Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market

Market Overview:

Saudi Arabia luxury travel market size reached USD 12.9 Billion in ​2024​. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 22.2 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.83% during 2025-2033. The integration of technology in the travel industry, which has enhanced the overall travel experience by offering seamless booking processes, digital concierge services, and other tech-driven conveniences, is driving the market.

Luxury travel embodies a wealthy and exclusive experience, transcending conventional journeys by offering unparalleled comfort, personalized service, and lavish amenities. It goes beyond the ordinary, focusing on creating extraordinary moments tailored to individual preferences. From sumptuous accommodations in high-end resorts to private transportation and curated experiences, luxury travel caters to the discerning traveler seeking sophistication and indulgence. Exquisite cuisine, immersive cultural encounters, and seamless attention to detail characterize this elite form of exploration. Whether it's a secluded tropical retreat, a lavish city escape, or an adventurous expedition with a touch of extravagance, luxury travel crafts a seamless fusion of comfort and adventure, ensuring that every aspect of the journey becomes a treasured memory. It's about transcending the ordinary and embracing a lifestyle of refinement and exclusivity.

Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market Trends:

Fulfillment of Vision 2030 and National Tourism Strategy

Saudi Arabia is in the process of implementing its Vision 2030 and National Tourism Strategy, which are reshaping the kingdom as a luxury global travel destination. As per the Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia, the country recorded unprecedented growth in spending by international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 9.7% rise from the corresponding period in 2024. Moreover, the government is focusing on luxury tourism infrastructure, such as the construction of giga-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and AlUla. These projects are fusing ultra-contemporary luxury with real cultural experience. Concurrently, the state is opening up the nation with liberalized visa policies, focusing on high-end foreign visitors. It is also investing in cultural conservation and international hospitality standards, which entice high-end tourists interested in exclusivity and cultural richness. By framing itself as an up-and-coming premium destination, Saudi Arabia is repositioning globally and drawing regional elites and global high-net-worth travelers alike. This strategic realignment is not only propelling economic diversification but also igniting long-term demand in the luxury travel market through the development of unique, high-end, experience-based products.

Developing Ultra-Luxury Hospitality Infrastructure

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in developing its ultra-luxury hospitality infrastructure to cater to the increasing aspirations of high-end travelers. Global luxury hotel brands are launching boutique-style resorts in areas that were previously inaccessible or unknown. These properties are providing personalized experiences, private villas, individual butler services, and experiential wellness programs that meet the needs of high-end customers. The government and private industry are co-investing in the supporting infrastructure for this growth, such as luxury marinas, helipads, and private airstrips. They are also doing this while ensuring that developments are in keeping with sustainability and environmental conservation requirements, which are increasingly required of contemporary luxury travel. This growth is also building competitive differentiation, placing Saudi Arabia on par with developed luxury travel destinations. Through continually pushing the quality and exclusivity of its offerings, the kingdom is taking a large chunk of the international luxury tourism market. In 2025, Red Sea Global (RSG), the company responsible for regenerative tourism projects The Red Sea and AMAALA, has reported that the initial resorts and attractions on Shura Island will start welcoming guests in the next few weeks. The initial phase of the launch features the opening of SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental hotels, in addition to Shura Links, Saudi Arabia's premier island golf course. This moment signifies a significant achievement for RSG as it advances Vision 2030’s goals for national transformation and economic diversification for the citizens of Saudi Arabia, while also showcasing the potential of regenerative tourism.

Attending to Cultural and Experiential Travel Trends

Saudi Arabia is focusing on shifting towards cultural and experiential tourism, which is transforming luxury in the tourism business. Tourists are increasingly demanding rich, narrative-driven experiences rather than materialism, and Saudi Arabia is utilizing its rich cultural legacy, historical landmarks, and traditional authenticity to respond to demand. Tourists are engaging in guided experiences such as exclusive tours of UNESCO-listed sites, Bedouin-guided desert excursions, and special art and music events. Religious tourism is also being encouraged through luxury services for wealthy pilgrims traveling to Mecca and Medina. The experiences are being tailored to offer cultural immersion along with high-end comfort. In 2024, Saudi Arabia's national tourism brand, ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’, unveiled “Where Winter Lights Up”, the second phase of the renowned global Saudi tourism initiative “This Land is Calling”. Inviting travelers from all corners of the globe to explore Saudi's myths and marvels this winter season, “Where Winter Lights Up” serves as a call to begin a journey of exploration across various locations like Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Red Sea. The event calendar will take place from October 2024 until the conclusion of the first quarter of 2025. In AlUla, from December 8, 2024, to January 7, 2025, guests can partake in the Ancient Kingdoms Festival, which honors the area's vibrant history and cultural legacy through engaging activities featuring live shows, art displays, and gourmet experiences.

Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market Growth Drivers:

Enlisting High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) from Emerging Markets

Saudi Arabia is purposefully enlisting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) from both traditional Western markets and emerging markets like China, India, and the Gulf countries. It's rebranding itself as a luxury portal for high-end travelers who are looking for fresh, off-the-beaten-path destinations. The kingdom is improving its global air connectivity via premium carriers and codesharing, providing private jet arrivals and departures with concierge-level service. Meanwhile, it's providing bespoke experiences such as yacht charters, desert safaris complete with Michelin-grade dining, and VIP access to cultural events. These products are appealing to a new generation of global travelers who demand prestige, privacy, and novelty. Saudi Arabia is targeting these audiences through focused marketing campaigns and luxury roadshows. Accessing this burgeoning, mobile elite market, the country is building its luxury travel base, guaranteeing long-term market growth.

Seizing Sports and Entertainment as Luxury Drivers

Saudi Arabia is leveraging high-profile sports and entertainment events as strong drivers of luxury travel expansion. The government is welcoming Formula 1 racing, LIV Golf championships, and high-profile boxing matches, creating a spectator base that demands luxury accommodations, VIP access, and luxury experiences. At the same time, concerts by international performers and movie festivals are attracting high disposable-income cultural tourists. These experiences are being crafted to feature ultra-luxurious experiences—reserved lounges, VIP hospitality suites, back-of-house passes, and bespoke post-event itineraries. The blending of luxury tourism with event-driven travel is generating new revenue streams and establishing the country as an upscale lifestyle destination. Event organizers are joining with five-star hotels and bespoke concierge companies to provide smooth, luxury packages. By investing relentlessly in marquee events and pairing them with luxury experiences, Saudi Arabia is luring high-end tourists seeking entertainment and quality-of-service on par with their own rank, further cementing its status as a luxury destination.

Wellness and Eco-Luxury Experience Promotions

Saudi Arabia is capitalizing on the international wellness and eco-luxury travel movement by developing spaces that interweave luxury with sustainability and individual wellness. The Red Sea Project, for example, is providing environment friendly luxury resorts with wellness spas, underwater discovery, and nature-infused architecture. The traveler is participating in desert yoga retreats, spa treatments derived from indigenous ingredients, and nature-oriented therapy in untouched coastal and mountain landscapes. The change indicates an increasing desire among high-income travelers for activities that cater to body and soul. The government is encouraging developers to implement green building design and renewable energy consumption, which resonates with environmentally conscious luxury consumers. Simultaneously, local communities are engaged in the provision of such services, providing authenticity as well as social value. By promoting wellness and sustainability as part of luxury, Saudi Arabia is tapping into a fast-emerging cohort of travelers who place high values on health, sustainability, and wholeness.

Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for ​2025-2033​. Our report has categorized the market based on type of tour, age group, and type of traveller.

Type of Tour Insights:

• Customized and Private Vacation
• Adventure and Safari
• Cruise and Ship Expedition
• Small Group Journey
• Celebration and Special Event
• Culinary Travel and Shopping

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type of tour. This includes customized and private vacation, adventure and safari, cruise and ship expedition, small group journey, celebration and special event, and culinary travel and shopping.

Age Group Insights:

• Millennial (21-30)
• Generation X (31-40)
• Baby Boomers (41-60)
• Silver Hair (60 and above)

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the age group have also been provided in the report. This includes millennial (21-30), generation X (31-40), baby boomers (41-60), and silver hair (60 and above).

Type of Traveller Insights:

• Absolute Luxury
• Aspiring Luxury
• Accessible Luxury

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type of traveller. This includes absolute luxury, aspiring luxury, and accessible luxury.

Regional Insights:

• Northern and Central Region
• Western Region
• Eastern Region
• Southern Region

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include Northern and Central Region, Western Region, Eastern Region, and Southern Region.

Competitive Landscape:

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Competitive analysis such as market structure, key player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided.

Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market News:

• August 2025: Developer Red Sea Global (RSG) and the emerging airline Riyadh Air have partnered to boost luxury tourism in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration may improve access to luxury locations like Shebara and Desert Rock, while Riyadh Air plans to provide exclusive deals and packages for the resorts.
• July 2025: For its unparalleled opulence and tranquil beauty, Aman, a top-tier global hotel brand, has unveiled two remarkable new ventures designed to transform the concept of getaway. The brand's recent statements indicate a major growth in both land and sea through the launch of Amansamar, a high-end desert resort and residential project situated in the stunning terrains of Wadi Safar close to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, along with Amangati, Aman’s inaugural luxury motor yacht, which will navigate the Mediterranean starting in 2027.
• May 2025: Louvre Hotels Group in the MENA Region (LHG), a prominent hospitality management group, reveals its plans to expand its regional portfolio with multiple new openings scheduled for 2026. This includes the eagerly awaited opening of Tulip Residences at The Village Muscat, offering both short and long-term stay hybrid choices, along with the arrival of the Kyriad brand in Saudi Arabia featuring a group of 3 hotels in Madinah set to launch soon. Louvre Hotels Group is introducing its conversion-friendly Kyriad brand in Saudi Arabia, with 2,000 keys slated for launch under the Kyriad Eco, Kyriad, and Kyriad Prestige brands. These establishments will meet an increasing need for quality budget to midrange hospitality, providing adaptable lodgings aimed at both leisure and business travelers.
• April 2025: Red Sea Global (RSG), the organization responsible for regenerative tourism projects AMAALA and The Red Sea, has launched Nammos Resort AMAALA, establishing a new benchmark for luxury in the Red Sea area. This collaboration signifies Nammos Hotels & Resorts' inaugural hotel beyond Greece, introducing its celebrated Cycladic charm and globally acclaimed hospitality to Saudi Arabia. Nestled in the beautiful Triple Bay and featuring spectacular views of the ocean and Hijaz Cove, Nammos Resort AMAALA is set to welcome guests later this year, promising an unmatched experience characterized by elegant design, outstanding amenities, and a seamless fusion of Mykonian and Hijazi styles.
• February 2025: Rocco Forte Hotels is exploring expansion into Saudi Arabia, targeting prospective sites along the Red Sea and in Riyadh, as stated by the company’s executive chairman. Along with its Saudi Arabia ambitions, Rocco Forte Hotels is also expanding its international presence, with five new hotels under construction in Italy, including a new property in Milan set to launch in November.

Saudi Arabia Luxury Travel Market Report Coverage:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Saudi Arabia luxury travel market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Saudi Arabia luxury travel market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Saudi Arabia luxury travel industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.