Saudi records up to 52% growth in tourism registrations; tourist lodges lead

Saudi Arabia's tourism sector continued to record growth in 2026, with commercial registrations across several tourism-related activities increasing by between 32% and 52%, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Tourist lodges recorded the highest annual growth of 52%, with registrations reaching 18,115 by the end of the third quarter of 2026, compared with 11,900 during the corresponding period in 2025.

Commercial registrations for tourist accommodation facilities also witnessed a significant increase, rising 37% to 18,956, against 13,819 in the same period last year. 

The ministry attributed the growth to expanding business opportunities across the tourism sector, noting that the increase in commercial activity is supporting trade, encouraging the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enabling businesses to capitalise on Saudi Arabia's diverse tourism attractions.