Saudi Arabia and Qatar Strengthen Tourism Collaboration with New MoU
The agreement aims to deepen cooperation, exchange expertise, and drive sustainable growth in tourism development between the two nations.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia and Qatar have formalized their collaboration in tourism by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the UN Tourism General Assembly held in Riyadh.
The MoU seeks to enhance bilateral cooperation through joint opportunities, innovative initiatives, and sustainable growth strategies across both countries' tourism sectors.The agreement was signed by Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, and Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism.
Their goal is to foster a deeper exchange of expertise and resources that will elevate the quality of tourism services provided in both nations.
The partnership aims to highlight the unique cultural and natural attractions that each country has to offer.This move comes against the backdrop of growing tourism ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
In 2024, Saudi visitors constituted nearly a quarter of all tourist arrivals in Qatar, as stated by Visit Qatar in January.
Qatar is leveraging this momentum from hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022 to sustain its status as an attractive destination for international tourists.For Saudi Arabia, bolstering tourism is a key component of Vision 2030—a strategic plan to diversify the economy beyond oil and promote social change.
The nation aims to welcome 150 million visitors annually by 2030, with one-third expected to come from abroad.
Currently, tourism contributes approximately 5 percent to Saudi Arabia's economy, and the government is focused on doubling this contribution as part of its goal to elevate the sector's global standing.The MoU also addresses marketing campaigns and international events that will bolster the tourism appeal of both countries.
It emphasizes sustainability and enhancing the overall tourist experience through collaborative initiatives between Saudi Arabia and Qatar.During the Future Investment Initiative conference in October, Al-Khateeb underlined Saudi Arabia’s target to double its national economy's contribution from tourism.
As these nations work together, they are likely to enhance their global reputation as premier travel destinations.