Saudi Tourism Authority launches Journeys in Arabia, wooes Indian tourists
New Delhi: Saudi Arabia is a relatively new destination on the global stage. But pitching itself as the authentic home of Arabia, the country now offers unique, diverse and unparalleled experiences, a land of natural assets, rich culture and heritage and adventure.
To bring to light the Saudi offering, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), launched in June 2020 for marketing Saudi Arabia’s tourism destinations worldwide, has launched ‘Journeys in Arabia’, an exclusive online event curated especially for Travel Trade Partners around the globe.
The virtual engagement series, taking place across six markets around the world, is a first-of-its-kind initiative for STA, a source of inspiration and excitement, designed to inform partners about the diverse products and experiences that Arabia offers.
The India ‘Journeys in Arabia’ webinar in February brought together local travel trade partners, for an opportunity to hear from thought leaders and experts in the tourism industry.
Besides Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority, a keynote conversation ‘Journeys Make People’ between Abdullah Al Dakhil, International Communication Manager, Saudi Tourism Authority and celebrated Indian Journalist Vir Sanghvi was the highlight of the webinar.
Expert panel speakers also included Haitham Mattar, CCO, Saudi Tourism Authority; Benazir Nazar, CEO, Akbar Travels; Deep Kalra, Founder & Group Executive Chairman, Make My Trip; Madhavan Menon, Chairman & Managing Director, Thomas Cook Group; Rakshit Desai, Managing Director – India, FCM and Sheema Vohra, Managing Director, Sartha Global Marketing.
The session provided insights into the current state of travel,and the opportunities and challenges in addressing the growing demand and interest in Saudi as a new destination.
Some of the key highlights and market insights of the discussion were:
- India has been identified as one of the key source markets,and STA’s tourism strategy focuses on promoting experiences related to culture, heritage, nature and adventure in Saudi
- Indians, especially the online consumers and millennials, are late planners and constantly seek new destinations, within close proximity to India for last-minute holiday planning. Shorter-duration packages, direct flights and ease in visa (preferably e-visas)procurement will be game-changers for a new destination like Saudi
- Saudi offers exceptional experiences for diving, adventure sports, and sustainable tourism. The country will also host the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in 2021. These developments reflect the new travel motivations that Indian leisure travellers actively seek today
- Two key considerations among the Corporate/Leisure market are awareness and attractiveness. While the former can be achieved through communication and information dissemination, via visual and video content on Saudi; attractiveness will come from exquisite on-ground experiences that visitors have while at the destination
- The high-end Umrah market from India is a major captive audience, combining pilgrimage with leisure through post-Umrah leisure packages
- Promoting unique destinations like AlUla for wedding tourism will be a huge draw for Saudi
- Lastly, consumer behavior has seen a drastic shift in a post-Covid world with both MICE and Leisure travel experiencing a heightened ecological sensitivity. Travelers are seeking clear information and assurance related to hygiene and safety.
Following up on the success of the ‘Journeys in Arabia’ webinar, STA will also be hosting an immersive virtual roadshow for India on March 2 – 3, 2021, partnering with the most relevant destination, experience and hospitality brands in Saudi to showcase the best of what the Kingdom has to offer.
As part of the ‘Journeys in Arabia’ webinar series, the next webinar takes place for Germany, followed by the UK and Russia.
Images: Visit Saudi FB
Top Headlines
-
Travel
Montpellier: Of southern France vibe and Mediterranean light
April 22, 2024
-
Travel
Ford's Theatre: Of President Lincoln and the Man Who Killed Him
April 12, 2024
-
Travel
Hotel Richer de Belleval: Where luxury meets bistronomy in southern France city Montpellier
March 30, 2024
-
Travel
The Frankfurt Marriott: Germany's tallest hotel is a smart pick for leisure and work visits
March 21, 2024
-
Travel
Chicago paints the city green to celebrate St. Patricks Day
March 17, 2024
-
Travel
Cambria Hotel in Chicago Loop: Where location meets affordable comfort
February 08, 2024
-
Travel
Kuda Villingili Maldives recognized as The Best Honeymoon Hotel 2023 by The White Awards
December 18, 2023
-
Travel
Christmas Markets in Berlin: Of mulled wine and more
December 16, 2023
-
Travel
The Berlin hotel you must stay during the Christmas - NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint
December 15, 2023
-
Travel
Of human bondage: An Atlanta museum reminds the Black Americans' tortuous journey to equality
December 11, 2023