
Saudi Arabia Tops 100 Million Domestic And Inbound Tourist Mark For The Second Year In A Row In 2024
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, stated that the strong performance reflected in the 2024 report was achieved with the guidance and support of the Kingdom's leadership. His Excellency added that tourism has become a key enabler of Saudi Vision 2030, with the report showcasing the sector's accelerated growth driven by the efforts of the Ministry and all stakeholders of Saudi Arabia's tourism ecosystem.
According to the report, the Kingdom welcomed around 116 million domestic and inbound tourists in 2024, a 6% increase compared with 2023. Total tourism spending—for domestic and inbound tourism—reached approximately SAR 284 billion, reflecting 11% growth year-on-year.
The Ministry noted that Saudi Arabia achieved its highest-ever number of inbound tourists, receiving about 30 million inbound tourists in 2024, marking an 8% rise versus 2023. Inbound tourism spending in 2024 totaled SAR 168.5 billion, up 19% from 2023.
Domestic tourism also experienced solid growth with 86.2 million domestic tourists in 2024, marking a 5% increase compared with 2023. Moreover, domestic tourism spending reached SAR 115.3 billion in 2024.
The Ministry invited investors and stakeholders to view the full 2024 Annual Statistical Report available on the Ministry's website: Tourist Intelligence Center | Ministry of Tourism | KSA (mt.gov.sa).
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Hospitality Net
2 days ago
- Hospitality Net
In Focus: Indonesia
Indonesia Indonesia, officially known as the Republic of Indonesia, is the world's largest archipelagic nation, spanning over 1.9 million square kilometres across more than 17,000 islands. Strategically located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, it stretches over 5,000 kilometres and shares land borders with Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Malaysia. With a 2024 estimated population of 284.4 million, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country globally. Its economy is supported by major industries such as petroleum and natural gas, manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and increasingly, tourism. Tourism is a vital pillar of Indonesia's economy, contributing approximately 5.6% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2019 and 5.1% in 2024, nearing a full recovery in GDP contribution. The country is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, tropical beaches, biodiversity, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Borobudur Temple, Komodo National Park, and the cultural landscape of Bali. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in 2025, Indonesia's tourism sector is projected to reach IDR 1,269.8 trillion (21% higher compared to 2019), or 5.5% of GDP, driven by a record high international visitor spending of IDR 344 trillion, up 12% from the 2019 record of IDR 302 trillion. WTTC states that this success reflects strong public-private collaboration and leadership focused on sustainability, resilience, and community inclusion. Looking ahead, tourism is expected to contribute IDR 1,897 trillion by 2035 and supporting nearly 17 million jobs, generating 3 million new jobs compared to 2025, marking a transformative decade for the country's travel and tourism landscape. With popular destinations like Bali, Yogyakarta, Labuan Bajo, and Lake Toba, Indonesia appeals to a broad spectrum of tourists, from luxury and eco-tourism to adventure and spiritual travel. In recent years, there has been rebound in international arrivals, supported by strategic infrastructure investment and government initiatives such as the '10 New Balis' program to diversify tourism beyond Bali. As of 2024, the sector continues to show promising signs of recovery and growth, positioning Indonesia as a key tourism player in Southeast Asia. Economic Outlook Figure 1: Economic Outlook — Source: Source: Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), April 2025 Economic Performance & Outlook Indonesia has demonstrated consistent macroeconomic resilience, underpinned by a four-year pre-pandemic average GDP growth of 5.0% and a 2.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in GDP per capita (PPP). Following a contraction in 2020, economic activity rebounded strongly, with growth stabilising at 5.0% in 2023–2024. Medium-term forecasts remain favourable, driven by structural reforms, and infrastructure investments. With GDP per capita projected to reach USD22,418 by 2029, Indonesia remains well-positioned as a key emerging economy in Southeast Asia. Currency Exchange Outlook The Indonesian rupiah is forecast to depreciate modestly, averaging Rp16,434:US$1 in 2025. This trend reflects persistent global uncertainties, including US monetary policy ambiguity and geopolitical tensions, which weigh on emerging market currencies. The rupiah's weakness is expected to extend through mid-2026. While structural fundamentals remain intact, any substantial appreciation is unlikely in the short term. Foreign Direct Investment Indonesia's foreign direct investment inflows are projected to reach USD23 billion in 2024, marking a moderate increase from 2023. Annual inflows are expected to stabilise between USD23-24 billion in the short-term, still below the USD25 billion recorded in 2019. Despite global uncertainties, Indonesia's improving macro fundamentals and tourism-driven infrastructure developments will continue to attract investment. Interest Rates Bank Indonesia (BI) reduced its policy rate to 5.75% in January 2025. BI maintained this level in February, balancing the need to support growth to preserve rupiah stability amid recent currency depreciation. With inflation within the 1.5–3.5% target range, BI is expected to implement one more 25-basis-point cut in 2025. Gradual easing is projected through 2029, with the policy rate stabilising in the 3.5–4.5% range. Inflation EIU forecasts Indonesia's inflation to average 2.3% in 2025, driven by continued rupiah depreciation and rising costs of imported goods such as rice and fuel. The government's decision to delay a value-added tax (VAT) hike on non-luxury items is expected to help mitigate some inflationary pressure. Over the medium term, headline inflation is projected to average around 3% from 2025 to 2029, remaining within Bank Indonesia's target range. Political Landscape 2025 marks President Prabowo Subianto's first year in office. His unusually large administration indicates expanded budgets and bureaucracy. Key policy priorities include infrastructure development, EV battery, and free school meals programmes. However, planned budget cuts, particularly to projects like the new capital, Nusantara, have sparked protests, posing a short-term stability risk. Nonetheless, with support from major Islamic parties and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Prabowo is expected to complete his term through 2029. Continue reading View source

Hospitality Net
21-07-2025
- Hospitality Net
Cristian Nannucci has been appointed General Manager at Tivoli La Vie Muscat Hotel
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group that owns and operates over 560 properties in 58 countries, is pleased to announce the appointment of Cristian Nannucci as General Manager of the upcoming Tivoli La Vie Muscat Hotel, set to open in Q1 2026. A seasoned hospitality executive with over 30 years of global experience, Nannucci will lead the pre-opening and operational launch of the first Tivoli property in Oman. Nannucci brings a proven track record of leadership across the Asia, Europe and the Middle East, having held senior positions with global hotel brands including Shangri-La and the opening of the five-star dual complex PARKROYAL COLLECTION and Pan Pacific Serviced Suites in Kuala Lumpur. His expertise spans luxury resort management, multi-property operations, brand development, and new hotel openings—skills that will be instrumental in establishing Tivoli's debut in Oman. Most recently, he has taken on senior assignments in Malaysia and the Philippines, combining operational excellence with a strong focus on guest experience and commercial performance. Situated in the modern mixed-use destination, LA VIE, just 15 minutes from Muscat International Airport, Tivoli La Vie Muscat Hotel is a landmark new-build development comprising a 79-key hotel and 100 branded residences. The property will overlook the newly landscaped 18-hole golf course managed by Troon Golf and will be ideally located near the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, Oman Automobile Association, and several government ministries. Guests can look forward to a full suite of luxury amenities including an Anantara Spa, SEEN Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, all-day dining venue, sports bar, ballroom, meeting rooms, and a state-of-the-art gym and infinity swimming pool. With this opening, Tivoli Hotels & Resorts strengthens its presence in the Middle East, complementing its existing portfolio in Qatar and upcoming expansion into Bahrain. An Italian national, Cristian Nannucci is a graduate of the Aurelio Saffi Hotel School in Florence and has completed executive leadership programmes by Cornell University. His diverse cultural background and international training have shaped a management style rooted in precision, innovation, and warm hospitality.

Hospitality Net
14-07-2025
- Hospitality Net
Rixos Makes Its Grand Entrance into Saudi Arabia
Located along the pristine shores of Obhur Bay, Rixos Obhur Jeddah ushers in a bold new chapter of experiential travel, enhancing Jeddah's position as a global leisure and tourism hub. As the first Rixos property in the Kingdom, the resort introduces the brand's renowned "all-inclusive, all-exclusive" concept to Saudi Arabia, setting a new benchmark for immersive, inclusive, and family-centric stays. Combining contemporary refinement with the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality, Rixos Obhur Jeddah presents a vibrant offering where every element, from dining and wellness to entertainment and children's activities, is carefully curated and seamlessly included. The resort features 250 thoughtfully designed accommodations, including 176 rooms and suites, and 74 private villas, crafted for families and discerning travellers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and connection. Set along the Red Sea, guests enjoy direct access to a private beach, exciting water sports, dedicated yacht marina facilities, and two main pools-one for adults and one for children. Rixos Obhur Jeddah invites guests on an exciting culinary journey across its range of dining venues, featuring three restaurants, two lounges, and three bars. Signature outlets include Turquoise, the resort's international all-day dining destination offering global flavours; Orient, serving authentic Turkish cuisine; and Kapnos, a vibrant Greek-Mediterranean restaurant inspired by coastal flavours. Guests can also enjoy relaxed beachfront dining at me Beach Club, or catch live match screenings in The Hub, Jeddah's first exclusive sports bar, combining social energy with live match screenings. The resort is also home to Jeddah's only Rixy Kids Club, a dedicated family haven featuring six engaging activity rooms, an outdoor yard, and a private kids' pool. Specially tailored programmes ensure children of all ages can play, learn, and create unforgettable memories in a safe and enriching environment. Complementing the family focus is a suite of comprehensive wellness offerings. The resort features a state-of-the-art exclusive Sports Club, which includes a fully equipped gym, an outdoor open-air studio, a multipurpose court (for basketball, volleyball, and football), a padel court, and a daily schedule of fitness programmes designed to rejuvenate body and mind, making Rixos Obhur Jeddah the city's first resort to offer holistic wellbeing at its core. Entertainment is also at the heart of the Rixos experience. A dedicated stage hosts live performances, concerts, and shows, enriching the resort's dynamic energy and turning every stay into a celebration. With day-use options and signature dinner-and-show evenings available to outside guests, Rixos Obhur Jeddah becomes a destination not only for in-house residents but also for locals and visitors. Hotel website