The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia: A Hub of Innovation and Growth
The 13th edition of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia kicked off with a bang, attracting thousands of decision makers, changemakers, and disruptors eager to delve into the world of hospitality and tourism in the Kingdom. The event served as a platform for discussions, networking, and business dealings aimed at reshaping and redefining the future of the industry.
Setting the Stage for Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Evolution
The expo was inaugurated by esteemed guests including Mahmoud Abdulhadi, Deputy Minister of Tourism Destinations Enablement, Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, and Fahd bin Mansour Al Hashem, Assistant Deputy Minister for Investment Development, Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA). This event marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s journey towards becoming a global tourist destination.
Insights from Industry Experts
During the Hospitality Leaders’ Summit, industry experts shared valuable insights on the Kingdom’s tourism evolution and the importance of creating immersive experiences for both domestic and international visitors. Mohammed Al-Basrawi, CEO of Domestic Tourism at the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to achieve the sector’s goals.
Dr. Fahad Bin Mishait, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Investment Company, highlighted the significance of offering customized experiences in remote cities like Hail to attract longer stays and drive economic growth. He stressed the importance of curating, marketing, and delivering unique hospitality experiences to cater to the diverse needs of travelers.
Diverse Cultures and Unique Experiences
Fahad AloBailan, Group CEO of Baan Holding, pointed out Saudi Arabia’s advantage in offering diverse cultures, cuisines, and experiences across different regions of the country. Abdulrahman, CEO of Dan Company, highlighted the importance of incorporating local flavors and experiences in hospitality to meet the demands of modern travelers.
Urban Expansion Reshaping Saudi Hospitality
Mohammad Haj Hassan, Country Head of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, EMEA, and Nadeem Zaman, Group Chief Strategy Officer of Rua Al Madinah, discussed the transformative shift in the Kingdom’s hospitality sector driven by Vision 2030. The increase in hotel keys and the focus on cultural and ecotourism have contributed to the sector’s growth.
Government Initiatives Driving Growth
The leaders highlighted how government initiatives, such as improved airport transit times and the promotion of diverse tourism offerings, have played a crucial role in attracting visitors, talent, and investment to the Kingdom. The exhibition, organized by dmg events & KAOUN International, provides a platform for industry professionals to explore cutting-edge technologies and forge valuable connections.
As the expo continues to grow, it remains a beacon of innovation and progress in the Kingdom’s hotel and hospitality sector. The energy and dialogue at the event reflect the exciting times ahead for the industry, as stakeholders come together to shape the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia.
