Prime Highlights:
- Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in tourism, promote cultural exchange, and develop joint projects.
- The agreement supports Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar’s post–World Cup tourism momentum, aiming to expand regional and global travel appeal.
Key Facts:
- The MoU was signed by Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb and Qatar Tourism Chairman Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji on the sidelines of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.
- Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030, while Saudi tourists accounted for nearly one-fourth of all visitors to Qatar in 2024.
Background
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in tourism and share expertise to support the sector’s growth. The agreement was made on the sidelines of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.
Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb and Qatar Tourism Chairman Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji signed the MoU. They aim to create new opportunities, encourage sustainable practices, and start innovative tourism projects that help both countries.
According to an official statement, the deal will help both nations work together on improving tourism services, promoting cultural and natural attractions, and launching joint marketing campaigns. The two sides also plan to host events that will highlight their growing global appeal as travel destinations.
A Visit Qatar spokesperson said earlier this year that Saudi tourists made up nearly one-fourth of all visitors to Qatar in 2024. The agreement builds on this strong travel link and supports Qatar’s efforts to continue the momentum gained from hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, which attracted millions of international visitors.
For Saudi Arabia, the partnership supports Vision 2030, the country’s plan to grow its economy beyond oil. The Kingdom plans to welcome 150 million visitors each year by 2030, with at least one-third coming from other countries.
At the ninth Future Investment Initiative conference in October, Minister Al-Khateeb said Saudi Arabia is working to double tourism’s contribution to its national economy, which currently stands at around 5%, as it continues to grow as a leading global destination.
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