Saudi Tourism Authority News
Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin to Depart Role After Seven Years
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is preparing for a major leadership transition, with Fahd Hamidaddin set to leave his role as chief executive of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) after seven years at the helm of one of the most ambitious destination transformation programmes in modern tourism history.
Arsenale opens pre-reservations for ‘Dream of the Desert,’ Luxury train in Saudi Arabia
Arsenale S.p.A, Italy’s leading company in the development of high-end hospitality experiences by rail, announces the official opening of pre-reservations for Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury train “Made in Italy” that will operate in Saudi Arabia starting at the end of 2026.
Tourise 2025: Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO, Saudi Tourism Authority and Vice Chair, Tourise
Interviewed by Justin Cooke, Editor in Chief
Saudi showcases Unreal calendar and iconic destinations at WTM
Saudi made a strong impression on the opening day of World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, as the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and its 71 partners unveiled the spectacular “Saudi Land” pavilion, presenting the scale and ambition of its tourism sector. Following a record-breaking year welcoming almost 116 million visitors and generating $75 billion in tourism spend, STA arrived at WTM ready to deepen global partnerships and unlock new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Cristiano Ronaldo Fronts Saudi Tourism’s “Stay For More” Campaign
“Saudi, Welcome to Arabia” the consumer facing brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), launched its latest campaign starring Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). Launching across key markets in Europe as well as India and China, “I Came for Football, I Stayed For More” brings to life a Saudi that offers visitors far more than the expected. Heralding the start of its extended season of high stakes sports, rousing entertainment, and breathtaking film, fashion and cultural events, the campaign harnesses TV, Social, Digital, and OTA to give audiences a taste of one of the world’s most exciting destination calendars.
Saudi Tourism Launches Summer 2025 Program: ‘Colour Your Summer’
His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Tourism Authority, launched the “Saudi Summer” program under the theme “Colour Your Summer” at a workshop event organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority. The event brought together over 120 partners from across the Saudi tourism ecosystem, including representatives from the public and private sectors. The workshop enhanced collaboration across the Saudi tourism ecosystem for the upcoming summer season, unifying efforts to achieve the program’s goals and maximizing its economic and tourism impact.
Saudi tourism secures landmark global partnerships at ATM 2025, fueling next wave of tourism growth
Saudi Tourism Authority signed 14 MoUs and facilitated 52 MoUs between Saudi partners and the global tourism sector. Building on the record achievement of welcoming almost 116 million visitors in 2024, Saudi showcased its diverse summer season, reinforcing its position as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination. Dynamic “Saudi Land” pavilion captured global attention, highlighting unique destinations, rich cultural experiences, and upcoming global events such as the Esports World Cup.
Saudi Tourism Authority and Accor Launch Bold New Collaboration
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Arabian Travel Market 2025, marking a strategic partnership that will build on Saudi’s emergence as a global tourism powerhouse. This collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals, aiming to enhance international demand, grow brand visibility, and drive hotel bookings and loyalty across the country’s expanding hospitality landscape.
‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ Gears Up to Welcome the World for FIFA World Cup™ 2034
Following the official announcement of Saudi as the host country for the FIFA World Cup™ 2034 today, Saudi, Welcome to Arabia, the official destination brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), is thrilled to welcome football fans from around the globe to experience the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the Heart of Arabia.
Saudi Tourism Authority launches the Saudi Summer Program 2024
In an event held under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority launched the country’s spectacular summer program for 2024, “Saudi Summer is Next Door.” Saudi’s summer program will run for four months until the end of September across seven destinations and includes over 550 exceptional tourism products and more than 150 special offers and packages curated for families and children across different segments like adventure lovers, those looking for luxury retreats and activities, and culture and heritage enthusiasts.