Philippines Courts Saudi Tourism Market Through Strategic Aviation Partnerships
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is strengthening its engagement with the Middle East, focusing on expanding air connectivity while developing joint tourism initiatives following high-level meetings with Saudi aviation executives.
High-Level Delegation Meets Major Saudi Carriers
Representing Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso led the Philippine delegation in separate discussions with Saudia Airlines general manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab alongside Riyadh Air vice president for network planning Wolfgang Reuss.
Philippine Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Raymond R. Balatbat attended the meetings, which were held on the sidelines of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.
Tourism Receipts from Saudi Visitors Surge 46 Percent
The DOT reported a 46-percent increase in tourism receipts from Saudi visitors, reaching $37.86 million in 2024.
DOT data show that Saudi visitors increasingly favor destinations outside Metro Manila such as Cebu, Aklan/Boracay, Pampanga, Palawan, Cavite, showing a preference for premium, family-friendly beach, resort experiences.
Original Article:
Elmeri, S. (2025). DOT woos Saudi travelers with Halal tourism. HalalFocus. Retrieved from https://halalfocus.com/dot-woos-saudi-travelers-with-halal-tourism/
