6 August 2019
His Excellency Ahmed bin Aqeel al-Khatib, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, inspected the activities and events taking place at “Taif Season,” which began this month. He was briefed on their progress as he toured Al Ward Village in Al Radaf, King Faisal Park and Souk Okaz.
His Excellency met with Taif residents and tourists who were enjoying the events and performances from different countries, and he also spoke with exhibitors and participants. He praised the efforts of everybody involved for the work they were doing to make the season a success and provide visitors with an enjoyable experience.
He also toured Souk Okaz, where he visited the Arab Neighborhood, Okaz Avenue, and the historic market, watching events with tourists and visiting various restaurants from different Arab countries.
Al-Khatib said that the Saudi Seasons, including Taif Season, provide opportunities for investors in tourism to contribute to spreading joy among people and enables them to experience the country’s tourism attractions.
Al-Khatib stressed that the private sector’s participation in tourism is of strategic importance, as it responds to market demand and increases employment opportunities throughout the Kingdom.
The Saudi Seasons are enabling tourism destinations within the Kingdom to attract a larger share of internal tourists, Al-Khatib said, pointing out that Taif Season was benefiting from offering options that enrich the tourism experience for the whole family.
Saudi Arabia’s leadership is focused on enhancing the comfort, happiness and quality of life for citizens, residents and visitors, Al-Khatib said. He noted that the leadership has issued a package of decisions designed to establish a strong tourism industry and that more decisions will be announced soon. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and his Highness the Crown Prince always stress the importance of meeting citizens’ needs, he added.
Tourism represents a “gold mine” for Saudi Arabia, and investing in it is a key objective for Saudi Vision 2030, Al-Khatib said, praising the support and attention that local tourism receives from the leadership. The Saudi Seasons high committee is chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince.
Al-Khatib urged the people of Saudi Arabia to enjoy the beautiful events and atmosphere of Taif Season, noting that the season is proving increasingly popular with the start of the Eid holiday.
Al-Khatib was given a report on the activities launched this month. He said that everybody working on Taif Season – whether from the public or private sectors – are ambassadors of tourism for the Arab resort, and stressed that the success of the national mission to promote tourism requires everybody to love their work, as passion is the biggest catalyst for success.