Saudi Makes Grand Debut At MATTA Fair 2023
Saudi showcases authentic Arabian culture, experiences and hospitality at Malaysia's biggest travel fair as destination partner
Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) is set to debut at MATTA Fair 2023, Malaysia's premier consumer travel fair, as a sponsor and destination partner, highlighting Saudi Arabia's rich culture and heritage as an emerging global tourism destination. The Saudi pavilion will enable partners to connect with STA representatives and explore the country's diverse tourism offerings.
With an impressive 121% YoY growth from pre-pandemic levels, Saudi Arabia welcomed 93.5 million visits in 2022, outperforming global tourism sector recovery as acknowledged by the UNWTO. The country plans to invest over a hundred billion dollars in developing new tourist attractions by 2030.
Asiah Tahar
Saudi Tourism Authority
Alhasan Aldabbagh, President – APAC, Saudi Tourism Authority, expressed delight at partnering with MATTA Fair 2023 and seizing the opportunity to showcase Saudi Arabia's beauty. The nation offers authentic Arabian culture, rich heritage, and diverse landscapes to Malaysian travelers, and aims to attract 100 million visits by 2030.
Malaysia is a significant tourism source market for Saudi Arabia, with 312,000 Malaysian visitors in 2022 and a goal to double visitor numbers this year. Ahead of the fair, STA hosted a successful roadshow in Kuala Lumpur to launch Nusuk (nusuk.sa), a new Umrah integrated digital platform for global pilgrims.
At the exhibition, enhanced Umrah+ packages will be showcased, inviting Malaysian travelers to discover Saudi Arabia's cultural, historical, and natural attractions. The packages will feature the latest developments and most appealing destinations in Saudi Arabia, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unexplored archaeological sites, and a $50.6 billion masterplan to transform Diriyah into a leading cultural site.
Saudi Arabia also offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and year-round water sports opportunities. As a burgeoning entertainment hub, the nation has hosted significant sporting events and world-class festivals. A Stopover Visa, available for Malaysian travelers, offers a complimentary one-night hotel stay, making Saudi Arabia an ideal stopover destination for those traveling to Europe, the UK, and the US.
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