PH expands tourism ties with Saudi Arabia, eyes more direct flights

[Starmix]

According to the report, the Philippines is strengthening its tourism ties with Saudi Arabia as part of its bid to capture a bigger share of the Middle East travel market, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Thursday. Earlier this month, the DOT held high-level meetings with Saudi Airlines and Riyadh Air to discuss air connectivity expansion and possible joint tourism promotions.

The report also stated that the DOT delegation met separately with Saudi Airlines General Manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab and Riyadh Air Vice President for Network Planning and Partnerships Wolfgang Reuss during the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh from Nov. 7 to 11.

According to the DOT, there are two existing direct flights connecting the two countries: Riyadh–Manila and Jeddah–Manila.

Frasco said in a message that, as a destination, the Philippines continues to gain ground among Saudi travelers, recognized for its warm hospitality, competitive value, English-speaking service culture, and growing Halal-friendly tourism infrastructure. Saudi nationals enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 30 days, making travel easier and more accessible.

The report also said that Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets, driven by a young and affluent population with high disposable income for travel. It represents one of our most dynamic and high-value markets in the Middle East."

Source: PNA



EXPANDED TOURISM. Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso (second from right) represents Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in high-level meetings with Saudi aviation executives on the sidelines of the 26th United Nations (UN) Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh from Nov. 7 to 11, 2025. The executives discussed the expansion of air connectivity between the Middle East and the Philippines, as well as the development of joint tourism promotion initiatives. (Photo courtesy of DOT)

 

[gwolf666]

I believe the Philippines' strategy of strengthening its tourism ties with Saudi Arabia is very sound, especially considering the growth of the tourism market in that region. The opening of direct flights and the ease of visas for Saudi citizens really make it easier for more people to consider the Philippines as a destination, and that can translate into a significant increase in tourism from there. Furthermore, Philippine culture, with its hospitality and English-speaking service, is very attractive to Saudi tourists seeking destinations with good infrastructure and cultural experiences. It's also important to note that Saudi Arabia is emerging as a high-value market, with a young population and greater resources for travel, which can be very beneficial for the Philippine economy. Overall, I believe this partnership can open up many opportunities and further strengthen the Philippines' presence in the Middle Eastern tourism market.

 

[Starmix]

My brother is an OFW in Saudi Arabia. They no longer make a transfer flight. With a direct flight from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines and vice versa, flying on air is now made easy.