Blog Post: S. Fazal Daoud Firdausi
Saudi Arabia is the heart of Arab and Islamic Worlds. It is a well-known fact that Saudi Arabia is endowed with vast reserves of mineral oil. In addition to that, it attracts millions of religious pilgrims for Haj and Umrah every year. Although Saudi Arabia receives millions of visitors annually, it has never been designated as a tourist destination. Moreover, an image has been built over the years that Saudi Arabia means ‘oil’ and ‘pilgrimage’. Despite the fact that Saudi Arabia is blessed with rich geographical, social and cultural assets. Recently, steps have been taken by the political establishment of Saudi Arabia to project itself as a popular tourist destination. Authorities in Saudi Arabia have prepared the Vision - 2030 document under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammad-Bin-Salman. The Vision - 2030 document emphasizes on using Saudi’s investment power to create a more diverse and sustainable economy. Tourism development in this regard can act as an important instrument in achieving the same.
Increasing number of Umrah visitors: Saudi is planning to increase Umrah visitors to over 15 million per year. It intends to provide a fulfilling and satisfying pilgrimage experience by expanding the capabilities.
Building largest Islamic Museum: It strives to build Islamic museums in accordance with highest global standards. The museum will be equipped with the latest methods in collection, preservation, presentation and documentation.
Promote Healthy Living: Facilities for a wide variety of sports and athletic activities will be developed.
Developing New Cities: It will build new world class cities such as Neom.
Achieving Environmental Sustainability: Saudi will increase the efficiency of waste management, focus on recycling, reducing pollution and checking desertification.
Saudi Arabia has been taking path breaking initiatives to diversify its economy. It has been putting consistent efforts to transform its image in the world of tourism. Saudi Arabia has allowed foreign tourists to visit Medina with few exceptions. It has also allowed women to travel independently. These concerted efforts and confidence boosting measures will definitely bring Saudi Arabia on the top of the world tourist map.
Reference:
https://www.vision2030.gov.sa/
Vibrant Society
Islam and its teachings are the foundations of Saudi society. True Islamic values of moderation, excellence, discipline, equity and transparency have remained the bedrock of its success. Saudi Arabia is known for its ancient civilisation. It also lies at the helm of global trade routes.Major Initiatives for Tourism Development
Building largest Islamic Museum: It strives to build Islamic museums in accordance with highest global standards. The museum will be equipped with the latest methods in collection, preservation, presentation and documentation.
Promote Healthy Living: Facilities for a wide variety of sports and athletic activities will be developed.
Developing New Cities: It will build new world class cities such as Neom.
Achieving Environmental Sustainability: Saudi will increase the efficiency of waste management, focus on recycling, reducing pollution and checking desertification.
Saudi Arabia has been taking path breaking initiatives to diversify its economy. It has been putting consistent efforts to transform its image in the world of tourism. Saudi Arabia has allowed foreign tourists to visit Medina with few exceptions. It has also allowed women to travel independently. These concerted efforts and confidence boosting measures will definitely bring Saudi Arabia on the top of the world tourist map.
Reference:
https://www.vision2030.gov.sa/