Tourism Minister Begins Tour of Saudi Summer Program Locations in Taif
RIYADH: Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, who is also chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority, has begun his on-field official visits to locations covered under the Kingdom’s Saudi Summer program starting with Taif governorate.
Al-Issa Receives Uzbek Delegation, Stresses Cooperation to Promote Islamic Civilization
MAKKAH: Muslim World League (MWL) Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa hosted Firdavs Abdukhalikov, President of the Uzbekistan Center for Islamic Civilization, and his accompanying delegation in a recent meeting in Makkah.
During the meeting, Al-Issa emphasized the center’s significant role in the promotion of Islamic civilization, promoting international understanding, and breaking down misconceptions and negative stereotypes regarding Islam, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Recalling, Abdukhalikov proudly conveyed Uzbekistan’s expanding cooperation with the Muslim World League and valued its efforts to aid the global Islamic community. He also valued the MWL’s growing international prominence and Dr. Al-Issa’s exemplary voice of Muslims worldwide.
Abdukhalikov particularly mentioned Al-Issa’s impassioned address on the United Nations’ inaugural International Day to Combat Islamophobia that was held at the invitation of the General Assembly. The speech demonstrated the MWL’s commitment to promoting tolerance and fighting hate speech globally, he said.
Dr. Al-Issa received separately in Makkah Mohammed Samir Al-Naqshbandi, Consul General of Iraq in Saudi Arabia, who made a farewell visit on the eve of the conclusion of his diplomatic term.
The summer campaign that started in May with the theme “Color Your Summer” is a continuous process until the ninth month of September and invites tourists to visit colored destinations within the Kingdom—ranging from Red Sea coast hideouts along Jeddah beaches to Taif, Baha, and Asir’s mountain retreats. The campaign includes more than 250 special promotions in partnership with over 200 private sector partners.
P. Cal. Accompanied by a delegation of ministry and broader tourism industry high-ranking officials, Al-Khateeb went to Taif. The delegation toured key tourist destinations in the region, assessed the quality of service, and monitored visitors’ experiences on the ground.
Touted by Al-Khateeb as having “beautiful landscapes and comfortable summer weather,” Taif’s increasing stature as a prime destination for the Kingdom and the region was its growing stature as an important destination.
New tourist numbers reflect Taif’s increasing popularity, as more than 3.6 million local and foreign tourists visited the city in 2024—a 9 percent increase on the previous year. Spending related to tourism totaled SR3.4 billion ($906 million), and 266 tourism licenses were granted.
At the program opening in May, Al-Khateeb said: “This year, we anticipate more than 41 million visitors from 18 countries and SR73 billion in total tourist spending. These statistics reflect Saudi Arabia’s increasing stature as a world-class destination with once-in-a-lifetime year-round offerings.”
Saudi Arabia’s long-term aim is to welcome 150 million visitors in 2030 through investment in infrastructure, greater accessibility, diversity of options, and simplicity of travel procedures.
Under Saudi Summer campaign, various regions of the kingdom are welcoming special activities:
Asir is highlighting its musical and cultural heritage in Al-Muftaha Village and the Plato Festival, as well as outdoor adventure and scenic mountain hiking.
Riyadh is welcoming the second Esports World Cup (July 8 – Aug. 24), along with cultural exhibits and live performances throughout the capital.
Jeddah invites people to its seaside luxury resorts, including marine sports, recreational activities for families, activities at City Walk, and performances like Circus 1903.
Sheybarah and Ummahat Islands, part of Saudi Arabia’s luxury Red Sea chain, include pristine beaches, coral reefs, and upscale maritime activities.
Taif, the first destination of the minister, welcomes tourists to cool breezes, blooming Taif roses in Arruddaf Park, old souks, and green orchards. The Al-Shafa and Al-Hada mountain ranges provide an enchanting misty haven filled with history and indigenous traditions.
Baha enjoys scenic landscapes from towering mountains to peaceful valleys, particularly in Raghadan Forest—a paradise for nature lovers.
Al-Khateeb’s tour is a sign of the government’s continued commitment to driving local and international tourism under Vision 2030’s diversification strategy.
