Saudi Arabia Reports 61.2 Million Tourists as 37 Global Travel Partnerships Take Centre Stage at WTM London 2026

Saudi Arabia boosted regional tourism by welcoming 61.2 million domestic and international visitors during the first half of 2026, an increase of 1%. Total tourism spending reached SAR151.9 billion (US$40.5 billion). At World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026, Saudi Arabia brought together a record total of 37 tourism partners to boost global business partnerships, develop new destinations and deepen relationships with airlines, tour operators and travel distributors. The Kingdom also used its Saudi Land pavilion to showcase a range of high-end resorts, cultural experiences and new hospitality developments as it looks to welcome 150 million tourists per year by 2030.

Saudi Arabia Maintains Tourism Growth Despite Regional Challenges

Saudi Arabia’s tourism performance reflects the country’s ability to maintain visitor activity during a challenging period for regional travel. Although the 1% increase represents modest growth, the total of 61.2 million tourists demonstrates the scale of the Kingdom’s domestic and international visitor economy. Continued investment in accommodation, entertainment and cultural attractions is supporting its efforts to develop a more diverse tourism sector. The country is also working towards its long-term ambition of welcoming 150 million tourists annually by 2030, making sustained demand and destination development important priorities.

Domestic Tourism Emerges as a Powerful Driver of Visitor Demand

Domestic travel continues to play a significant role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism economy. During the first quarter of 2026, approximately 28.9 million domestic tourists travelled across the Kingdom, marking a 16% increase compared with the corresponding period in 2025. Domestic tourism expenditure reached SAR34.7 billion, representing growth of nearly 8%. Combined domestic and inbound tourist numbers reached approximately 37.2 million during the quarter, generating SAR82.7 billion in expenditure. These figures demonstrate how local travel is helping sustain demand for hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and attractions during uncertain international market conditions.

AMAALA Luxury Resort Openings Transform Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coast

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is emerging as an important destination for luxury holidays and wellness tourism. AMAALA has expanded its hospitality offering with seven resorts welcoming guests since June 2026, including properties associated with Four Seasons, Six Senses, Rosewood, Equinox and Nammos. The destination combines premium accommodation with wellness experiences, marine recreation and coastal scenery. These developments are creating additional opportunities for international travel companies to promote Saudi Arabia to visitors seeking exclusive resort holidays. The expansion also reflects the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its tourism offering beyond traditional urban and heritage destinations.

Saudi Arabia Expands Hotel Capacity With Thousands of New Licensed Rooms

Saudi Arabia is strengthening its accommodation infrastructure as it prepares to support future tourism demand. During the first half of 2026, the Kingdom recorded approximately 623,000 licensed room keys across hotels, apartments and other accommodation facilities. More than 44,000 room keys were located in newly licensed establishments, highlighting continued development across the hospitality sector. The additional capacity can support leisure tourists, business travellers and visitors exploring emerging destinations. It also offers tour operators a broader selection of accommodation when designing travel packages. However, maintaining occupancy, service quality and sustainable demand will remain important as hotel supply increases.

Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla Showcase Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Tourism Experiences

Saudi Arabia is promoting a diverse collection of destinations to attract travellers with different interests. Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea and AMAALA featured prominently during WTM London 2026. Riyadh offers entertainment experiences through Riyadh Season, while AlUla combines historical attractions, desert landscapes and cultural programmes such as Winter at Tantora. Jeddah contributes coastal tourism and heritage experiences, while Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia add to the country’s expanding leisure offering. Together, these attractions provide international visitors with opportunities to discover Saudi Arabia through cultural journeys, city holidays, entertainment and luxury coastal escapes.

Saudi Arabia Strengthens Global Travel Partnerships to Achieve Its 2030 Tourism Ambitions

Saudi Arabia used WTM London 2026 to expand cooperation with the international travel industry, bringing together 37 tourism partners at its Saudi Land pavilion. The exhibition created opportunities for airlines, tour operators and travel distributors to explore new destinations and develop commercial relationships. Traditional performances, Arabic calligraphy and interactive cultural activities also introduced visitors to the Kingdom’s heritage. These promotional efforts support Saudi Arabia’s ambition of attracting 150 million tourists annually by 2030. With growing domestic demand, expanding accommodation infrastructure and new luxury destinations, the Kingdom is positioning itself for continued tourism development while seeking to build a more resilient and competitive visitor economy.

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