To what extent are the Kingdom’s efforts to develop its tourism and entertainment sectors creating new practices that could be applied in other regions? JERRY INZERILLO: In the tourism and entertainment sectors, the Kingdom is breaking new ground and benefitting from a single-minded, comprehensive strategy. Unlike many countries where destinations…
Within just a few years, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has undergone a transformation of significant proportions. The country remained largely closed to foreign visitors until the Kingdom began to issue tourist visas in 2019, primarily serving as a destination for religious pilgrimages and business-related travel. However, the country has not merely opened its doors – it is committing massive…
With Saudi Arabia making significant strides towards realising its Vision 2030 roadmap for economic diversification, the tourism industry has emerged as a key alternative engine of growth. While many of the attractions underpinning the expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector are technologically advanced offerings, a key pillar of the government’s approach to developing tourism is maintaining…
The global tourism sector is gradually recovering from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the UN Tourism’s World Tourism Barometer published in January 2024, international tourism ended 2023 at 88% of pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 1.3bn international arrivals. This revival has been underpinned by the release of pent-up demand, increased air connectivity and a resurgence, especially…
As emerging markets develop new attractions and tap into new visitor source markets, they are leveraging technology and sustainable development in line with emissions targets. This strategic refocus comes as tourism numbers surpass pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel demand is set to make 2024 a record-breaking year, with the sector projected…
Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has transformed rapidly since the Kingdom began issuing tourist visas in 2019. As part of its Vision 2030 plan, the government is investing heavily to make the country a global tourist destination, aiming to boost tourism revenue to $85bn in 2024. The sector is expanding with new hotels, entertainment venues and attractions, and is targeting 150m visitors annually…
Saudi Arabia, the region’s largest economy, is progressing towards diversification under Vision 2030. The digital economy is a standout performer, contributing 14% of GDP, while government-led giga-projects open long-term opportunities across various sectors. Despite a dip in oil activities that reduced the current account surplus to 3.2% in 2023, tourism income surged by 38%, boosting the servi
