Advantages and disadvantages of traveling by boat
Boat travel—especially on a cruise—offers a distinctive and all-inclusive vacation. Still, there are benefits and drawbacks to take into account, much as with any kind…
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Despite its tourism industry is still in its infancy and limited by strict Islamic laws and social conventions, a kingdom steeped in rich history and cultural legacy lies right in the middle of the Arabian Peninsula. Though it has long been a destination for religious pilgrims, Saudi Arabia—a nation known for its holy cities of Mecca and Medina—has battled to draw the leisure-seeking visitor from Europe and America. The strong bans on alcohol intake and the restrictions placed on women have sometimes discouraged possible guests, so casting a shadow over the great global tourism potential of the kingdom.
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However, Saudi Arabia’s desert sands are being blown with change’s winds. The royal family has focused under Vision 2030’s ambitious framework on turning tourism into the second most important economic sector in the kingdom. This visionary plan seeks to diversify the economy, so lessening its reliance on oil earnings, and establish Saudi Arabia as a top travel destination for foreigners. A high-ranking official declared last year that the economic future of the kingdom would depend much on tourism, so signaling a fresh phase of possibility and development.
Saudi Arabia’s coastal regions are set for a remarkable change as part of this great vision. Plans call for creating large tourist zones featuring museums, historical sites, and a wealth of attractions honoring the rich cultural fabric of the kingdom. From historic archeological sites to contemporary architectural masterpieces, the ambitious project seeks to produce a vivid scene that invites visitors to discover the beauties of Saudi legacy.
The deputy of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underlined in a recent interview with Al Arabiya the need of “opening the doors wide” to visitors of all nationalities. This attitude captures a growing need to present the riches of the kingdom outside its religious importance, so drawing a varied range of guests to enjoy its special offers.
Notwithstanding these hopes, the road to a thriving travel business is not easy. Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure historically has not matched its aspirations. Inadequate facilities and services have hampered the kingdom’s attempts to draw a wider range of visitors, so leaving many of them wanting. Experts advise that major infrastructure developments are absolutely necessary to really enthrall the Western tourist. This includes the construction of world-class museums honoring Islamic faith and culture, so augmenting the already existing cultural establishments.
Nonetheless, the cultural terrain seems to be a great obstacle. Bruce Riedel of the Brookings Institute presents a moving reality: the kingdom has to negotiate its conservative values if it is to attract Western and Russian visitors. Two divisive topics that question the firmly ingrained customs maintained by Saudi church leaders are the arrival of alcohol and the acceptance of more liberal clothing like bikinis. Riedel’s observations highlight a crucial conflict between cultural conservatism and economic aspirations, implying that the kingdom might find it difficult to fully realize its tourism goals without a major change in society expectations.
Saudi Arabia is starting a journey of transformation, and there is obvious possibility for tourism to become pillar of its economy. The magnificent scenery, rich history, and cultural legacy of the kingdom provide a canvas ready for discovery. Saudi Arabia could become a fascinating country on the international scene with appropriate infrastructure investments and a readiness to meet changing expectations of global visitors.
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