Imagine, 30 billion tourist trips by 2034. Yep! The world of travel is on the brink of an unprecedented boom, and the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, is at the forefront of this surge.
According to a fresh report from the World Economic Forum (WEF), produced in collaboration with Kearney and the Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia, tourism is set to outpace global economic growth. We’re talking a colossal $16 trillion contribution to global GDP by 2034, representing over 11% of the entire world economy, according to WTTC estimates. This isn’t just big. It’s a monumental shift.
And right at the heart of this accelerating momentum is Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom isn’t just a destination – it’s emerging as a global force in tourism transformation, driving innovation, investment, and sustainability. As the WEF report puts it: “With its bold Vision 2030, strategic leadership, and record-breaking visitor numbers, Saudi Arabia is redefining how countries can leverage tourism for inclusive prosperity, cultural diplomacy, and long-term resilience.”
Where the travel tsunami is hitting
While Saudi Arabia shines bright as the second fastest-growing tourism destination, this explosion isn’t confined to the Arabian Peninsula. Globally, Asia is set to become the world’s fastest-growing tourism economy, with its direct travel and tourism GDP contribution expected to exceed 7% by 2034.
And incredibly, India and China alone will represent more than 25% of all outbound international travel by 2030. Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Indonesia are also flexing their tourism muscles with significant investments.
But it’s not just about where people are going, it’s how and why.
High-growth segments like sports tourism are projected to hit $1.7 trillion by 2032, and the ecotourism sector is galloping along at a 14% CAGR, totally reshaping travel priorities. And to keep up with this monumental demand, our travel industry needs to build an estimated 7 million new hotel rooms and facilitate 15 million additional flights annually! The travel tech market, already at $10.5 billion in 2024, is set to nearly double by 2033, with 91% of industry tech leaders ready to pour in aggressive investments.
Risks and the need for a bold rethink
Hold your horses, though – it’s not all sunshine and selfies. The report highlights some serious hurdles. Travel and tourism currently account for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that could skyrocket to 15% by 2034 without intervention. Plus, the waste generated by tourists is expected to reach a staggering 205 million tonnes annually – that’s 7% of the world’s solid waste! And let’s not forget the ever-escalating workforce shortages, with astronomical turnover rates in key markets.
According to the WEF, if we don’t act decisively and together, the sector could face up to $6 trillion in lost revenue by 2030 from future disruptions. This is where the wisdom of the experts comes in.
“As global travel accelerates, we are standing at a pivotal crossroads. The sector’s potential to drive inclusive prosperity, cultural understanding and environmental regeneration is immense—but realizing this opportunity will require more than incremental change. It calls for a bold reimagining of the systems that underpin travel and tourism, anchored in multistakeholder collaboration.” – Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, urging the industry to “redesign the rules to create a sector that works better for people and the planet.”
Saudi Arabia: a blueprint for tomorrow’s tourism
Leading this reimagining charge is Saudi Arabia.
“This report cements a global truth: tourism is not just a siloed, standalone industry – it is an engine for economic growth, cultural understanding, and international cooperation that influences all aspects of the world’s experience-driven economy.” – Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
He adds that Saudi Arabia is “investing in regenerative destinations, future-ready infrastructure, and talent development – not only to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030, but to help shape and support the future of global tourism. The story being written about tourism of the future is one of transformation, and we invite the world to be part of it.”
“Tourism is a powerful driver of jobs, culture and economic growth around the world. As the industry grows to meet the needs of billions more travellers, it also needs to evolve. That means using technology responsibly, supporting workers and small businesses, protecting the planet, and making sure local communities truly benefit.” – Bob Willen, Managing Partner and Chairman at Kearney
He stresses that the report’s principles lay out “a practical path forward from investing in greener infrastructure and building a more inclusive workforce, to preserving cultural heritage and planning for future crises. It’s about creating a travel and tourism sector that’s not just bigger, but works in everyone’s interests.”
Relevance for travel providers and advisors
The global travel landscape isn’t just changing – it’s transforming at warp speed. Saudi Arabia and its regional counterparts are leading the charge, redefining what’s possible in tourism. The real question isn’t whether to join this incredible journey, but how swiftly and strategically you’ll adapt to harness its immense promise.
In short, this is your essential blueprint for success in the coming decade. Why? Let’s break it down:
- Explosive inventory growth: Brace yourselves for an avalanche of new hotels, resorts, and unique experiences, particularly in Saudi Arabia and across Asia. This isn’t just growth; it’s unlocking massive selling points and unprecedented commission opportunities for you.
- Emerging client & market dominance: India and China are poised to drive outbound travel like never before. Simultaneously, demand for niche experiences such as sports tourism, eco-tourism, and highly personalized trips is soaring. Position your offerings now to capture these colossal, diverse markets.
- Tech-powered partnerships: The industry’s unprecedented growth (a staggering 30 billion trips projected!) demands a cutting-edge, tech-savvy approach. Invest in robust platforms and forge stronger, strategic ties with DMOs, local operators, and tech providers to truly capitalise on this boom.
There’s no question the future of global travel is being written in the Middle East, so make sure your business is part of the story!
