Saudi Arabia Records 16% Surge in Domestic Tourism with Nearly 30 Million Trips in Q1 2026

In the first quarter of 2026, Saudi Arabia has set new benchmarks in its travel industry, experiencing a remarkable 16% surge in domestic tourism, with nearly 30 million trips recorded and an impressive SAR34.7 billion spent. This growth can be attributed to several key factors, including the nation’s expanding infrastructure, increasing appeal of local destinations, and strategic initiatives to boost domestic travel. As the Kingdom continues to diversify its economy and position itself as a global tourism hub, these figures reflect the rising demand for both leisure and religious travel, driven by a growing confidence in the country’s tourism offerings and a flourishing economy. Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the first quarter of 2026, setting new records and positioning the nation as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets. Domestic tourism numbers have reached impressive heights, and the hospitality industry has experienced strong demand, with both traditional accommodations and serviced apartments experiencing a notable uptick. Alongside these growth figures, the Saudi Tourism Authority has committed to ambitious long-term goals aimed at turning the country into a global tourism hub. Let’s take a closer look at the key developments that have defined Saudi Arabia’s tourism journey so far in 2026.