The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) kicked off the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai by showcasing the kingdom’s various summer destinations to potential partners. This initiative comes after a year of significant growth in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.

A 72-member Saudi delegation, headed by STA CEO and Board Member Fahd Hamidaddin, participated in the event. The delegation includes representatives from prominent destination management companies, hotels, and airlines to promote awareness of Saudi Arabia’s distinctive summer attractions, develop new business alliances, and commemorate the sector’s achievements.

The delegation focuses on attracting visitors from key markets like India and China, contributing 23 million visits to Saudi Arabia in 2023. With over 100 million tourists welcomed last year, Saudi Arabia aims to capitalize on its momentum and emerge as a premier year-round destination on the global stage.

Building upon the achievements of last year’s ATM, where they secured over 1,600 deals and signed strategic agreements, the Saudi delegation has expanded its showcase to include a broader array of offerings. Visitors to their three-story exhibit can explore bookable travel packages for destinations such as Jeddah, AlUla, Aseer, Riyadh, and the Red Sea, catering to budget-conscious and luxury travelers.

The exhibit also highlights the “Saudi Rewards” program, a national initiative that rewards tourism spending, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant boom, with double-digit growth in tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2024 compared to last year. This momentum fuels the kingdom’s revised target of welcoming 150 million visitors by 2030. 

“Saudi is the land of now – offering growth and opportunities like no other to trade partners across the globe. And over the coming days, we look forward to building new long-lasting partnerships, sharing knowledge, and showcasing the wealth of opportunities Saudi has to offer,” said Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of STA.