Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable boom. The first half of 2024 saw a record-breaking 60 million visitors travel to the Kingdom, generating a total spend of SR143 billion ($38.1 billion). These impressive figures were announced by Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, who also shed light on the strategic factors contributing to this success.
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A multitude of tourist destinations
Minister Al-Khateeb highlighted the diverse range of tourist destinations within Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the unique appeal of the Aseer region. Aseer offers a welcome respite from the summer heat with its moderate climate and lower temperatures compared to most other global cities. This climatic advantage makes Aseer a particularly attractive destination during the scorching summer months.
Tourism Development Fund: Fueling Growth
Launched in June 2020, the Tourism Development Fund has played a significant role in propelling the industry forward. The fund has already financed over 100 projects totaling SR35 billion, encompassing a mix of small and medium-sized enterprises alongside larger-scale initiatives. Aseer itself has benefitted from this strategic investment, with SR1 billion allocated to 10 projects in the region. This exemplifies the Kingdom's commitment to fostering regional development through targeted investments.
Aseer: A hidden gem unveiled
Aseer, often described as a hidden gem, boasts stunning mountain ranges, lush valleys, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore towering peaks like the Sarawat Mountains, verdant valleys, or the captivating Red Sea coastline.
Aseer caters to a variety of interests, whether you seek adventure through hiking or paragliding, relaxation on pristine beaches, or a journey into the past by exploring historical sites like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rijal Alma.
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The Saudi government is actively developing Aseer's tourism sector by building new infrastructure, such as hotels and resorts, while simultaneously promoting the region to a global audience.
Image Credit: Regency Hotel
Key Tourist Attractions
Minister Al-Khateeb specifically highlighted several must-see attractions within the Kingdom:
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Rijal Alma and Shada Palace Museum: These historical sites offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
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Soudah Peaks: Standing at a staggering 3,015 meters above sea level, Soudah Peaks is the highest point in Saudi Arabia and boasts a sustainable luxury mountain destination.
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Historic Villages and Farms: Immerse yourself in local culture by exploring historic villages and farms, where you can discover locally produced goods, savor delicious cuisine, and experience the authentic way of life.
National Tourism Strategy
The National Tourism Strategy launched in 2019 as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 is credited with playing a vital role in the industry's success. Additionally, a Bachelor of International Hospitality Management program was established through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tourism, King Khalid University, and Hong Kong Polytechnic University. These initiatives demonstrate the focus on developing the Kingdom's tourism capabilities and expanding training opportunities for Saudis in the hospitality sector.
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An ambitious vision
Saudi Arabia has set an ambitious target to welcome 150 million tourists annually by 2030. This goal underscores the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to transforming itself into a premier global tourism destination.
Growth prospects
The tourism industry has witnessed a remarkable 153% growth compared to 2019. Aseer itself saw a significant rise in tourist arrivals, with 8 million visitors spending approximately $3 billion in the region in 2023.
These figures paint a clear picture of Saudi Arabia's burgeoning tourism industry. With its diverse offerings, strategic investments, and commitment to developing the sector, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a major player in the global tourism landscape.