Monday, March 11, 2024
Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a premier travel destination marks a significant shift in the global tourism landscape. Since 2019, the Saudi Kingdom has embarked on an ambitious journey, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality to open its doors wider to the world.
HE Mr. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority, discusses with our founder editor, Apratim Ghoshal at ITB Berlin 2024 in boosting Saudi tourism globally with strategic accommodations, meetings.
With more than 10,000 archaeological sites and historical places, including seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Saudi Arabia is a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored.
The country’s vast and varied geography, from the iconic golden dunes to the lush Arabian Highlands and the extensive Red Sea coastline, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. This diversity not only provides a range of climates and natural wonders but also enriches the Kingdom’s culinary, folklore, and fashion traditions. Saudi Arabia’s size, comparable to two-thirds of Europe, positions it as a dynamic destination with limitless possibilities.
Recognising the potential of its natural and cultural assets, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, making it one of the fastest-expanding countries in the G20 for tourism. This goal is supported by the development of immersive visitor experiences and the Kingdom’s renowned hospitality, which embodies the essence of Saudi Arabian warmth and generosity.
Among the visionary projects underpining this growth is the Red Sea Global initiative, transforming 50 islands along the Red Sea into a luxury destination, with prestigious properties like the St. Regis already welcoming guests. This initiative is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a leading global tourism destination.
In a bold move to enhance its tourism appeal, Saudi Arabia is launching eight new resorts within the year, including the anticipated NEOM’s Sindalah Island, featuring 650 rooms across three hotels set to open in October. Moreover, the historic downtown of Jeddah, Al-Balad, a UNESCO heritage site, is integrating modernity with tradition by introducing boutique hotels, further enriching the Kingdom’s diverse accommodation offerings.
The Kingdom’s presence at ITB Berlin 2024 underscores its rapid development and the plethora of experiences awaiting international visitors. With an investment of $800 billion in tourism infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest investor in tourism, aiming to increase tourism’s GDP contribution to 10% and create 1 million jobs for its citizens.
This investment extends beyond economic goals, fostering cultural, sporting, and MICE industry growth, and positioning Riyadh as a vibrant event hub. Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports is also notable, with efforts to attract global soccer icons and fans, illustrating the Kingdom’s ambition to be a nexus for sports enthusiasts.
Saudi Arabia’s journey towards becoming a premier travel destination is a testament to its vision of showcasing its heritage and innovation. With continuous development and the unveiling of new experiences, the Saudi Arabian Kingdom invites the world to discover its unique blend of tradition and modernity, setting a new standard for global tourism.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
