Saudi Arabia Sees 168 Precent Surge in Licensed Tour Guides in 2024
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Ministry of Tourism announced a significant increase in the number of licensed tour guides across Saudi Arabia in 2024, issuing 3,284 licenses — a 168 percent rise from the 1,221 licenses granted in 2023.
Makkah led all regions with 986 licenses, followed by Riyadh with 665, and Madinah with 477. Other notable figures include Tabuk (337), the Eastern Region (319), and Aseer (252).
This dramatic growth reflects the Ministry’s sustained efforts to develop and regulate the tourism sector, aligning with the Kingdom’s broader strategy to position Saudi Arabia as a global tourism destination.
The Ministry attributed the increase to a streamlined licensing process aimed at enhancing the quality of services provided to both domestic and international tourists. The initiative supports the robust expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, which continues to see rising visitor numbers and growing demand for skilled tourism professionals.
