Cultural show marks launch of tourism festival

Riyadh Gov. Prince Khalid bin Bandar inaugurated the Saudi Summer 2013 Festival in the presence of Prince Sultan bin Salman, chairman of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA).
Prince Khalid said cultural events have become a source of pride and inspiration and reflect the keenness of the government of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah to develop the tourism sector.
The Riyadh governor lauded the notable achievements in the local tourism festival and the large turnout of citizens. He also noted its role in stimulating domestic tourism and job creation that will eventually boost the national economic activity in various regions in the Kingdom.
The event is being organized by the SCTA in cooperation with various tourist development councils across the regions and organizing committees for the summer festivals.
Officials representing various boards of tourism development in the regions and tour operators were also present. On the sidelines of the event, there were exhibitions featuring 40 companies in hospitality services and domestic tours, which distributed pamphlets and brochures on the upcoming events. Information and Tourism Research (MAS), call centers and tourist guides committee also participated in the event. According to Prince Sultan bin Salman, chairman of Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), summer festivals will provide 4,500 jobs and attract more than 10 million visitors, with expected economic returns exceeding SR 10 billion.
“We expect 5.3 million domestic tourists during this period, which could generate SR 10.5 billion in returns, an increase of 18 percent over the same period last year,” he said.
Prince Sultan expressed his optimism that the next phase of the national tourism festival would evoke greater support and attention thanks to the leadership of the country.
The inaugual event featured the traditional marches of camels, horses and vintage cars. There was also a display of Saudi national colors and folk arts in addition to a cultural show by children amid special lighting and sound effects.