Saudi Arabia recorded a growth rate of 8.2% in inbound visitor spending that topped SR92.6 billion ($24 billion) during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, a report said, citing the kingdom’s Ministry of Tourism.

Saudi Arabia also posted a surplus in the travel account of around SR41.6 billion, Saudi Gazette said.

The growth in spending by inbound visitors to Saudi Arabia reflects the significant progress made by the tourism sector, the ministry said.

According to UN Tourism, Saudi Arabia led G20 countries in international tourist arrivals and in the growth rate of international tourism receipts in the first seven months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019.

Furthermore, the data underscores the success of the tourism ecosystem in positioning the sector as a global leader. This achievement has been attributed to adopting best practices in tourism development, enhancing tourism-related services and products, and collaborating with government entities to drive the growth of the Kingdom's tourism sector.