Al-Qassim : His Excellency the Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Mr. Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khatib, embarked on a winter tour of the Northern Route, starting in Al-Qassim as part of the “Saudi Winter” program, launched under the slogan “Winter in Focus.” Leading a delegation of ministry officials and tourism experts, the five-day trip also included stops in other key destinations along the Northern Route and in Hail.
The primary goal of the visit was to assess existing tourism projects in “Saudi Winter” destinations, engage with local officials, and evaluate the services provided to visitors during the winter season.
During his trip, Al-Khatib held talks with His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Qassim Region, and met with investors and national professionals in the tourism sector. He also reviewed projects from the Tourism Development Fund in the region, which are crucial for enhancing investment opportunities and supporting the private sector.
Expressing his pleasure at visiting Qassim, Al-Khatib commended the region’s natural and cultural diversity, its advanced infrastructure, and the winter experiences that make it an attractive destination during this season.
His Excellency emphasized that national talent is the cornerstone of Saudi tourism’s future. He highlighted ongoing efforts in training, empowerment, and professional development to deliver high-quality services to visitors from both the Kingdom and abroad.
The tour included visits to various locations along the Northern Route, showcasing Qassim’s unique identity, culture, and rich experiences. Al-Khatib conducted on-site evaluations to ensure readiness for welcoming tourists during the “Saudi Winter” season. The Northern Route spans a scenic journey starting in Riyadh, passing through Thadiq and Qassim, and concluding in Hail.
The “Saudi Winter” program presents a significant opportunity to solidify the Kingdom’s position as a global tourist destination in the winter months. This initiative builds upon the achievements of the past five years in the tourism sector, particularly in increasing visitor numbers and spending. It aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030. With a rapidly growing tourism landscape, Saudi Arabia is becoming one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world, spurred by advancements in tourism services, enhanced air connectivity, and strategic investments that improve the overall tourist experience. These field visits play a critical role in monitoring service quality, enhancing visitor experiences, and ensuring the readiness of various destinations.
