Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib said that the sector performance during the first quarter of 2026 was strong, driven by domestic tourism, noting a high turnout at Red Sea resorts during Eid al-Fitr.
In an interview with Al Arabiya TV, he added that the Umrah season during Ramadan saw a smooth performance of the rituals, underscoring the strength of domestic demand and the Kingdom’s readiness for the Saudi Summer season.
The sector has undergone a foundational phase in recent years and is currently moving toward a phase of accelerated growth, supported by airport development, the completion of projects, and the growing role of the private sector, which enhances employment opportunities, the minister stated.
He noted that the Kingdom is preparing for global events, including Expo 2030 and the World Cup 2034, expecting most projects to be completed on schedule.
Al-Khatib also explained that the number of tourists exceeded 120 million in 2025, with the sector’s contribution to GDP rising to 5% compared to 3% in 2019, in addition to achieving a surplus in the travel sector of approximately SAR 50 billion.
According to Argaam data, the number of tourists reached 123 million in 2025, including 29.3 million international tourists, while tourist spending reached SAR 304 billion.
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib said that the sector performance during the first quarter of 2026 was strong, driven by domestic tourism, noting a high turnout at Red Sea resorts during Eid al-Fitr.
In an interview with Al Arabiya TV, he added that the Umrah season during Ramadan saw a smooth performance of the rituals, underscoring the strength of domestic demand and the Kingdom’s readiness for the Saudi Summer season.
The sector has undergone a foundational phase in recent years and is currently moving toward a phase of accelerated growth, supported by airport development, the completion of projects, and the growing role of the private sector, which enhances employment opportunities, the minister stated.
He noted that the Kingdom is preparing for global events, including Expo 2030 and the World Cup 2034, expecting most projects to be completed on schedule.
Al-Khatib also explained that the number of tourists exceeded 120 million in 2025, with the sector’s contribution to GDP rising to 5% compared to 3% in 2019, in addition to achieving a surplus in the travel sector of approximately SAR 50 billion.
According to Argaam data, the number of tourists reached 123 million in 2025, including 29.3 million international tourists, while tourist spending reached SAR 304 billion.
