flyadeal to train 800 Saudi cabin crew as tourism ambassadors by 2030
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flyadeal announced a regional first with Saudi cabin crew to be trained as certified tour guides in support of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to build a dynamic tourism industry. The programme will target 800 crew by 2030 for comprehensive tour guide training in which they will embrace wider learnings of Saudi Arabia's culture and historical attractions. Upon completion, they will receive a licence as tourism ambassadors enabling them to hone their skills as official guides engaging with passengers, and with visitors in a private capacity.
Over the next few weeks, the Saudi-based airline will open applications for courses specifically designed for Saudi nationals. A training institute accredited to Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism will conduct the courses. flyadeal is promoting several developments at the show including its upcoming summer season flying programme and new year-round destinations. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: 'flyadeal continues to push the boundaries with employee initiatives designed to enhance their personal development and professional skills. This new training programme, the first of its kind in the Middle East, will empower crew and equip them with the skills and confidence to engage with visitors as official tourism ambassadors.
'As licensed tour guides, the beauty of the programme allows our crew to use their new-found skills while interacting with passengers but also harness their experience by taking tourists on guided tours around the wonderful historic sites that the Kingdom is so renowned for.'
To kick-off the programme, flyadeal crew were given a guided tour of the fascinating Dirayah district – the birthplace of Saudi Arabia – in the Kingdom's capital, Riyadh. They explored and learned more about the traditional mud-brick architecture and cultural sites being restored to their former glory, but more importantly gained insights into what it takes to become a certified tour guide.
Massive investment is underway in the Dirayah project being developed as the nation's foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination.
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