Russia and Saudi Arabia discuss measures to increase tourist traffic

During the online meeting Russian Minister of Economic Development Maksim Reshetnikov and Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb discussed issues of bilateral cooperation. This is reported by the website of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

"By joint efforts we can bring interstate relations in the sphere of tourism to a cardinally new level. At the same time, it is important to ensure accessibility and convenience of tourist trips for our citizens," the head of the Russian Ministry stressed.

The representative of Saudi Arabia assessed the dynamics of co-operation between Moscow and Riyadh in this sphere.

"We are grateful to the Russian side for creating comfortable and safe conditions for our tourists," Ahmed Al-Khateeb said.

The sides also discussed measures to improve the quality of services in the markets of the two countries and opportunities for investment growth. Other important issues were the prospects of reducing visa restrictions and the development of transport communication between the two countries.

Following the talks, it was decided that Moscow and Riyadh may sign a memorandum of co-operation by the end of 2024.

The tourist flow between Russia and Saudi Arabia is showing steady growth. In the first half of 2024, the Kingdom's subjects made 12 times more trips to Russia than in the same period last year. Tourists from this country rank second in the number of electronic visas issued for travelling to Russia.