Pakistan, May 16 -- Saudi Arabia's Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb has announced that the kingdom is working to make tourism as vital to its economy as oil by 2030. Speaking at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh, he highlighted how the country is being recognized globally for its stunning mountain ranges, Red Sea islands, and rich hospitality culture.

Since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has made major strides in reducing its reliance on oil and developing a more diverse economy. Al-Khateeb noted that tourism and hospitality have grown rapidly, with tourist numbers rising from 50 million in 2019 to 115 million in 2024-surpassing original targets set for 2030.

He proudly shared that Saudi Arabia was among the to...