Saudi Arabia is actively promoting six of its renowned tourist attractions, signaling a shift from its predominantly religious image. Dr. Omar Ayoub, Assistant General Manager at Zamzam.com (Kizan Tourism), a partner of the Saudi Tourism Authority, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s diverse experiences beyond Saudi Arabia. As a key element of Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify the economy, tourism is being emphasized to showcase the nation’s beauty, cultural richness, and heritage.
Ayoub emphasized that Saudi Arabia is more than a visual spectacle; it’s an emotional experience that must be lived. While Makkah and Madinah host millions of pilgrims annually for Hajj and Umrah, the kingdom has relaxed visa rules and expanded its e-visa program to several countries. Notably, women no longer need a male guardian to travel for Umrah, and the visa duration for foreign pilgrims has been extended to three months, allowing exploration beyond the pilgrimage sites.
The six highlighted destinations are Jeddah, Riyadh, Al Ula, Taif, Abha, and Dammam. Ayoub drew parallels between Jeddah and Karachi, appreciating their coastal locations and similar temperatures. Dammam is close to Bahrain, and Abha is situated in the southern part of the country. Saudi Arabia boasts six UNESCO-declared sites and is home to the world’s largest flagpole. Ayoub mentioned ongoing projects, including the construction of the world’s tallest building.
With eased visa conditions, Ayoub encouraged visitors to explore Saudi Arabia’s diverse culinary and cultural offerings. Responding to inquiries about pilgrims, he affirmed that the kingdom is open to all forms of tourism. The promotional efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s goal to position itself as a multifaceted destination, inviting global travelers to experience its rich heritage and scenic landscapes.
1st Of Ramazan-Ul-Mubarak And Eidul Fitr Predicted For Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, Muslims worldwide eagerly anticipate the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan, widely regarded as the holiest time in the Islamic calendar. While the commencement of the lunar month generally occurs in March, an approximate date has been officially suggested for Saudi Arabia.
