Egypt Joins Kuwait, India, Indonesia and More in Making Saudi Arabia a Leading Global Tourism Destination, With Over Sixty Million Visitors and Significant Growth in 2025

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has emerged as a global powerhouse in 2025, with over sixty million visitors flocking to the Kingdom. This surge in tourist arrivals has been driven by key markets such as Egypt, Kuwait, India, and Indonesia, all of which have played a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s growth as a top international tourism destination. The Kingdom’s impressive growth, which reflects a substantial increase in both domestic and international travel, underscores the success of its strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, cultural offerings, and world-class events. With a 4% increase in tourism spending and a diverse range of attractions, Saudi Arabia is firmly establishing itself as a must-visit destination on the global tourism map.

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has experienced remarkable growth in the first half of 2025, with a record-breaking 60.9 million visitors from both within the Kingdom and around the globe. This surge in tourism reflects the country’s efforts to diversify its economy and become a key player in the global tourism industry. According to recent figures from the Ministry of Tourism, total tourism expenditure reached SAR161.4 billion ($43 billion), marking a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

This upward trend is a clear indicator of Saudi Arabia’s success in attracting both international and domestic tourists, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, world-class infrastructure, and growing appeal as a leisure destination. The increase in spending highlights the Kingdom’s appeal as a desirable travel destination and suggests that the sector is not only growing but also becoming more sustainable and diversified.

Key Tourism Drivers and Trends

The Kingdom’s tourism sector continues to be driven by a variety of factors, with leisure travel remaining the largest segment. The average stay for international visitors was recorded at 6.7 nights, while domestic tourists stayed for an average of 18.6 nights, reflecting a growing interest in long-term stays and repeat visits.

Leisure activities, shopping, and sports tourism were the primary reasons for both international and domestic travel. Saudi Arabia’s modern infrastructure, luxury shopping malls, and vibrant cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah are drawing increasing numbers of tourists looking for unique experiences and world-class amenities. The rise of sports tourism, with events like Formula E and international football tournaments, has also contributed to the sector’s growth, attracting large numbers of international visitors.

Religious tourism remains one of the most significant contributors, particularly with the influx of Muslim pilgrims visiting Makkah and Madinah for Hajj and Umrah. The spiritual significance of these cities, coupled with the Kingdom’s ongoing investment in infrastructure to support religious tourism, continues to drive millions of visitors from around the world.

Family tourism has also seen a notable increase, with families flocking to Saudi Arabia for its wide range of entertainment options, including amusement parks, cultural festivals, and family-friendly resorts. This growing segment shows that Saudi Arabia is becoming an attractive destination for tourists of all ages.

Leading Destinations Within Saudi Arabia

Makkah and Madinah remain the top destinations for international visitors, with their significance as the holiest cities in Islam drawing millions of pilgrims every year. These cities continue to benefit from significant investments in infrastructure, ensuring that they remain central to Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy.

For domestic tourists, Riyadh and the Eastern Province are the most visited regions. Riyadh, as the capital city, offers a blend of traditional culture and modern attractions, while the Eastern Province is famous for its coastal beauty and rich history. Together, these regions provide a wide range of experiences, from cultural immersion to leisure and relaxation.

Strong International Source Markets

Saudi Arabia has become a prominent destination for tourists from across the globe. The top source markets for inbound tourism in the first half of 2025 were Egypt, Pakistan, and Kuwait, with visitors from these countries making up a significant portion of total arrivals. The Kingdom’s appeal to these markets is bolstered by shared cultural and religious ties, as well as its proximity.

India and Indonesia also ranked highly among Saudi Arabia’s international visitors, reflecting the large diaspora communities in the Kingdom and the increasing religious and cultural connections. This broad geographic reach is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a global tourism destination.

Accommodation Trends and Preferences

In terms of accommodation, hotels remain the most popular choice, accounting for 43% of all bookings. Saudi Arabia’s hotel industry has seen impressive growth, with many international hotel chains opening properties in key cities, offering visitors world-class facilities and services.

Private residences and furnished apartments have also become a popular option for tourists, especially those seeking longer stays or a more homely atmosphere. This trend is indicative of Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism landscape, as visitors increasingly choose to immerse themselves in local life and enjoy more flexibility during their stay.

Future Outlook for Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Sector

The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is poised for further growth as the Kingdom continues to invest in its infrastructure and tourism offerings. With plans to attract even more international tourists, particularly from Asia and Europe, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for tourism, catering to a wide array of interests, from cultural and religious tourism to sports, leisure, and family vacations.

As the Kingdom continues to develop its tourism sector, it is set to create more jobs, stimulate local economies, and strengthen its global presence. The country’s vision for the future remains focused on sustainability, innovation, and diversifying its economy, ensuring that tourism remains a key pillar of its economic growth.

Egypt, Kuwait, India, Indonesia, and other key markets have helped Saudi Arabia attract over 60 million visitors in 2025, driving significant growth and cementing its position as a leading global tourism destination.

Saudi Arabia’s ability to attract millions of visitors, combined with its increasing appeal as both a destination and a business hub, signals a bright future for the Kingdom’s tourism industry, setting the stage for continued success in the coming years.

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Kuwait Strengthens Tourism Strategy with New Visit Kuwait Digital Visa Platform, Get the Details Here

Kuwait has officially launched its new digital and comprehensive “Visit Kuwait” online platform, designed to simplify the process of applying for a visa for international travelers and streamlining everything as neatly as possible. As announced by KUNA News Agency, the platform aims to give the opportunity for individuals to visit the country of Kuwait, as it has the potential to be a tourist destination, and allows for the easing and modernizing of travels based on the government`s futuristic objectives of economic diversification and modernization.-

This also coincides with the Kuwait Vision 2035 and the national blueprint for development, focusing on the transformation of the country to be a central regional location for culture, commerce, and recreation. Fully operational with integrated e-visa technology, the online portal as of now is the Kuwait tourism offering digital services.

Four Visa Categories to Simplify Entry
The “Visit Kuwait” platform offers four types of electronic visas: tourist, family, business, and official, each catering to different visitor needs.

• Tourist Visa: Valid for up to three months, this visa allows travelers to explore Kuwait’s historical landmarks, museums, and entertainment attractions.
• Family Visa: Enables residents to invite relatives for short stays of up to 30 days, simplifying family reunification.
• Business Visa: Designed for international entrepreneurs and professionals visiting Kuwait for meetings, negotiations, and corporate events, valid for 30 days.
• Official Visa: Reserved for government delegations, diplomats, and official representatives of international organizations.

By centralizing all visa applications on a single digital platform, Kuwait aims to enhance efficiency, reduce paperwork, and shorten processing times for travelers worldwide.

Supporting Kuwait Vision 2035 Through Technology
Initially unveiled in August, the platform’s activation marks a key step in realizing the goals of Kuwait Vision 2035 – “New Kuwait.” The initiative focuses on promoting digital innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification by developing a vibrant tourism sector.

Abdulrahman Al Mutairi, Kuwait’s Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, highlighted that the platform’s launch underscores Kuwait’s dedication to expanding its cultural and tourism footprint. “The activation of the Visit Kuwait portal reflects our commitment to strengthening tourism, diversifying the national economy, and enhancing Kuwait’s global visibility,” Al Mutairi said.

Enhancing Visitor Experience Through Innovation
Beyond its visa processing functions, “Visit Kuwait” serves as an all-in-one digital tourism hub. The site includes a wide range of traveler resources — from cultural event listings and entertainment schedules to destination recommendations and accommodation options.

Visitors can access interactive smart maps, itinerary planning tools, and real-time notifications in both Arabic and English. The platform also provides exclusive travel offers, digital travel guides, and a user-friendly interface optimized for both mobile and desktop use.

The system’s advanced automation ensures seamless coordination between government departments and private sector partners, offering travelers a more reliable and transparent experience.

A Boost for Tourism and Economic Diversification
The “Visit Kuwait” platform represents more than a technological upgrade — it’s a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to diversify beyond oil revenues. With the tourism sector identified as a key pillar of Kuwait Vision 2035, officials aim to attract millions of regional and international visitors annually.

By easing access through digital systems, Kuwait positions itself as a competitive player among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, complementing tourism initiatives in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

Industry analysts believe the move could significantly increase visitor arrivals, particularly from Europe and Asia, where travelers seek new destinations that combine culture, heritage, and modernity. The platform also supports public-private collaboration, allowing international companies to apply for event and residency permits digitally.

Cultural and Heritage Tourism at the Forefront
Kuwait’s efforts go beyond convenience — they emphasize showcasing the country’s cultural identity. Through the platform, visitors can explore curated experiences that highlight Kuwaiti heritage, from traditional souqs and museums to modern art galleries and culinary festivals.

Special sections feature details on national events, such as the Hala February Festival, cultural exhibitions, and sporting events, creating year-round tourism opportunities. The goal, officials say, is to portray Kuwait not just as a business hub, but as a destination rich in history and authenticity.

Strengthening International Appeal
Kuwait’s entry into digital tourism marks a significant step in reshaping its international image. By offering a seamless online experience, the country is bridging the gap between traditional administrative systems and modern global expectations.

The unified portal ensures that all tourism-related entities — from airlines and hotels to tour operators — operate under a single national brand, enhancing coordination and promoting Kuwait as a modern, connected destination.

Digital marketing campaigns have already been launched across social media and travel networks to promote the platform’s features and highlight Kuwait’s key attractions, including the Kuwait Towers, Failaka Island, and Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre.

The Future of Travel in Kuwait

The “Visit Kuwait” platform offers a variety of advantages to travelers that go beyond mere convenience. Over a streamlined e-visa system, enhanced cultural- and travel-related informational access allows potential travelers to organize their trips more confidently and effectively.

The system’s use of intelligent technology is a first for Kuwait in the provision of “world class” visionary use of smart technology to offer impulse sustainable and innovative tourism-encouraging visitor experiences.

“Visit Kuwait” has been created in line with Kuwait’s Vision 2035 goals and symbolizes Kuwait’s ambition in hospitality, modernity, and cultural pride. “Visit Kuwait” is a digital gateway that, as a result, modernizes Kuwait and demonstrates Kuwait’s ambition to provide the world with access to the digital offer of its rich cultural legacy.

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UAE Joins Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, and More to Face Significant Drop in Tourism in Middle East for Nine Successive Months in 2025: Everything You Need to Know

In 2025, UAE, along with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, and other countries, faces a significant drop in tourism in middle east due to global economic factors, shifting travel trends, and regional challenges. The tourism sector in these nations has been impacted by a variety of forces, including geopolitical tensions, economic slowdowns, and changing travel patterns. These countries, which have long relied on high-value tourists and business travel, are seeing a decline in both arrivals and tourism receipts. Despite these challenges, efforts to diversify tourism offerings, enhance infrastructure, and host international events are underway to boost recovery and attract visitors in the years ahead.

UAE: A Minor Dip in Arrivals, Major Drop in Tourism Spending

The UAE recorded a 0.1% decline in tourist arrivals YTD compared to the previous year, alongside a significant 9.7% decline in tourism receipts. While the decrease in arrivals is marginal, the sharp drop in tourism revenue points to a reduction in high-value tourists and longer stays. The UAE’s hospitality and tourism sector, which heavily depends on luxury tourism and business-related travel, has seen some setbacks due to the global economic climate, shifting travel preferences, and competition from emerging destinations. Despite this, the UAE continues to invest in large-scale projects like Expo 2020 Dubai and is working to rebound by offering innovative tourist experiences and increasing international marketing efforts.

Qatar: Growth in Visitors, but Tourism Receipts Take a Dive

Qatar experienced a 3.4% growth in tourist arrivals YTD; however, this was overshadowed by a 47.2% decline in tourism receipts over the previous year. Despite the increase in the number of visitors, the significant drop in revenue indicates a shift in visitor profiles, with fewer high-spending tourists or shorter stays. Qatar has been making efforts to diversify its tourism offering, particularly by investing in major events like the FIFA World Cup 2022 and promoting its cultural attractions. Nevertheless, the country faces challenges in sustaining high-value tourism, and the economic factors affecting global tourism are evident in the data.

Saudi Arabia: A Bumpy Road for Tourism with a 4.5% Decline

Saudi Arabia experienced a 4.5% decline in tourist arrivals YTD compared to the previous year. In addition, the country saw a 6.5% decline in tourism receipts YTD over the prior year. This decline is indicative of the challenges faced by the kingdom’s tourism sector in 2025. Despite the kingdom’s efforts to diversify its economy and attract more international visitors, factors such as geopolitical tensions, global economic slowdowns, and changes in travel patterns have impacted Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. The country is working on enhancing its tourism infrastructure, focusing on projects like the Red Sea Project and hosting international events to recover and boost visitor numbers in the coming years.

Jordan: Struggling to Keep Pace with Tourism Declines

Jordan saw a 2.4% decline in tourist arrivals YTD and a 2.3% decline in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. This reduction can be attributed to factors such as regional instability, economic pressures, and changing global travel habits. Jordan’s tourism industry, which heavily depends on visitors to Petra, the Dead Sea, and other cultural heritage sites, faced challenges from fluctuating global demand. However, the Jordanian government has been focusing on diversifying its tourism offerings and improving infrastructure to attract more international visitors. The country is also looking at sustainable tourism practices to ensure a long-term recovery.

Oman: A Mixed Bag for Tourism with a Steady Revenue Impact

Oman saw a 6.7% decline in tourist arrivals YTD, though it managed to maintain a 0% change in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. While the country has not seen a further reduction in revenue, the drop in tourist numbers reflects broader regional trends, including the impacts of the global pandemic, fluctuating oil prices, and the economic recovery from past disruptions. Oman’s tourism sector continues to face challenges in attracting large international markets. However, the government remains focused on sustainable tourism initiatives and enhancing the country’s natural and cultural offerings, like the Al Hoota Cave and the coastal regions, to improve future performance.

Kuwait: A Steady Decline in Arrivals, But Receipts Hold Steady

Kuwait saw a 0.3% decline in tourist arrivals YTD, and no change in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. The country’s tourism sector faces slow growth, with the minor decline in arrivals reflecting broader regional and global economic conditions. The tourism sector in Kuwait remains reliant on regional tourism, with international visitors still accounting for a smaller share of overall arrivals. Efforts to diversify its economy and boost its tourism offerings through infrastructure development, such as the Kuwait National Museum and more extensive leisure offerings, are in the works. However, the impact of the pandemic and subsequent global recovery continues to affect its progress.

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UAE sees a 0.1% dip in arrivals, 9.7% drop in receipts. This decline is part of a broader trend, as the UAE, along with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait, faces a significant drop in tourism in middle east for nine successive months in 2025 due to global economic factors and shifting travel trends.

Conclusion

UAE sees a 0.1% dip in arrivals, 9.7% drop in receipts, marking a significant decline in tourism in middle east. This trend, shared by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, and more, highlights the challenges faced by these nations in 2025, driven by global economic factors and shifting travel patterns. Despite these setbacks, these countries are working to rebound by diversifying their tourism offerings, improving infrastructure, and hosting major international events to attract future visitors.

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