SAUDI ARABIA taking rapid strides toward luxury and sustainable tourism
Travel Trade Journal|December 2022
The largest country on the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia, has hitherto been primarily known as the home to the two most holy cities of Islam and a country that is a major player in fulfilling the world's energy needs. However, the winds of change of perception are underway as the kingdom brings forth its historical, cultural, and natural wonders and showcases them to the world. With an earmarked investment of $800 billion into its tourism ecosystem by 2030, the kingdom is now ready to share its wonders with the global traveller. Megaprojects and developments combined with ambitious marketing plans now project a country making rapid strides into the future, redefining luxury, sustainability, and responsible tourism.
Gurjit Singh Ahuja
SAUDI ARABIA taking rapid strides toward luxury and sustainable tourism

Saudi Arabia is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Each season offers a reason to discover a different Saudi experience. From climbing mountains 3000 meters above sea level to diving into the magical wonders of the corals and marine life of the Red Sea to crossing the largest palm oasis in the world with more than 2.5 million palm trees, all these exciting experiences, and more await the traveller combined with the unique charm of Saudi generosity and heartfelt hospitality. Visitors can feast on the delicious traditional food and enjoy mesmerising iconic architectural masterpieces.

Speaking to TTJ earlier this year, Alhasan Ali Aldabbagh, Chief Markets Officer, Asia Pacific, Saudi Tourism Authority, had mentioned, "Saudi has embarked on an ambitious programme to drive inbound visitation from India, inspiring local trade partners and the traveller to explore the undiscovered beauty and wonder of the country. As we continue to open up to the world, India is an incredibly important key source market for Saudi and presents a wealth of possibility for trade partners, to grow their business and to ultimately, create a new exciting destination for Indian travellers.”

The tourist visa process for travel to Saudi is being made simpler, transparent, seamless, and cost-effective for the Indian traveller. The aim is to provide simpler accessibility and create the right environment to facilitate large inbound tourist traffic and volumes from India. Women travellers are safe and greatly welcome. Wearing an Abaya is no longer mandatory in Saudi, and now even the holy city of Medina is open to nonMuslims.

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