The sector grew at nearly twice the global rate of 4.1 percent and significantly above the Middle East average of 5.3 percent, reflecting increased investment and policy focus under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the economy beyond oil.Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb said the growth underscores the impact of sustained investment in destinations, infrastructure and connectivity, adding that the sector is delivering measurable economic returns.

Saudi Arabia has already exceeded its earlier target of attracting 100 million visitors and is now aiming for 150 million annually by the end of the decade. The sector’s $178 billion contribution accounts for nearly half of the Middle East’s total tourism GDP, positioning the Kingdom as the region’s largest market.

International visitor spending rose 8.2 percent in 2025, compared with a global average of 3.2 percent, highlighting strong inbound demand. The WTTC said business travel was a key driver, with spending increasing by more than 55 percent, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a hub for corporate events and investment activity.

WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said the region’s performance demonstrated the sector’s importance for economic growth, employment and international connectivity.

Across the region, the United Arab Emirates recorded tourism GDP of $68.5 billion, while Jordan and Oman each posted growth of 5.5 percent, with international visitor spending reaching $8.5 billion and $4 billion respectively.

The visit underscores Jordan’s growing role as a hub for stability, peace, and sustainable economic development in the Middle East while opening new avenues for investment and cooperation with Europe.

A Mission to Strengthen Economic and Diplomatic Ties

King Abdullah’s visit seeks to build on Jordan’s long-standing partnership with Europe, with a strong focus on trade, investment, and green innovation.

According to Ali Murad, president of the European Chamber of Commerce (Eurocham) in Jordan, the meetings are designed to position Jordan as a reliable and strategic regional partner, particularly in industries that align with Europe’s development priorities — such as renewable energy, technology, tourism, and advanced manufacturing.

Murad emphasized that the European market is vital for Jordan’s economic growth, as the EU remains one of Jordan’s largest trading partners.

He noted that expanding access to European markets, improving export potential, and fostering private-sector partnerships will be key discussion points during the King’s meetings with EU leaders.

“Jordan’s growing cooperation with Europe reflects the country’s stability, transparency, and readiness to attract high-value investments,” Murad said.

“Through this visit, His Majesty is reaffirming Jordan’s position as a bridge between Europe and the Arab world.”

Advancing Regional Peace and Stability

In addition to economic diplomacy, King Abdullah’s European tour carries a powerful message of peace and regional stability.

During his meeting in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

Both sides emphasized the importance of ensuring that all parties — including Israel and Hamas — adhere to the terms of the US-brokered peace initiative to bring lasting calm to the region.

King Abdullah has long been recognized for his active role in promoting dialogue, humanitarian relief, and conflict resolution in the Middle East. His latest discussions highlight Jordan’s continuing diplomatic influence and its constructive engagement in fostering peace and coexistence.

Cultural and Religious Harmony on the Agenda

In a separate engagement at the Vatican, King Abdullah and Queen Rania met with Pope Leo XIV, underscoring Jordan’s longstanding commitment to religious harmony and the protection of sacred sites.

The King stressed the importance of preserving Christian heritage and religious landmarks in Jordan, a country known for its interfaith coexistence and respect for diversity.

This meeting further reinforces Jordan’s global image as a nation that promotes mutual understanding, religious tolerance, and cultural respect — values deeply appreciated by European partners and international organizations alike.

As global attention turns toward sustainable development, Jordan is positioning itself as a leader in the green economy.

Eurocham, in collaboration with Jordan’s public and private sectors, is actively identifying investment opportunities in renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure, and innovation-driven projects.

These initiatives align with both Jordan’s Vision 2033 and the EU Green Deal, creating synergies that will boost job creation, attract environmentally conscious investors, and support regional energy security.

Murad noted that Jordan’s renewable energy potential — particularly in solar and wind power — provides an ideal platform for European investors looking to partner in large-scale sustainable projects.

A Vision for a Prosperous Future

King Abdullah’s European visit is widely viewed as a turning point for Jordan-EU relations, one that could usher in a new era of mutual prosperity and shared progress.

By strengthening diplomatic dialogue and promoting inclusive growth, Jordan continues to enhance its global standing as a stable, forward-looking nation in a region often marked by uncertainty.

As the King’s tour continues, optimism remains high that the renewed partnerships forged during this visit will bring meaningful economic gains, foster innovation, and reinforce Jordan’s enduring role as a beacon of peace and cooperation in the Middle East.