Saudi Arabia has unveiled its first-ever exclusive campaign targeting Indian tourists, named “Shaandaar Saudi.” Launched in Mumbai, this initiative aims to position Saudi Arabia as a year-round destination for Indian families, culture enthusiasts, adventurers, and food lovers. The campaign is a significant part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and attract 150 million tourists by the end of the decade, with 7.5 million visitors expected from India alone.
A Strategic Move to Boost Tourism
The “Shaandaar Saudi” campaign is a strategic effort to tap into the growing Indian travel market. Recognizing the importance of India as a key source of tourists, Saudi Arabia has tailored its offerings to cater to Indian preferences. The campaign highlights Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and diverse culinary experiences, making it an appealing destination for Indian travelers.
The campaign’s launch event in Mumbai was a grand affair, featuring cultural performances and presentations on Saudi Arabia’s tourist attractions. Officials emphasized the ease of travel with streamlined visa processes and special travel offers. The introduction of Tasheer kiosks, which allow for on-the-spot visa applications with a processing time of just 48 hours, is expected to significantly boost tourist inflow.
Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance air connectivity with India have also been highlighted. With over 330 direct weekly flights and multiple airline operators, traveling to Saudi Arabia has never been easier for Indian tourists. The campaign also promotes the availability of eVisas and visa-on-arrival for Indian travelers holding valid visas for the U.S., UK, or Schengen countries.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Experiences
Food plays a crucial role in travel decisions, and the “Shaandaar Saudi” campaign has placed a strong emphasis on culinary experiences. Saudi Arabia is promoting a range of Indian restaurants and vegetarian-friendly options to cater to the dietary preferences of Indian tourists. This focus on food is designed to make Indian visitors feel at home while exploring the diverse culinary landscape of Saudi Arabia.
In addition to culinary delights, the campaign showcases Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. Key destinations such as Diriyah, Red Sea, Jeddah, AlUla, and Riyadh are being promoted for their unique attractions. From ancient temples to futuristic cities, these destinations offer a blend of history and modernity that appeals to different segments of Indian travelers.
The campaign also highlights Saudi Arabia’s hospitality and the variety of activities available throughout the year. Festivals, adventure sports, and cultural events are part of the immersive experiences designed specifically for Indian tourists. This approach aims to provide a holistic travel experience that goes beyond sightseeing.
Vision 2030 and the Future of Tourism
The “Shaandaar Saudi” campaign is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to its Vision 2030. This ambitious plan aims to diversify the economy, reduce dependence on oil, and create a vibrant society. Tourism is a cornerstone of this vision, with a focus on attracting international visitors and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural treasures.
Prince Dr. Faisal bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh, emphasized the importance of tourism in achieving the goals of Vision 2030. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, enhance tourist services, and create a welcoming environment for visitors. The success of the “Shaandaar Saudi” campaign is expected to play a crucial role in realizing these objectives.
The campaign’s focus on India is a strategic move to tap into one of the world’s largest travel markets. By offering tailored experiences and making travel easier, Saudi Arabia aims to attract a significant number of Indian tourists. This influx of visitors is expected to boost the economy, create jobs, and promote cultural exchange between the two countries.