Saudi Arabia is set to begin trials for space tourism within 60 days, according to Mohammed Al-Tamimi, CEO of the Saudi Space Agency.

Announced at the 2024 Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh, this initiative is part of broader efforts that include increasing satellite launches to 36,000 over the next six years.

Al-Tamimi highlighted that the world currently operates over 10,000 civil aviation airports and 20-22 spaceports across 12 countries.

Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb noted that the tourism sector employs over 330 million people globally.

He celebrated Saudi Arabia's post-pandemic tourism boom, marked by a 22 percent growth since 2019, aided by value-driven travel options and a new e-visa system for 66 countries.

The Gulf Cooperation Council will launch a unified tourist visa similar to the Schengen scheme by 2025.

Boeing Co.'s Brendan Nelson emphasized transparency and integrity in aviation, addressing supply chain issues and sustainable aviation fuel.

Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas announced the airline's plans to connect to over 100 destinations by 2030, leveraging modern and advanced systems.

The forum continues to showcase advancements and collaborations in aviation and space within Saudi Arabia and globally.