Saudi Summer Program 2024 Launches with 550+ Tourism Offers

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) launched the Saudi Summer Program 2024, “Saudi Summer is Next Door,” on May 20, 2024, in Riyadh, under the patronage of Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb. The four-month program, running until the end of September, spans seven destinations and features over 550 tourism products and more than 150 special offers and packages designed for families and children, catering to adventure seekers, luxury travelers, and culture enthusiasts.

Context and Background

The launch event, attended by World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and over 250 strategic partners from the public and private sectors, underscores Saudi Arabia’s accelerating transformation into a global tourism hub. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and position tourism as a key pillar of growth. The program’s seven destinations—Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea (a new addition), Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla—highlight the country’s diverse landscapes, from cool highlands to pristine coastlines.

Key Details

The summer program features major events, including the inaugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh, an eight-week global competition, and multiple boxing tournaments in Riyadh and Jeddah. The return of Jeddah Season and the launch of Aseer Season promise numerous family-friendly activities. Minister Al Khateeb emphasized the Kingdom’s record-breaking tourist numbers, noting that Saudi Arabia topped the UN World Tourism list and the G20 nations in growth. He stated, “Saudi Arabia is witnessing a transformative period in tourism, driven by our vision to position the Kingdom as a premier global destination. The Saudi Summer Program 2024 is our commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unparalleled hospitality that Saudi Arabia offers.”

STA CEO Fahd Hamidaddin highlighted the program’s unique value: “While temperatures in the region rise, temperatures in the highlands of southern Saudi Arabia decrease, and we even witnessed snowfall in Al Soudah yesterday.” He noted that over 550 tourism products and 150 special offers have been curated in collaboration with partners, including free airline tickets for children, tax-free shopping, and exclusive private and ladies’ beaches. The campaign slogan, “Saudi Summer is Next Door,” is reflected in destination-specific messages like “Closer,” “Cooler,” “More Beautiful,” and “More Affordable.”

Implications and Impact

The program strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global destination, boosting international arrivals and supporting the domestic tourism sector. Enhanced accessibility, including the eVisa now available to citizens of 66 countries at a 20% reduced price, and 1,100 weekly flights from Gulf cities, make travel more convenient. GCC residents can benefit from a multiple-entry visa allowing stays of up to 90 days per year, while 25,000 additional hotel rooms are expected this year. Tourism Secretary-General Pololikashvili praised Saudi Arabia’s achievements, stating, “All of these great achievements for Saudi tourism would not have been possible without proper planning by those in charge of the sector.”

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Saudi Summer Program 2024 exemplifies the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy, promoting cultural heritage, and enhancing quality of life. By attracting international tourists and empowering the private sector, Saudi Arabia is building a sustainable tourism ecosystem. As the Kingdom continues to open its doors to the world, such initiatives reinforce its leadership in global tourism and its journey toward a vibrant, forward-looking society.

20 Questions

Q1. Who launched the Saudi Summer Program 2024?

A1. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) launched the program under the patronage of Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb, who also chairs the STA’s board.

Q2. What is the slogan for the Saudi Summer Program 2024?

A2. The campaign slogan is “Saudi Summer is Next Door,” which invites tourists to discover the Kingdom’s diverse destinations.

Q3. How long will the Saudi Summer Program 2024 run?

A3. The program runs for four months, from its launch on May 20 until the end of September 2024.

Q4. How many destinations are included in the program?

A4. The program features seven destinations: Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea, Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla.

Q5. What is the total number of tourism products offered?

A5. The program includes more than 550 tourism products designed for various traveler segments.

Q6. How many special offers and packages are available?

A6. Over 150 special offers and packages are available, including deals for families and children.

Q7. Who attended the launch event?

A7. The event was attended by World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and over 250 strategic partners from public and private sectors.

Q8. What major esports event is part of the program?

A8. The Esports World Cup in Riyadh, held for the first time, is an eight-week competition featuring elite athletes.

Q9. Which new destination was added this year?

A9. The Red Sea is a new destination in the 2024 summer program, offering pristine coastlines and luxury experiences.

Q10. What seasonal events are returning or launching?

A10. Jeddah Season returns, while Aseer Season launches, both offering numerous family activities.

Q11. How has Saudi Arabia performed in tourism growth?

A11. Saudi Arabia topped the UN World Tourism list and the G20 nations in tourist growth.

Q12. What did Minister Al Khateeb say about the tourism sector?

A12. He highlighted a transformative period driven by the vision to make Saudi Arabia a premier global destination.

Q13. What special weather phenomenon was mentioned by STA CEO?

A13. STA CEO Fahd Hamidaddin mentioned snowfall in Al Soudah, illustrating the cool highland climates.

Q14. How many countries have access to the eVisa?

A14. Citizens of 66 countries can now obtain an eVisa to visit Saudi Arabia.

Q15. What is the price reduction on the eVisa?

A15. The total price of the eVisa has been reduced by 20%.

Q16. How many weekly flights are available from Gulf cities?

A16. There are 1,100 weekly flights from Gulf cities to Saudi summer destinations.

Q17. What visa option do GCC residents have?

A17. GCC residents can use a multiple-entry visa allowing stays of up to 90 days per year.

Q18. How many additional hotel rooms are expected this year?

A18. An additional 25,000 hotel rooms are expected to be added across the Kingdom this year.

Q19. What did Secretary-General Pololikashvili praise?

A19. He praised Saudi Arabia’s impressive tourism development and its top ranking in global indicators.

Q20. How does the program align with Vision 2030?

A20. The program supports Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and showcasing Saudi culture to the world.

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