RIYADH: Preliminary data from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism revealed significant growth in domestic tourism in the Kingdom during the first quarter of 2026.
The number of domestic tourists is estimated at approximately SR28.9 million ($7.7 million), representing a 16 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025.
Total tourism expenditure for domestic tourists reached SR34.7 billion during the same period, an increase of approximately 8 percent, reflecting the strength of domestic demand and its continued support for the Kingdom’s tourism sector.
This development comes amidst regional fluctuations, underscoring the diversity of tourism demand drivers and the Saudi tourism sector’s ability to adapt to crises, ensuring market stability and continued tourist flow.
The ministry data also showed that the total number of domestic and international tourists visiting the Kingdom is estimated at approximately SR37.2 million during the first quarter of 2026, while total tourism expenditure for both domestic and international tourists is estimated at around SR82.7 billion.
Preliminary data for the first quarter of 2026 shows that occupancy rates in tourist hospitality facilities averaged around 59 percent. Madinah recorded the highest rate at approximately 82 percent, followed by Makkah at 60 percent and Jeddah at 59 percent.
The ministry also reported strong domestic tourism during the Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr school holidays, with 10 million tourists traveling across the Kingdom, a 14 percent increase. Spending during the period reached SR10.2 billion, up 5 percent year-over-year.
This season has been a busy one for domestic leisure tourism, particularly in Red Sea destinations and Jeddah, bolstered by a promotional campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority under the slogan “Eid Mubarak with You.”
This campaign included tourism packages developed in partnership with the private sector, available for booking at targeted resorts in the Red Sea, Jeddah, Al-Ula, and other destinations, with occupancy rates reaching 100 percent in some of these facilities.
The ministry also affirmed that these indicators reflect the strength and resilience of the Saudi tourism market, supported by robust domestic demand and diverse tourism offerings, therefore enhancing the sector’s stability and its ability to maintain its growth trajectory.
The entity added that it is preparing a comprehensive report detailing all tourism sector indicators for the first quarter of 2026, which will be announced upon its availability through the ministry’s social media accounts and official website.
Saudi Arabia reaffirms Gulf coordination to support tourism stability at GCC meeting
Saudi Arabia, represented by Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb, took part in a virtual meeting of Gulf Cooperation Council tourism ministers on April 8 to discuss the impact of current regional developments on the sector and coordinate a unified response to support stability, boost confidence, and ensure the continuity of tourism activity.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of GCC countries to intensify coordination and joint action in addressing ongoing challenges. It aimed to strengthen investor and visitor confidence, support the sector’s sustainability, and enhance the readiness of Gulf destinations to respond to evolving developments.
Al-Khateeb reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to Gulf unity and the integration of regional efforts, highlighting continued Saudi support for GCC countries across key areas, including logistical coordination and air connectivity. These efforts contribute to regional stability and facilitate the continued movement of travelers across the Gulf.
He stated: “The Kingdom remains committed to close cooperation with GCC countries through continuous coordination and joint action. We will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining the stability of the tourism sector, enhancing its readiness, and strengthening confidence in the region during this period.”
The meeting also included the participation of the UN World Tourism Organization, represented by its Secretary-General, Shaikha bint Nasser Al Nowais, who discussed ways to strengthen cooperation and support a rapid recovery of the sector.
The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia has demonstrated resilience and adaptability amid current developments, underpinned by notable growth in domestic tourism.
This sustained demand reflects the Saudi tourism market’s capacity to adjust to regional dynamics and reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a key contributor to stability in the region’s economic sectors, despite prevailing challenges.
