Tag Archives: Saudi Arabia

Last year, the travel and tourism sector in Saudi Arabia grew over 32% to contribute a record-breaking SAR 444.3BN to Saudi’s GDP, representing 11.5% of the entire economy. This exceeded the previous record by almost 30% and underscores the sector’s pivotal new role in the nation’s economic framework. The World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed a record-breaking year for travel & tourism in Saudi Arabia, with new records in GDP contribution, sector jobs and visitor spend. Saudi Arabia’s travel & tourism sector is now soaring past all previous records, testament to the country’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hot spot. Jobs supported by the sector grew by 436,000 to reach more than 2.5MN, representing almost one in five jobs in the country. Although the jobs lost during the pandemic were fully recovered in 2022, today’s announcement shows sector employment in Travel & Tourism has increased almost 24% since the previous peak. International visitor spending surged by almost 57% to reach SAR 227.4BN, breaking the previous record by SAR 93.6BN, while domestic visitor spending grew by 21.5% to reach SAR 142.5BN. Seven years ahead of its target, Saudi Arabia welcomed 100MN tourists in 2023. Today, the country is surging toward even greater heights and has set a more ambitious aim of attracting 150MN tourists by 2030. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said; “Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector’s extraordinary achievements last year mark a pivotal moment in its journey towards becoming a global tourism leader. “This success is a direct result of the Kingdom’s visionary commitment to the sector, showcasing an impressive fusion of cultural heritage and innovative tourism initiatives. As the sector continues …

SAUDIA and Virgin Atlantic have signed a codeshare agreement effective June 2024 to provide a range of benefits to SAUDIA’s guests and Virgin Atlantic’s passengers, enriching their travel experience and expanding route networks for both airlines to serve the tourism and business sectors. The codeshare agreement offers a range of benefits for travelers on both airlines. Guests will enjoy a smooth and hassle-free travel experience with the ability to book connecting flights on both SAUDIA and Virgin Atlantic under a single ticket. This simplifies the booking process and ensures seamless baggage handling to their destination. Additionally, frequent flyers can leverage their existing membership benefits and accrue mileage towards status upgrades on both airlines. Notably, SAUDIA’s AlFursan members can specifically earn and redeem miles on Virgin Atlantic flights. Under this new codeshare agreement, SAUDIA guests will be able to seamlessly travel from Jeddah and Riyadh to ten destinations across the United States and the Caribbean Islands via Heathrow and Manchester airports in the United Kingdom utilizing Virgin Atlantic’s extensive flight network. Furthermore, the Virgin Atlantic passengers traveling from the United States will be able to conveniently book flights via London Heathrow and Manchester airports, connecting them to SAUDIA’s services in Jeddah and Riyadh.

The China i2i Group announced the launch of  CVS Saudi Arabia, to be hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with The Saudi Tourism Authority and Taiba Investments Company. The CVS Saudi Arabia will attract 120+ Chinese travel buyers, including travel agencies, tour operators, wholesalers, luxury travel agents, corporate travel planners, business travel agencies, MICE agents, online travel agencies, as well as specialty firms for adventure, culinary, historical tours, and more. Additionally, a contingent of Chinese media representatives will be in attendance. The CVS Saudi Arabia will span two days, offering travel suppliers from across Saudi Arabia the opportunity for face-to-face meetings with these Chinese buyers and media. Saudi Arabian travel suppliers will have the flexibility to select the buyers they wish to meet with, customizing their meeting experience to align with their product and profit goals. In addition to the one-on-one meetings, the CVS Saudi Arabia will provide ample networking opportunities during group breakfasts, refreshment breaks, lunches, afternoon teas, and dinner receptions. During the event, Chinese buyers will be invited to participate in various city and regional tours, hotel and attraction site inspections, meetings with MICE venues and partnerships, as well as engagements with local Saudi Arabian government and tourism dignitaries and officials. Alexander Glos, CEO of China i2i and producer of the CVS, commented, “The extension and expansion of the CVS to Saudi Arabia present an exciting opportunity for everyone. As Saudi Arabia emerges as one of the most intriguing and dynamic travel destinations globally, Chinese travelers will be eager to explore, learn, and embark on great adventures throughout the country.” Underlining the significance of the Chinese market, Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized, “China, …

Explora Journeys announced a strategic partnership in Saudi Arabia with ITL World aimed to bring bespoke luxury travel experiences to discerning Saudi travelers, combining Explora Journeys’ sophisticated cruise offerings with ITL World’s regional expertise. Travellers have the chance to immerse themselves in cosmopolitan, European luxury at sea. On every journey, guests can enjoy elegant suites with a private ocean-front terrace, nine unforgettable inclusive culinary experiences, high-speed Wi-Fi via Starlink connectivity, vibrant entertainment & ocean-inspired wellness. With this partnership, ITL World will leverage its extensive network and expertise in travel management to introduce Explora Journeys’ unique offerings to a broader audience in Saudi Arabia enhancing the luxury ocean travel options available to discerning travelers. Speaking on the backdrop of the Saudi Aramco Travel Show 2024, Angelo Capurro, Executive Director, Explora Journeys, said, “We are delighted to partner with ITL World, a company that shares our vision of providing truly transformative travel experiences. This collaboration will allow us to bring our unique journeys to a wider audience in the Middle East, offering them the chance to explore the world in unparalleled luxury.” Dr. Siddeek Ahmed, Chairman & Managing, ITL World, added, “Our partnership with Explora Journeys underscores our commitment to offering the best in luxury travel to our guests in Saudi Arabia. We are excited to combine our local expertise with Explora Journeys’ exceptional offerings to create unique and memorable travel experiences.” Setting a new standard in luxury ocean travel, Explora Journeys, offers discerning travellers the perfect blend of discovery and sophistication, combining celebrated destinations with off-the-beaten-path ports, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the essence of exploration. With overnights and longer stays at destinations, guests can delve deep into local cultures …

Novotel unveils the latest addition to its portfolio in Saudi Arabia, Novotel Riyadh Sahafa. This marks the ninth Novotel property across the Kingdom and is being led by Accor’s first female hotel General Manager in Saudi Arabia, Hessa Al Mazroa. Strategically located in the vibrant Al Sahafa district, this contemporary property is the ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience and wellbeing. Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is set in close proximity to King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh Exhibition Center and Riyadh Boulevard, the city’s largest entertainment centre. The hotel is only 15 km away from King Khalid International Airport. The Novotel Riyadh Sahafa showcases a combination of modern design and traditional Saudi elements. The four-star property features 232 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, complete with stunning views of Olaya Street, one of Riyadh’s bustling arteries. The state-of-the-art facilities are designed to provide a tranquil retreat for business travellers seeking to rest after a busy day and families looking to spend quality time together. Spearheading the team at Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is the trailblazing Hessa Almazroa, the group’s first female hotel general manager in the country, who emphasized the importance of this launch. “This is a significant milestone for Novotel as we strengthen our presence in the dynamic and transforming Saudi market. We are dedicated to merging international hospitality standards with local culture to create uniquely enriching moments for our guests inspiring them to reconnect with their friends, family and colleagues.” Almazroa emphasised the rise of Saudi women and the positive impact of Saudization on the hospitality industry. “It is a great honour to lead a team of such talented and committed professionals. We are …

Boutique Group  marks its first independent participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) highlighting its commitment to redefining the luxury hospitality experience by transforming some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic former royal residences, among other cultural and historic landmarks, into ultra-luxury hotels. Boutique Group also announced details of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed with ALTANFEETHI luxury concierge service to cooperatively exchange knowledge and expertise to develop and enhance guest experience at airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Boutique Group’s portfolio includes the stunning Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah, known for hosting some of the world’s most prominent international public figures, the Red Palace in the heart of old Riyadh, which adorned the SAR 100 bank note and served as the home to the Council of Ministers for three decades, and the Aga Khan Award-winning Tuwaiq Palace, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Saudi Arabia’s iconic forts, tents and oasis landscape. Across its palaces, Boutique Group is dedicated to designing bespoke modern luxury offerings rooted in a strong sense of place, backed by strong partnerships and an authentic representation of Saudi’s vast heritage. “This year’s ATM theme explores gateways. This is particularly poignant for Boutique Group, because our properties are in essence a gateway to a new model of hospitality, and a more sustainable future. Inspired by Saudi Arabi’s rich heritage and powered by its talent, we are creating a gateway to a more resilient and diversified economy,” said Mark De Cocinis, Chief Executive Officer at Boutique Group. “We are also delighted to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with luxury concierge provider, ALTANFEETHI, and look forward to exploring more ways to collaborate on this remarkable new model of Saudi hospitality,” …

Air Cairo announced Almosafer as their exclusive general sales agent (GSA) in Saudi Arabia. This highlights the importance of KSA as a primary market for Air Cairo, as both parties will work together to meet the needs of travellers from the Kingdom. Air Cairo selected Almosafer for its strong market presence and esteemed reputation in Saudi Arabia. Almosafer will play a key role in boosting Air Cairo’s sales across the Kingdom, by leveraging its extensive customer base to offer promotional deals and on-ground activities, while utilizing the strength of Almosafer’s businesses, such as “Discover Saudi,” its destination management company, and “Mawasim,” its Hajj & Umrah tour operator. Air Cairo offers greater connectivity and convenience through its fleet of well-maintained aircrafts. The airline has been expanding its network since its inception in 2003. With the recent addition of a more modern Airbus fleet, the airline reinforces its dedication to providing world-class comfort and convenience. As a leading airline in the region, it is focused on offering safe travel and ensuring greater connectivity and accessibility to its valued passengers. Pilot Ahmed Shannan, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Air Cairo Airlines, said about the partnership “We are delighted to collaborate with Almosafer to offer our services to a broad spectrum of travelers from Saudi Arabia and beyond. We are confident that Almosafer’s expertise and credibility in the region will enable us to broaden our reach and offer cost-effective travel options to all.” Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We are excited to welcome Air Cairo among our esteemed partners. We are confident that this collaboration will enhance the travel sector in the region and offer greater …

Cheval Collection’s new, luxury serviced apartments in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will break ground this year, with construction due for completion in 2027. CHEVAL LADUN LIVING – a partnership with KSA-based Ladun Investment Company – is Cheval Collection’s first property in KSA and the third in the Middle East. The UK-based, award-winning hospitality brand currently operates Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai and will open Cheval Maison – Dubai Expo City in 2025. Speaking at Arabian Travel Market, Cheval Collection’s Chief Operating Officer John Philipson, said: “Saudi Arabia is key to Cheval Collection’s continued expansion in the Middle East, and we are proud to add CHEVAL LADUN LIVING to our international property portfolio – and to KSA’s ever-growing hospitality offering. We look forward to breaking ground this year, and opening for business in 2027.” Located on King Fahd Road, close to Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial Centre, CHEVAL LADUN LIVING will contain 130 one to three bedroom luxury apartments. The property will also feature a range of fitness and leisure amenities, including a gym, swimming pool and sauna. Construction of the tower will cost up to US$80 million. Cheval Collection’s first Middle East property – Cheval Maison – The Palm– celebrated its first successful year of operation last month. Meanwhile, the company’s 150 luxury apartment complex at Dubai’s Expo City, a repurpose of the prestigious Leadership Pavilion at EXPO 2020, is undergoing refurbishment ahead of its opening next year. Cheval Collection currently operates 800 luxury apartments across 13 properties in London, Edinburgh and Dubai.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts will showcase the much-anticipated first hotel in Saudi Arabia – Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah, Riyadh and September reopening of its iconic flagship Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024. Led by Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International, Dusit’s team of corporate executives will present a comprehensive overview of Dusit Hotels and Resorts’ global portfolio and its commitment to uniquely delivering Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world. This legacy, pioneered 75 years ago this May by the company’s founder Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui with the opening of her first Bangkok hotel, continues to define the Dusit experience today. Beyond the company’s rich history, attendees can expect to learn more about a diverse range of participating properties, including established favourites such as Dusit Thani Dubai, Dusit Doha Hotel, Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo, and Dusit Thani Maldives, alongside a curated selection of luxury villas from Elite Havens. The spotlight will shine on last year’s international openings, including the boutique Dusit Suites Athens, Greece, Dusit’s first hotel in Europe; the lifestyle-oriented ASAI Kyoto Shijo and luxurious Dusit Thani Kyoto, Dusit’s first properties in Japan; and the breathtaking Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort Dhulikhel and contemporary Dusit Princess Kathmandu, Dusit’s first entries into Nepal. Last year’s openings in Dusit’s home base of Thailand will also be showcased, including ASAI Bangkok Sathorn, the second property in the capital under Dusit’s affordable lifestyle brand; the upscale dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok, the first dusitD2-branded hotel in the city; and Dusit Princess Phatthalung, a beautiful resort in southern Thailand, bringing Dusit’s domestic property count to 18. Alongside these recent additions, Dusit will also reveal more about its expected 2024 openings, including up to …

Middle East region will become the tourism powerhouse by 2030 as the region will have almost half a million keys by 2030, shared Turab Saleem Partner – Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure Advisory – MENA Knight Frank At an exclusive interview with TravelTV Middle East at the Future Hospitality Summit in Saudi Arabia. “It started off with Dubai leading followed by Qatar, Abu Dhabi and now Saudi Arabia in terms of hotel rooms. Travellers will have more options to select from the whole of Arabia with the GCC countries which will have a total of one million keys by 2030, making it a tourism hub.” Currently there are 320,000 keys in the pipeline in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and if you take the whole region the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait will also have additional keys which will make the Middle East region as the powerhouse of tourism. With the ease of visa to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it has become a hub for international travel. The government has invested in infrastructure as well as talent, as they have partnered with various international universities to provide the education necessary to develop the talent of the industry.  Saleem further pointed out that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s main goal was to diversify the non-oil sector by 2030 to add 10% to the GDP, and they are in the right direction going towards the goal as already 4% has been added to GDP by the end of last year.