Saudi Arabia is setting its sights on India as its top source market for tourism, with plans to attract 7.5 million visitors in the coming years. The move comes as part of the kingdom’s efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenues.
The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) has been actively promoting the country as a tourist destination in India, with a particular focus on religious tourism. Saudi Arabia is home to some of the holiest sites in Islam, including Mecca and Medina, making it a key destination for Muslim pilgrims from around the world.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in its tourism infrastructure, including the development of new hotels, resorts, and cultural attractions. The kingdom has also relaxed its visa policies, making it easier for tourists to visit the country.
India is seen as a key market for Saudi tourism, given its large and growing middle class population with a disposable income. The country’s proximity to Saudi Arabia also makes it an attractive destination for Indian tourists looking for a quick getaway.
In 2019, Saudi Arabia launched a new tourism visa program for Indian visitors, allowing them to visit the country for tourism purposes without the need for a sponsor. The move was aimed at attracting more Indian tourists, who were previously required to have a sponsor in order to visit the kingdom.
The SCTH has also been working with Indian travel agencies and tour operators to promote Saudi tourism packages and attract more visitors from the country. The kingdom has been actively participating in travel fairs and exhibitions in India to showcase its tourism offerings and attract potential visitors.
The efforts seem to be paying off, with the number of Indian tourists visiting Saudi Arabia increasing steadily in recent years. In 2019, the kingdom welcomed over 2 million Indian visitors, up from around 1.8 million in 2018.
With a target of attracting 7.5 million visitors from India in the coming years, Saudi Arabia is ramping up its promotional efforts and investment in tourism infrastructure. The kingdom is keen to tap into the lucrative Indian tourism market and position itself as a top destination for Indian travelers.
As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy and look for new sources of revenue, tourism is seen as a key growth area. By targeting India as its top source market, the kingdom is hoping to attract millions of Indian visitors and boost its tourism industry in the coming years.
