Latest news with #AhmedAlKhateeb
Argaam
27-05-2025
- Business
- Argaam
Aseer welcomes 8M tourists in 2024, eyes 4,000 new hotel rooms: Minister
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb said Aseer region has unique natural and cultural features that qualify it to be an attractive environment for tourism investments. During his participation in the second edition of the Aseer Investment Forum, Al Khateeb said the coming years will witness the addition of approximately 4,000 new hotel rooms to the region, supported by the tourism system.
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Aseer Investment Forum kicks off in its second edition
Abha: Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Aseer Region, the second edition of the Aseer Investment Forum commenced this morning, Tuesday, at King Khalid University's campus in Al-Fara'a, Abha, under the theme 'Aseer Thrives... Invest Now.' The event features the participation of several esteemed ministers, senior officials, investors, and experts from within the Kingdom and abroad. The forum is part of the Aseer Development Authority's efforts to position the region as a leading investment destination. This second edition brings together 1,500 guests, including leaders from developmental sectors, investors, and decision-makers, to discuss ways to develop the investment environment in the region and enhance the synergy between the public and private sectors, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The forum opened with a ministerial session titled 'Aseer Shines... An Investment Destination on the Global Map,' featuring the participation of His Excellency Mr. Abdullah Al-Atiyah, Minister of Municipal Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, and His Excellency Engineer Abdullah Al-Swaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology. The speakers in the session discussed the role of infrastructure, digital transformation, and major events—including the bid for the city of Abha to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup—in supporting the economic development trajectory of the region. His Excellency Dr. Majid Al-Qasabi, Minister of Commerce, also participated in the forum through a keynote address, where he discussed the performance of the commercial sector in the Aseer region, the ministry's role in facilitating the investor journey, stimulating the business environment, and highlighting the role of chambers of commerce in supporting the growth of various regions. The forum also saw the participation of His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Al-Quwaiz, Chairman of the Capital Market Authority, in a talk focusing on enabling promising regions through capital markets, available financing mechanisms for investors, and the development of laws and regulations to stimulate the national economy. The forum includes five main sessions that discuss key aspects of the investment environment in the Aseer region, as well as available opportunities in the sectors of tourism, technology, infrastructure, and the creative economy. The sessions also highlight the role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in supporting development through its flagship projects, along with the participation of its subsidiaries in accelerating growth and enhancing sustainability. One of the forum's highlights is the announcement of the launch of 'Qimam Al-Sarrah' company as an investment arm to support land development efforts and facilitate regulatory processes for investors. The forum will also unveil several unique projects presented for the first time, which are expected to strengthen Aseer's position on both the national and global economic map. In addition, the forum features a number of specialized workshops addressing topics such as tourism financing, empowering investors, improving regulations, and showcasing investment opportunities. A concurrent exhibition showcases diverse projects, with a dedicated section for supporting entities. The forum is expected to witness the signing of several agreements and partnerships between the public and private sectors. The second edition of the forum reaffirms Aseer's commitment to achieving comprehensive developmental progress, based on the equitable distribution of investment opportunities among the governorates, strengthening the region's environmental and cultural identity, and fostering collaboration between government entities and local communities, aiming to build a sustainable, integrated investment model. The forum serves as a strategic platform for strengthening national and international partnerships, stimulating qualitative investments, and enhancing the region's readiness to host major projects, as part of a national vision that seeks to achieve a thriving economy, a vibrant society, and a globally competitive standing for all regions of the Kingdom.
Daily Tribune
26-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Saudi Arabia Denies Media Reports of Alcohol Ban Lift Ahead of 2034 FIFA World Cup
Official Confirms 73-Year Prohibition on Alcohol Remains in Place Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi authorities have categorically denied recent media reports suggesting that the Kingdom is preparing to lift its decades-old ban on alcohol. The clarification came on Monday after Reuters cited a Saudi official who dismissed the claims as false, pointing to state-run media outlets for confirmation. The speculation originated from an unverified blog post and was later picked up by several international news platforms, sparking widespread online debate across the Kingdom. These reports suggested that Saudi Arabia might allow the regulated sale of alcohol as it gears up to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup—a claim that remains unsubstantiated and without any official source. Tourism Ambitions Spark Global Curiosity The rumor gained traction in the context of Saudi Arabia's sweeping tourism reforms under Vision 2030, an ambitious national roadmap aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil. The Kingdom recently welcomed nearly 100 million visitors, and on Monday, it unveiled a 50-year tourism strategy designed to sustain long-term growth in the sector. At the heart of this transformation is Tourise, a newly announced platform revealed by Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb, set to host its inaugural event, Tourise 2025, from November 11–13 in Riyadh. The event will bring together global stakeholders, including investors, innovators, and policymakers, to shape the future of Saudi tourism. Alcohol Laws Remain Strict Despite Reforms While Saudi Arabia has made notable strides in modernization under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the ban on alcohol consumption remains firmly in place, rooted in religious and legal frameworks. In a limited and controlled move in 2023, the first alcohol store in Riyadh was opened, but it is exclusively accessible to non-Muslim diplomats, according to official statements. The sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol by the general public remain strictly prohibited, with penalties including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Looking Ahead to the 2034 FIFA World Cup Saudi Arabia was officially confirmed as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA World Cup in December 2024, after running unopposed in the bidding process. Comparisons have been drawn with Qatar's 2022 World Cup, where alcohol was only available in designated fan zones and not sold in stadiums. As the Kingdom prepares to host one of the world's most watched sporting events, officials have reiterated that any p olicy changes will be communicated through official channels, urging the public to rely on verified sources and dismiss speculation.
Hospitality Net
26-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Saudi Arabia Unveils Tourise: a Bold Global Platform Set to Redefine and Shape a New Horizon for Tourism at Scale
TOURISE is the first global platform to unite visionary public and private sector leaders across tourism, technology, investment and sustainability ecosystems. Anchored by a high-level advisory board of global industry leaders, TOURISE aims to unlock unprecedented deal flow and high-value investment opportunities that will reset the industry. Accompanying TOURISE Awards program will recognize best-in-class destinations delivering travel experiences that are purposeful, unforgettable, and aligned with the evolving expectations of today's travelers. Inaugural invite-only TOURISE Summit will take place in Riyadh from 11–13 November 2025, and will extend as a year-round platform to shape how the world travels, connects and grows. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb officially launched TOURISE today, a bold new global platform designed to shape a new horizon and plot a shared roadmap for the next 50 years of tourism. Built for ambition and backed by vision, TOURISE will convene a dynamic cross-section of public and private sector industry giants for the first time. Visionary leaders with tourism, technology, investment, sustainability, and cultural expertise will be connected to tackle critical challenges, unlock transformative opportunities and set the agenda for a sector that is sustainable, equitable and future-focused. Along with global partners from multilateral institutions to private sector leaders, TOURISE is designed to unlock major, unprecedented deal flow, with high-value investment opportunities and access to breakthrough technologies set to be announced and activated through the platform. TOURISE is no ordinary event; it is a global platform structured for year-round impact at scale through digital collaboration, thematic working groups, and cross-sector partnerships focused on long-term sector transformation. This will include authoring a series of white papers and global indices focused on tourism, sustainability and global economy, co-developed with leading international organizations, setting new benchmarks for the tourism sector. The inaugural TOURISE Summit will take place in Riyadh from November 11 to 13, 2025. The program, which will also be livestreamed, will focus on four core themes: The Future of AI-Powered Tourism – Innovate or Fade; The Great Tourism Reset – Disruptive Business Models and Investment; Rebooting the Travel Experience – Upgrade in Progress; and Tourism that Works – for People, Planet, and Progress. A dedicated Innovation Zone will showcase breakthrough technologies and solutions from SMEs and mid to large corporations spanning AI, mobility, sustainability, and more from innovators across both public and private sectors. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), this year tourism is on a strong upward trajectory, with the sector projected to contribute $11.7 trillion to the global economy -10.3% of global GDP - highlighting a strong recovery. Yet, challenges such as shifting market dynamics, evolving traveler preferences, and capacity constraints continue to pose risks to maintain progress. At this critical juncture, TOURISE provides the strategic support needed to navigate these headwinds and sustain momentum. Tourism is one of the most dynamic, connective forces in the world's economy, supporting one in ten jobs globally. But as the world evolves, the sector must too. Whether adapting to technological disruption and changing traveler expectations, to addressing the urgent calls for sustainability and a more equitable approach to travel, TOURISE will be the much-needed platform to shape the future of tourism. It will unite the right people to develop innovative solutions and build partnerships, enabling the tourism sector to be more resilient, connected, and inclusive than ever before. Minister of Tourism and TOURISE Chairman, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb Julia Simpson, World Travel & Tourism Council President & CEO, and TOURISE Advisory Board Member, who joined His Excellency to officially launch TOURISE, said: We are delighted to be a part of this global initiative and continue our long-standing collaboration across the entire tourism ecosystem. For this industry to evolve and reach its full potential, public-private sector collaboration is critical to the continued success of Travel & Tourism worldwide. Together, we can address the challenges of today while co-creating a sustainable and innovative future for tomorrow . TOURISE is backed by an advisory board chaired by His Excellency, with global experts from online travel agencies, tour operators, hoteliers, global tourism bodies, entertainment, and media, including: Mario Enzesberger, Founder and CEO, Liberty International Tourism Group; Mo Gawdat, Founder, One Billion Happy; Stephane Lefebvre, President, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group; Luis Maroto, CEO, Amadeus; and Julia Simpson CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC); and Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Heathrow Airport. The inaugural TOURISE Awards were also announced today - a stand-out recognition program celebrating destination excellence across the global tourism ecosystem. The awards will spotlight notable achievements in sustainability, digital transformation, inclusive tourism, cultural preservation, and workforce development. Nomination submissions will open on June 2, and award winners will be announced on the opening night of the TOURISE Summit. TOURISE builds on Saudi Arabia's growing role as a core contributor and driver in the global tourism landscape alongside major industry organizations including UN Tourism, WTTC, and the World Economic Forum (WEF). In 2024 alone, Saudi Arabia hit its Vision 2030 target of 100 million visitors annually, seven years early and the tourism sector contributed almost five 5% to the national GDP, second only to oil production. This underscores Saudi Arabia's rising influence and long-term commitment to supporting tourism as a driver of global progress and growth. In building TOURISE with global partners – from multilateral institutions to private sector leaders – Saudi Arabia will ensure its leadership will deliver worldwide impact. To register your interest and become part of the platform shaping the next chapter of global tourism, visit About Tourise TOURISE is the world"s premier platform redefining and building a new horizon for global tourism. Taking place from 11–13 November 2025 in Riyadh, and powered by the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority and global stakeholders, TOURISE is an unstoppable, bold and dynamic force – the first platform of its kind to unite the public and private sectors under one roof. TOURISE brings together a dynamic cross section of bold leaders to tackle critical challenges, unlock transformative opportunities and set the agenda for a tourism sector that is sustainable, equitable and future-focused. Rooted in Saudi Arabia, but designed for the world, TOURISE stays agile, listens to the future and convenes leading multi-sector voices to shape a shared roadmap for the next 50 years of tourism. With exclusive insights, high-value networking, investment opportunities, and unmissable programming, TOURISE is both physically exclusive and digitally inclusive—ensuring broad global participation while offering curated access to those driving the conversation. TOURISE is where the future of tourism isn"t just discussed—it"s designed. Together, we are unstoppable. View source
Arab News
25-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Tourism minister launches Saudi Summer program
RIYADH: Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al-Khateeb launched the Saudi Summer program under the theme 'Color Your Summer' at a workshop recently organized by the authority in Riyadh. The event brought together more than 120 partners from across the Kingdom's tourism ecosystem, including representatives from both the public and private sectors. The workshop fostered collaboration ahead of the summer season, aligning efforts to achieve the program's goals and maximize its economic and tourism impact. Running from May to September 2025, the Saudi Summer program will feature six distinct destinations — from the moderate coastal escapes of Jeddah and the Red Sea to the cool, scenic highlands of Taif, Baha, and Asir. Key highlights include the Esports World Cup in Riyadh from July to August, along with the vibrant Jeddah and Asir seasons, offering diverse events, activities, and promotional campaigns. 'Bringing together our partners each year through this workshop is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping the future of the Saudi tourism industry,' Al-Khateeb said. He added: 'This year, we are encouraged to see the private sector contributing more than SR300 million ($80 million) in preparation for what promises to be an incredible summer. With its rich culture and breathtaking diversity, Saudi Arabia continues to inspire travelers from around the world while fueling a vibrant domestic tourism scene.' Al-Khateeb noted that summer is more than just a peak travel period — it is a key opportunity for the sector to innovate, grow, and make a lasting impact. 'This year, we aim to welcome more than 41 million visitors from 18 countries and achieve SR73 billion in total tourism spending. These numbers reflect Saudi Arabia's growing reputation as a world-class destination, offering unforgettable experiences year-round,' he said. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the transformational nature of the Kingdom's tourism offerings: 'Saudi is redefining how the world views summer travel. In partnership with more than 120 stakeholders, this summer will introduce more than 600 unique tourism products and experiences, along with more than 250 special offers.' He added: 'From the pristine islands of Shebara and Umhat along the Red Sea, to iconic new luxury resorts such as St. Regis and Desert Rock, to five new beaches in Jeddah, and the cool retreats of Asir, Taif, and Baha — Saudi Arabia is turning every visit into a vibrant summer highlight reel.' The program's theme, 'Color Your Summer,' reflects the diversity of Saudi Arabia's tourism assets. It is designed to meet the expectations of various types of tourists, offering coastal and mountain destinations, international events, exclusive offers, and a wide range of tourism experiences across the Kingdom.
