Tourism Sales Initiative Enhances Malaysia-Saudi Relations
A recent sales initiative by Tourism Malaysia has launched closer ties with Saudi Arabia, boosting tourist exchanges between the two countries.
Image of the event
Overview of the Initiative
Held from May 4 to 8 in Jeddah and Riyadh, this mission coincided with the launch of Visit Malaysia 2026 and the commencement of Malaysia Culture Week 2025. It underscored Malaysia’s intent to strengthen its presence in the rapidly growing Saudi tourism sector.
Tiong King Sing, the Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, led a 37-member delegation comprised of representatives from hotels, travel agencies, and tourism boards. At the opening, he stated:
“We extend a warm invitation to our Saudi friends to experience the wonders of Malaysia, especially as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026. Discover our rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. We are confident that Malaysia will offer unforgettable experiences and make you feel right at home.”
Key Statistics
- Visitor Growth: Malaysia welcomed 68,382 visitors from Saudi Arabia in 2024, marking a 23.7% increase from the previous year.
- Air Connectivity: Enhanced travel accessibility, with 41 weekly flights linking Jeddah and Madinah to Kuala Lumpur, supports this growth.
Highlighting Malaysia’s Attractions
The mission aimed to showcase Malaysia’s hospitality and diverse attractions with tailored travel packages for families, luxury travelers, and adventure seekers. It also included seminars, networking events, and business meetings, to further forge ties with local tourism industry players and demonstrate Malaysia’s offerings of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture.
