Domestic travel up 126% year-on-year, with airport lounge usage climbing by over 270% in some locations
Dubai : Dragonpass, the world’s leading provider of digital airport ecosystem platforms, has revealed striking new insights into Saudi Arabia’s booming domestic travel sector, with data showing exceptional growth in both passenger numbers and premium travel experiences.
According to Dragonpass data, domestic travel in the Kingdom surged by 126% between 2024 and 2025, more than doubling the number of domestic trips in just one year. This explosive growth highlights Saudi Arabia’s successful transformation into a regional tourism and business hub, driven by major infrastructure investments and the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 agenda.
Airport lounge usage has mirrored this trend, underscoring the rising demand for premium travel services. Across the Kingdom’s leading airports, Dragonpass recorded dramatic year-on-year increases in lounge visits:
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh): +155.7%
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah): +165.6%
- King Fahd International Airport (Dammam): +165.7%
- Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Al Madinah): +170.1%
- Abha International Airport (Abha): +271.8%
“Saudi Arabia’s domestic travel boom reflects the Kingdom’s successful transformation under Vision 2030,” said Andrew Harrison-Chinn, Chief Marketing Officer at Dragonpass. “As the country positions itself as a global hub for tourism and business, we are seeing travelers seek more elevated and seamless airport experiences. The surge in lounge usage is a clear indicator of growing confidence in Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and cultural destinations, and we are proud to be part of this journey.”
With a presence in all of Saudi Arabia’s major aiport, Dragonpass plays a pivotal role in enhancing passenger experiences, providing travelers with access to world-class facilities, fast-track services, dining, and amenities. By leveraging its global expertise and local partnerships, Dragonpass supports the Kingdom’s efforts to redefine travel standards and elevate its status as a premier destination for both leisure and business.
This surge reflects Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a key global tourism player, with domestic travel demand outpacing many of the world’s fastest-recovering markets. The trend signals significant opportunities for airlines, hospitality providers, and investors seeking to tap into the Kingdom’s expanding travel economy.
