Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb

Saudi Arabia will be vying with 100 global touristic destinations upon the completion of the Red Sea Project, stated Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, adding that the sector is turning the corner backed by the government efforts as well as the public-private partnerships.

He highlighted the significance of the public-private partnerships to enhance the sector’s performance and boost its gross domestic product (GDP) contribution, especially amid the industry clear regulations which will be expectedly implemented in a truly partnership climate, Al Khateeb added on the sidelines of a meeting with investors and business owners in Makkah Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI).

There is continuous coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to receive worshippers and visitors, adding that the transit visa will be available for a big number of Muslims to perform Umrah in a four-day visit, Al Khateeb indicated.

Al Khateeb also touched upon the Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP) which linked over 22 destinations and cost more than SAR 30 million.