Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has recorded spending of SAR275 billion ($73 billion), according to Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa Bint Mohammed Al Saud, who said the sector is progressing quickly due to strong coordination between national entities.

Speaking at the Budget Forum 2026, Princess Haifa highlighted that the total number of domestic and international tourists surpassed 116 million, with the Kingdom now aiming to reach 150 million visitors. She said tourism remains one of the most promising areas for diversifying the national economy.

Princess Haifa noted that arrivals from Europe increased by 14% this year, while tourists from East Asia and the Pacific rose by 15%. She also emphasised the importance of domestic travellers as a major contributor to long-term sector development.

By the end of the third quarter of 2025, domestic tourist spending had exceeded SAR105 billion, reflecting an 18% rise. Private hospitality offerings saw substantial expansion as well, with a 1,250% increase in facilities compared with the previous year. More than 31,000 licences were issued for rural inns and hospitality “private homes.”

Princess Haifa said these achievements represent continued momentum rather than a final goal, and she outlined several Ministry of Tourism initiatives aimed at attracting both local and international investment.