Saudi Gazette Report

RIYADH — The Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb revealed that there are 10,000 cultural heritage sites in Saudi Arabia while stressing that the Kingdom is considered a distinctive and unique destination, characterized by culturally diverse experiences.

Besides cultural diversity, the Kingdom also holds bewitching landscapes and new adventures, he added. Saudi Arabia is also distinguished by its six sites that were enlisted in the list of World Heritage sites after it was approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The sites are:

• Al-Hijr Archaeological Site.

• Al-Turaif District in Diriyah.

• Historic Jeddah, the Gate To Makkah.

• Rock Art in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia.

• Hima Cultural Area.

• Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape.

In a statement carried earlier by the Ministry of Tourism, the Kingdom has expanded and opened its doors to receive tourists after lifting the suspension of entry for tourist visa holders.

Tourists will be received with full care within precautionary measures to ensure their safety.

It is noteworthy that Al-Khateeb revealed at the fifth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) that the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia will target 100 million visitors annually by 2030.

“Saudi Arabia will witness a huge wave of growth and many initiatives will be launched in the near future in this sector, as it is considered one of the largest investment areas in the region.”