International arrivals to Saudi surge by nearly half
Tourist arrivals to Saudi Arabia surged by an impressive 48% in the first quarter of 2025, according to The World Tourism Forum Institute.
This marks the latest growth milestone in Saudi’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy.
A tenet of the strategy is a commitment to responsible tourism and showcasing its rich heritage and nature.
The tourism growth has been driven by relaxed visa initiatives, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries and regions.
Schengen visa holders, as well as UK, US and European Union countries are eligible for the instant eVisa.
Saudi has progressively attracted new airlift in recent years including several new UK routes.
Saudia, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and WizzAir operates regular routes between Saudi and the UK from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester.
These include direct flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Neom Bay.
There are now 51 inbound flights operating weekly to and from the UK.
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Learn more about : Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) ( Asia Pecific ) Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) ( N. America ) Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) ( United Kingdom )
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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