How Riyadh’s Tourism Industry Is Impacting Saudi Arabia’s Growth: USD 8.7 Billion in 2025

Published on December 25, 2025

Riyadh, the bustling capital of Saudi Arabia, has seen a remarkable surge in tourism, welcoming over 15 million visitors by the end of the third quarter in 2025. This influx of tourists has significantly boosted the local economy, with total spending reaching approximately USD 8.7 billion (SAR 33 billion). The numbers underline the growing popularity of Riyadh as both a business hub and a key destination for leisure travel.

According to official data from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the capital’s tourism industry has been a key player in the country’s economic transformation. The rise in visitor numbers and spending reflects the success of various government initiatives aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy and promoting Riyadh as a major global tourist destination. The growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to make tourism a more prominent sector within the country’s economy.

A Diverse Range of Attractions Driving Tourism Growth

The sharp increase in tourism to Riyadh is attributed to a wide range of cultural, business, and entertainment offerings that cater to both domestic and international visitors. These attractions include world-class shopping, entertainment events, business conferences, and the city’s rapidly expanding hotel and restaurant industry. As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, the diversification of events and activities has played a crucial role in attracting both business and leisure tourists.

Seasonal events have become increasingly popular, with Riyadh hosting several high-profile entertainment festivals, sports events, and cultural exhibitions throughout the year. This seasonal boom is contributing to Riyadh’s growing reputation as a major entertainment and business destination. The city’s ability to offer a variety of experiences has led to an increase in both domestic and international visitor numbers.

Riyadh’s Strategic Infrastructure Investments

The growth of tourism in Riyadh has been supported by significant investments in infrastructure. In recent years, the city has expanded its hotel capacity, with new properties being added to accommodate the growing number of visitors. As of 2025, Riyadh has seen a rise of more than 34 percent in hotel rooms compared to previous years, contributing to the overall enhancement of the city’s hospitality sector.

The expansion of transportation links, including better air travel connectivity and road infrastructure, has also made Riyadh more accessible to international tourists. With easier access to the city, business professionals and leisure tourists alike are increasingly choosing Riyadh as their destination for both work and relaxation.

Riyadh’s Economic Impact on Tourism-Related Sectors

The tourism boom has had a ripple effect across various sectors. The hospitality industry, which includes hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, has seen a 18 percent increase in revenue. This economic boost extends to retail, transportation, and leisure activities, all of which benefit from the influx of tourists.

The Saudi government’s focus on developing sustainable tourism initiatives and promoting urban tourism has also paid off. The city’s tourism growth contributes significantly to local economies by supporting local businesses and generating employment opportunities in hospitality, retail, and services. Tourism-related sectors are now firmly entrenched in Riyadh’s economic growth, creating new opportunities for workers and entrepreneurs in the region.

Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

The performance of Riyadh’s tourism sector in 2025 is a testament to the ongoing success of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s long-term development plan. One of the core objectives of Vision 2030 is to increase the contribution of tourism to Saudi Arabia’s GDP. The recent growth in Riyadh’s tourism aligns with this objective, showcasing the city’s growing role as a premier global destination for both leisure and business.

As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its tourism sector, Riyadh’s position as a global destination is expected to strengthen, attracting more tourists from around the world. The country’s proactive approach to building a diverse tourism ecosystem, coupled with investments in infrastructure, hospitality, and entertainment, positions Riyadh as a significant player in the global tourism market.

A Thriving Tourism Sector in Riyadh

Riyadh’s tourism performance in 2025 underscores its emerging status as a leading destination in the Middle East. Over 15 million tourists visiting and spending USD 8.7 billion showcases the city’s thriving tourism industry and its importance to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. The city’s diverse attractions, enhanced infrastructure, and vibrant tourism sector are paving the way for sustained growth, making Riyadh an increasingly attractive destination for global travellers.

As the city continues to develop, both international and domestic tourists can expect more enriching experiences, from cultural festivals to world-class shopping and entertainment, all contributing to Riyadh’s rise as a top global tourism hotspot.