The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) has launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at encouraging early planning and reservation of domestic tourism trips in different parts of the Kingdom to keep accommodation prices and other costs in check and to help promote local tourism.

“Through this campaign, the commission aims to promote early reservation, especially for major services such as accommodation,” an SCTA official said Thursday.

According to tour operators, tourism expenses may be reduced by as much as 50 percent through early booking.

“The campaign seeks to limit the large influx of domestic tourists booking at the last minute, which results in exorbitant accommodation prices and unavailability, much to the shock and dismay of many,” the official said.

Several tour operators and specialists in the tourism sector also stressed the importance of flights and hotels well ahead of time to lower overall expenses, increase options and avoiding unpleasant surprises.

“Tourists are also left with more options to choose from and will be kept better informed of price changes,” said Saud Al-Sehaimi, executive director of the Jawlah tour company.

SCTA President Prince Sultan bin Salman has consistently reiterated the importance of booking early to regulate market forces.

The SCTA has also stepped up inspection and monitoring visits to accommodation facilities across the Kingdom to ensure commitment to approved price lists, which should be visible at receptions.

The official Saudi website www.sauditourism.com.sa provides detailed information about hotels and furnished apartments throughout different parts of the Kingdom, in addition to offering various and updated lists for tour operators and licensed tourist guides.

Tourists can also find reviews of the most significant historical and tourism sites on the website.