Examining Saudi Arabia’s booming wellness economy 
A new report has revealed insight into Saudi Arabia’s booming wellness economy, estimated to be worth $19.8 billion. The figures from the Global Wellness Institute highlight the Kingdom as one of the fastest-growing wellness markets in the Middle East and North Africa region, with wellness tourism growing 66 percent annually from 2020 to 2022.
In the report, GWI chair Susie Ellis details the growth of the Kingdom’s wellness market, noting the great resilience it has shown in surpassing its pre-pandemic performance levels.
A significant example of Saudi Arabia’s wellness tourism offerings is the new Red Sea tourism megaproject Amaala, which is working to provide distinguished health experiences for visitors and enhance the Kingdom’s position as a hub for luxury visits.
Tourism, including wellness tourism, is one of the main pillars of Vision 2030, as the Kingdom aims to create a sustainable and balanced economy.
The Kingdom achieved a historic milestone by welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023, reflecting the success of its ambitious strategies.
According to government data, tourism’s share of the gross domestic product has increased from 3 to 7 percent since the launch of Vision 2030, nearing its target of achieving 10 percent by 2030.
GWI data shows that Saudi Arabia’s thermal springs, which dot the western part of the country and rank 111th globally, and spas have achieved growth rates estimated at 41.5 and 35.6 percent, respectively.
These figures show that there is tremendous potential for growth in the wellness sector in the Kingdom, which confirms the importance of this field in strengthening the Saudi economy and achieving Vision 2030.
Furthermore, the health and wellness sector has witnessed a staggering increase of 23.4 percent year-on-year since 2020.
Saudi Arabia offers stunning natural landscapes, including long sandy beaches and mangrove forests. Health resorts and relaxation centers located within these pristine settings generated revenues of $600 million, an increase of +35.6 percent, placing the Kingdom at 31st globally.
In the healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss sector, the Kingdom ranked at 27th place, with a total increase in revenues of +5.5 percent, reaching an estimated value of $5.8 billion.
Another pillar of Vision 2030 is improving the physical and mental health of Saudi citizens, ensuring that they are productive and fulfilled.
The Kingdom is advancing its global position and is now ranked 25th in the physical activity sector, according to the report. The findings show an increase of 16.6 percent with revenues amounting to $4.7 billion.
In the field of personal care and beauty, the Kingdom has been ranked 41st globally, with an increase of 9.6 percent and a trade and economic volume of $4.4 billion. In the field of public health, prevention and personal medicine, the Kingdom rose to 25th place with an increase in revenues of 6.5 percent, reaching an estimated value of $2.5 billion.
The workplace wellness sector came in 15th place, with revenues of $500 million, at a growth rate of 2.8 percent.
In the field of traditional and complementary medicine, the Kingdom ranked 61st in the world, with an increase of 5.3 percent, or $200 million. Wellness products and drugs also had a prominent presence, with an increase of 23.4 percent, or $200 million, ranking 39th globally.
These figures show that there is tremendous potential for growth in the wellness sector in the Kingdom, which confirms the importance of this field in strengthening the Saudi economy and achieving Vision 2030.
• Saad Majdy Baslom has over 10 years of experience in health tourism, wellness services, management, regulation, and policy as a technical affairs director in complementary medicine. He holds a leadership and management certificate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a doctorate in traditional Chinese medicine, a master’s degree in Chinese herbology, and a master’s degree in acupuncture.
