Tag Archives: KSA

The Agentic Tourism Initiative was unveiled at the inaugural TOURISE Summit, introducing the world’s first Agentic Protocol for Tourism, a universal digital framework set to transform every stage of the traveler’s journey. Launched in partnership with TOURISE and Globant, the Initiative builds on the momentum of the acclaimed whitepaper Tourism’s AI Takeover: Reinventing Travel through Agentic Tourism to create a landmark application of AI. It directly answers the whitepaper’s call to create an Open Protocol for Tourism AI, defining how AI agents interact from inspiration to return. The result: intelligent, seamless, and sustainable travel experiences across the global tourism ecosystem. The Initiative brings together a diverse coalition of founding members across technology, infrastructure, aviation, and destination leadership, including: Globant, Red Sea Global, HUMAIN, Riyadh Air, King Salman International Airport, World Travel & Tourism Council, Amazon Web Services, Salesforce, Hollibob, and Trip.com. This collaborative approach ensures the Agentic Protocol is technically robust, inclusive, and adaptable to the evolving needs of travelers, operators, and destinations worldwide. “We are proud to see the Agentic Tourism Initiative take flight from the Kingdom, reflecting our commitment to shaping the future of global travel through innovation and collaboration. This protocol represents a bold step toward harmonizing technology with the human spirit of exploration. By anchoring AI in empathy and cultural intelligence, we are not only enhancing the traveler’s experience, we are empowering destinations to grow sustainably, inclusively, and with purpose,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Guided by the principle “Digitize the expected. Humanize the unexpected,” the Initiative aims to amplify, not replace, human creativity, empathy, and connection. AI will serve as an enabler, empowering the people and places …

flyadeal announced the Holy City of Madinah as its fourth and newest base in the Kingdom. Two aircraft will be permanently positioned at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport from 1 January 2026. flyadeal currently has operational bases in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. Domestic scheduled flights from Madinah will be launched to four cities across the Kingdom – the southwest coastal city of Jazan; Tabuk in the northwest; Al Hofuf in the country’s Eastern Province; and Abha in the southwestern mountainous region of Aseer province.  Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul will become the second international destination to be introduced direct from Madinah, with plans for further expansion beyond Saudia Arabia over the next few months. The additional flights will increase flyadeal’s existing capacity from Madinah by 30 per cent to 84 scheduled domestic and international services a week. flyadeal’s current Madinah operations cover domestic services to Dammam and Riyadh, plus international flights to the Egyptian capital, Cairo. The carrier also operates year-round Umrah services from several countries direct to Madinah, north of the Saudi port city of Jeddah. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “With scale comes opportunities. flyadeal has progressively increased its fleet size to 43 which allows us to now position aircraft across principal cities including Madinah where passenger demand simply demands our resources to be spread out. Madinah was a natural addition as a base given its prominence as the second holiest city in the Islamic world that draws pilgrims from all parts of the globe throughout the year.” Almost 70 per cent of flyadeal’s 43-strong narrowbody fleet of Airbus A320s is based at King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital Riyadh; 11 aircraft are positioned …

Valor Hospitality Partners and King Khalid Tourism & Hospitality Campus University have signed a cooperation agreement designed to develop talent and strengthen hospitality capabilities across the Aseer region. This partnership goes beyond academic collaboration; it represents a shared investment in empowering Saudi youth and supporting the Kingdom’s tourism transformation under Vision 2030. Rooted in the cultural richness of Abha and the broader Aseer community, the partnership bridges education and industry through structured internships, training programmes, applied learning, mentorship, guest lectures, research collaboration, and defined employment pathways and create a career for the Saudi nationals. The focus is to equip Saudi students not only with operational skills, but with the confidence, leadership mindset, and cultural authenticity needed to shape the future of Saudi hospitality and the rest of the world. Valor Hospitality brings to the Kingdom its globally established fully integrated management and operations solution and its distinctive philosophy, “A Whole World of Local,” which blends international standards with local identity to create meaningful guest experiences and unlock long-term value for communities and investors. Julien Bergue, Co-Founder and Managing Partner – Middle East, Africa & Asia at Valor Hospitality Partners, said: “This partnership goes to the heart of who we are. We are not only operators, but we are also enablers of growth. By working alongside King Khalid tourism & hospitality University, we are supporting and empowering a new generation of Saudi hospitality professionals who carry both world-class training and the warmth of authentic Saudi and middle eastern hospitality. The Kingdom’s tourism future will be shaped by its people, and we are proud to contribute to that journey.” Jana Bader, Country Head of Business Development (KSA) and Regional Director of PR & …

Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Riyadh is set to host the inaugural edition of the TOURISE Summit (TOURISE 2025), organized by the Ministry of Tourism from November 11 to 13. TOURISE aims to shape the future of global tourism, fostering its growth and sustainability. It brings together leading figures from key sectors that intersect with tourism, such as technology, aviation, entertainment, education, sustainability, and media. Discussions will seek to develop innovative, actionable solutions that enable the tourism industry to address future challenges and thrive over the next five decades. Minister of Tourism and Chairman of TOURISE Ahmed Al-Khateeb expressed his profound gratitude to HRH the Crown Prince for his generous patronage, which, he noted, expands the event’s reach and influence. He emphasized that this patronage reflects HRH the Crown Prince’s unwavering support for the tourism sector as part of Saudi Vision 2030. He noted that “work is progressing on all fronts to empower our vital sector, which continues to demonstrate its readiness and competitiveness day after day.” He underscored that Saudi Arabia ranked first among G20 countries in international tourist arrivals for 2024 and led globally in growth of tourism revenues from inbound visitors. TOURISE 2025 will feature a dynamic agenda of discussions, panels, and interactive experiences built around four key axes: addressing challenges, seizing growth opportunities, stimulating major investments, and shaping future policies. Sessions will also explore the rapid transformations shaping the tourism sector, including artificial intelligence in tourism, bold investment models, innovative travel experiences, and sustainable tourism that balances people and the planet. (Spa)

Legacy Hotels Holding announced an agreement to invest in Earth Hotels to support the brand’s impressive growth across KSA, UAE, Portugal and Spain. Earth Hotels, the region’s first homegrown experiential hospitality and living brand, is expanding its footprint across Dubai, Riyadh, Jeddah, Lisbon, Porto, and Marbella. The brand, which develops and manages it community-driven hotels and residences, has an impressive pipeline valued at over USD 320 million. The investment in Earth Hotels underscores Legacy’s dedication to building partnerships that redefine modern hospitality through creativity, sustainability, and meaningful guest experiences. The agreement was officially signed during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) 2025 in Dubai. FHS is one of the world’s leading platforms for investment, innovation, and leadership in the hospitality sector. The signing marked a defining moment in Legacy Hotels Holding’s strategic expansion. It underscored its growing influence as a partner of choice for transformative hospitality ventures across global markets. Founded in 2019, Earth Hotels stands as a pioneering lifestyle-driven brand. It celebrates individuality, community, and conscious living. Designed to do good, the brand integrates sustainability and digital innovation. It creates uplifting and joyful spaces that connect people with one another and with the world. With a secured portfolio of around 750 keys and 180 branded residences, this close collaboration with Legacy will enhance Earth’s platform capabilities to deliver on the servicing and operation of these exciting properties. It also marks a defining milestone in expanding Legacy’s experiential portfolio while empowering a new generation of travelers who seek authenticity, inspiration, and impact. “Legacy Hotels Holding is committed to investing in the future of hospitality, one that blends purpose, creativity, and sustainability,” said Fahad Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Legacy Hotels Holding. …

The Ministry of Tourism Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, led by Minister Hon. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, has approved new policies and regulations to register workers and localise activities across all licensed tourism facilities in the Kingdom. The move aims to strengthen the contribution of Saudi nationals to the tourism sector, create new employment opportunities, and enhance overall service quality in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Under the new regulations, all employees at tourism establishments, including hotels, resorts, and tour operators must be registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s systems before commencing work. Contracts, whether contractual, seconded, or seasonal, are to be documented via the Ajeer platform or other approved systems. Facilities with multiple branches must ensure employee records are linked to the correct licensed location. The policies also mandate that all tourism hospitality facilities have a Saudi receptionist on duty during working hours and prohibit outsourcing positions subject to Saudization decisions to entities or workers outside the Kingdom. Compliance will be strictly monitored, with penalties applied for violations in coordination with relevant government agencies. These measures are expected to empower national talent, improve service standards, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination.

Saudi entrepreneur Mohammed Khalid A. Sabbagh announced plans to open a new Ramada by Wyndham hotel in Madinah, one of the world’s most revered destinations for Muslim travellers. Developed in collaboration with Wyndham Hotels C Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company, the upcoming Ramada by Wyndham Madinah will feature 77 well- appointed guest rooms and is strategically located in the Al Jamawat area on Al Salam Road, just 5 km from the Holy Mosque. The hotel will serve the growing number of domestic and international pilgrims visiting Madinah each year, offering convenience, comfort, and trusted hospitality under the Ramada by Wyndham brand. Once operational, the hotel will include modern guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a fully equipped gym, and contemporary interiors designed to provide a welcoming and reliable stay experience for both leisure and religious travellers. Mohammed Khalid A. Sabbagh, Owner of Ramada by Wyndham Madinah, said: “It is an honour to bring the renowned Ramada by Wyndham brand to the holy city of Madinah. This project represents my personal commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and contributing to the Kingdom’s rapidly growing tourism and hospitality sector. We look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience warm Saudi hospitality combined with the international standards that the Ramada by Wyndham name represents.” Mohammad Haj Hassan, Country Director – KSA, Wyndham Hotels s Resorts, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Mr. Sabbagh on this exciting development in Madinah, a city of deep spiritual and cultural importance. This partnership underscores Wyndham’s commitment to expanding our presence across Saudi Arabia and supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.” Saudi Arabia is one of …

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly from 7 to 11 November. The session will take place under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future” and will mark the 50th anniversary of the United Nations’ specialized agency for tourism. Represented by its Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia will welcome more than 160 member states, international organizations, and global industry players to commemorate five decades of cooperation under UN Tourism and engage in dialogue aimed at securing a brighter, more sustainable future for the industry. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, invited the world to Riyadh to take part in a momentous milestone for global tourism diplomacy: “We look forward to hosting the world’s leading organization for tourism in a session that will redefine global action in this increasingly vital sector and beyond.” On being the first GCC country to host a UN agency’s general assembly, Minister Al Khateeb said: “This adds to the significance of this session and underscores the global vote of confidence given to Saudi Arabia as a convener and a trusted platform for international dialogue on tourism. Our mission—as hosts—is to bring the world together, unite views, and foster international cooperation that capitalizes on the growing tourism industry to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.” “The Kingdom firmly believes in the transformative power of tourism and its potential to enable comprehensive, sustainable development across economies and communities. This impact is evidenced by our own journey of unlocking the full potential of tourism and transforming the sector into a key driver of economic growth and diversification and an enabler of Saudi Vision 2030,” H.E. Al Khateeb added. …

His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, shared “By 2035, one in three new jobs will come from Travel & Tourism – no other sector can claim that. Saudi Arabia shows what vision and investment can achieve, with over 649,000 training opportunities, and a workforce that is nearly 50% women.” The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched a landmark report, revealing that while the sector is on course to support one in three new jobs worldwide by 2035, demographic and structural shifts could create a workforce shortfall of more than 43MN people if left unaddressed. The report, Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce, which focused on 20 economies, launched at the global tourism body’s 25th Global Summit in Rome and developed with the support of the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Coraggio Group, Miles Partnership, and Hong Kong Polytechnic University, is based on extensive global research, including a large-scale survey of business leaders and in-depth interviews with WTTC Members and other key stakeholders.    

Accor signed a master development agreement with BinDawood Investment, through its dedicated hospitality arm Al Qimmah, to develop and manage a portfolio of over 3,000 keys across Saudi Arabia, including landmark projects in the Holy Cities. The first phase will feature four flagship projects, including a new-build 288-key Swissôtel in Jeddah, which will be strategically located near King Abdulaziz International Airport and is set to open in 2029. Simultaneously, Madinah will welcome a new-build 1,015-key Mövenpick property in the northwest of the city, offering excellent connectivity via the Abu Bakr Al Siddiq road and convenient access to the Holy Mosque, also opening in 2029.The agreement solidifies BinDawood Investment role as a leading investor in the Kingdom’s hospitality transformation, confirming its alignment with the nation’s tourism plans for the decades ahead. As part of the agreement, Accor will introduce its premium, midscale, and economy brands across a diverse range of developments, spanning city hotels, serviced apartments, resorts and properties designed to serve religious tourism. Further bolstering Accor’s presence in the Holy Cities, Makkah will see the transformation of two existing properties. The ibis Styles Makkah Mesfalah, an 801-key economy hotel less than 2 km south of the Holy Mosque, will undergo a full renovation to provide enhanced accessibility for pilgrims, with reopening scheduled for 2027. Similarly, the Mercure Makkah Shesha, a 1,078-key midscale hotel conveniently located near the Mina pilgrimage site, will also undergo a complete renovation, welcoming guests in 2027. Following the announcement of the agreement, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Bindawood, Chairman said: “Through BinDawood Investment and its subsidiaries, we are proud to be shaping a new chapter in the Kingdom’s hospitality journey. Our partnership with Accor underscores our commitment to becoming …