Vision 2030 drives Saudi’s tourism growth.
According to Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia has welcomed 60 million visitors spending SAR143 billion (US$38.1 billion) in the first half of 2024.
This underscores the significant progress made by the Kingdom’s tourism sector and sets a new benchmark.
At a press conference, the Minister said: “Our country is blessed with a multiplicity of tourist destinations and climate diversity, the moderate weather that the Aseer region enjoys during the summer season and low temperatures compared to most cities in the world.”
Al-Khateeb added that visitors could enjoy diverse attractions, from historic villages to farms rich in local products, along with delicious cuisine telling stories of the past.
The third Aseer Season, running until September 1, is expected to attract substantial visitor interest with its cultural experiences. Key attractions in the Aseer region include Rijal Alma and Shada Palace Museum, alongside Soudah Peaks, the highest point in the Kingdom at 3,015 meters above sea level, which serves as a sustainable luxury destination.
Saudi’s growing market
Al-Khateeb attributed the tourism sector’s growth to Vision 2030, which includes initiatives like the National Tourism Strategy launched in 2019 and the introduction of a tourist visa. He also highlighted the collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, King Khalid University, and Hong Kong Polytechnic University in establishing the Bachelor of International Hospitality Management program. This partnership aims to enhance the Kingdom’s tourism and hospitality education.
Al-Khateeb said: “Our goal is to develop tourism capabilities and expand international specialized technical colleges and strategic partnership institutes in the field of tourism and hospitality.”
In addition, the Minister announced plans for 10,000 training opportunities in the Aseer region’s tourism sector, domestically and internationally.
The National Tourism Strategy targets over 150 million local and international visitors by 2030, up from 109 million in 2023.
Al-Khateeb further shared: “The Tourism Development Fund plays an important role in providing financing, allocating SAR7.4 billion to enable over 100 tourism projects around the Kingdom with a value exceeding SAR35 billion.”
This financial support is expected to stimulate tourism development and enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global travel destination.
source/content: hoteliermiddleeast.com (headline edited)
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Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Alkhateeb
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SAUDI ARABIA