Latest news with #FahdHamidaddin
Leaders
24-05-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Diriyah Named Among Global Eco-Friendly Destinations for 2025
The British travel platform Wanderlust has selected Diriyah as one of the Global Eco-Friendly Destinations for 2025, according to the Saudi Press Agency. This remarkable recognition was driven by the successful cooperation between the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority. Both entities have submitted a comprehensive nomination featuring Diriyah's extraordinary initiatives in environmental, cultural, and tourism sustainability. Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority Fahd Hamidaddin stated that this recognition reflects Saudi Arabia's dedication to ensuring sustainability in tourism. 'This recognition stands as a testament to our strategy of empowering local partners and showcasing national destinations in international markets,' Hamidaddin added. He also noted that this achievement further strengthens the Kingdom's position on the global tourism map as the fastest-growing destination in the world. 'This international recognition highlights Diriyah's role as the cradle of the Saudi state and our dedication to preserving its heritage while applying the highest environmental and cultural sustainability standards,' Chief Executive Officer of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority Jerry Inzerillo said. Promisingly, this selection represents a living proof of Saudi Arabia's growing global presence in tourism. In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Tourism Authority has been supporting its partners across the tourism ecosystem to meet ambitious national objectives. In 2024, the Kingdom welcomed nearly 116 million visitors, and the authorities are still making bold strides to reach the goal of hosting 150 million visitors by 2030. Related Topics: Diriyah Company Boosts Saudi Tourism at Arabian Travel Market Layali Diriyah: Immersive Cultural and Culinary Experiences Diriyah Company Boosts Sports Development with Saudi Tennis Federation Short link : Post Views: 1
Asharq Al-Awsat
24-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia's Diriyah Named Among Global Eco-Friendly Destinations for 2025
Saudi Arabia's Diriyah has been named one of the Global Eco-Friendly Destinations for 2025 by the British travel platform Wanderlust, which annually highlights leading destinations committed to sustainable tourism. The recognition stems from a joint effort between the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, which submitted a comprehensive nomination highlighting Diriyah's initiatives in environmental, cultural, and tourism sustainability. Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority Fahd Hamidaddin stated that Diriyah's selection underscores the Kingdom's growing commitment to sustainability in tourism. 'This recognition is a testament to our strategy of empowering local partners and showcasing national destinations in international markets,' he said. 'It further solidifies Saudi Arabia's position on the global tourism map as the fastest-growing destination in the world.' Chief Executive Officer of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority Jerry Inzerillo said: 'This international recognition highlights Diriyah's role as the cradle of the Saudi state and our dedication to preserving its heritage while applying the highest environmental and cultural sustainability standards.' 'We value the continued collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority, which is instrumental in promoting Saudi destinations on the world stage.' The recognition reaffirms the Kingdom's expanding global presence in tourism, driven by Vision 2030. The Saudi Tourism Authority continues to support its partners across the tourism ecosystem, aligning efforts to meet ambitious national targets. In 2024, the Kingdom welcomed approximately 116 million visitors and remains on track to reach its goal of hosting 150 million visitors by 2030. This growth is supported by significant infrastructure investments and vibrant tourism seasons featuring hundreds of immersive experiences and partnership opportunities.
Zawya
03-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi Tourism secures landmark global partnerships at ATM 2025, fueling next wave of tourism growth
Building on the record achievement of welcoming almost 116 million visitors in 2024, Saudi showcased its diverse summer season, reinforcing its position as the world's fastest-growing tourism destination Dynamic "Saudi Land" pavilion captured global attention, highlighting unique destinations, rich cultural experiences, and upcoming global events such as the Esports World Cup. DUBAI, UAE – Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) concluded a powerful showing at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, following a record-breaking year of growth welcoming almost 116 million visitors. STA secured major global partnerships and highlighted the breadth and depth of opportunities within the country's booming tourism sector. Saudi tourism's participation underscored its commitment to forging strong alliances and driving the next chapter of tourism growth, inviting global partners to capitalize on its success. Throughout the four-day tradeshow, 142 Saudi partners participated in the vibrant and captivating Saudi Land pavilion, connecting with the regional and global sector, securing partnerships and deals, and presenting lucrative opportunities including new bookable packages and bespoke itineraries. This provided the travel trade with direct access to suppliers and products from the world's fastest-growing tourism destination, enabling them to capitalize on the significant opportunities within the country's rapidly expanding market. Alongside these activities, the event facilitated important high-level dialogues, including a meeting between STA's CEO Fahd Hamidaddin and senior leadership from Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, aimed at fostering regional collaboration and mutual tourism growth. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), said: 'We came to ATM 2025 stronger than ever, building on the success of welcoming almost 116 million visitors in 2024 and reinforcing Saudi's position as the world's fastest-growing destination. The success we celebrated last year belongs to everyone here – our partners in the private sector are the core of tourism's business. 'The energy at Saudi Land with our 142 partners was exceptional. Securing 14 strategic partnerships here is testament to the unparalleled opportunities on offer, from authentic connection and to the warm Saudi welcome, fulfilling our promise that travellers come as strangers, leave with a friend, come as a guest and leave feeling at their best. 'From our vibrant summer season showcasing fantastic offerings in destinations like Aseer, Soudah, and Al Baha, to global events like the Esports World Cup, we are creating powerful drivers for partner success. And while we celebrate this record momentum, backed by an $800 billion commitment to tourism, we have only just begun. We invite the global travel trade to join us – business and government alike – as one team with one great story, capitalize on these immense opportunities, and shape the future of tourism together.' On the final day Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of Asia Pacific at STA participated in the 'APAC Market Impact' panel to discuss the region's growing role in global tourism. During the panel, Aldabbagh discussed the importance of understanding the APAC region'sdiverse consumer preferences, the power of reaching audiences directly through tailored social media outreach, Saudi's efforts to increase tourism from China and India, and the importance of enhancing the experiences of religious tourists in Saudi. STA signed 14 MoUs at ATM 2025 Demonstrating significant momentum, STA signed 14 MoUs during ATM 2025, designed to accelerate growth, boost global awareness, and enhance international connectivity for the country. Key partnerships were established with leading global hotel groups - Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group. Strategic collaborations were secured with major travel platforms Hopper, Ticombo, and ViaKonnect. Landmark agreements were also signed with Careem and Fazaa to drive regional growth, alongside partnerships with Altanfeethi, Localbh, Rayna Tours, SEVEN Experience, and Stellar Marketing Solutions. Additionally, 52 MoUs were facilitated between STA's Saudi partners and the global tourism sector, driving impact across borders. Saudi Land welcomed over 46,000 visitors Guests experienced the country's diverse year-round appeal, with a special focus on the upcoming Summer Season. Immersive activations, including a destination tunnel, showcased the contrast between idyllic coastal escapes offering pristine Sun & Sea experiences and the refreshing cool of mountain retreats in Aseer, Taif, Al Baha, and the Soudah region ideal for adventure seekers. A Global Events Spotlight offered previews of the upcoming Esports World Cup in Riyadh and insights into future FIFA World Cup 2034™ stadiums. Saudi Land also featured Christiano Ronaldo's recommended travel itinerary in Saudi. Saudi culture came alive in the Cultural Heritage Corner, featuring intricate artisanal crafts like Bisht weaving and pottery, alongside captivating live performances from traditional Folklore troupes and musicians. Saudi Land also served as a crucial Partner Connection Zone, facilitating direct engagement and deal-making, allowing partners to explore new bookable packages with bespoke itineraries. ATM 2025 proved to be another successful landmark event for Saudi tourism, providing a critical platform to forge powerful new alliances, finalize significant deals, and showcase the dynamism and lucrative investment opportunities on offer to the world. About Saudi Tourism Authority (STA): Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), launched in June 2020, is responsible for marketing Saudi's tourism destinations worldwide and developing the destination's offerings through programs, packages, and business support. Its mandate includes developing the country's unique assets and destinations, hosting and participating in industry events, and promoting Saudi's destination brand locally and overseas. STA operates 16 representative offices around the world, serving 38 countries. To learn more please visit
Gulf Business
02-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Saudi Tourism Authority secures 14 key global MoUs at ATM 2025
Image: Supplied The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) signed 14 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and facilitated an additional 52 agreements between Saudi partners and international tourism entities at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. Building on its record achievement of welcoming nearly 116 million visitors in 2024, STA used the four-day trade show to unveil new strategic partnerships, promote the country's expanding tourism offerings, and spotlight opportunities for international collaboration. 'We came to Major partnerships and expanding reach Among the 14 MoUs signed, key partnerships were established with global hotel giants Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group. Agreements were also secured with leading digital travel platforms including Hopper, Ticombo, and ViaKonnect. Additional partnerships with Careem, Fazaa, Altanfeethi, Localbh, Rayna Tours, SEVEN Experience, and Stellar Marketing Solutions aim to boost connectivity and regional tourism development. STA also enabled 52 MoUs between Saudi and international tourism stakeholders, reinforcing its private sector-driven approach. Saudi Land pavilion draws 46,000 visitors at ATM The 'Saudi Land' pavilion attracted over 46,000 visitors and featured immersive activations promoting summer destinations like Aseer, Al Baha, Soudah, and Taif. Highlights included a tunnel exhibit contrasting coastal escapes with cool mountainous retreats, cultural heritage corners with live Bisht weaving and music, and previews of global events including the Esports World Cup and FIFA World Cup 2034 venues. Cristiano Ronaldo's personal Saudi travel itinerary was also featured, drawing attention to the kingdom's growing appeal among international travellers. Regional engagement and APAC Focus STA's leadership also engaged in high-level discussions during the event. Fahd Hamidaddin met with senior figures from Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism to explore regional collaboration. On the final day, Alhasan Aldabbagh, president of Asia Pacific at STA, participated in the 'APAC Market Impact' panel, discussing Saudi's initiatives to attract more visitors from China and India, including targeted digital campaigns and enhanced religious tourism experiences. STA to continue momentum with $800bn tourism commitment The $800bn government-backed tourism investment plan remains central to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, as the country diversifies its economy and opens up to international markets. 'We have only just begun,' Hamidaddin said, inviting global players to participate in shaping the next chapter of Saudi tourism.
Trade Arabia
29-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Saudi showcases diverse tourism offerings at ATM
Saudi tourism showcases diverse tourism offerings at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. The "Saudi Land" experience invites attendees to explore Saudi's destinations and discover investment and partnership prospects. With 51 partners from Saudi's tourism ecosystem showcasing a wide range of bookable products and collaboration opportunities, Saudi tourism reinforces its position as a dynamic and commercially rewarding destination. This year's Summer Season showcases Saudi's rich diversity, including coastal escapes, mountain retreats, and global events like the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, stated: 'We are thrilled to return to ATM, opening the doors to Saudi Land and welcoming our valued partners from around the globe. After achieving the incredible milestone of nearly 116 million visitors in 2024, we arrive at ATM ready to deepen collaborations, finalize deals, and drive the next chapter of growth. Saudi offers unmatched opportunities for partners seeking substantial returns on their investments.' He added: 'Our unique summer season – blending pristine beaches, cool mountain retreats, and globally significant events like the Esports World Cup – is not just about visitor experiences, but about creating powerful drivers for our partners' success. Today's MoU signings are another step in building a foundation for shared prosperity, and we invite the global travel trade to join us in shaping the future of tourism and capitalize on the immense opportunities within Saudi." Saudi tourism's opening day at ATM 2025 showcased its commitment to international collaboration and mutual growth. Key highlights included signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with key partners, such as Accor, which aimed to deepen collaboration in marketing and demand generation. At ATM, trade and visitors were invited to experience the diverse tapestry of Saudi Arabia through immersive activations. The summer season showcase showcased top attractions across summer destinations, while the global events spotlight provided a preview of Saudi's dynamic events calendar, including the upcoming Esports World Cup and details for future FIFA World Cup 2034 stadiums. The Cultural Heritage Corner showcased artisanal crafts and live performances celebrating Saudi's rich traditions.
