Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is undergoing a historic transformation. After decades of heavily restricting leisure travel, the Kingdom opened its doors to international tourists in 2019. Since then visitor numbers have surged – from about 80 million in 2019 to a record 116 million in 2024 – prompting officials to raise the Vision 2030 tourism target from 100 million to 150 million annual visitors by 2030. This vast expansion of “Saudi Arabia tourism” (the primary keyword) is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda to diversify the economy and reduce oil dependence, locking in the Kingdom’s pivot from hydrocarbon wealth to cultural and leisure appeal.
The narrative of this growth weaves together visionary state planning and everyday changes on the ground. It spans new mega-cities like NEOM, coastal resorts on the Red Sea, and restored heritage sites in Diriyah and AlUla. It includes billions in public and private investment, expansion of airlines and airports, and sweeping visa and regulatory changes. The coming sections unpack why Saudi Arabia is making this tourism push and how it’s unfolding in practice – from cold, data-rich analysis to travel tips and cultural insights. The goal is a comprehensive, authoritative guide that stands apart from commercial hype, grounding each claim in solid sources and local context.
Saudi policymakers clearly view tourism as a cornerstone for economic diversification. For decades the Kingdom’s economy was dominated by oil: even today oil accounts for roughly 40% of GDP and about 75% of fiscal revenue. Such concentration left the economy exposed to oil price swings. Tourism is meant to change that. In Vision 2030 (unveiled 2016) the government explicitly set out to turn Saudi Arabia into a global tourism destination. The aim is not only more visitors, but reshaping society: opening cultural spaces, boosting non-oil revenue, and creating jobs for young Saudis and women. As Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb recently put it, “We are unlocking the value of this great country. We have a lot to offer the world”.
Breaking Oil Dependency – Economic Diversification. In concrete terms, the government’s motivation is to reduce oil’s share of the economy. (The World Bank notes that about 50% of government revenue still comes from oil, even as GDP share has fallen to around 40%.) Tourism is seen as a counterweight: in oil booms or busts, foreign visitors and domestic cultural spending could help stabilize incomes. Investment in tourism also creates a wide array of jobs (hotels, travel services, construction, etc.). Indeed, Saudi tourism has already generated 250,000 new jobs since 2019 (and the Kingdom plans for 1.6 million tourism-related jobs by 2030). Diversification was a lesson learned during the 2014–15 oil price collapse, and tourism is one of the most visible pillars of that lesson.
Vision 2030’s Tourism Pillar – Goals & Targets. Under Vision 2030, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) positioned tourism as a central theme. The official vision documents and speeches emphasize boosting domestic spending on entertainment and attracting international leisure visitors. Goals include increasing tourism’s contribution to GDP (official forecasts target ~10% by 2030, roughly double current levels) and expanding the hospitality sector. By 2024 officials publicly revised the decade’s tourism target upward from 100 to 150 million total visitors. (Ahmed Al-Khateeb noted that about half of today’s tourists are religious pilgrims, implying the future focus will shift more toward leisure and business visitors.) This reframing of tourism in Vision 2030 speaks to a broader strategy: to project a new image internationally, mobilize the young population at home, and monetize Saudi Arabia’s historical and natural assets.
Historical Note: Saudi Vision 2030 was unveiled by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in April 2016 as a national transformation plan, explicitly aimed at “improving fiscal management and reducing dependency on oil”. It set targets like increasing non-oil revenue and developing sectors including tourism, culture and entertainment.
The $800 Billion Investment Commitment. Such vast goals require massive investment. The Saudi government and its sovereign wealth fund (the Public Investment Fund, PIF) have committed roughly $800 billion to develop tourism projects and infrastructure. This figure combines public funding with expected private-sector contributions. For context, consider NEOM alone, a planned futuristic city, which is touted as a $500 billion project. The Saudi state has effectively earmarked this capital to build airports, hotels, theme parks, cultural sites and more, fueling GDP growth and non-oil revenue. Analysts note that if NEOM achieves its targets, it could contribute ~$100 billion to GDP by 2030 – illustrating the scale of ambition. This level of spending is unprecedented. No Gulf state has launched so many flagship projects so quickly with the intent of reshaping tourism and economy simultaneously. The working assumption is that the long-term returns – in foreign investment, tourism receipts, and jobs – will justify the upfront bill.
Saudi tourism’s is best understood in hard numbers. Here is a snapshot of growth, baseline, and targets:
| Year / Period | Total Visitors (Domestic + International) | International Arrivals | Tourist Spending (SAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | ~80 million | ~13 million | – (pre-pandemic baseline) | First year open to leisure tourists |
| 2024 | 116 million | 29.7 million | SAR 283.8 billion | Record year; national target raised |
| Summer 2025 | 32+ million | n/a | SAR 53.2 billion | Summer season only; +26% vs. Summer 2024 |
| 2030 (Target) | 150 million | ~70 million | – | Revised Vision 2030 tourism goal |
Source: Saudi Ministry of Tourism and official reports.
These figures underscore how fast the sector is growing. (For context, that 116M total in 2024 surpasses pre-pandemic levels in other Gulf states by a wide margin – Dubai, for example, had about 15–18 million international visitors annually in recent years.)
A defining feature of Saudi tourism is the portfolio of colossal development projects, often called giga-projects. These are new cities or resort complexes aimed at attracting global attention. Below are the most prominent:
One of Vision 2030’s flagship projects is NEOM, a planned high-tech city in northwest Saudi Arabia. Announced in 2017, NEOM is envisioned as a $500 billion investment spanning 26,500 km². It is to be built along the Red Sea coast and envisioned as a carbon-neutral hub blending industry, tourism, and lifestyle. Key elements include: The Line (a 170-km linear city inside a mirrored building), Trojena (a mountain resort with ski facilities opening 2026), biotech and energy parks, and coastal resorts. NEOM’s scale dwarfs most global urban projects – it’s larger than many countries’ entire area. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) heads NEOM’s development, aiming for cutting-edge innovation: for instance, reports suggest NEOM could contribute $100 billion to GDP by 2030. Though still largely under construction, NEOM is emblematic of Saudi Arabia’s leap into luxury, futuristic tourism.
The Red Sea Project is another cornerstone: a luxury coastal development on Saudi Arabia’s western shore. Run by PIF’s Red Sea Global, it includes over 90 islands and 200 km of coastline. The plan is to build dozens of high-end resorts (early plans called for 50 hotels with 8,000 rooms) across various islands and inland sites. Sustainability is a core selling point – the project is often described as “regenerative tourism”, with marine conservation and eco-design priorities. The first resort opened in late 2023, and more are coming in phases. This tropical archipelago aims to rival the Maldives in luxury appeal, but with Saudi oversight and conservancy: snorkeling, diving and protected coral reefs are key attractions.
Near Riyadh, Qiddiya City is planned as a 334 km² “capital of entertainment, sports and the arts”. Its first phase (initially slated for 2023) includes theme parks, sports arenas, racetracks, and cultural venues. The flagship is Six Flags Qiddiya, the world’s first Six Flags park in Asia, featuring a record-breaking roller coaster. There will also be a Formula 1-grade racing circuit and water parks. The PIF owns Qiddiya Investment Company, and the site is intended to draw both Saudis and regional visitors with world-class attractions. With projected annual visitation in the tens of millions and 325,000 jobs created (per early forecasts), Qiddiya represents the gulf’s bet on theme-park tourism.
AlUla is an ancient oasis region in northwest Saudi, rich in archaeological wonders. Its crown jewel, Hegra (Mada’in Salih), was the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia, famous for 2nd-century Nabataean tombs. Under Vision 2030, Saudi created the Royal Commission for AlUla to transform the area into a tourism hub that respects its history. Luxury resorts like Banyan Tree AlUla and private tented camps have been built amid sandstone canyons and olive groves. Cultural festivals (the AlUla Moments series) bring music and art into the desert. In 2025 AlUla was even named “World’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project” at the World Travel Awards, highlighting this push. In short, AlUla packages the Kingdom’s deep heritage with high-end hospitality and adventure trails.
Amaala is a project on the Red Sea coast billed as an ultra-luxury “wellness and lifestyle” destination. It spans a massive 4,155 km² area with pristine coastline. The focus is on eco-luxury: spa resorts, marinas, and conservation programs. Notably, Amaala will limit annual visitors to 500,000 to preserve exclusivity. Phase one (due 2025) will open a Marina Village with the Corallium Marine Life Institute and yacht club. In total Amaala plans 29 hotels (3,800+ rooms) and 1,200 residences. The project touts a 100% renewable energy operation and a “30% net conservation benefit” by 2040. It’s expected to inject SAR 11 billion (~$3 billion) into the economy and create up to 50,000 jobs. In effect, Amaala is Saudi’s vision of the Riviera – a high-end retreat where nature and luxury converge.
In contrast to these new-build sites, Diriyah is about reviving Saudi history. Diriyah, just outside Riyadh, was the original 15th-century capital of the Al Saud dynasty. Its mud-brick quarter At-Turaif is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Diriyah Gate Development Authority is restoring old palaces, building museums, hotels and a pedestrian city center around the ruins. By preserving Najdi architecture and creating a cultural destination, Diriyah Gate aims to showcase Saudi heritage on a global stage. (Riyadh Season and Diriyah Season events are held here each winter, drawing crowds into this historic setting.) Diriyah embodies the Kingdom’s narrative: it is literally the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, now reimagined as “the world’s premier gathering place” for culture.
In summary, the giga-projects – NEOM, Red Sea, Qiddiya, AlUla, Amaala, and Diriyah (among others) – form a network of attractions. They span art, history, thrill rides, nature and ultra-modern living. Each has its own timeline (NEOM and Qiddiya aim for initial openings in the mid-2020s, Red Sea resorts are already coming online, Six Flags Qiddiya opened Dec 2025), but together they signal the direction of Saudi tourism: big, diversified, and state-driven.
Even the best resorts are useless if tourists can’t get there. Saudi Arabia is aggressively expanding its connectivity.
This infrastructure build-out complements accommodation growth. As the Fortune Global Forum noted, “We have to expand the airport capacity, the airline capacity” to handle all the visitors. Indeed, Saudi is forecasting over 300,000 new hotel rooms by 2030 (matching the airport expansion), meaning it expects a large increase in visitor nights.
A direct consequence of all this development is a hospitality boom. Saudi set a target of roughly 300,000 new hotel rooms by 2030 (up from roughly 200,000 today) to match visitor growth. Already, over 50,000 rooms have opened in the last five years. Global and regional hotel chains are flocking in: Jeddah and Riyadh are seeing new luxury towers (Waldorf Astoria, Jeddah One), while emerging destinations get resorts (e.g. Banyan Tree AlUla, Aman resorts in NEOM).
Bullet list of key hospitality trends: – Room Targets: Government publicly talks of adding 200,000–300,000 rooms by 2030 to double current capacity. This includes 5-star resorts and mid-market hotels alike.
– Luxury vs Budget: The luxury segment is a focus (since high spenders boost revenue quickly). For example, the Red Sea and Amaala projects alone will add dozens of 5-star resorts. However, officials also promote mid-range and budget hotels to accommodate families and young travelers, particularly near religious sites and city centers.
– Pilgrim Accommodation: Makkah and Madinah provinces continue to expand tens of thousands of hotel rooms to house Hajj and Umrah pilgrims (Saudi TV reported ~240,000 hospitality workers trained under Vision 2030, many in pilgrimage hotels). There are plans for mega-hotel towers in Jeddah’s Corniche and new lodging near the holy mosques.
– Workforce Training: Meeting staffing needs is critical. Saudi’s Hospitality Pioneers program has trained 100,000 nationals in tourism and hotel skills. Universities and vocational institutes are starting tourism courses. Industry executives are already lamenting a shortage of trained guides, chefs and managers despite government efforts.
All these numbers and targets are cited from official government announcements and reputable press. The scene is crowded: as one analyst quipped, “Saudi is signing deals with every hotel brand name you can imagine.” The net result is that many hotels in Saudi have opened in the last few years and many more are planned. For travelers this means increasingly wide choices – from international five-star chains to boutique desert lodges – but it also raises questions about whether demand will keep pace. (Recent surveys by STR and industry media suggest occupancy rates have room to grow, indicating current demand is still climbing toward capacity.)
Saudi Arabia’s diversified plan explicitly targets multiple tourism “segments” rather than a single kind of traveler. In broad strokes, the categories are: religious, cultural/heritage, entertainment, sports, adventure, and business/MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions). Each has its own infrastructure and marketing.
Overall, Saudi Arabia is not betting on one type of tourism, but rather a broad menu to appeal to different markets. According to Tourism Minister Al-Khateeb, about half of current visitors are religious pilgrims, a share expected to decline as leisure draws increase. The chart above shows how the country’s strategy spans multiple categories.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism investment is deliberately spread across the Kingdom’s regions, not just Riyadh and the Hejaz. Each of the 13 provinces is vying for its own slice of visitors:
Regional Table: Infrastructure & Attractions (Saudi Arabia)
| Province | Key Developments | Main Attractions | Notable Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | King Salman Airport (2025), Riyadh Metro, major hotel expansion | Al-Masmak Fort, Diriyah, national museums | Diriyah Gate (UNESCO site), convention & exhibition centers |
| Makkah | King Abdulaziz Int’l Airport (Jeddah) expansion, Hajj infrastructure | Grand Mosque (Mecca), Jeddah Al-Balad, Red Sea beaches | Jeddah Tower, multiple Red Sea resort developments |
| Madinah | Medina airport expansion, tourist bus networks | Prophet’s Mosque, Quba Mosque, Hegra (AlUla) | Hegra visitor complex (AlUla), heritage village restorations |
| Eastern Province | Dhahran airport upgrades, Corniche development, museums | Beaches, historic Dammam & Tarout Island, desert oases | King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) tourism zone |
| Tabuk | NEOM Airport, new highways to the Red Sea | Eight Pilgrims Cave, Tabuk Castle, desert landscapes | NEOM & Trojena ski resort, Amaala access corridor |
| Asir | Abha International Airport, cable car system | Green mountains, Asir National Park, traditional villages | Asir regional development program, summer festivals |
| Others (Najran, Jazan) | Local airport upgrades, road improvements | Najran forts, Farasan Islands (Jazan) | Heritage restorations (e.g., Najran Mosque) |
This table synthesizes regional infrastructure and tourism data from official sources and development plans.
As the table shows, every region is getting a slice of attention, often leveraging its unique geography. This nationwide approach differentiates Saudi’s strategy from rivals like the UAE, which has so far been more city-focused. (See the later comparison chart for more on regional strategies.)
Saudi’s tourism calendar is packed with events that draw international crowds. Key recurring and upcoming events include:
A consolidated events timeline:
| Event | Timing | Nature | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh Season | Oct–Mar (annual) | Entertainment festival | 2023–24 edition drew ~19 million visitors |
| Diriyah Season | Dec–Mar (annual) | Cultural & heritage festival | Hosted Formula E (2021) and major concerts at At-Turaif |
| UNWTO Global Tourism Conference 2025 | September 2025 | International tourism summit | Hosted in Riyadh (UN Tourism General Assembly) |
| WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 | Sept 29 – Oct 1, 2026 | Travel industry exhibition | 450+ exhibitors; ~6,500 attendees |
| Asian Winter Games 2029 | January 2029 | Continental sports event | Held at NEOM / Trojena ski resort |
| FIFA World Cup 2034 | June–July 2034 | Global football championship | Saudi Arabia’s first solo World Cup host |
These marquee events provide both short-term spurts of tourism (e.g. hotels booked solid during seasons) and long-term credibility (e.g. World Cup bids that encourage infrastructure investment years in advance).
Given the scale of these projects, Saudi leaders have also emphasized sustainability, partly in response to global scrutiny and partly from genuine concern. Several initiatives stand out:
In essence, Saudi’s pitch is that it is building tourism “the right way” – even as its scale dwarfs older destinations. The reality is a mixed bag: many critics point to water usage and labor practices. But Saudi’s playbook now includes talking-up sustainability wherever possible.
Managing this tourism boom requires a new governance structure. In 2020 Saudi split tourism oversight among several bodies:
Key policy changes have facilitated tourism: e-Visas were introduced for 49 countries in 2019 (replacing onerous paper visas) – now 105 nations have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access (including the entire EU, China, USA). National ID systems were upgraded to welcome GCC visitors. Regulations have been relaxed: cinemas opened (2018), women’s driving ban lifted (2018), and certain entertainment restrictions eased – partly to make tourists feel at ease. Beach dress codes and alcohol bans remain stricter than in the West, but guidelines have been issued (for example, separate men’s and women’s sections at some beaches).
On the regulatory front, aside from the beach rules mentioned above, Saudi introduced standardized hotel rating systems, enforced hotel quality inspections, and requires tourism operators to be licensed. Safety standards have been tightened (especially in deserts and seas). Global ratings agencies have noted Saudi’s “improving infrastructure” but also flag the risk of overregulation if authorities crack down too hard on small operators. So far, policy has generally been to encourage investors and make entry easier.
No ambitious plan is without hurdles. Several challenges temper the rosy picture:
In short, while Vision 2030’s goals are explicit, many operational challenges loom. Credible observers and investment analysts highlight these hurdles so readers understand the uncertainty.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism push often invites comparisons with nearby Gulf countries. A quick comparison highlights each country’s niche:
| Aspect | Saudi Arabia | United Arab Emirates | Qatar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual international visitors (2024) | 29.7M inbound; 116M total (incl. domestic) | Dubai ~18.7M (UAE total ≈20–21M) | ~5.08M (record year) |
| Key projects | NEOM, Red Sea resorts, Qiddiya, Diriyah, AlUla, Amaala | Expo City Dubai, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island (Ferrari World, RTA projects) | Lusail City, Katara Cultural Village, post-WC stadium reuse, North Field tourism |
| Top attractions | Religious (Makkah, Madinah), heritage (Diriyah, AlUla), luxury islands | Entertainment (Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah), shopping (Dubai Mall), heritage (Al Ain Oasis) | Event venues (Education City stadiums), souks, desert tours |
| UNESCO World Heritage | 7 sites (e.g., Hegra, Diriyah, Historic Jeddah) | 1 site (Al Ain Oasis) | 0 |
| Big events | 2034 FIFA World Cup, 2029 Asian Winter Games | Expo 2020 (held 2021), potential 2027 Asian Olympics | 2022 FIFA World Cup (completed); bidding for future events |
| Religious tourism | Yes – Hajj & Umrah (Mecca, Madinah) | No | No |
| Scale & investment | Population ~35M; Vision 2030 spend $800B+ | Population ~10M; national spending in tens of billions | Population ~3M; ~$200B WC spend, now diversifying |
All three share oil-wealth backgrounds, but Saudi is distinctive in blending religious tourism (a monopoly) with vast heritage and mega-projects. The UAE’s model has been city-branding (especially Dubai’s glitz) whereas Saudi’s model is broader: it includes rural archaeology (as in AlUla) and religious sites. Qatar’s advantage was successfully hosting the World Cup and investing in sports infrastructure, but its tourism push beyond that has been smaller-scale so far. In the table above, Saudi’s raw visitor numbers dwarf Qatar’s and even exceed the UAE’s (if counting domestic visitors), but it also spans more diverse products. Each market learns from the others: Saudi has studied Dubai’s event strategy, while the UAE observes how to integrate culture (the Louvre and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are cultural bets somewhat akin to Saudi’s Diriyah Gate).
Ultimately, Saudi’s differentiation strategy is scale + heritage + exclusivity. It can host millions of religious tourists and still add luxury leisure crowds, whereas the UAE lacked the pilgrimage factor. But the UAE leads in connectivity (global airlines) and ease of small-scope tourism (only one time zone, compact cities). Qatar matches Saudi in wealth but not yet in visitor diversity. Saudi’s challenge is to synthesize lessons from neighbors while maintaining its unique identity.
Beyond travelers, Saudi tourism development is also a massive economic opportunity for investors and companies. Some key points for the business audience:
Those interested in the commercial side should note that while opportunities are large, transparency and due diligence remain important. Conversations with local authorities (e.g. DGDA for Diriyah projects, Red Sea Global for coastal development, or the STA’s investment office) can clarify specific tenders or incentives. Several recent large deals (like Red Sea Global’s IPO in 2022) have provided some pricing data for valuations. Overall, Saudi tourism offers a frontier market with government backing, but also demands patience as rules and projects evolve.
For those planning to visit Saudi Arabia, here are key practical points (as of the last updates):
Travel logistics (currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR); most places accept cards but always carry some cash) and safety (Saudi is generally very safe for tourists, with strict law enforcement) should also be checked before visiting. The key is: Saudi has fundamentally loosened entry rules and is eager for visitors, but it’s wise to approach with some cultural awareness.
Looking beyond 2030, what might Saudi tourism look like? Experts and officials offer a cautiously optimistic vision:
Future-Ready Indicator: The commitment to sustainability (like the $500M fund recently launched for regenerative tourism projects) suggests Saudi plans to keep its tourism model evolving. “The Principles for Transformative Tourism” promoted by the World Economic Forum are part of Saudi’s strategy – which positions the Kingdom as a co-author of global tourism policy rather than just a follower.
In summary, the long-term outlook is that Saudi tourism will not revert to a niche offering; it will remain a major plank of the economy. The success of events like the 2034 World Cup or Asian Games could be a litmus test. If by the early 2030s occupancy rates are high and global tourism publications rave about sites like NEOM or AlUla (as AlUla already is doing), then Saudi’s gamble will be deemed a remarkable pivot. If not, the next decade may see course corrections (e.g. greater focus on sustainable scale rather than raw numbers).
Q: Why is Saudi Arabia investing so heavily in tourism?
A: Under Vision 2030 (announced 2016), Saudi aims to diversify its economy away from oil. Tourism is seen as a major non-oil revenue source and job creator. The government wants to use Saudi’s historical sites, natural landscapes, and new attractions to generate income and modernize society. For example, the tourism sector generated 250,000 jobs since 2019, and officials project it could contribute ~10% of GDP by 2030.
Q: How many tourists visit Saudi Arabia each year?
A: Tourist visits (including domestic tourists) have grown rapidly. Saudi saw about 80 million total visitors in 2019 (its first year open to leisure travel). By 2024 that number reached 116 million, far above the original targets. Inbound (international) visitors were about 29.7 million of that total. Summer 2025 brought 32 million visitors alone. Authorities now aim for 150 million annual visitors by 2030.
Q: What are the major tourism projects (giga-projects) in Saudi Arabia?
A: Saudi is developing several flagship projects: NEOM – a futuristic $500B city on the Red Sea; the Red Sea Project – a luxury island resort development; Qiddiya – an entertainment city near Riyadh with theme parks and sports facilities; AlUla – a cultural heritage site with new resorts; Amaala – an ultra-luxury wellness destination; and Diriyah Gate – restoration of Saudi’s original capital into a cultural district. Each is at different stages of completion, but all are central to Saudi’s tourism plan.
Q: Do women need a male guardian to travel in Saudi Arabia?
A: No. Saudi Arabia’s 2019 tourism visa rules allow women (even solo travelers) to visit without a male guardian. Women can rent cars, stay in hotels, and dine out unaccompanied. Cultural norms still encourage modest dress (many female tourists wear the abaya), but legal travel restrictions have been lifted. Official guidance suggests women cover shoulders and knees and carry a headscarf (useful if visiting a mosque), but enforcement is generally light in tourist areas.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Saudi Arabia?
A: The most comfortable season is late fall through early spring (November–March). Temperatures are mild, and the country holds major cultural events (Riyadh/Diriyah Seasons) during these months. Summers (April–October) are extremely hot, especially inland (often 40°C+). The Red Sea coast and Asir mountains remain somewhat cooler, but even there summer can be sweltering. If you plan desert or heritage trips, winter months are ideal.
Q: What are the new travel regulations for beaches in Saudi?
A: As of January 2026, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Authority issued the Beach Operators’ Requirements and Conditions. These enforce licensing and standards for all beach resorts. Key points: operators must have safety plans (lifeguards, rescue equipment), environmental protections (no pollutant discharge, waste management), and separate designated areas (for swimming vs. other activities). Existing resorts have a one-year transition to comply. For visitors, this means better safety and clearer rules at private beaches, but also possibly more fees (operators must cover compliance costs). It’s the Kingdom’s effort to ensure rapid coastal development does not harm the environment or visitor safety.
Q: How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Saudi Arabia?
A: Currently Saudi has 7 UNESCO sites. These include the At-Turaif District in Diriyah (first Saudi World Heritage site), Hegra (Mada’in Salih) in AlUla (the first site inscribed, famous for Nabatean tombs), historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), and four heritage sites in the Hejaz (like Oases of Al-Ahsa). These sites are focal points for cultural tourism.
Q: Is Saudi Arabia safe for tourists?
A: Saudi Arabia is generally considered very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and tourists rarely face personal safety issues. The government is keen to maintain a secure environment to support tourism. Visitors should still follow local laws (e.g. avoid alcohol, respect customs) to avoid legal trouble. During large events, security is stepped up. Overall, most foreign travelers report positive experiences on safety and hospitality.
Q: Can I drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
A: No. Alcohol is prohibited in all public places. Tourists should not plan on drinking during their visit. The government strictly enforces this rule (penalties for smuggling or drinking are severe). All restaurants and hotels will be dry. (Note: some ultra-private resorts have announced plans to allow alcohol for guests within their premises, but as of now none openly do so.)
