International demand key to unlocking value in Saudi tourism sector, FHS panelists say

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia must attract more international visitors from key global markets to unlock the full economic potential of its rapidly expanding tourism sector, industry leaders highlighted during the Future Hospitality Summit in Riyadh.

Speaking during a panel titled “Investing into the Kingdom: Connecting Global Capital with Saudi Arabia’s High-End Hospitality Pipeline,” Amin Ismail, managing director at Certares, said sustained demand from domestic travelers has helped fuel investment in new tourism destinations and hospitality assets.

The discussion focused on investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the importance of local partnerships, such as with the Public Investment Fund and Tourism Development Fund, to catalyze institutional investment.

The panel highlighted the need for authenticity and operating capability in luxury investments, with a focus on the potential of the nation’s tourism sector, particularly in attracting the global market.