GLOBAL RECOGNITION ARRIVES
MARCH Riyadh Air to take flight
2023: Saudi exceeds tourism target
Thee Ain, Al Bahah: Sau- di sets out plans to plant billions of trees (2021)
The PIF reveals Riyadh Air as a new national carrier designed to expand global connectivity. The airline becomes central to plans for long-term tourism growth, connecting Riyadh to more than 100 destinations. First on the network list are Dubai and London.
SUSTAINABILITY JOINS THE STRATEGY
JANUARY Cruise Saudi gets on board
OCTOBER First guests arrive at The Red Sea
The Public Investment Fund creates Cruise Saudi to develop a domestic cruise industry and modernise port infrastructure. Jeddah becomes the kingdom’s first major cruise gateway.
The Red Sea destination welcomes its first visitors following the opening of Red Sea International Airport. The milestone marks the operational debut of one of Saudi Arabia’s flagship tourism projects. SEPTEMBER Riyadh hosts World Tourism Day Saudi Arabia hosts the largest World Tourism Day celebrations in history, bringing together tourism leaders from more than 120 countries. The event highlights the kingdom’s growing role in the sector. NOVEMBER Riyadh wins Expo 2030 bid Riyadh is officially selected to host Expo 2030 after securing a decisive international vote. The event is expected to accelerate investment, infrastructure and visitor growth.
MARCH Saudi Green Initiative announced
Saudi Arabia sets out plans to plant billions of trees, expand renewable energy and reach net-zero emissions by 2060. Sustainability becomes increasingly linked to tourism development. MAY UN Tourism regional office opens in Riyadh UN Tourism opens its first Middle East regional office in Riyadh. The move strengthens Saudi Arabia’s influence in global tourism policy and regional development.
2021
2023
PHASE 2: ACCELERATION (2021-2025)
2022
TOURISM GETS SMART
2022: At-Turaif, Diriyah opens as a major heritage destination
FEBRUARY Digital Tourism Strategy supports growth Saudi Arabia rolls out a national digital tourism strategy focused on technology, smart services and visitor experience. The programme aims to modernise the sector ahead of future growth. JUNE Tourism Pioneers programme puts Saudis first The Ministry of Tourism rolls out a national skills initiative to train 100,000 young Saudis for hospitality and tourism careers. Workforce development becomes a major Vision 2030 priority. At-Turaif in Diriyah officially opens as a major heritage tourism destination. The UNESCO-listed site showcases the birthplace of the Saudi state. Dining destination, Bujairi Terrace, opens soon after, with Michelin-starred restaurants part of the offering. DECEMBER Diriyah opens to the public
14 | SPOTLIGHT RIYADH
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