Riyadh Season 2025 surpasses 11 million visitors... Record numbers and a global destination
In an exceptional achievement reflecting the growing success of the entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Advisor Turki bin Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh, announced that the number of visitors to Riyadh Season 2025 has surpassed 11 million since its launch. This record-breaking figure is not merely a statistic, but a strong indicator of the season's immense appeal and its remarkable ability to attract audiences from around the world.
Unprecedented entertainment and cultural diversity
This overwhelming turnout was the result of a well-thought-out strategy focused on diversifying entertainment options to suit all tastes and age groups. Boulevard World took center stage, offering visitors a unique experience of exploring the world's cultures in one place, making it a favorite destination for families and tourists alike. Meanwhile, Al Suwaidi also witnessed a remarkable public presence during its closing days, showcasing a vibrant example of cultural diversity through folk arts and traditional cuisine, while Bestland attracted younger audiences with its innovative interactive experiences.
National context: Vision 2030 and quality of life
This achievement cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader context of the transformation underway in the Kingdom as part of Saudi Vision 2030. Riyadh Season is a key outcome of the Quality of Life Program, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global tourism and entertainment destination and diversify its economic revenue streams. Reaching 11 million visitors in such a short period underscores the success of this vision in turning Riyadh into a regional and international hub, and directly contributes to boosting the hospitality, aviation, and retail sectors.
Riyadh, the capital of world sports
The season's success wasn't limited to traditional entertainment; it solidified Riyadh's position as a leading destination for major sporting events. Boxing Week, and specifically Samurai Night, played a pivotal role in this momentum, with the international fights attracting widespread media and public attention. This fusion of entertainment and sports enhances the Kingdom's soft power and places it among the world's leading capitals that host major events.
Sustainable economic and social impact
This impressive figure (11 million visitors) reflects a vibrant economic activity, as the influx of visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad contributes to creating thousands of seasonal and permanent job opportunities for Saudi youth, in addition to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises participating in the season. With events continuing and being renewed daily, observers expect Riyadh Season 2025 to continue breaking records, solidifying its position as the largest winter entertainment destination in the region and reaffirming Saudi Arabia's ability to produce world-class entertainment.
