Saturday, June 21, 2025
Saudi Arabia is rapidly establishing itself as a global tourism leader, with Medina, its holy city, playing a central role in this transformation. In 2024, Medina welcomed more than 18 million visitors, an impressive 18.7 percent increase over the previous year, according to a recent report from the Medina Chamber of Commerce. This surge reflects Medina’s growing prominence, not only as a significant religious center but also as a hub for cultural and historical tourism. The city’s remarkable rise underscores Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to diversify its economy under the Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to boost the tourism sector and reduce reliance on oil revenues.
Medina’s tourism sector has been on a steady upward trajectory. The number of visitors increased from 8.2 million in 2022 to 14.1 million in 2023, and now, with 18 million visitors in 2024, the city has clearly become a sought-after destination. The expansion of key tourism-related sectors—such as accommodation, travel agencies, and tour operations—has been a major contributor to this growth, with these industries seeing an 18.7 percent increase in 2024. This surge has not only driven spending within the tourism industry but has also created numerous job opportunities, supporting Medina’s economic development.
Medina’s appeal to tourists is deeply rooted in its historical and religious significance. As the second holiest city in Islam, after Mecca, Medina draws millions of Muslim pilgrims each year, particularly to the iconic Prophet’s Mosque. However, the city’s appeal is no longer limited to religious tourism. Medina is increasingly attracting visitors who are interested in its rich cultural and historical offerings. With approximately 400 key religious, historical, and cultural landmarks, Medina provides a unique blend of spirituality, history, and culture that appeals to both pilgrims and non-pilgrims alike.
The Prophet’s Mosque remains the city’s most significant religious site, but Medina offers much more to explore. The city boasts a range of historic mosques, museums, and cultural exhibitions that allow visitors to experience Medina’s profound Islamic heritage. The city’s growing collection of modern exhibitions, including Islamic art and artifacts, further enhances its status as a destination for those eager to explore the cultural depths of the Islamic world.
A key factor in Medina’s growing popularity is the ongoing restoration of its historical sites. The city has made significant efforts to rehabilitate ancient landmarks, including wells, valleys, and archaeological sites. These newly restored sites are now open to the public, offering an enriching experience for tourists and deepening their connection to the city’s past. According to the Medina Chamber of Commerce, these restoration efforts have become a major catalyst for the city’s tourism growth, drawing more visitors interested in exploring Medina’s historical and cultural heritage.
The city’s tourism growth is also supported by its improving infrastructure. The Medina International Airport has undergone extensive upgrades to accommodate the increasing number of visitors, ensuring that travel to and from the city is both convenient and efficient. The development of new hotels and accommodation options is another key factor driving Medina’s tourism sector. From affordable lodgings to luxurious resorts, these accommodations cater to a wide range of visitors, from religious pilgrims to tourists exploring the city’s cultural and historical offerings.
The government of Saudi Arabia is actively supporting Medina’s tourism expansion as part of the Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and position it as a global tourism hub. As part of this effort, the Saudi government has invested heavily in the city’s tourism infrastructure. The expansion of transportation systems, including public transport and airport facilities, has improved accessibility to Medina, while new tourism services have made it easier for visitors to explore the city’s many attractions.
Cultural tourism in Medina is rapidly gaining traction, as the city’s historical and cultural assets attract a growing number of international visitors. Medina’s museums, galleries, and cultural festivals offer tourists the chance to experience the city’s unique heritage firsthand. Exhibits on the life of Prophet Muhammad, along with displays of Islamic art and culture, provide valuable insights into Medina’s central role in the history of Islam. These cultural offerings, combined with the city’s vibrant arts scene, are helping Medina evolve into a cultural tourism destination that appeals to a wide variety of travelers.
Medina’s investment in restoring and preserving its historical sites plays a significant role in its rise as a cultural tourism hotspot. These restoration projects have helped the city reclaim some of its most treasured landmarks, offering tourists a rare glimpse into the ancient history of Islam. Sites such as historic wells, valleys, and archaeological digs are now open to the public, providing visitors with an authentic experience of Medina’s past. The rehabilitation of these sites has made Medina a living museum, where the past is preserved and shared with future generations.
The economic impact of Medina’s growing tourism sector is substantial. As more visitors flock to the city, spending in industries like hospitality, retail, and transportation has risen significantly. This has created new opportunities for local businesses and increased demand for services. The Medina Chamber of Commerce has highlighted how tourism is driving economic growth in the region, with local businesses thriving and new job opportunities emerging in the tourism sector.
Medina’s tourism growth also mirrors a broader trend in Saudi Arabia, where tourism is becoming an increasingly important driver of economic growth. The Kingdom is actively working to diversify its economy, and Medina plays a key role in this shift. The city’s combination of religious, cultural, and historical offerings positions it as a top-tier destination in Saudi Arabia’s tourism portfolio. Whether for religious pilgrimage or cultural exploration, Medina offers visitors a rich, multifaceted experience.
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Medina is positioned to continue growing as a key tourism destination. The city’s religious and historical significance, combined with its expanding cultural offerings and modern amenities, make it an attractive choice for both domestic and international travelers. With the government’s ongoing investments in infrastructure and tourism services, Medina is set to remain a major player in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.
Looking ahead, Medina’s tourism sector will continue to flourish as the city’s unique combination of spiritual, cultural, and historical offerings attracts more visitors. With its strong emphasis on preserving its heritage, developing new tourism products, and enhancing visitor experiences, Medina is set to solidify its place as one of the world’s most important and dynamic tourism destinations. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy is expected to further accelerate this growth, ensuring that Medina remains a key pillar of the Kingdom’s broader economic and tourism goals.
