Mbombela – September 13, 2025 (BETH)
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Tourism, participated in the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting and the inaugural Tourism Investment Summit, held for the first time in South Africa (Mbombela and Cape Town). During its participation, the Kingdom reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism, underscoring its global leadership in the sector.

The Kingdom’s Address

Her Royal Highness Princess Haifa bint Mohammed, Deputy Minister of Tourism, represented the Kingdom at the meeting and emphasized Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global tourism. She stressed that cooperation and idea-sharing are key to placing sustainability at the heart of tourism development, noting the launch of (TOURIZE) — the first global platform for continuous collaboration and tangible impact. She invited the world to join the first edition of the forum this November.

HRH further stated: “Tourism has the power to change people’s lives, transform economies, and bring the world together. Through Vision 2030, we demonstrate that tourism is not only a driver of economic prosperity but also a catalyst for inclusive social progress — achievable only through collective action and bold initiatives.”

International Engagement

As a permanent G20 member, Saudi Arabia contributed to shaping the final ministerial communiqué.

The Kingdom’s global tourism priorities included: sustainability, digital transformation, inclusivity, and skills development.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Princess Haifa hosted a ministerial dinner under the auspices of (TOURIZE), promoting the forum as a new global platform dedicated to the tourism sector.

Domestic Achievements

Saudi Arabia has consolidated its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.

The Kingdom welcomed nearly 116 million visitors in 2024 (a 6% increase from 2023), surpassing the milestone of 100 million visitors annually for the second consecutive year.

This growth was driven by major investments in tourism destinations, infrastructure development, air connectivity, and mega-projects such as NEOM, Diriyah, and Qiddiya.

Conclusion – BETH Analysis

Saudi Arabia continues to set new benchmarks for global tourism:

Economically: Diversifying income through a pioneering tourism industry.

Socially: Empowering national talent and strengthening inclusivity.

Globally: Building strategic partnerships with leading organizations that cement the Kingdom’s role as a global hub for tourism, investment, and innovation.