In a bid to revive domestic tourism, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities is moving toward providing increased and more accurate information to local and foreign tourists by establishing a tourist information center. However, this step still needs to be approved by the Council of Ministers.

A source in the SCTA said the commission is working with the Ministry of Interior to establish an information center to facilitate dealing with relevant authorities, saying the center will provide information to tourists, while linking service sectors that cater to tourists visiting the country.

The source said the commission introduced a system that was approved by the Council of Ministers to oblige licensed tour operators to update data of their employees. The official also explained that the commission will issue classification certificates for the hospitality sector, and tourism jobs, with special attention to specializations.

Regarding tour operators' work, it will include leasing vehicles and transportation for tourists, accommodation and insurance. According to recent guidelines, a tour guide must be licensed to work and accompany tourists in places of tourist attraction. Part of the task includes giving tourists coherent information about sites.

Under the new system, the hospitality sector is treated as an entity that offers arrangements for tourists for a fee. But as per this new policy, public areas are protected by law and no one is allowed to own or use them or invest in them directly. This system will now force tour operators and hotels to obtain a license according to the rules and regulations.

With regard to foreign tourists, the Council of Ministers stipulates that anyone wishing to enter the Kingdom should have a valid tourist visa.

The commission is currently working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs according to specific rules to revive and develop domestic tourism. Regarding infractions, those responsible for accommodation should offer facilitation to all supervisors and in case of serious violations, the company or individual will be referred to the committee, according to Article 14 of the system.