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RIYADH: �������� is aiming to double the tourism contribution to the national economy from the current 5 percent to solidify its position as a leading global destination, according to the Minister of Tourism.

Speaking at a session titled “AI and the Future of Tourism” during the ninth Future Investment Initiative conference, Ahmed Al-Khateeb affirmed that the sector is a key pillar of Vision 2030, pivotal for diversifying the economy and creating jobs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

“Tourism accounts for 18 percent of global GDP and 5 percent of the Kingdom’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product),” Al-Khateeb stated, according to SPA. “We aspire to double that figure within the next five years, which will represent 10 percent of total jobs.”

The minister highlighted the rapid evolution of the Kingdom’s tourism landscape, noting the emergence of new segments including entertainment, sports, culture, and conferences, events, and exhibitions.

He pointed to Riyadh as evidence of this growth, declaring it one of the world’s most active cities for hosting major events.

To support this expansion, the ministry has conducted in-depth studies of more than 66 countries, which represent 80 percent of the global tourism market. The goal is to ensure strong connectivity with key Saudi destinations like Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Red Sea. 

Al-Khateeb stressed the critical importance of developing air connectivity, revealing that airlines are working to double the number of flights to meet rapidly increasing demand.

The minister also emphasized the Kingdom’s unique assets, which range from diverse natural landscapes — mountains, islands, and the Red Sea coast — to rich historical and cultural destinations like Diriyah, all complemented by authentic Saudi hospitality.

This strategic focus is yielding significant results. The minister revealed that the Kingdom welcomed over 30 million tourists in 2024, and aims to reach 50 million international tourists by 2030. 

He reaffirmed that the sector’s geographical and cultural diversity, which allows visitors to experience a wide range of attractions across its cities, makes it one of the largest contributors to job creation in the Saudi economy.

RIYADH: ��������’s newest airline Riyadh Air intends to be a thought leader in environmental sustainability while growing its global reach, its CEO has said.

Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the ninth Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, Tony Douglas said that while the industry’s net-zero goal is difficult, the airline will pursue both alternative fuels and near-term operational efficiencies.

This year’s FII conference is taking place in Riyadh from Oct. 27 to 30, and is being held under the theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth.”

Riyadh Air, a new Saudi national airline owned by the Public Investment Fund, began operations on Oct. 26 with the successful completion of its first passenger flight from King Khalid International Airport to London Heathrow.

Douglas said: “The net‑zero target that’s out there, given the physics of powered flight, is extremely difficult,” adding: “But we’re absolutely committed to this going forward.”

Day to day, Riyadh Air will cut waste where it starts, with the CEO pointing to catering as an area to target. Legacy airlines uplift too much food, much of it thrown away. That’s waste and weight, which means more fuel burn and emissions, said Douglas.

To combat this, guests will be able to preorder meals in the concierge app. This trims waste and gives people exactly what they want. 

The brand rests on three pillars: obsessive guest experience, a digital‑native mindset, and leadership on environmental sustainability.

“We’re building a national carrier that connects the Kingdom to the world — and delights every guest along the way,” Douglas said. For him, sustainability sits alongside service and tech, not behind them. A digital‑first approach drives personalization and efficiency — from meal preorders to smoother trip planning.

Operations began with a symbolic start. “We’ll never forget October 26,” Douglas said, recalling the first commercial service. Daily flights to London Heathrow are live, with Dubai next as the network ramps.

Growth will be steady and visible. Completed Boeing aircraft are in certification, with more coming off and entering final assembly each month. The plan is roughly one new jet every month through next year, then two per month. That supports a goal of more than 100 international destinations within five years, setting up Riyadh as a serious global hub.

“Global connectivity is an enabler,” Douglas said. In his view, aviation runs across the Kingdom’s diversification pillars under Vision 2030. The impact is macro and human. The airline expects to support well over 200,000 jobs directly and indirectly as routes open markets, attract investors, and bring tourists.

Service remains the test. “It’s not only what we do — it’s how we do it. We want people to be delighted by our service because the brand is real.” 

That ethos extends beyond the cabin. Riyadh Air is launching Sfeer, a lifestyle program rather than a traditional loyalty scheme. Members can pool and pass points with family and friends — even by tapping phones. The aim is simple: more use, less breakage.

Sustainability threads through these choices. Lighter loads, smarter provisioning, and better planning save fuel and cut emissions today, while the fuels partnership targets tomorrow. 

“Solutions will come in all shapes and sizes,” said Douglas. “We intend to be out front.”

From a standing start to a fast‑scaling national carrier, the message is clear: grow with purpose. Add destinations each month. Ramp the fleet on schedule. Make sustainability part of the experience, not a bolt‑on.

“We’re up and running — and we’re only getting started,” he said.