International arrivals to Saudi surge by nearly half

This marks the latest growth milestone in Saudi’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy.

A tenet of the strategy is a commitment to responsible tourism and showcasing its rich heritage and nature.

The tourism growth has been driven by relaxed visa initiatives, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries and regions.

Schengen visa holders, as well as UK, US and European Union countries are eligible for the instant eVisa.

Saudi has progressively attracted new airlift in recent years including several new UK routes.

Saudia, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and WizzAir operates regular routes between Saudi and the UK from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester.

These include direct flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Neom Bay.

There are now 51 inbound flights operating weekly to and from the UK.