Saudi Arabia has unveiled a comprehensive 50-year tourism strategy aimed at transforming the nation into a leading global travel destination. The announcement follows the country’s milestone achievement of welcoming 100 million visitors in 2023, a key target under its Vision 2030 economic diversification programme.
The long-term roadmap outlines strategic priorities for the development of the tourism sector, focusing on infrastructure, cultural heritage, sustainability, and international cooperation. As part of this initiative, Saudi Arabia has also launched TOURISE, a global tourism platform intended to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders in the global travel industry.
TOURISE will serve as a central hub for dialogue between government bodies, private sector leaders, and innovators in tourism. It aims to promote best practices and sustainable development, with an emphasis on technology, cultural preservation, and improved visitor experiences.
The tourism strategy is supported by ongoing investments in high-profile projects, including the Red Sea Project, NEOM, Soudah Peaks, and enhancements to the newly launched Riyadh Air. These developments are designed to attract a wide range of international and domestic travellers, contributing to economic growth and employment.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has stated that the country is now working towards its next goal: hosting 150 million visitors annually by 2030. The roadmap also prioritises expanding international flight connectivity, enhancing hospitality standards, and improving access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other cultural landmarks.
To support this growth, the roadmap prioritises the expansion of international flight connectivity through new airline partnerships, increased routes, and infrastructure upgrades at major airports, including King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Improving access to cultural and historical landmarks, including the country’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites—such as Al-Hijr (Madain Salih), Diriyah, and the Hima Cultural Area—is another key focus. Investments in visitor infrastructure, guided tours, digital platforms, and interpretive centres are being rolled out to enhance the cultural tourism offering and attract heritage-focused travellers.
By combining long-term planning with a global collaborative platform, Saudi Arabia aims to play a more active role in shaping the future of tourism worldwide.