RIYADH: According to a senior government source, Saudi Arabia’s constantly expanding sports offers have brought in about 2.5 million tourists over the previous four years. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb claimed in a Linkedin post that the Kingdom’s hosting of 80 international events during that time has contributed to the transformation of the Saudi economy. The minister claims that since its 2021 premiere in Jeddah, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix alone has attracted spectators from 160 nations, produced SR900 million ($240 million) in economic effect, and created 20,000 employment.
Sports tourism is helping Saudi Arabia achieve its Vision 2030 objectives, which include lowering its dependency on oil and growing its tourist industry, which is expected to reach 150 million visitors annually by the end of the decade. According to Al-Khateeb, “sports tourism is a pillar of transformation for Saudi Arabia, deeply embedded in Saudi Vision 2030.”
The minister emphasized the Kingdom’s crucial position in the worldwide economy, which currently contributes 10% of global tourism spending and is expected to increase by 17.5% by 2030. Formula E, the Saudi Pro-Golf Championship, the WWE Super Showdown, and the Battle of the Champions are some of the major international events held in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it has hosted the Saudi International Meeting for Disabilities Sport, the E-Prix, and the International Handball Federation Super Globe.
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