Saudi Arabia aiming to be a top 10 global tourist destination in 2024: minister

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports increased 0.8 percent in January compared to the same month in 2023, official data showed.  According to the report released by the Kingdom’s General Authority for Statistics, the total value of the sector, including re-exports, reached SR24 billion ($6.40 billion). Moreover, the ratio of non-oil trade rose to 35.8 percent in … Read more

Thai tourist hotspot Chiang Mai tops world’s most polluted cities

Russia forces Ukrainians in occupied territories to take its passports – and fight in its army KYIV, Ukraine: He and his parents were among the last in their village to take a Russian passport, but the pressure was becoming unbearable. By his third beating at the hands of the Russian soldiers occupying Ukraine’s Kherson region, … Read more

Saudi tourism minister discusses benefit of unified tourist visa for GCC nations at Qatar meeting

RIYADH: Innovation is a priority for HSBC Saudi Arabia as it aims to enhance its offerings, according to the bank’s CEO. Faris Al-Ghannam, CEO and board member of HSBC Saudi Arabia, provided a comprehensive overview of the financial institution’s prospective plans, along with the Kingdom’s economic landscape and the investment opportunities it presents.  In an … Read more

Saudi Arabia emerging as a ‘continent in itself’ with array of tourist destinations, forum hears

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurial landscape is rapidly expanding thanks to close collaboration between the public and private sectors, business leaders highlighted during a two-day event in Riyadh.  Convened at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Center, the Social Development Bank Forum for Entrepreneurship and Modern Business Practices brought together 85 local and international speakers, 30 global organizations and … Read more

Saudi Arabia enhances tourist experience with 1,500 new activities

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s journey in turning raw information into valuable insights is evolving, as the General Authority for Statistics continues to carry out surveys and censuses. At the Future Real Estate Forum in Riyadh, Fahad Al-Dossari, president of GASTAT, underscored the evolving approach to analytical developments. He stated: “The statistical products in the recent period … Read more

ASFAR, Al-Ahsa municipality sign MoU to develop tourist attraction

RIYADH: Saudi Tourism Investment Co. has partnered with Al-Ahsa municipality to develop a 500,000 sq. meter area, envisioning a vibrant destination with diverse tourism, entertainment, and hospitality offerings.  An affiliate of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the firm, known as ASFAR, has taken this step to foster economic development and enhance the region’s appeal for … Read more

Kingdom Holding forms JV with Red Sea Global Co. to develop tourist resort on Shura Island

CAIRO: Startups in the Middle East enjoyed a year marked by significant funding and opportunities for growth. The region witnessed an unprecedented surge in startup activities in 2023 with young talent, fresh ideas, and new products receiving adequate support in the form of increased investment and partnership offers. Saudi Arabia led the way with fintech … Read more