Saudi Arabia Breaks Tourism Records with Over 100 Million Visitors in 2023

Saudi Arabia Breaks Tourism Records with Over 100 Million Visitors in 2023

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 12, 2024

Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable milestone in its tourism sector, welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023. This significant achievement marks a 56% increase compared to 2019 and was reached seven years ahead of the ambitious timeline set by the Kingdom's Vision 2030 plan. This accomplishment underscores Saudi Arabia's rapid emergence as a global tourism powerhouse.

According to the Saudi Tourism Authority, the influx of tourists has brought substantial economic benefits. Around 77 million domestic travelers and approximately 27 million international tourists visited the Kingdom, collectively spending over USD 67 billion. This surge in tourism has significantly contributed to Saudi Arabia's economy, reflecting the nation's rapid growth as the world's fastest-growing tourism destination.

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The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) praised Saudi Arabia's leadership and dedication, highlighting the nation's successful efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure and connectivity. These improvements have made the Kingdom more accessible to international visitors, opening new routes and markets for the travel industry. UNWTO commended the collaborative and innovative approach of Saudi Arabia in achieving this milestone and expressed optimism for the Kingdom's goal of attracting 150 million tourists by 2030.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) also highlighted Saudi Arabia's record-breaking year in its 2024 Economic Impact Research. The Travel & Tourism sector grew by more than 32%, contributing a record SAR 444.3 billion to the nation's GDP, which now accounts for 11.5% of the entire economy. This growth underscores the pivotal role of tourism in Saudi Arabia's economic framework. The sector supported over 2.5 million jobs, nearly one in five jobs in the country, marking an increase of 436,000 jobs compared to the previous year.

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International visitor spending saw a remarkable increase of nearly 57%, reaching SAR 227.4 billion, while domestic visitor spending grew by 21.5%, totaling SAR 142.5 billion. These figures highlight the robust recovery and growth of Saudi Arabia's tourism industry post-pandemic.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, lauded the Kingdom's extraordinary achievements, attributing the success to Saudi Arabia's visionary commitment to tourism. She emphasized the fusion of cultural heritage and innovative tourism initiatives as key drivers of this growth, positioning the sector as a crucial element in the nation's diversified economic future.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia's tourism sector is expected to continue its rapid growth. In 2024, the GDP contribution from tourism is projected to reach SAR 498 billion, with employment in the sector increasing by more than 158,000 jobs to nearly 2.7 million. International visitor spending is forecast to reach SAR 256 billion, while domestic visitor spending is expected to rise to SAR 155.2 billion.

Over the next decade, the global tourism body anticipates the sector will grow its annual GDP contribution to SAR 836.1 billion by 2034, representing almost 16% of the Saudi economy. Employment in the sector is projected to exceed 3.6 million, with one in five people working in tourism-related jobs.

Regionally, the Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector also experienced significant growth in 2023, with GDP contributions reaching almost $460 billion. The sector supported nearly 7.75 million jobs, and international visitor spending grew by 50%, reaching $179.8 billion. The Middle Eastern tourism sector is expected to continue its upward trajectory in 2024, with GDP contributions projected to reach $507 billion and job numbers rising to 8.3 million.

Saudi Arabia's tourism success story is a testament to its strategic vision and commitment to becoming a global tourism leader. The Kingdom's continued investments in infrastructure and innovative initiatives promise to drive further growth and solidify its position as a top global destination.


YoloBus Sees Rising Family and Senior Travel to Southern Pilgrim Spots This Monsoon

YoloBus Sees Rising Family and Senior Travel to Southern Pilgrim Spots This Monsoon

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 4, 2025

YoloBus, one of India’s top intercity mobility platforms, is witnessing a noticeable change in traveler preferences this monsoon season, with a strong surge in demand for southern religious destinations such as Tirupati, Madurai, and Rameswaram.

Responding to this uptick, YoloBus is now operating 25 dedicated services on these routes and has announced plans to introduce 10 additional services in the coming months to cater to growing passenger interest.

A particularly sharp trend is unfolding on the high-traffic Bangalore–Tirupati corridor, which has recorded an 8% week-on-week rise in passenger numbers. In response, YoloBus recently deployed three new premium buses on this popular route, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring comfort, safety, and reliability for its passengers.

“Southern India continues to draw travelers for its spiritual and cultural depth. The growth we’re seeing is aligned with long-term preferences, not just short-term reactions,” said Sanjay Jadoun, CEO of YoloBus. “We’re committed to expanding our network and enhancing the travel experience for our passengers across the region.”

More Families and Senior Citizens on Board

YoloBus is also observing a change in traveler demographics. There’s been a noticeable rise in bookings from families and senior citizens, particularly from urban hubs like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Today, around 12% of YoloBus’s passengers are above the age of 45, indicating stronger trust in the brand’s high safety and comfort standards among older travelers.

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Even as some parts of Northern India deal with safety concerns, travel trends to the South have remained steady and unaffected. The region’s peaceful, culturally rich pilgrim spots continue to attract visitors, irrespective of external events.

Future Plans for Expansion

While YoloBus currently does not operate services to Kerala destinations like Kochi, Munnar, or Alappuzha, nor to prominent pilgrim hubs such as Sabarimala, Velankanni, or Palani, the company is closely monitoring demand patterns and exploring possible expansion into these routes.

About YoloBus

YoloBus is a leading intercity travel provider in India, offering premium, safe, and comfortable journeys. Serving over 1 million travelers across more than 400 routes nationwide, YoloBus connects cities through a modern fleet of luxury buses equipped with top-tier amenities and advanced safety systems. With a focus on customer satisfaction, punctuality, and continuous innovation, YoloBus continues to raise the bar for intercity bus travel in India.


Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

As Thailand captures the world’s imagination—serving as the backdrop for the newest season of The White Lotus and the much-awaited Jurassic World Rebirth—there’s never been a better time to visit. Perched gracefully on Krabi’s stunning Andaman shoreline, Phulay Bay, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, gives travellers a chance to step into these cinematic stories, all while immersing in Thailand’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Krabi’s soul in 2025:

Explore Krabi’s Untouched Wonders

Embark on Phulay Bay’s exclusive Discover the Jurassic Paradise adventure—a curated journey inspired by Krabi’s prehistoric charm and its starring role in the upcoming Jurassic World film. Start with a stroll on Pak Bia Island’s powdery sands, hemmed in by towering karst cliffs and turquoise seas. Then kayak across the still waters of Klong Root—also known as Mirror Lake—where lush canopies reflect so perfectly, it feels like paddling through a painting. From secret lagoons to wild forest trails, this is Krabi in its raw, magical form.

A Taste of Thailand: Cook Like a Local

Food is at the heart of Thai culture, and there’s no better way to connect than by learning to cook like a local. At Phulay Bay, join a small, hands-on Thai cooking class that starts with hand-picking fresh herbs and produce. Discover how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pick up time-honoured kitchen techniques, and prepare classic dishes. The best bit? You’ll feast on your creations in a serene nook of the resort—often at the Chomtawan Bar—paired with sunset views and a soft sea breeze.

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Reconnect with Yourself at The Spa

Begin your day with yoga by the sea, where gentle Andaman waves and rustling palms set the rhythm for breathwork and meditation. Then retreat to The Spa at Phulay Bay, an expansive haven with 11 treatment rooms, vitality pools, steam and sauna facilities. Indulge in rituals drawn from Thai and global wellness traditions—whether it’s a warm herbal compress, sound therapy with singing bowls, or a detox session with local botanicals. It’s restoration, reimagined.

Muay Thai: A Cultural Workout

Blend fitness and tradition with Phulay Bay’s Muay Thai sessions. Held in a calm indoor-outdoor studio, these workouts are led by seasoned trainers and tailored to all skill levels. You’ll learn the art of Thai boxing—mastering punches, kicks, and elbow strikes—while uncovering stories behind Thailand’s national sport. It’s as invigorating for the body as it is enlightening for the mind.

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Walk with Giants: The Elephant Sanctuary Experience

In partnership with the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, Phulay Bay offers a respectful, deeply moving way to meet Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend your morning alongside rescued elephants: feed them, give them playful mud baths, or join them for a dip. Guided by passionate sanctuary workers and the resort’s dedicated team, this immersive experience highlights conservation efforts and forges connections that last long after you leave.

Plan the Extraordinary

At Phulay Bay, every moment is artfully crafted—where personal butlers, bespoke experiences, and Krabi’s natural splendour come together in seamless harmony. Whether you’re chasing cinematic landscapes, culinary adventures, or soulful Thai traditions, this is where you embrace the extraordinary.

Plan your journey to Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and let Krabi’s spirit become part of yours.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.

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