Tourism sector sees surge in commercial registrations, says Ministry of Commerce
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce reports a sharp rise in tourism sector business registrations for 2026, led by a 52% jump in tourist lodges.
Key Takeaways
AIThe Ministry of Commerce has reported significant growth in economic activity within Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector in 2026, with existing commercial registrations rising by between 32% and 52% across several activities.
According to the ministry, commercial registrations for tourist lodges grew by 52% over the year, reaching 18,115 by the end of the third quarter of 2026, compared to 11,900 during the same period in 2025.
Registrations for tourist accommodation facilities also increased by 37%, totaling 18,956 compared to 13,819 in the corresponding period last year.
The number of commercial registrations for tour guides rose by 33%, reaching 7,735 by the end of the third quarter of 2026, up from 5,784 in 2025. Similarly, registrations for tour operators grew by 32% to 11,949, compared to 9,057 in the same period the previous year.
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The Ministry of Commerce emphasized that the growth in tourism-related economic activity reflects expanding opportunities for the business sector, stimulates commercial activity, and supports the growth of small and medium enterprises. The ministry highlighted Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism assets, including its strategic location and natural, geographic, and cultural variety, which enhance the Kingdom’s appeal as a promising global tourism destination.