Saudi Arabia Sees Surge in Heritage Tourism with 6.5 Million Visitors in 2024

Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s cultural and historical landmarks welcomed approximately 6.5 million visitors in 2024, according to the Ministry of Culture — a strong indicator of growing local and international interest in the Kingdom’s heritage.

In a major preservation effort, the Ministry also announced the registration of over 25,000 architectural heritage sites across the country. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to document and safeguard Saudi Arabia’s tangible cultural assets.

The Heritage Commission, operating under the Ministry of Culture, continued its nationwide surveys and documentation campaigns throughout 2024. These efforts led to the addition of over 1,100 new sites to the National Register of Architectural Heritage, raising the total to 3,646.

Among the documented locations are significant heritage sites in Historic Jeddah, Najran, Asir, and Tabuk. Newly discovered heritage villages and cultural centers were surveyed using advanced technologies, including digital scanning and drone mapping.

Cultural destinations such as Diriyah, AlUla, and Historic Jeddah emerged as top tourist draws, fueled by a vibrant calendar of cultural festivals, exhibitions, and seasonal events.

The Ministry noted that the report signals a positive shift in public awareness and appreciation for national heritage. This transformation aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which identifies culture and heritage as central to sustainable development and key to positioning the Kingdom as a prominent player on the global cultural stage.