Saudi Arabia welcomes 37.2M domestic, int’l tourists in Q1 2026: Ministry

Saudi Arabia received nearly 37.2 million domestic and international tourists in Q1 2026, with tourism spending estimated at SAR 82.7 billion, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Tourism.

Of that total, domestic tourists accounted for about 28.9 million, representing a growth of approximately 16%, compared to the same period in 2025. Domestic tourism spending during the same period reached SAR 34.7 billion, an increase of around 8%.

The ministry noted that these figures reflected strong domestic demand and its continued contribution to supporting the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

Hospitality facilities recorded an average occupancy rate of 59%, with Madinah leading at 82%, followed by Makkah at 60%, and Jeddah at 59%.

During the school holiday season for Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr, domestic tourist numbers reached around 10 million, up 14% on annual basis. Further, tourism spending totaled SAR 10.2 billion, a 5% increase compared to the same period last year.

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Alkhateeb tweeted that the growth in domestic tourism demonstrates that the sector has the necessary capabilities and local demand drivers to navigate current conditions with confidence and stability, while sustaining long-term growth potential.