WTM London unveils Saudi as Premier Partner for 2021
Dhaka: Saudi, the authentic home of Arabia has been announced as Premier Partner of WTM London 2021 as the country ramps up its global drive to reach 100 million visitors a year by 2030.
The ambitious target is part of Saudi's Vision 2030, a blueprint for the socio-economic future of Saudi Arabia, designed to diversify the country's economy and create a thriving tourism industry.
The high-profile partnership with WTM London will ensure Saudi is positioned as a key global player and leading tourist destination in the international marketplace.
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), said, "With our biggest delegation of partners, projects, and destination representatives to date, our presence at this year's WTM London is significant in positioning Saudi as one of the world's newest leisure destinations to major international industry players. Saudi's tourism offering is unique, diverse and undiscovered and we look forward to welcoming WTM London visitors with the hospitality for which we are known."
"We are committed to further establishing the Saudi brand, expanding our international presence and building relationships with trusted partners who will be critical in helping us drive conversion in our key source markets."
The Saudi delegation at WTM London will promote and drive awareness about the destination's rich culture, heritage, and adventure tourism opportunities. At the pavilion, WTM London guests and visitors will have the opportunity to explore Saudi's destination offering, on an interactive journey through desert landscapes and green valleys, ancient archaeological sites and the wonders of the Red Sea.
Saudi first opened its doors and hearts to international leisure tourists in September 2019 with the launch of the country's e-visa service.
Following border closures in early 2020, STA launched its first-ever domestic tourism campaign which saw millions of residents and citizens travel to far-flung corners of the country – many used to travel abroad for vacations, were exploring their own country for the first time.
In May 2021, WTM's sister brand Arabian Travel Market welcomed its largest-ever Saudi delegation, with 24 public and private partners and a number of significant international partnership announcements.
And by August 2021, Saudi re-opened its borders and started welcoming back tourists, 18 months after tourism was suspended due to the pandemic.
Operators such as Abercrombie & Kent and Explore have unveiled programs to Saudi, while cruise lines such as MSC Cruises and Emerald Cruises are developing cruise itineraries.
Saudia, the national carrier for Saudi Arabia, operates direct flights from Heathrow to Jeddah and Riyadh. British Airways also operates direct flights from Heathrow to Riyadh.
WTM London's Senior Director, Simon Press, said, "WTM London is delighted to welcome Saudi Arabia as its Premier Partner for 2021. Being WTM London's Premier Partner gives Saudi an unparalleled opportunity to promote its tourism products among key trade buyers and media from across the globe.
"With such ambitious targets and investments worth billions, it's clear that Saudi Arabia is striving to be a key player in the international tourism market in a very short time, so its status as Premier Partner can help accelerate its rapid progress.
"As the world opens up again after the pandemic, holidaymakers will be eager for new and exciting destinations and Saudi Arabia is in the perfect position at WTM London to capitalise on the eagerness of operators and the trade to offer innovative new products as we head into 2022."
