His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, Mr. Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khatib, explained during his participation in the Future of Real Estate Forum that the Kingdom’s expansion in implementing major projects aims to develop the tourism sector, attract investments, and compete for the 1.7 billion tourists worldwide who are seeking experiences that the Kingdom has to offer.

During his participation today in a panel discussion titled “Leading the Transformation in the Real Estate Industry” as part of the Future of Real Estate Forum, that through these major projects, the Kingdom aspires to reach 150 million visitors by 2030, with the tourism sector aiming to contribute 750 billion riyals to the national economy.

Entry of Major Hotel Chains

The Minister of Tourism noted that the quality of upcoming projects related to hospitality facilities is very high, whether in hotels or resorts; noting that the ministry has signed multiple agreements to bring in major hotel chains, ensuring that the Kingdom will have the finest hospitality facilities available.

During his participation in the panel discussion at the Future of Real Estate Forum that all unlicensed facilities providing substandard services—including more than 250 hotels in Makkah—were shut down in 2023, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to raising the quality of services provided.

Achievements in the Tourism Sector

His Excellency noted that the achievements in the tourism sector confirm the success of the strategies and plans that have been put in place, pointing out that in 2023, the tourism sector’s contribution rose to 4.5% of the gross domestic product, and 7% of total oil output, in addition to creating numerous jobs.

His Excellency the Minister of Tourism concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of involving the human element in the tourism sector, adding that there is very high demand among the nation’s sons and daughters to work in this sector.