Kuwait’s tourism industry has experienced remarkable growth in 2024, reflecting the positive impact of strategic government initiatives and enhanced infrastructure. According to the Central Bank of Kuwait, visitors spent an impressive KD 505.7 million between January and September 2024, marking a 28.2% increase compared to KD 394.4 million during the same period in 2023. Foreign tourists contributed significantly, spending KD 170.1 million in the first quarter, KD 172 million in the second, and KD 163.6 million in the third quarter.
The surge in tourism spending is credited to Kuwait’s investments in upgrading its tourism infrastructure, including the construction of high-quality hotels, the expansion of shopping malls, and the enhancement of entertainment facilities. Seasonal festivals and events have also played a pivotal role in attracting international visitors, providing a boost to the local economy. The government’s efforts to improve service quality and promote Kuwait as a premier tourist destination have led to higher satisfaction levels among visitors, further encouraging tourism growth.
Interestingly, while tourism spending increased, Kuwaiti citizens spent less on international travel, totaling KD 2.97 billion in the first nine months of 2024—a 15.8% decrease compared to KD 3.53 billion in 2023. Factors such as favorable local weather conditions, high international travel costs, and the appeal of domestic entertainment options contributed to this decline. However, a notable shift occurred in the third quarter, with Kuwaiti travel expenditures rising by 15.7% compared to the second quarter.
The continued focus on diversifying Kuwait’s tourism offerings and promoting local attractions promises sustained growth for the sector in the coming years.
