Riyadh – Mubasher: The Saudi Arabian tourism remained buoyant throughout 2020 and the first quarter (Q1) of 2021 on the back of domestic market strength, according to a recent report.

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has operated its 28 domestic airports at close to 80% of its 2019 levels, with demand exceeding capacity at times. The numbers will likely pick up further with the resumption of international travel for Saudi residents and citizens on 17 May, and the operation of the new King Abdulaziz International Airport.

Saudia is expected to return to profitability by 2024, if not earlier, the airline company’s CEO, Ibrahim Koshy, commented.

He added, “The potential market for the Kingdom continues to grow at a fast pace. We may also see aircraft orders this year to meet that expected demand in capacity.”

CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority, Fahd Hamidaddin, meanwhile said: “While the travel and tourism sector was paralysed globally, Saudi Arabia kept moving.”

There was a 33% increase in spending, and hotel occupancy was at 50%, while the number of Destination Marketing Companies in Saudi Arabia increased from 17 to 93, Hamidaddin added.

The long-term tourism outlook in Saudi Arabia has been more bullish than ever, according to the statement.

These remarks were presented at the ATM Saudi Arabia Tourism Summit, which continues until 24 May, during ATM Virtual.