The Government signed memoranda of understanding totalling about 100 billion riyals with regional and international investors including conglomerate Triple Five and UAE-based developer Majid Al Futtaim.
Saudi Arabia's Government wants to attract 100 million annual visits in 2030, up from about 40 million currently. Contribution to GDP is targeted to reach 10 per cent from 3 per cent. Asked about negative perceptions of Saudi Arabia among some in the West, he said:"I'm very, very sure they will have a better judgment when they come and experience the life here in Saudi Arabia, and I promise them they will leave with great memories."
The Gulf country, which shares borders with Iraq to the north and Yemen to the south, boasts vast tracts of desert but also verdant mountains, pristine beaches and historical sites including five UNESCO World Heritage Sites."We have a great culture where many, many tourists would love to come and explore this culture and learn more about it and see it and experience it."
The development drive aims at adding one million tourism jobs. Getting hundreds of thousands of Saudis into the workforce remains a major challenge for the Crown Prince, who has so far only managed to make a dent in the official unemployment rate which remains over 12 per cent.
God no.
Roll up! Roll up! Come visit the evil murderous, apartheid, oil driven kingdom. Marvel at the segregation, wonder at the crushing oppression, queue for public floggings & executions...