VisitBritain and The Saudi Tourism Authority signed a Declaration of Intent at The GREAT FUTURES trade exhibition held recently in Riyadh to boost tourism between the two countries.
The agreement emphasizes collaboration and knowledge exchange with the aim of strengthening tourism between Britain and Saudi Arabia.
With the launch of new destinations such as NEOM and The Red Sea resorts this year, Saudi Arabia is hoping to attract international visitors to discover the beauty and hospitality of the Kingdom.]
A Monumental Partnership
This groundbreaking partnership's core lies in a shared commitment to nurturing domestic and international tourism sectors.
By leveraging their expertise and insights, VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority aim to drive sustainable growth and unlock new avenues for tourism development across their respective nations.
The pivotal agreement was officially ratified by Patricia Yates, Chief Executive Officer of VisitBritain, and Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority.
This monumental signing took place in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer MP, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, and Her Highness Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa Al Saud.
H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority stated, "This agreement offers enormous opportunities for Saudi Arabia and the UK to boost tourism and underlines the close relationship between the two countries."
GREAT FUTURES: Collaboration and Networking Platform
The signing of the Declaration of Intent was a centerpiece of VisitBritain's comprehensive GREAT FUTURES program. The signing encompassed a series of the following engaging initiatives
A highlight of the program was the Destination Showcase networking event, which brought together trade representatives from Saudi Arabia and British destinations.
This platform promoted the latest tourism products and experiences, encouraging Saudi visitors to explore a broader range of Britain's diverse regions and broaden their travel itineraries.
Seamless Travel for Saudi Nationals
Implementing the Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme has made it easier for Saudi citizens to travel to the UK through a recently formed partnership. The signing of the Declaration with the Saudi Tourism Authority highlights the joint efforts to promote tourism between the two nations.
VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates said:
“Visiting the UK is easier than ever for Saudi nationals with the roll-out of the Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme, and we are delighted to sign this Declaration with the Saudi Tourism Authority, collaborating to drive growth from tourism between our countries.
Capitalizing Local Partnerships
VisitBritain is collaborating with local partners, including the online travel marketplace Wego, to amplify its reach further and convert interest into actual bookings. By leveraging these strategic partnerships, VisitBritain aims to capitalize on the growing demand for British destinations among Saudi travelers.
Unlocking Investment Opportunities
The collaboration between the two parties acknowledges the significant potential for investment in the future.
The ambitious projects of Saudi Arabia, such as NEOM, Red Sea Global, Qiddiya, ROSHN, and Diriyah Company, are expected to attract a massive investment of $3 trillion within the next six years. These projects have garnered the interest of British enterprises.
Oliver Dowden, the British Deputy Prime Minister, said:
"GREAT FUTURES will be an important moment for British business. We're opening up our markets to one another so that investment, exports, tourism, and collaboration flow in both directions. Britain doesn't just endorse Vision 2030; we want to be a part of it."
The joint dedication to promoting increased investment flows was strengthened by the signing of an updated agreement, showcasing a mutual commitment to facilitating cross-border investment.
VisitBritain's GREAT Britain Marketing Campaign
To captivate the Saudi market and inspire more visitors to embark on unforgettable journeys to Britain, VisitBritain has recently launched a new phase of its GREAT Britain marketing campaign in Saudi Arabia.
Titled 'Spilling the Tea on GREAT Britain,' this innovative campaign showcases the unique experiences and destinations across Britain's countryside, coasts, and vibrant cities.
One of the campaign's standout features is a newly unveiled Arabic website that inspires Saudi visitors to plan their 2024 travels to Britain.
Saudi Arabia: Crucial for UK Tourism
The significance of the Saudi market for UK tourism cannot be overstated. According to VisitBritain's latest forecasts, the UK is expected to welcome around 240,000 visits from Saudi Arabia this year, a 9% increase compared to 2019.
Moreover, it is projected that Saudi visitors will contribute a staggering £752 million to the UK's tourism economy during their trips, representing a 20% surge from 2019 figures.
A Promising Future for Tourism
The partnership between VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority is pivotal in fostering closer tourism ties between the UK and Saudi Arabia.
With a shared vision and a commitment to innovation, VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority are poised to redefine the landscape of tourism, inspiring travelers from around the globe to embark on extraordinary journeys and create lasting memories.
NEWLY Opened Hotels on Red Sea Coast
Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is now open for reservations on the stunning Ummahat Island in the Saudi Red Sea.
This impressive reserve, inspired by the shape of a shell, boasts 63 lavish villas with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can choose from 1 to 3 bedroom options, as well as 18 exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences.
The resort also offers top-notch amenities, such as a diving center, fitness center, and various high-end restaurants. To reach the reserve, guests can take a chartered boat or seaplane from the recently launched Red Sea International Airport. Prices start at 9250 SAR per night.
Six Sense Southern Dunes
Six Sense Southern Dunes, The Red Sea was the first hotel to officially open in the Red Sea Project, with a special opening offer. This stunning resort offers 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas situated against the backdrop of the Majestic Arabian Desert and Hijaz Mountains.
The resort combines visionary tourism with sustainability and heritage. Nestled in The Red Sea Destination, this resort is a testament to innovation, adventure, and a rich cultural legacy.
St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort has officially opened to the public as the first private island resort along the stunning Saudi Red Sea coast.
Situated on the unspoiled Ummahat Island, the resort's access is facilitated through chartered boat services or seaplane transportation from the recently established Red Sea International Airport.
Featuring a collection of 90 spacious overwater villas, including overwater and beachfront options equipped with exclusive private pools, the resort boasts various luxury offerings, including its renowned signature spa and five distinct dining venues.
Future Developments at The Red Sea
Following the opening of Najuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve etc. other luxury resorts are set to open in the Red Sea, including Shebara Hotel Resort, Sheybarah Island Resort, Desert Rock Resort, and many more. You can explore the full list of the new Red Sea Hotels due to open here.
Four Seasons Resort
Red Sea Global, renowned for its ambitious regenerative tourism initiatives, has joined hands with Kingdom Holding Company to create the Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, which will be set on Shura Island, the main hub island of the Red Sea destination.
This luxury resort will feature 149 rooms, suites, and 31 residential properties. It is expected to open its doors to guests by early 2025.
The Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, with its luxurious offerings, is a testament to the shared vision of creating extraordinary destinations that drive economic growth and job creation and preserve precious ecosystems.
Sheybarah Island Resort
The Sheybarah Island Resort, a luxury 73-key resort with stunning over-water villas, is positioned to redefine the concept of luxury tourism with an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Red Sea Global has recently unveiled progress at Sheybarah Resort. Designed by the esteemed Dubai-based architectural firm Killa Design, the resort promises a unique combination of luxury and sustainability.
Desert Rock Resort
Located just 20 minutes from Red Sea's airport, Desert Rock Resort, which is now 50 percent complete, will offer a unique luxury experience integrated with the rock side. It will feature 48 villas and 12 hotel rooms, a fitness center, a lagoon oasis, and several remote dining destinations.
Unlike conventional resorts, Desert Rock is not built on the mountainside. Instead, it is sculpted directly into the ancient rock, preserving the environment's striking silhouette. The materials excavated from the construction site, such as stone and sand, are repurposed for the resort's infrastructure.
The project aims to create a world-class luxury destination while preserving the region's rich history. It employs local community members as land stewards, providing educational tours for visitors.
Upcoming Hotel Destinations in NEOM
The visionary $1 trillion NEOM gigaproject aims to revolutionize the Red Sea coast of northwest Saudi Arabia by creating a futuristic city that is unparalleled to any other.
In 2017, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, launched NEOM, a region powered entirely by renewable energy.
Led by the Public Investment Fund, NEOM prioritizes the well-being of both its inhabitants and the environment, setting a new standard for sustainable living, working, and thriving. It serves as a hub for human advancement while also maintaining the health of the planet.
NEOM is set to redefine the hospitality landscape to attract global visitors with many newly announced hotels and resorts, including:
The Autograph Collection, Sindalah
The Autograph Collection, set to debut in Sindalah by 2024, will house 66 rooms and suites, including one- and two-bedroom villas. Guests can look forward to an array of dining options, a kids club, and a rejuvenating spa experience.
Sindalah stands as the inaugural member of a cluster of islands slated for development in NEOM, poised to emerge as one of the most captivating havens in the Red Sea.
Marriott will also introduce some of its luxury brands to the region, including The Ritz-Carlton Reserve and St. Regis.
The Ritz-Carlton Reserve NEOM Trojena
NEOM in collaboration with Marriott International is set to launch The Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the stunning and remote mountains of Trojena, situated in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia.
This exquisite property will offer 60 lavish villas, ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms, along with an opulent spa, several pools, and an array of exceptional dining options.
As the seventh NEOM project for Marriott, this exclusive hideaway in Trojena dubbed The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, promises a one-of-a-kind and secluded experience.
W Hotel Trojena
The W Hotel Trojena, situated in the multifaceted Lake Village, ensures breathtaking nearby mountains and freshwater lake vistas. With 236 guest rooms and 47 suites, the hotel will also provide four distinct dining options.
JW Marriott Hotel
The Trojena JW Marriott Hotel in The Bow will offer a cutting-edge aquatic haven that seamlessly blends nature with modern technology. With 500 extravagant rooms and suites, the establishment will provide a variety of activities and amenities for its guests.
As the inaugural W Hotel and JW Marriott in Saudi Arabia's Trojena region, Marriott International is again transforming upscale hospitality.
Raffles Trojena
The well-known Accor brand, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, will soon be opening its doors in Trojena, a popular mountain resort destination in NEOM.
Anticipated to open in 2027, Raffles Trojena will redefine mountain-side hospitality by providing visitors with unparalleled access to the breathtaking natural scenery of the region.
Situated at an altitude of 2300m, the resort will feature a unique circular design, with 105 guest rooms positioned around its perimeter to offer guests unmatched panoramic views of the mountains while also ensuring privacy.
In addition to its exceptional location, Raffles Trojena will offer the renowned Raffles Butler service and top-notch dining options amidst the expansive mountain landscape.
Anantara Resort Trojena
The upcoming Anantara Resort, created by Minor Hotels, is presently under construction in Trojena's Water Village, located in the Valley Cluster. This district holds great potential and will showcase three developments centered around a man-made lake that stretches 2.8 kilometers.
The resort will have a selection of accommodations, including rooms and suites with personal pools and stunning panoramas of the lake or mountains.
Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of dining choices and amenities, such as the Anantara Spa, 270 rooms and pool villas, an infinity pool, and various recreational activities.
25-Hours Trojena
The 25-hour team at TROJENA will offer various facilities such as a cinema inside the building, a restaurant serving farm-fresh food, a bike workshop combined with a co-working area, and a rooftop restaurant and pool, all featuring a cutting-edge design.
Morgans Originals Trojena
The Morgans Originals Hotel promises to transport individuals to a world deeply rooted in the iconic cultural legacy of the brand. The hotel's eight-story vertical core will feature microclimates and immersive art experiences.
In addition, guests can indulge in four exceptional dining options and a 2,000-meter destination spa and bathhouse. The hotel will also showcase a ski slope roof with striking architecture and a rooftop pool bar that offers stunning views of the Trojena mountains.
The selection of both 25-hour Hotels and Morgans Originals by Trojena is a perfect fit for NEOM's goal to provide unparalleled experiences to residents and visitors seeking luxury, adventure, entertainment, livability, and a departure from the ordinary.
Continue Reading: [Marriott International To Open W Hotel In Riyadh’s KAFD by 2025]
