Saudi Tourism Authority Launches The Saudi Summer Program 2024: 'Saudi Summer Is Next Door'

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has launched the "Saudi Summer is Next Door" program for 2024, which will run for four months until the end of September. The program aims to promote tourism in Saudi Arabia and offers over 550 tourism products and more than 150 special offers and packages for families and children. The launch event was attended by key strategic partners, media, and opinion leaders, including World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

The program will take place in seven destinations: Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea (a new destination), Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla. This year, the program will also see the return of the Jeddah Season and the launch of the Aseer Season, featuring various family activities and events. In addition to these events, Saudi Arabia will host the Esports World Cup in Riyadh for the first time, as well as multiple boxing tournaments in Riyadh and Jeddah.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the STA, highlighted the growth of tourism in Saudi Arabia and its record-breaking numbers of incoming tourists. He stated that Saudi Arabia is committed to showcasing its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unparalleled hospitality. Al Khateeb also emphasized the efforts made to make Saudi Arabia more accessible to tourists worldwide through initiatives such as the eVisa and increased flight connectivity.

Zurab Pololikashvili praised the development of tourism in Saudi Arabia and its global indicators related to the number of tourists. He commended the proper planning by those in charge of the sector in the Kingdom and highlighted the diverse climates, stunning natural landmarks, and hospitality of the Saudi people as factors contributing to its success.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of STA, emphasized the uniqueness of Saudi destinations and their climatic, natural, and cultural diversity. He mentioned that the summer program includes more than 550 tourism products and 150 special offers designed in collaboration with STA's partners. These offers include attractive deals from hotels, airlines offering free tickets for children, and exceptional products in the Aseer Season and Jeddah Season.

The campaign slogan "Saudi Summer is Next Door" invites tourists to explore the magic of Saudi destinations. The private sector plays a crucial role in the success of tourism programs, and the STA is committed to empowering it by encouraging demand for products and offers that meet the aspirations of tourists from around the world.

Visiting Saudi Arabia has become easier, smoother, and safer through efforts such as making the eVisa available to citizens of 66 countries, reducing the total price of the eVisa by 20%, and increasing the number of weekly flights from Gulf cities to Saudi summer destinations to 1,100. GCC residents can also take advantage of the GCC residents visa, which allows them multiple entries and a stay of up to 90 days in Saudi Arabia during a year. Additionally, there will be an increase in the number of hotel rooms available to travelers, with an additional 25,000 rooms expected to be added this year.

The launch of the Saudi Summer Program 2024 signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting its tourism sector and attracting visitors from all over the world. With its diverse destinations, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Saudi Arabia aims to provide unforgettable experiences for tourists this summer.

With inputs from SPA