JEDDAH, 6 April 2006 — As Saudi students increasingly look eastward for their education abroad, New Zealand’s top man in Riyadh is more than happy to lay down the “welcome” mat.
According to Ambassador Jim Howell, an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 Saudis seeking to hone their English-language skills, take in the many scenic vistas, or both, visit the island country every year.
No specific figures are available because most of the Kingdom’s citizens stay in New Zealand for less than 90 days, but the ambassador says that he’s noticed a sharp increase in Saudi visitors since the tragic events of 9/11, up from virtually zero.
“It’s a new experience both countries value. We haven’t had many Saudis traveling to our country in the past,” said Howell, pointing out that New Zealand has a no-visa-required policy for visitors wishing to stay in the country for less than 90 days. “We welcome Saudi students and others who wish to visit or study in our country.”
The Kingdom’s “Look East” policy is not delegated simply to political and economic ties, but educational and touristic as well. The traditional destinations of the US and the UK have been affected by the increased scrutiny of a post-9/11 environment.
Mohammed, a Saudi in his early 20’s who did not want to provide his full name, told Arab News that he is searching for an alternative destination to the US or Europe.
“I don’t want to feel un-welcome, as if I should take the blame for other peoples’ wrongdoings,” he said, referring to the stigma Saudis face because most of the 9/11 hijackers came from the Kingdom.
Cleve Brown, director of Auckland-based Worldwide School of English, said that because Saudi society is family orientated, Saudis who travel to study at the school tend to spread the word to their extended families. This results in a gradual increase in the number of Saudis that travel to New Zealand over time.
Asked why New Zealand is not taking strict security measures like other English-speaking countries, Howell replied that all people receive the same security treatment, regardless of their country of origin. The no-visa policy applies to all, he pointed out.
