The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) unveiled their summer program for 2024, "Saudi Summer is Next Door," during a ceremony attended by Ahmed Al Khateeb, the country's Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Unveiling "Saudi Summer is Next Door"
In a ceremony graced by the Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), Ahmed Al Khateeb, the STA unveiled its ambitious summer program for 2024, dubbed "Saudi Summer is Next Door."
The program, spanning four months until September's end, encompasses seven vibrant destinations and boasts a vast array of over 550 tourism products, along with more than 150 tailored offers and packages meticulously crafted to cater to families and children across various interests, including adventure seekers, luxury aficionados, and culture enthusiasts.
Destination Delights
Attended by dignitaries including World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, the launch event witnessed the unveiling of a comprehensive agenda set across seven picturesque locales:
- Aseer
- Al Baha
- Taif
- Red Sea
- Jeddah
- Riyadh
- AlUla
Among the highlights of this year's program is the return of the Jeddah Season and the inaugural Aseer Season, featuring an array of family-friendly activities and events. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is gearing up to host several major events, notably the inaugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh, an eight-week extravaganza showcasing the prowess of top esports athletes worldwide, alongside multiple boxing tournaments in Riyadh and Jeddah.
During the event, Al Khateeb underscored the burgeoning tourism landscape of Saudi Arabia, citing its exponential growth, record-breaking tourist influx, and prominent positions on the UN World Tourism and G20 nations lists. He emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to positioning itself as a premier global destination, inviting both local and international tourists to partake in the diverse offerings across the seven unique destinations.
Echoing similar sentiments, Pololikashvili commended the remarkable strides made by Saudi tourism, attributing its success to meticulous planning and the country's abundant natural and cultural treasures. Meanwhile, STA CEO Fahd Hamidaddin highlighted the campaign's focus on showcasing the distinctive climatic, natural, and cultural diversity of Saudi destinations, alongside a plethora of exciting events and activities.
Under the slogan "Saudi Summer is Next Door," the campaign extends a warm invitation to explore the enchanting realms of Saudi Arabia, each destination encapsulating its unique allure, from proximity and cooler climates to affordability and breathtaking beauty.
Recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector, the STA aims to bolster tourism initiatives by stimulating demand for products and offers tailored to global tourist preferences. The launch coincides with ongoing efforts to streamline the visitor experience, including the availability of eVisas for citizens of 66 countries, enhanced flight connectivity, and the introduction of initiatives like the GCC resident visa.
As Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its tourism infrastructure and offerings, the stage is set for an unforgettable summer experience characterized by warmth, hospitality, and a kaleidoscope of enriching experiences awaiting travelers from around the world.
