Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the Kingdom welcomed 30 million tourists in 2024 and aims for 70 million by 2030, which would place it among the world’s top seven destinations.
Speaking at the “Future Ways of Travel” session at the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Davos meeting, he said Saudi Arabia considers the whole visitor journey, from flights and arrival to transport and destination. New destinations and airports are being developed, including King Salman International Airport with capacity exceeding 120 million passengers, alongside new airline Riyadh Air, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
He attributed success to sound governance and integrated planning. Electronic visas and airports at tourism destinations have supported international visitor growth.
He said destination centers and authorities coordinate within their mandates, with a focus on reducing time spent in future airports, simplifying visas and continuously improving connectivity.
European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas praised Saudi Arabia’s tourism development and international cooperation.
Al-Khateeb exchanged views with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Avolta Chief Executive Officer Xavier Rossinyol and Trip.com Chief Executive Officer Jane Sun.
Source: Saudi Press Agency.
