Saudi Arabia Showcases New Destinations And Innovations At World Travel Market London 2023

Saudi Arabia is making a significant return to the World Travel Market (WTM) in London. A core delegation of 61 key stakeholders will showcase the nation's impressive growth in tourism. This effort aims to strengthen trade partnerships within the industry, according to a Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) press release.

The Saudi delegation is led by Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and STA Chairman. He is joined by STA CEO Fahd Hamidaddin and leaders from the broader Saudi tourism sector, along with prominent industry partners. The group includes representatives from entities like the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Development Fund, ASFAR, Cruise Saudi, Saudia, Riyadh Air, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, and the Royal Commission for AlUla.

Cultural and entertainment highlights such as Riyadh Season, MDL Beast, and Qiddiya are also represented. These showcase Saudi Arabia’s diverse offerings and investment in tourism innovation. For the first time at WTM, 17 international and local hotel brands will join the Saudi delegation. This marks the largest number of hotel partners in the Saudi Pavilion.

During the three-day event from November 5 to 7, significant announcements will be made. Partnerships that highlight Saudi Arabia's forward-thinking approach to tourism will be unveiled. Delegates will engage in bilateral meetings, serve as key speakers, network extensively, and present a thriving tourism sector that has surpassed records.

Today at 11:30 am, visitors will gather at the Saudi Pavilion for a special announcement by Al Khateeb. He will reveal a new destination in Saudi Arabia. The pavilion offers an immersive journey through Saudi cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. It features traditional music and dancing, Saudi coffee, mocktail experiences, date carts, a café offering local cuisine tastes, plus demonstrations of traditional crafts like basket weaving and vibrant flower crown creation.

This year’s pavilion introduces new engaging activations. Guests can experience Sun and Sea destinations on a virtual jet ski ride through the Red Sea. They can also enjoy an on-stand collaboration with MDLBEAST featuring DJ Leen playing live music.

Interactive Technology Enhancements

For sports fans, there is an exciting activation related to the Saudi PRO League. Through interactive technology at the stand, visitors can explore winter tourism products across Saudi Arabia’s expansive geography and natural wonders.

The stand is designed to accommodate trade partners with dedicated spaces providing all necessary information including growth opportunities. Partners can easily register using a QR code while special kiosks display advancements in tourism technology.

Growing Interest from International Travelers

The presence of Saudi Arabia at WTM highlights growing interest from European and American travelers seeking winter sun destinations since launching "Where Winter Lights Up". This campaign encourages global travelers to explore destinations like Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Red Sea while immersing themselves in year-round events such as Riyadh Season or Formula 1 Grand Prix in Jeddah.

The stand also features a map of activities calendar alongside a guide offering destination insights through VR technology for trade partners.

With inputs from SPA