To attain the goals and objectives of the national tourist strategy, Saudi Tourism Development Fund has allotted $266 million to support 50 medium and small projects.

During the virtual monthly meeting, Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khatib, the kingdom’s Minister of Tourism, said the ministry promotes the owners of small projects by asking them to submit thorough feasibility studies of effective tourism services. 

Al-Khatib stated that the ministry is working on the Umrah plan, the Taif city development strategy, winter preparations, and trying to keep up with the World Cup.

Additionally, the ministry has set aside $26 million annually to train and assist those who want to work in the tourism industry. 

The number of businesses engaged in the tourism industry has reached 777 since establishing the ministry. The minister said the plan is to eventually increase the number of companies operating in the sector to 1,000.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia has a lofty goal of hosting 30 million pilgrims and Umrah performers annually as part of its Vision 2030. “We have the vision, we put the plan, and we put all the resources, especially the financial resources, to deliver the plan,” said Al-Khatib.