Saudi Arabia aims to be among the top 10 global destinations in 2024

This news has been read 408 times!

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, April 3: Saudi Arabia is setting its sights on becoming one of the world’s top 10 tourist destinations this year, with ambitious plans to welcome over 150 million visitors by 2030. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the country’s Minister of Tourism, outlined these goals at the Manafea Forum in Medina, highlighting the pivotal role tourism is set to play in the nation’s economic landscape.

Speaking at the forum, Al-Khateeb emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to elevating the tourism sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). He noted that in 2023, tourism accounted for 5% of the GDP and outlined plans to double this figure to 10%.

“At the Ministry of Tourism, we have prioritized the development of legislation that fosters ease, flexibility, and clarity within the tourism sector,” Al-Khateeb remarked. “We have introduced new licensing regulations for guest facilities and hospitality establishments to further streamline operations.”

Al-Khateeb also shed light on the Tourism Investment Enablers Programme, designed to empower the private sector and drive growth within the industry. The initiative aims not only to boost tourism revenue but also to create significant employment opportunities, with a target of generating 1,000,000 jobs by 2030.

As Saudi Arabia charts its course towards becoming a global tourism powerhouse, initiatives like the Tourism Investment Enablers Programme underscore the government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable tourism sector. With a focus on regulatory reform, private sector empowerment, and job creation, the Kingdom is poised to unlock the full potential of its diverse cultural and natural attractions, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

This news has been read 408 times!