JEDDAH, 4 May 2005 — Recreation and Leisure Fair (RALF), which debuts at the Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center from June 15-20, will herald this year’s Jeddah Summer Festival (JSF).
“Unlike other exhibitions that focus on worldwide tourism, RALF will exclusively feature the Kingdom’s domestic tourism sector and attach utmost importance to the interrelated recreation, sport and leisure activities,” a spokesman for Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions Ltd. (ACE), the Kingdom’s leading exhibition organizer, told Arab News yesterday.
The event also highlights pubic and private endeavors targeting promotion of national tourism. “Likewise, great attention is devoted to the Kingdom’s cultural and traditional heritage, natural resources and historic sites,” he said.
ACE has an impressive track record in organizing some of the most popular public shows annually including Saudi International Motor Show with a visitor record of 110,000 and Jeddah International Book Fair with a turnout of over 150,000 visitors.
RALF, which is appearing on the exhibition scene for the first time, will have a contemporary and exciting conceptual view featuring interfacial and interactive recreation, sport and leisure activities marking an impressive program for the upcoming JSF.
“RALF will provide a platform to launch a comprehensive program of tourism and recreation in Jeddah and elsewhere in the Kingdom offering tourists of varying age groups the opportunity to relax and enjoy their summer vacation,” the spokesman added.
A wide range of products and activities will be on display including electronic games, audiovisuals, camping and fitness equipment, sports and water facilities, 4x4 off-road and outdoor leisure.
RALF is being held in the context of the Kingdom’s initiatives and active private entrepreneurship and with the support of the Supreme Commission for Tourism. Its strategic plans target domestic tourism, although in general it will be a vehicle that fosters and contributes effectively to a comprehensive national development,” he said, adding that RALF also enjoys the support of the Youth Welfare Organization together with its subordinate sectors including Saudi Olympic Committee and local sports organizations. “With the overwhelming support from many companies and establishments that RALF has already received, we expect the fair will be a fitting addition to our highly popular portfolio of public events and generate a huge turnout of visitors,” he added.