Saudi Arabia’s Sports Tourism Soars with 2.5M Visitors & Conducted 80 Plus International Events 

Saudi Arabia has now become one of the major sport tourism hubs on the international stage with 2.5 million sports tourists received over the last four years and more than 80 international sporting events hosted. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khatteb stated the economy, job growth as well as global recognition of the Kingdom’s investments in sports are to achieve Vision 2030. 

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Though the Jeddah Formula 1 Grand Prix played an important role in this sphere. The Grand Prix has pulled and attracted visitors from 160 countries, raised the economic impact by SAR 900 million and created 20,000 job opportunities. It was among other events like the WWE Super Showdown, Saudi Pro-Golf Championship, Formula E and International Handball Federation Super Globe. 

Looking further, towards 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to see 150 million international tourists. The country is also preparing to host the historic 2034 FIFA World Cup, thereby re-emphasizing its deep involvement in sports development. 

“With 60 percent of the world’s population within an eight-hour flight, this positions us to deliver one of the most accessible and connected tournaments in history,” said Al-Khatteb.

With continued investments in infrastructure, youth development and women’s sports, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a global leader in sports tourism.