Home » HOTEL NEWS » Hilton Surpasses 100 Hotels in Saudi Arabia, Boosting Hospitality Growth and Attracting Tourists from Egypt, India, and the U.S

Published on October 27, 2025

Hilton’s rapid expansion in Saudi Arabia, surpassing 100 hotels, is at the heart of the country’s growing appeal as a global tourism hub. Driven by the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, this milestone is transforming Saudi Arabia’s hospitality landscape, attracting an increasing number of international travelers from key countries like Egypt, India, and the U.S. With luxury accommodations, rich cultural experiences, and world-class amenities, Hilton is helping to position the Kingdom as a leading destination for both leisure and business tourism. As the influx of visitors grows, bolstered by enhanced airline connectivity and the booming hospitality sector, Saudi Arabia’s tourism future is set to shine even brighter.

Hilton Reaches 100 Hotels in Saudi Arabia, Whipping Hospitality Growth and Drawing Tourists from Egypt, India, and the U.S.

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Significant changes in the Saudi Arabia hospitality industry as Hilton has reached an operational and development milestone of 100 hotels in the Kingdom. Expect changes in the Kingdom’s tourism, hospitality and airline industries. In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 which has the development aim of diversifying the economy and attracting international visitors, the expansion is bringing international travelers from Egypt, India, and the U.S. In this essay we will focus on how Hilton’s expansion is boosting tourism in Saudi Arabia, increasing travel by airplane, and positively impacting the hospitality sector.

Hilton Surpassing 100 Hotels in Saudi Arabia

Hilton exceeding 100 properties in Saudi Arabia reflects the Kingdom’s potential as a global travel destination. This milestone comprises both new hotels and those in development, spanning the several Hilton brands including Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, and DoubleTree. Hilton’s recent expansion has established over 22,000 new rooms in the Saudi Arabian hospitality market, offering travelers luxury accommodation integrated with hospitality, cultural experience and other amenities.

Beyond merely adding new rooms, this expansion is about new tourism and hospitality potential to Hilton. Saudi Arabia aims to achieve a goal of 150 million visitors annually by 2030, which is a part of the Vision 2030 initiative to elevate tourism and hospitality to diversify the economy. Hilton and other global hotel brands are key in construction and tourism infrastructure development in the Kingdom.

Hilton’s Hospitality Growth in Saudi Arabia

In major Saudi Arabian cities, Hilton’s impact is undeniable. With over 100 properties in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and beyond, Hilton is transforming hospitality in the Kingdom. Whether it is a vacation in the luxury heart of Riyadh or a calming escape by the Red Sea, Hilton has something for every traveler.

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There is no doubt about the hospitality industry growth in Saudi Arabia, and aegis of Hilton’s developments, it is encouraging. Building and repositioning hotel brands has helped boost Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a premier hotel and business destination. The anticipated arrival of international tourists creates jobs and stimulates tourism.

Attracting Tourists from Egypt, India, and the U.S.

In addition to primary hospitality connection countries, Egypt, India, and the U.S. are also the primary three countries in visitors to Saudi Arabia. Egypt, India, and the U.S. possess and build important business, cultural, and economic connections with the Kingdom. These deep cultural ties and connections in trade facilitate the movement of visitors.

Tourism Growth from Egypt

As early as 2020, Egypt has consistently been a top market for Saudi tourism, as more than 3 million Egyptians come to the Kingdom every year. Growth in tourism is seen because of religious tourism, including pilgrimages to Makkah and Madinah, and holidays and business trips. Egyptian tourists gain easier access to Saudi Arabia’s rich culture and heritage, as there are more hotel options, like the expansions made by Hilton.

Growing Influx from India

India has consistently increased its outbound tourism, where Saudi Arabia is one of the top destinations for Indian Tourists. In 2024, nearly 2.5 million Indian tourists are expected to visit Saudi Arabia for religious tourism and business, as well as a growing culture of leisure travel. Hilton’s many different options in Saudi Arabia for Indian tourists are focusing on the balance of luxury and value. The recent addition of affordable airfares and direct flight connections from major Indian cities has contributed to the increased number of Indian tourists traveling to the Kingdom.

Tourism Boom from the U.S.

The U.S. is one of the biggest source countries for travelers to Saudi Arabia. American tourists interested in cultural exploration see events tied to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and appreciate the modern attractions and experiences. The Kingdom has something for everyone to enjoy, from the ancient ruins of AlUla to the Red Sea coast and futuristic developments in NEOM. American visitors to Saudi Arabia are greatly attracted to Hilton’s luxury accommodations, especially since major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, offer direct flights.

The Role of Airlines in Facilitating Saudi Tourism

With international tourists flowing into the Kingdom from countries like Egypt and India, the airline and hospitality industries are interdependent. Saudi Arabia’s growing tourist influx from the U.S. has airline operators expanding their route services.

Increased Airline Routes and Connectivity

Saudi Arabian Airlines has broadened its reach and is accommodating the increased demand in tourism. In addition to this, Saudia’s tourism was complemented by Emirates, Qatar, and Etihad as they strengthened their operations in the country by increasing the number of flights from the main markets. Frequent flights to Riyadh and other major destinations such as Makkah and Jeddah offer connections to major cities, including Cairo, New Delhi, New York, and London.

Direct Flights from Major U.S. Cities

American tourists can reach Saudi Arabia more efficient as direct flights to Riyadh and Jeddah from New York and Los Angeles are available. As a result, more American tourists are visiting the country and are able to experience what the Kingdom has to offer. For these visitors, Emirates, Qatar, and Saudia offer exceptional services to provide the utmost comfort during their travels.

Travel Connections for Indian Customers

Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo provide direct flights to Saudi Arabia from premier Indian cities, catering to Indian Clients for leisure, work, and religious pilgrimages. Due to relatively cheap airfare and an increase in available low priced options, Indian tourists have been traveling to Saudi Arabia more frequently.

Economy of Saudi Arabia: Impact from Tourism

Expansion of Hilton and growth of international flights have positively impacted the Saudi Arabian tourism economy. As per the Saudi Tourism Authority, tourism expenditure for the year 2024 reached SR153.61 billion ($40.95 billion) which is an increase of 13.82% to the 2023 value. This increase in expenditure reflects an increase in tourists visiting Saudi Arabia and taking advantage of the numerous offerings the nation has.

The hospitality market will continue to see growth and for expansion from Hilton alone, Saudi Arabia will receive an expected increase of 22,000 rooms to support international travel. This will allow the nation to more effectively support their visiting tourists and become competitive as a world hospitality market.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is constructing new hotels, airports, and cultural sites, which is providing opportunities for thousands of new jobs for locals. These new jobs positively impact the economy and provide job opportunities in many other industries, such as construction and multisector jobs.

Visiting Saudi Arabia as a Tourist

For tourists considering visiting Saudi Arabia, there are a few important things to bear in mind. Regardless of the reason, business, leisure, or religious, knowing the local culture and what to expect will help people have a smoother and more pleasant experience.

Visa Policies

Saudi Arabia has released a unified GCC visa system which offers more flexibility for travelers coming from Gulf Cooperation Council countries. For other tourists, the Saudi eVisa allows eligible travelers to apply for an electronic visa which enhances the trip planning and trip execution.

Cultural Sensitivity

Visitors to Saudi Arabia need to be especially sensitive to the local context and to the conservative and culturally and religiously defined norms of Saudi Arabia with respect to behavior and assuming clothing. While Saudi Arabia does permit International Tourism, one must be sure to respect the local norms of behavior, which include avoiding public displays of affection and ensuring that attire is modest. Additionally, be sure to avoid festivities that include the consumption of alcohol, as it is prohibited in Saudi Arabia.

Must Visit Destinations

Travelers to Saudi Arabia can experience unique travel and tourism opportunities. For instance, in addition to the other unique travel opportunities one can take in the beauty of the historic city of AlUla and the modern luxury travel opportunities along the Red Sea. Among the other birthplace of the Red Sea. Noteworthy attractions to visit in Saudi Arabia are:

• Makkah and Madinah: The two holiest sites in Islam and attract millions of Muslim pilgrims.
• AlUla: The UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient tombs and sandstone mountains.
• Riyadh: The capital city with modern metropolis and rich history.
• Jeddah: The vibrant and lively coastal city with historical architecture.

Travel Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia

Plan ahead: Make sure to reserve flights and accommodations ahead of time, particularly during busy periods, such as Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage.

Stay hydrated: Saudi Arabia can be extremely hot, especially in the summer months. Always carry water.

Considerate of other customs: Being one of the most religiously observant countries in the world, Saudi Arabia places a customs observant traveler with a positive experience. Respecting the local etiquette and traditions will be helpful in your travels.

Cash and credit: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency. Credit and debit cards can be used in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, cash is better for small purchases, so keep some on hand.

Egypt, India, and the U.S. are driving a surge in tourism to Saudi Arabia, with Hilton’s expansion surpassing 100 hotels across the Kingdom. This growth is transforming Saudi Arabia into a prime destination for international travelers.

The Future of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Landscape

Over 100 hotels means that Hilton and Saudi Arabia have a mutually beneficial and fruitful relationship which encourages a lot of potential future growth for the Kingdom’s tourism potential. International visitors are pouring into Saudi Arabia from Egypt, India, the U.S., and several other countries. It isn’t going unnoticed. The increasing number of airlines to the country are proving that Saudi Arabia tourism is only getting better and better. For tourists, this means an increase in the number of high end lodging facilities, more direct flights, and more exposure to Saudi culture.

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