Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has announced record-breaking results for the “Saudi Summer” program, welcoming over 32 million domestic and international tourists, a 26 percent increase compared to the 2024 summer season.

Tourist spending also hit new heights, with total expenditures reaching SR53.2 billion ($14.2 billion), marking a 15 percent year-on-year rise. The southern Asir region saw remarkable growth, particularly from Gulf Cooperation Council visitors, with arrivals surging 49 percent over last summer. The success underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to develop its tourism sector in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to establish the Kingdom as a premier global travel destination.

Launched in June by Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the Saudi Summer program — under the theme “Color Your Summer” — highlighted six diverse destinations, including coastal escapes in Jeddah and the Red Sea, and mountainous retreats in Taif, Al-Baha, and Asir.  Major events included the Esports World Cup, along with Jeddah and Asir Seasons, offering a wide array of activities and cultural shows.