To achieve the 2030 target, Saudi Arabia must sustain an annual growth rate of approximately 14.69% in international arrivals. This necessitates an average annual increase of about 6.6 million visitors. The kingdom's tourism strategy focuses on both luxury developments and affordability to attract a diverse range of visitors.
The tourism sector's contribution to Saudi Arabia's GDP has risen to nearly 5%, with projections to reach 10% by 2030. This aligns with the broader Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and create one million new job opportunities in the tourism sector.
Key infrastructure projects are central to this strategy. The Masar Destination in Mecca, an urban development project, is designed to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims, aiming to host 30 million by 2030. This project is expected to create 16,000 jobs and includes 24,000 hotel rooms and 13,000 residential units.
In Riyadh, the development of King Salman International Airport is underway, designed to handle over 120 million passengers annually. This state-of-the-art facility aims to enhance connectivity and support the anticipated influx of international visitors.
The launch of Riyadh Air, a new national carrier, is set to boost the kingdom's connectivity, making it a significant transit hub linking Asia, Europe, and Africa. This initiative is expected to facilitate increased tourism and business travel, further integrating Saudi Arabia into the global travel network.
Saudi Arabia is also leveraging major global sporting events to enhance its international appeal. The kingdom's successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup is anticipated to attract millions of visitors and showcase its cultural and infrastructural advancements. Such events are integral to the kingdom's strategy to diversify its tourism offerings and appeal to a broader audience.
The introduction of electronic visas has simplified entry procedures, making Saudi Arabia more accessible to travelers worldwide. This move is part of broader efforts to streamline travel processes and enhance the overall visitor experience.