Selamat Datang! (Sir-lam-mat Da-tang)
I’m Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of Asia-Pacific Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority. We’re delighted to be here in Malaysia to celebrate the rich culture and heritage that binds both our nations.
Saudi is a year-round destination full of history, diverse offerings and warm Arabian hospitality. As the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination, we offer something for everyone—whether you seek a spiritual journey, cultural attractions, or an exciting adventure.
Jeddah: The cultural heart of Saudi and home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of AlBalad. Step into over 1,400 years of history of Al Shafei Mosque, Jeddah’s oldest mosque. Indulge in traditional delights at AlSaedei Bakery which is 200 years old.
Riyadh offers easy access to key Islamic landmarks, including Diriyah’s At-Turaif, the 300-year old birthplace of Saudi and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can shop like a local at the Souk Al-Zal, one of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets with over 100 years of history. For families, I would recommend exploring Boulevard City, which is home to one of the largest shopping and entertainment hubs in the city.
Just a 3.5 hour drive away from Madinah, AlUla with over 200,000 years of heritage. I invite you to explore Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage site at Hegra, and don’t miss the iconic Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building.
Only a 2 hour drive away from Madinah, Khaybar is known for its scenic oasis. It is also an ancient site filled with rich cultural heritage.
For a luxury getaway, I invite you to explore The Red Sea Global which is home to the 4th largest barrier reef in the world. We have launched 3 luxury hotels that are Six Senses Southern Dunes, St. Regis Red Sea, Nujuma, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve is the 7th Reserve in the World.
We are excited to inaugurate the Saudi Travel Fair today, where we’ve partnered with over 13 of Malaysia’s top leisure and Umrah travel agencies like Ikhlas, Andalusia, In Saff Travel, Apple Vacations, Iman World and many more.
We are offering more than 15 new packages featuring new destinations including Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla, all filled with exclusive deals and unforgettable experiences available only during the Saudi Travel Fair from today until the 1 of September such as:
- Ikhlas is offering discounts of up to RM1,067 and 1,067 AirAsia Big Points
- SAUDIA is offering a buy one ticket, get 50% off on the second.
Everyone stands a chance to win exciting prizes during this fair, including flight tickets for 2 to Saudi.
Travelling to Saudi has never been easier for Malaysians, with the country now being one of 66 nations eligible for the e-visa program. Additionally, Umrah visas have been extended to 90 days, providing ample time for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of Saudi beyond the spiritual journey to Makkah and Madinah.
The increased flight connectivity to four major Saudi cities by carriers such as SAUDIA, AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Batik Air further enhances accessibility, making it more convenient than ever for Malaysians to explore the heart of Arabia.
We look forward to welcoming you to Saudi.
Terima kasih (Te-ri-ma ka-sih).