Is Saudi Arabia the Next Big Luxury Travel Destination for Asian Consumers?
In July, Saudi Arabia was officially named a key travel destination for Chinese tourists, marking a significant milestone in Saudi-China tourism partnerships. According to Jing Daily, the initiative includes simplifying visa procedures, reducing travel costs, and increasing flight capacity by over 130% to accommodate the surge in Chinese visitors. Saudi airports and tourist attractions will also roll out Chinese language services and payment systems, catering directly to the needs of Chinese travellers.
The Saudi government is setting its sights on attracting up to five million Chinese tourists by 20230, according to the source.
Tourism in Saudi Arabia is still in its early stages, as the Kingdom only opened its doors to international visitors in September 2019. As it navigates this evolving landscape, the Kingdom is also addressing social and cultural dynamics, including efforts to promote inclusivity, all while enhancing its global appeal.
Here’s how Asian travellers are responding.
Hey there! This is The Luxury Edit - below you will find a digest of BurdaLuxury's top stories and events across luxury, fashion, culture, and career. Sign up here to get the full edit every first Friday of the month.
A Unique Destination - Saudi Arabia’s allure as a travel destination lies in its unique blend of ancient history and modern attractions. The Kingdom boasts a rich cultural heritage that includes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Al-Ula and Diriyah. Al-Ula, with its stunning rock formations and archaeological significance, offers a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s ancient civilisations. Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state, is renowned for its historical architecture and cultural significance.
The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative has spurred significant investment in tourism infrastructure. Luxury hotels, entertainment venues, and high-end shopping districts are being developed to cater to affluent travellers. For instance, the RED SEA PROJECT? , and NEOM are large-scale developments aimed at creating world-class resorts and leisure destinations. These projects are designed to attract high-net-worth individuals and provide a range of luxury experiences that align with the preferences of Asian travellers.
Travel agencies like Lightfoot Travel , which has offices located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, and London, have been offering itineraries in the region. “The appeal for our Asian client base is this blend of high-end luxury and the cultural allure of a country that was for a long period of time off limits for travellers,” Lightfoot Travel’s co-founder and director, Lucy Jackson Walsh , told BurdaLuxury. “Saudi Arabia offers everything from opulent desert camps to ultra luxurious city hotels and world-class beach resorts.”
Intriq Journey also features Saudi Arabia as an emerging destination. “Saudi Arabia is an enigmatic kingdom that offers a blend of uncrowded, unique sights and unexplored marine life, all within a luxurious setting,” the travel agency’s co-founder, Kok Yong L. , told BurdaLuxury.
?? Faye Bradley
A First Look at The Standard, Singapore, Opening End-November 2024
With much anticipation, The Standard, Singapore , hotel will finally open its doors to guests in November 2024. Here’s what to expect at the cool boutique property known for its artistic and colourful interiors.
A stylish hotel brand from Hollywood immortalised in popular culture through notable films and television dramas such as ‘Gossip Girl‘ and ‘Sex and The City‘, The Standard will bring that glamour to Singapore come November 2024.
Finally, there’s a concrete opening date for The Standard, Singapore.
THE LUXURY EDIT'S TOP PICKS:
领英推荐
HELLO! Magazine Thailand Raises Over 2.1MB at 6th Annual H! LIST
The 2024 edition of H! List, under the theme Charity Soirée, was hosted in conjunction with the release of the magazine’s H! LIST 2024, featuring the names of 600 of Thailand’s trailblazers who are making an impact across the nation. The charity gala featured the Soft Power Awards, and an auction of art, shopping packages, and exclusive hospitality packages, raising funds for the Baan Dek Foundation and Raks Thai Foundation.
“To launch this special edition of H! LIST, we have organised the H! LIST 2024 Charity Soirée to raise funds to support organisations in need. We will also be presenting the HELLO! Soft Power Awards to individuals who value and develop the potential of Thai soft power in various fields. All of the recipients of this award have continuously contributed to promoting and driving Thai culture on an international scale, and deserve all the honour and praise,” said Kessuda Marawichai, Editor-in-Chief, Hello Magazine Thailand .
OTHER EVENTS:
AUGUSTMAN Malaysia: October 2024
He sings, acts, and is studying for a PhD in Industrial Engineering. Is there anything that the incredible Mew Suppasit, Augustman Malaysia 's Cover Star can't do?
Many have lost themselves to the trappings of fame, and eventually spat out by the machine. Suppasit knows this better than most and keeps telling himself to never lose sight of his inner being. “Everyone is unique. So be yourself. Keep learning and become a better version of yourself.” His support system also helps. Suppasit deeply values his family and loved ones, including his dog Chopper. It makes life easier, especially when the going gets tough. “If you’re feeling exhausted and physically worn out, but your mentality remains strong, everything will be all right.”
Read the full cover story here.
Discover Career Opportunities at BurdaLuxury
THE NEW INDIA ASSURANCE CO LTD
4 个月??????? ???????? ?? ?? ??? ??????? ?? ???? ??????? ?? ??? ?? ???? ?????? ?? ?????????, ??????? ?? ??? ????? ?? ????????? ???? ???