Regulation of tourism development councils aims to develop tourist destinations: Minister

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the regulation of tourism development councils in regions, which was approved by the Cabinet on April 12, aims to achieve the National Tourism Strategy's objectives, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

He added that the move also aims to develop tourist destinations that boast competitive advantages, upgrade hospitality facilities and lure investments, to achieve the national tourism goals, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.  

The regulation provides for the establishment of tourism development councils at the emirates of regions. The council, to be headed by the Emir of the region, will include members representing the relevant government agencies.

The councils also aim to develop the tourism sector in the regions, organize efforts related to the implementation of tourism development plans as well as priority initiatives related to the tourism sector, in line with the National Tourism Strategy.

Furthermore, the councils will coordinate with the relevant authorities to achieve the National Tourism Strategy’s objectives, including urging the service sectors to implement infrastructure projects in the tourist sites and submit proposals for unique tourist sites, projects and products.

The regulation is also to enable the private sector to invest, propose the necessary facilities and incentives, as well as facilitate the implementation and development of manpower development programs in the tourism sector, through cooperation with the relevant authorities.

It also aims to help the private sector implement tourism marketing and promotional campaigns in the regions and support efforts related to raising public awareness of the importance of tourism development in the regions.