Tag Archives: Saudi Arabia

Saudia, the official airline partner of the all-electric Formula E series, will bring car racing fans from around the globe to the Diriyah E-Prix on 26 and 27 January, in the nation’s capital of Riyadh. The race was first held as part of the 2018–19 season and was the first Formula E race to be held in the Middle East. Diriyah plays host to a pair of night races as Formula E illuminates the historic desert surroundings of the UNESCO World Heritage site on the 26th and 27th of January. Season ten of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship gets into gear with 21 twists and turns across the 2.495km Diriyah Circuit. Visitors to the race weekend will be treated to a fusion of the old and new, as the extraordinary destination acts as the backdrop against which cutting-edge all-electric racing cars will compete for victory – including the DS Penske DS E-Tense FE23 driven by former Formula E World Champion, Stoffel Vandoorne, whose position as Global Ambassador for Saudia has been continued for 2024. During the race weekend, fans will have access to an expansive E-Village, wherein Saudia will have a dedicated, newly developed Discover-E Zone. The E-Zone features a variety of interactive experiences designed to educate and excite fans in new and innovative ways including the revamped ‘Evolution in Your Hands’ virtual quiz and the enhanced ‘ReGen3rate’ game that allows fans to experience the exhilaration of racing on the Diriyah racetrack whilst controlling the battery levels in their car as they steer to pole position. For the first time ever, fans unable to attend the Diriyah E-Prix will be able to visit Saudia’s Discover-E Zone in an …

Almosafer announced a strategic partnership with Mabaat to bridge the gap in the demand for more flexible accommodation options to service the growing number of domestic and international tourists in the Kingdom. The partnership will transform the travel experience for diversified market segments across Almosafer’s omnichannel networks by connecting them to mid and high-end private homes and compounds onboarded on Mabaat’s unique digital platform. With Saudi Arabia planning to invest USD1 trillion in the tourism sector and aiming to attract 150 million tourists a year by end of the decade in line with its ambitious Vision 2030, the collaboration between Almosafer and Mabaat signifies a commitment to deliver unparalleled and seamless travel services in a rapidly evolving market. The renaissance in tourism that Saudi Arabia is currently experiencing has led to a vibrant market for serviced apartments, and increased growth in this segment will be critical in meeting the anticipated demands that Vision 2030 will deliver. Catering to the high-quality accommodation requirements of a growing number of MICE and leisure visitors has also opened vast opportunities in the short and medium-term rental segment and across key markets in the Kingdom. Mabaat onboards properties on its digital platform and other platforms and manages them on behalf of their owners under a high level of transparency and efficiency. Property partners and guests receive real-time information, and the platform has streamlined vital operations like booking and payment, cleaning schedules, property maintenance updates, and much more. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said: “The partnership with Mabaat platform, the first platform specialised in managing properties on behalf of their owners and operating them in short, medium and long-term rental operations, is part of our strategy to continuously …

Saudi Arabia has accomplished an extraordinary achievement in tourism, achieving a full recovery and recording a 156% growth in international arrivals in 2023 compared to 2019(pre-pandemic year). This impressive recovery is highlighted in the World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Barometer report released in January 2024. This achievement has not only contributed to the Kingdom’s economic growth but also positioned it as a key driver in the Middle East’s tourism recovery. The region, led by Saudi Arabia, is the only one to exceed pre-pandemic tourism levels, with a 22% growth in 2023 compared to 2019. Globally, the tourism sector is steadily rebounding. By the end of 2023 the global average achieved 12% below pre-pandemic levels in international arrivals, with about 1.3 billion international arrivals. The sector’s international revenues neared $1.3 trillion, reaching 93% of the 2019 figure of $1.5 trillion. The direct contribution of tourism to the global GDP was estimated at 3%, or $3.3 trillion, in 2023, based on the UNWTO’s preliminary indicators. Looking ahead, the UNWTO forecasts a complete recovery of global tourism from the COVID-19 pandemic by 2024, with an expected growth of 2% compared to 2019. Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector stands out in the UNWTO reports, leading the G20 nations in the growth rate of international arrivals in 2023 and ranked 2nd as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination for Q1-Q3 2023. The Kingdom has seen remarkable growth in various tourist destinations, achieving a record in international visitor spending. The first three quarters of 2023 recorded an international visitor spending exceeding 100 billion Saudi riyals, according to the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). The travel item of the balance of payments showed a surplus of approximately 37.8 billion Saudi riyals …

Saudi Arabia’s government revised its combined domestic and international 2030 visitor target upwards from the previous 100 million to 150 million. Amid sustained investment in its tourism, hospitality and leisure segments, as well as a slew of ambitious gigaprojects, the Kingdom aims to increase the economic contribution of its tourism sector to 10% of national GDP by the end of this decade. Representing almost a 50% increase in KSA exhibitor participation, ATM 2024 will host a selection of high-profile exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, including SAUDIA, flynas, NEOM, Dur Hospitality, AMSA Hospitality and the Royal Commission for AlUla. First-time exhibitors will comprise almost 17% of the total Saudi participation, which includes Cruise Saudi, Tabuk Investment and Tourism Co., Al Badiah Transportation, Sixth Gulf and Fairmont Mekka Clock Tower, among others. KSA will represent a key focus for attendees as policymakers, industry leaders and travel professionals from around the world share insights, forge new relationships and showcase cutting-edge innovations with the potential to drive further growth within this burgeoning tourism market. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, said: “We plan to shine a spotlight on this exciting market at ATM 2024 with adedicated Saudi Village, which will be highlighted on the exhibition floor and will consist of a full showcase of Saudi products. With significant interest in this market, there will be a range of panel discussions that will enable attendees to identify and capitalise on new opportunities in the Kingdom.” Saudi Arabia is on course to welcome an estimated 30 million overnight tourists this year, according to research conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of ICAEW. Delegates from around the world are preparing to capitalise on this momentum and explore …

THE RIG. world’s first adventure tourism destination to be built on an offshore platform in the Arabian Gulf which will redefine the sea sports and leisure experience while celebrating the legacy of Saudi Arabia’s rich oil and gas heritage seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences. THE RIG., launches its Masterplan, an ambitious and unprecedented vision for tourism that will redefine adventure tourism in the world. The project is in line with PIF’s strategy and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives of contributing to the growth of the tourism sector, directly and indirectly contributing to employment opportunities, and diversifying the economy. THE RIG. is inspired by the design of offshore oil platforms, to celebrate the legacy and heritage of Saudi Arabia’s long oil and gas history. The unique hospitality and adventure experience will span a gross floor area of over 300,000 square meters, located 40km from the coastline, near Al Juraid Island and Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf. THE RIG. will seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences, including adrenaline seekers, explorers, balanced holiday makers, and relaxation seekers. The range of hospitality, leisure, entertainment and accommodation options provided by THE RIG. include three hotels totaling 800 rooms, along with 11 restaurants, an extreme sports and adventure park, a world-class marina, and helipads. THE RIG. will feature a wide variety of water activities, including a diving center, in addition to an amusement park, splash park, an E-sports center, an immersive theater and multi-purpose arena. THE RIG. will also celebrate the Kingdom’s rich oil and …

Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Vivid Jeddah Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals, in the vibrant city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This marks the opening of the first Radisson Individuals hotel in Saudi Arabia, further solidifying the Group’s growing footprint in the region and Saudi Arabia, with a portfolio of 43 hotels in operation and development in the country, and five hotels in the city of Jeddah. Jeddah is known for its beautiful Red Sea coastline, Al-Balad, the historic UNESCO heritage site with gorgeous coral architecture, narrow alleys, and bustling souks, the world’s tallest fountain, the King Fahd’s Fountain, Tahlia Street, known for its prime shopping, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (Formula 1), and for being a gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. For adventurous souls, scuba diving offers a thrilling opportunity to explore fascinating underwater wonders like the Chicken Wreck. Strategically located in the prime area of Al Hamra, Vivid Jeddah Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals is near many corporate businesses and just a short walk from Jeddah Corniche. King Abdulaziz International Airport, the busiest international airport in Saudi Arabia, is the largest hub for Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier, Saudia, and is only 22 kilometers away and a 26-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel boasts 339 elegantly designed rooms, including 30 exquisite suites, and a magnificent royal suite, providing guests unparalleled luxury and comfort. The rooms in the sea tower offer the most breathtaking views, allowing guests to witness stunning sunsets and indulge in mesmerizing sea vistas. The hotel boasts a range of dining options, including the Jasmine Restaurant, where you can greet the day with unexpected culinary delights the Vivid Lounge Café in the …

Qatar Airways announced the success of its inaugural journey to AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking the airline’s commitment to providing unparalleled travel experiences across over 170 destinations worldwide. Operating two weekly flights to AlUla, Qatar Airways brings the total number destinations to Saudi Arabia to 10, including 125 weekly flights across AlUla, Dammam, Gassim, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. The meticulously curated trip showcased AlUla as a new and exciting destination, offering travellers a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury. The VIP delegation included His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Culture of the State of Qatar who attended the inaugural flight, His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Acting Chief Executive Officer Royal Commission for AlUla, Abeer Al Akel, and Phillip Jones Chief Tourism Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla. The VIP delegation started the itinerary with a visit to the heart of the city’s Old Town. The tour showcased the revitalised Old Town, a historical gem with ancient traditional architecture revamped with a modern touch. The journey continued with an exploration of various sites, highlighting a synergy of modernity and history, notably a visit to the sustainable and biodiverse district, Oasis, as well as to multiple publishing houses, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture and its affinity to literature. The pinnacle of the trip was the significant visit to the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra, where His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, received …

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The captivating new address is the first private island to open in The Red Sea, one of the Kingdom’s luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast of the country. Situated on the pristine Ummahat Island in the Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort is a destination-defining oasis with its avant-garde architecture, sustainable design details and bespoke service. “One of the world’s unexplored treasures, The Red Sea in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to become a coveted leisure destination,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “With The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, we are introducing an iconic island address that represents the pinnacle of timeless luxury and pioneering design. We are proud to welcome The St. Regis Red Sea Resort to our growing portfolio and look forward to inviting guests to immerse themselves in this emerging destination.” Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort features a collection of 90 lavishly appointed beachfront and overwater villas, offering one-to-four-bedroom accommodation, each with a private pool, sundeck and outdoor shower. The open and spacious villas seamlessly blend the outdoors inwards and capture unrivalled sea views from sunrise to sunset. Surrounded by swaying palm trees each deck is a peaceful place to star gaze at night. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma with interiors by Kristina Zanic Consultants, the resort’s design echoes the surrounding coral reefs, marine life and sand dunes. Interior spaces and furnishings take on organic forms with …

As part of a campaign under the slogan “Our Guests Are Our Top Priority,” the Ministry of Tourism (MT) carried out more than 4,000 inspection visits of tourism accommodation facilities across Makkah and monitored more than 2,000 violations. The inspection visits aim to effectively implement the closure penalty against violating tourism accommodation facilities operating without obtaining the necessary licenses. In this respect, MT closed more than 280 violating tourism accommodation facilities until they regularize their status and obtain the required licenses from MT. The number of licensing applications in Makkah reached 200. MT also conducted more than 1,400 inspection visits of tourism accommodation facilities across Madinah and monitored more than 1,200 violations. These inspection visits resulted in the closure of more than 50 violating tourism accommodation facilities which will remain closed until they correct their conditions and obtain the required licenses from MT. The number of licensing applications in Madinah reached over 15. It is worth noting that MT continues its inspection visits under the slogan “Our Guests Are a Priority” with the aim of regulating and developing the sector and enhancing the quality of the provided services in a way that reflects positively on visitors’ experience, ensures their safety, and creates an environment that attracts investments. MT stresses the need for all tourism service providers to abide by the laws and regulations related to the services they provide to ensure the satisfaction and safety of the visitors. MT also noted that all tourist-related inquiries or complaints can be made via contacting Tourism Call Center on 930.

flyadeal celebrates carrying 25 million passengers aboard its modern fleet of 32 aircraft in a remarkable accomplishment affirming its ongoing excellence in the low cost aviation sector. In its relatively short history, flyadeal has embarked on an exceptional journey of evolution, making this significant milestone a symbol of its steadfast commitment to providing exceptional service and meeting the needs of all flyadeal travellers. Mr. Abdulrahman Ajabnoor, Chief Financial Officer flyadeal, commented on this achievement saying, “We are proud of our journey so far, and we are proud to have achieved this historic accomplishment. This is a turning point for us, and it was made possible by our dedication to our customers and travellers who have chosen flyadeal to be their carrier and partner. We promise to continue to deliver safe and exceptional travel experiences.” He added, “In celebrating this achievement, we express our gratitude to our loyal customers who have been the foundation and driving force behind our accomplishments. Furthermore, we are extremely thankful to our dedicated team, who have worked diligently to achieve this success. Their unwavering commitment will undoubtedly lead to many more success’s for flyadeal.” Travellers can always rely on flyadeal to fly for less with seamless flight experiences to their favorite destinations within the Kingdom and around the world.