RIYADH, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb has affirmed that tourism is a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030, and the kingdom is working to strengthen international cooperation in this vital sector. He pointed out that China represents a major market and a strategic partner in developing Saudi tourism.
Speaking in a recent interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly, which is held in Riyadh from Nov. 7 to 11, Al Khateeb said that hosting this global event is part of the kingdom's efforts to position itself as an international hub for tourism, culture, and economy. The gathering brings together more than 100 ministers and 1,000 global tourism leaders.
Al Khateeb noted that since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in developing its tourism, culture, and sports sectors after years of reliance on oil and gas. He cited the establishment of destinations such as the Red Sea Project, NEOM, AlUla, Diriyah, and Qiddiya, as well as the launch of Riyadh Air and the development of King Salman International Airport.
The kingdom has already exceeded its National Tourism Strategy targets. In 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed 116 million visitors, including 30 million international tourists, surpassing its 2030 goal ahead of schedule. Consequently, the new target has been raised to 150 million visitors by 2030, including 50 million international visitors.
The minister also mentioned the launch of the TOURISE summit, a new annual event that brings together the public and private sectors to discuss the future of global tourism, offering a platform for policymakers, investors, and operators to explore innovation and modern technologies in the industry.
Al Khateeb emphasized that tourism is a two-way path, and Saudi Arabia is preparing all facilities and services to meet the needs of Chinese tourists.
"China is a very important market for us. We have been working closely with the Chinese government through business councils and committees," he said.
He added that Saudi Arabia has opened representative offices in China and encouraged Chinese airlines to operate direct flights to Riyadh. Currently, there are regular flights to many Chinese cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. The ministry is also cooperating with major Chinese online travel platforms to strengthen tourism cooperation between the two countries.
According to Al Khateeb, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism and leisure is expected to reach half a million in 2025, up from around 100,000 three years ago. The goal is to reach 5 million Chinese tourists by 2030, which will require more flights, stronger promotional efforts, and close cooperation with Chinese partners.
He further mentioned that Saudi Arabia is training tour guides in the Chinese language, installing Chinese-language signs at tourist destinations, and ensuring the availability of authentic Chinese restaurants to cater to visiting tourists.
The minister highlighted that Chinese companies play an active role in Saudi Arabia's tourism and hotel development projects, particularly in construction and infrastructure. He noted that China is a key partner in implementing major projects in NEOM, the Red Sea, Qiddiya, and Diriyah, to help build the "New Saudi Arabia."
"We welcome our Chinese friends to visit Saudi Arabia. China is the largest trade partner of Saudi Arabia. We aspire for it to become our number one tourism partner," he said.
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