The number of licensed hotels in Saudi Arabia reached 2,847 by the fourth quarter of 2025, a 31.6% increase compared with 2024, reflecting rapid growth across the Kingdom's hospitality sector.
Total licensed tourism and hospitality facilities stood at 5,937, including more than 491,000 hotel rooms. The expansion signals rising demand for accommodation as the Kingdom continues to develop its tourism offerings.
New rules for the hospitality sector
Recent tourism-regulation updates cover travel and tourism services, tour guides, hospitality facilities, and private hospitality units. Notably, private hospitality units have moved from a permit-based system to a licensing system, with requirements covering safety, property eligibility, and consumer rights.
The revised hospitality-facility regulation is scheduled to take effect on 1 July 2027. Existing licensees will be given a 90-day compliance period to meet the updated requirements.
For residents and visitors, the growth in licensed facilities means more verified accommodation options and clearer standards for safety and consumer protection. Tourism regulatory inquiries are handled through the Unified Tourism Center at 930.
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