#Saudi Arabia #London #Tourism #WTM 2025

Saudi Arabia Shines at WTM 2025

Saudi Arabia has captured the spotlight at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, showcasing its extraordinary tourism calendar and notable destinations to professionals from around the globe. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) led a stunning presentation with 71 partners at the event, unveiling the grand pavilion titled "Saudi Land," which highlights the ambition and scale of the nation's tourism sector.

During this eye-catching opening, Saudi Arabia shared its remarkable achievement of welcoming nearly 116 million visitors in 2024, generating a staggering $75 billion in tourism expenditure. This growth trajectory invites global business partners to explore the flourishing opportunities presented by the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination.

The immersive experiences presented at the Saudi Land pavilion featured an enticing glimpse into the "Unreal Calendar"—a series of world-class events scheduled throughout the year. These include high-profile attractions such as the Formula 1 races, MDLBEAST Soundstorm music festival, and the WWE Royal Rumble. What made the showcase even more appealing was its collaboration with international superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who starred in a lively campaign that brought the venue to life.

Attractions highlighted included the pristine Red Sea, the ancient wonders of AlUla, and the vibrant life in Riyadh and Jeddah. The pavilion also showcased luxury developments such as the Shura Island openings and the much-anticipated Six Flags Qiddiya City—a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to world-class hospitality and innovation.

Emphasizing New Business Opportunities

Abdullah Alhagbani, the STA's head of partnerships and regulatory affairs, expressed enthusiasm in welcoming global partners, stating that the pavilion was not just about showcasing Saudi Arabia’s offerings but about paving the way for new collaborations, innovation, and shared success within the tourism sector. Alhagbani emphasized that last year’s event calendar featured over 1,000 dates, and this year promises to follow suit with continued growth.

Saudi Arabia is strategically creating new avenues for investment and commerce, positioning itself as a prime destination for the global travel industry. The combination of significant infrastructure investments and enhanced air connectivity underlines the nation’s vision to be an all-year-round tourism hub for international visitors.

On the first day of WTM, the opening ceremony was full of energy, welcoming partners and industry leaders from around the world. The event solidified partnerships, with over nine Memoranda of Understanding signed, including key alliances with renowned travel and hospitality brands.

Engaging Interactive Experiences

Visitors had the chance to explore diverse Saudi destinations through immersive exhibitions showcasing various package options and cultural displays. Interactive sports activities—including the ever-popular Cristiano Ronaldo billboards—engaged attendees, fostering a unique connection between the audience and Saudi tourism.

However, it wasn’t all about business; the pavilion also emphasized Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage. Traditional performances captivated visitors, displaying the joyful authenticity that visitors can expect and experience when they visit Saudi Arabia.

WTM 2025 has provided an unparalleled opportunity for Saudi Arabia and its tourism partners to forge new relationships, advance strategic collaborations, and illuminate the exceptional potential offered by the changing landscape of the kingdom's tourism sector. As the STA continues to promote Saudi Arabia's remarkable tourism offerings globally, the future looks bright for travelers eager to experience this evolving destination.

About the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA)

Established in June 2020, the Saudi Tourism Authority is tasked with marketing Saudi Arabia’s tourist destinations globally and enhancing these offerings through various programs and packages. With a mission to develop the unique attractions and destinations within the country, the STA plays host to numerous industry events while promoting Saudi Arabia's brand locally and abroad. With 16 global representation offices, it operates across 38 countries, encouraging visitors to discover the secrets of Saudi tourism.

For more details, visit VisitSaudi.com.