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.


Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) made a landmark move in the Emirate’s hospitality journey with the debut of the Tourism Excellence Awards, a prestigious platform honouring those transforming Ras Al Khaimah into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah, the inaugural ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.

The awards celebrated outstanding performers across six dynamic categories:

  • Corporate Hospitality Excellence

  • Individual Innovation

  • Culinary Artistry

  • Hospitality Leadership

  • Community Involvement

  • Environmental Responsibility

This comprehensive recognition structure reflects RAKTDA’s intent to spotlight excellence at every level—be it individuals, teams, or companies.

Speaking at the event, Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said,

“The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards mark an important milestone in our journey to become a leading global destination. By recognising those who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences, we are not only celebrating their achievements, but fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and community engagement.”

More than just accolades, the awards align with RAKTDA’s wider mission of building a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism ecosystem. They aim to enhance traveller confidence, elevate service standards, foster innovation, and drive collaboration between businesses, local communities, and government bodies.

Phillips added,

“These awards mark a new era of recognition and inspiration in Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional tourism story—one driven by shared ambition, pride in local achievement, and a commitment to excellence at every touchpoint.”

For more information and interview requests, reach out to:
Nidhie Raj Singh | +91 9999 266134 | nidhies@branditindia.com
Priyanshi Jain | +91 8527217660 | priyanshij@branditindia.com

To explore Ras Al Khaimah’s journey and initiatives, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com
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Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

The Vietnam Golf Coast is calling travellers this summer with its unique blend of lush landscapes, cultural immersion, and exclusive seasonal packages. Stretching across Central Vietnam, this renowned golf destination is offering more than just top-tier fairways—it’s inviting players to experience the soul of Vietnam through its rice paddies, highland mists, seaside breezes, and traditional flavours.

At Laguna Golf Lang Co, harvest season paints the course with shades of gold as rice paddies reach their peak through May and June. “This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, noting how the course deeply reflects Vietnam’s natural rhythms and traditions. This summer, golfers can enjoy curated offers like the Golf & Spa package, the time-friendly Golf Express deal, and the Golden Rice Flash Sales that celebrate the vibrant harvest.

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Nestled in the cool highlands beyond Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a completely different ambiance. Surrounded by pine trees and misty mountain air, it provides a tranquil escape from the coastal heat. “Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” shares General Manager Simon Mees. The summer lineup includes a Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday slots available until 2:15 PM (3:00 PM on Wednesdays) at just VND2,600,000 (USD100), complete with a refreshing beer. The Night Golf experience, starting at VND2,500,000 per player, adds local flair with craft beer and Ba Na sausage.

Closer to the coast, Montgomerie Links offers the classic charm of seaside golf, where the sea breeze dances through casuarina pines and fishing boats drift along the horizon. “Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. Their Stay & Play package is available until September 30, 2025, starting from just VND4,770,000, offering unbeatable value by the beach.

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What sets the Vietnam Golf Coast apart is its ability to fuse sport with culture. From caddies in traditional non la hats to clubhouses serving iconic Vietnamese dishes like ca phe sua da, banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong, every detail adds to the experience.

Off the greens, golfers are spoilt for choice. Laguna Golf Lang Co is close to the historic city of Hue, while Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links are a quick drive from Da Nang’s beaches, fireworks festival, and buzzing food scene. And of course, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and timeless charm, is always worth a visit.

For golfers seeking more than just a round, this summer on the Vietnam Golf Coast promises a sense of place, pace, and unforgettable play.


Dharoi Adventure Fest Set to Begin on May 23 at Gujarat’s Dharoi Dam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 21, 2025

Adventure seekers, get ready! The Dharoi Adventure Fest is all set to kick off from May 23, 2025, at the picturesque Dharoi Dam in Mehsana, Gujarat. This much-awaited event, inaugurated by Hon’ble CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, promises non-stop action and fun with a wide array of air, water, and land-based activities.

Recognised as Gujarat’s first and India’s longest adventure fest, the event will showcase an exciting mix of thrills—from parasailing and paramotoring to power boating, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and more. It’s a full-fledged adventure destination rolled into one unforgettable experience.

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As the sun sets, the excitement continues with cultural events, stargazing, astronomy camps, and nature walks, offering a perfect blend of thrill and tranquillity.

For those looking to stay, the festival offers a range of accommodations—luxury tents to budget dorms, all with included meals and full access to the fest.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Dharoi Dam on the Sabarmati River, the location is fast emerging as Gujarat’s newest hotspot for eco-adventure tourism.

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, the Dharoi Adventure Fest is the perfect summer getaway packed with excitement, culture, and the great outdoors.

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