JEDDAH, 20 October 2005 — Interior Minister Prince Naif, who is chairman of the Supreme Commission for Tourism, said yesterday's SCT board meeting had taken important resolutions for strengthening the Kingdom's tourism industry.
"The board discussed all matters concerning tourism, reviewed the commission's activities in the past years and gave instructions to complete what was necessary," the Saudi Press Agency quoted Prince Naif as telling reporters.
Prince Sultan ibn Salman, secretary-general of the commission, said the board meeting had approved the general objectives of SCT's plan for next year. "We consider 2006 as the year for implementation and investment," he added.
He said regional bodies have been given a free hand to carry out programs to boost tourism. "The SCT has presented a project to promote economic development, attract investment and create more jobs for citizens," he explained.
Asked about prospects of issuing tourist visas, Prince Sultan said it would be announced at the appropriate time, adding that the project was in the final stages. He also disclosed plans to hold a variety of tourism programs in order to encourage Saudis to spend part of their holidays inside the Kingdom.
Prince Sultan said higher authorities had approved holding a rally in Hail this year as part of programs to promote domestic tourism. He also underscored the "Ebtasim" (smile) program, aimed at increasing awareness of Saudi students about tourism potentials of their country.
