Business & Money | Sunday 5 July, 2015 2:00 pm |

Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, President of the Elaf Group of Companies, cited the significant role played by local travel and tourism organizations and associations in the move to further develop the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) travel and tourism industry. Mahfouz pointed out that the presence of these organizations can largely contribute to many of the planned programs and initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s tourism segment. 

 

Bin Mahfouz said, “The creation of these organizations complements the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities’ (SCTA) move to implement newer regulations and legislation aimed at enhancing tourism. The commission has expressed confidence in working closely with these groups in the move to strengthen ties with the community and its members.”

 

According to the Elaf  President, the creation of these organizations come in conjunction with the move to support national tourism—paving the way for developing performance, discipline, human resources and Saudization. The organizations also build bridges of cooperation between the government and tourism stakeholders. 

 

Bin Mahfouz confirmed that Elaf group is also working towards implementing the directives of the SCTA and concerned bodies in order to drive in more growth for the sector—covering key segments like travel, tourism and hospitality, particularly for the Hajj and Umrah tourism sector. The Elaf Group has affirmed its commitment in working to promote Shari’ah, Arab and Saudi customs and traditions as part of the move to highlight the country’s rich culture and heritage. 

 

“Under the Cabinet’s decision, these associations will assume a number of tasks, among them is the move to contribute in the efforts of creating relevant conditions for developing and promoting more tourism based services. We commend these groups for their commitment and affirm our promise of working closely with them in reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a premiere tourism destination,” concluded Bin Mahfouz.