Saudi Arabia to Promote Tourism to the Bahamas

eTurboNews:

At the World Travel and Tourism Council summit in Riyadh in November, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis took the first step by looking at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for tourism cooperation and investment.

A memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Tourism Bahamas and the Government of Saudi Arabia was signed.

A private investment conference was organized after the WTTC Summit by the Bahamas together with Jamaica, Barbados, and Grenada in an event at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh.

The idea of visa-free travel between participating countries and Saudi Arabia was discussed.

Last week Prime Minister Philip Davis and senior government officials held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Government representatives to discuss the second step.

His Excellency Ahmed bin Aqil al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, conveyed the Saudi Government’s congratulations on The Bahamas’ 50th Independence.

The meeting emphasized the progress achieved since establishing diplomatic ties between The Bahamas and Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Davis and Minister al-Khateeb acknowledged the positive impact of these relations and explored opportunities for further collaboration.

HE Gloria Guevara, special advisor to the Saudi Minister of Tourism, also attended some discussions. As a former minister of tourism for Mexico, she has intimate experience in tourism issues relevant to the Caribbean.

Bahamas Prime Minister Davis supported Saudi Arabia as they gear up to host the World Expo 2030, reflecting a spirit of mutual respect and shared aspirations for global community engagement. This support aligns with the decision of the CARICOM Heads of Government as a regional bloc.

The discussion also revolved around the Saudi Government’s newly created investment fund for the Caribbean. Prime Minister Davis welcomed this initiative as a significant step towards advancing infrastructure development in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region.

Both sides are nearing the final stages of discussions on funding major infrastructure projects in The Bahamas.

The Saudi Government agreed to promote The Bahamas as a tourism destination in Saudi Arabia, encouraging increased travel and cultural exchange between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia is a leading voice on climate change and a strong advocate for The Bahamas and its people.