Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market

Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market is valued at USD 1.2 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing popularity of golf as a leisure activity, significant investments in golf infrastructure, and the country's strategic initiatives to promote tourism as part of its Vision 2030 plan. The influx of international events and tournaments has also contributed to the market's expansion.
• Key cities dominating the Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market include Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Riyadh is a central hub for business and tourism, hosting several high-profile golf events. Jeddah, with its coastal attractions, appeals to both local and international tourists, while Dammam serves as a gateway to the Eastern Province, enhancing its appeal for golf tourism.
• The Saudi government is actively enhancing golf tourism through ongoing policy initiatives under Vision 2030, including the establishment of the Saudi Golf Federation, which aims to promote golf development and attract international tournaments. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy and position Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for sports tourism.

Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market Segmentation

By Type:The segmentation by type includes Public Golf Courses, Private Golf Clubs, Golf Resorts, Golf Academies, and Others. Public Golf Courses are popular due to their accessibility and affordability, attracting a wide range of players. Private Golf Clubs cater to affluent individuals, offering exclusive services and facilities. Golf Resorts combine accommodation with golfing experiences, appealing to tourists seeking leisure. Golf Academies focus on training and skill development, attracting enthusiasts looking to improve their game. The "Others" category includes various golf-related services and facilities.

By End-User:The end-user segmentation includes Domestic Tourists, International Tourists, Corporate Clients, Golf Enthusiasts, and Others. Domestic Tourists represent a significant portion of the market, driven by local interest in golf. International Tourists are attracted by the unique golfing experiences and events hosted in the country. Corporate Clients often engage in golf for networking and team-building activities. Golf Enthusiasts are dedicated players seeking quality courses and facilities. The "Others" category encompasses various user groups, including families and casual players.

Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Saudi Golf Federation, Al Habtoor Group, Troon Golf, IMG Golf, Emaar Hospitality Group, The Address Hotels + Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Ritz-Carlton, Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Accor Hotels, Jumeirah Group, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, Atlantis The Palm contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing International Golf Events:Saudi Arabia has hosted over 10 international golf tournaments recently, attracting more than 60,000 visitors. The influx of events like the Saudi International and LIV Golf has significantly raised the profile of the country as a golf destination. This trend is supported by the government's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and promote tourism, contributing to an expected increase in golf tourism revenue to approximately $1.2 billion in the future.
• Government Investment in Tourism Infrastructure:The Saudi government allocated $2 billion recently for the development of tourism infrastructure, including golf facilities. This investment is part of a broader strategy to enhance the tourism sector, which is projected to contribute 12% to the GDP in the future. The establishment of new golf courses and resorts is expected to create over 25,000 jobs, further stimulating local economies and attracting international tourists seeking premium golf experiences.
• Rising Interest in Golf Among Locals:The number of registered golfers in Saudi Arabia has increased by 35% recently, reflecting a growing interest in the sport. Local golf clubs reported a surge in membership, with over 20,000 new members joining in the past year. This trend is supported by initiatives promoting golf in schools and communities, aiming to cultivate a new generation of golfers and enhance domestic tourism, which is expected to reach $600 million in the future.

Market Challenges

• Limited Awareness of Golf Tourism:Despite the growth in golf events, awareness of Saudi Arabia as a golf tourism destination remains low. A survey indicated that only 30% of potential international tourists are aware of the country's golf offerings. This lack of awareness hampers the ability to attract foreign visitors, which is crucial for achieving the government's target of increasing tourism's contribution to GDP to 12% in the future, necessitating targeted marketing efforts.
• High Competition from Established Markets:Saudi Arabia faces stiff competition from established golf tourism markets like the UAE and Spain, which have well-developed infrastructures and brand recognition. Recently, the UAE attracted over 1.2 million golf tourists, while Spain reported 900,000. Competing against these figures requires Saudi Arabia to enhance its offerings and marketing strategies to position itself effectively in the global golf tourism landscape, which is essential for sustainable growth.

Saudi Arabia Golf Tourism Market Future Outlook

The future of golf tourism in Saudi Arabia appears promising, driven by ongoing investments and a strategic focus on international events. The government’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure and promoting local interest in golf is expected to yield significant returns. In the future, the market is likely to see a substantial increase in both domestic and international visitors, with a projected growth in golf-related tourism activities. This growth will be supported by innovative marketing strategies and partnerships with global golf brands.

Market Opportunities

• Expansion of Golf Courses in Urban Areas:The development of new golf courses in urban centers is a significant opportunity. With over 6 million residents in Riyadh alone, creating accessible golf facilities can attract local players and tourists, potentially increasing golf participation rates by 50% in the future, thereby boosting tourism revenue.
• Collaboration with International Golf Brands:Partnering with renowned international golf brands can enhance Saudi Arabia's reputation as a premier golf destination. Such collaborations could lead to the establishment of high-profile tournaments and training academies, attracting an estimated 120,000 international visitors annually, significantly contributing to the local economy.