Saudi tourism businesses expand across key sectors

Dhaka: Saudi Arabia recorded strong growth in tourism-related businesses in 2026, with commercial registrations across four key activities increasing by between 32 percent and 52 percent by the end of the third quarter, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

Tourist lodges posted the largest increase, rising 52 percent year-on-year to 18,115 registrations, compared with 11,900 during the same period in 2025.

Registrations for tourist accommodation facilities climbed 37 percent to 18,956, up from 13,819 a year earlier. The tour guide sector also expanded, with registrations increasing 33 percent to 7,735 from 5,784.

Meanwhile, businesses involved in tour organization recorded a 32 percent rise, bringing the total number of registrations to 11,949, compared with 9,057 in the third quarter of 2025.

The ministry said the expansion reflects growing investment opportunities as Saudi Arabia develops its tourism industry under the Vision 2030 economic diversification program.

It added that rising business activity could support small and medium-sized enterprises, generate commercial opportunities and encourage greater use of the Kingdom's tourism resources.

Saudi Arabia is seeking to capitalize on its geographic position, varied landscapes and cultural heritage to strengthen its appeal to international visitors.

The latest figures indicate continued growth in the country's tourism business ecosystem, spanning accommodation, guiding and tour organization services.