New Delhi - In a strategic move to enhance its tourism sector and attract foreign investment, Saudi Arabia has set its sights on drawing more Chinese tourists and collaborating with Chinese companies. The announcement from Deputy Minister of Tourism Sultan Al Musallam at a recent event highlights the kingdom's ambitions to solidify its position as a global tourism powerhouse. Saudi Arabia's journey began with the launch of its national tourism strategy in 2010, and the country is now entering the second phase of this initiative, focused on unlocking new source markets, particularly China.
"We started the year without any connectivity to China, and today we have already four Chinese airlines connecting three different cities in China to Saudi Arabia," Al Musallam noted, emphasizing the growing passenger seat volume as a significant factor conducive to attracting more Chinese tourists. Among the key attractions for these potential visitors is Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Riyadh, which aims to welcome a larger influx of Chinese tourists while fostering cooperation with Chinese companies.
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, stated, "We have a very big mandate for 2025 for China. We have announced many joint ventures with Chinese land operators." As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and offerings, the kingdom presents a plethora of opportunities for Chinese companies to invest and engage in business ventures. With its ambitious plans and expanding connectivity, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a prime destination for Chinese travelers, further enhancing its global tourism profile.