Riyadh: The Embassy of India in Riyadh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, hosted a large-scale tourism promotion event in the Saudi capital on Jan. 15, 2026, highlighting India’s growing tourism potential and expanding bilateral cooperation in the sector.
The event brought together leading Saudi travel and tour operators, along with key industry stakeholders, to explore new business opportunities in India’s rapidly evolving tourism market. Representatives of major Indian tour operators and national carriers IndiGo and Air India also participated. Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan delivered the keynote address.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Khan underscored the deep-rooted historical ties between India and Saudi Arabia, noting that sustained cross-cultural exchanges and strong people-to-people connections have played a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. He said the steady growth in two-way tourism between the two countries reflects the positive momentum in overall India–Saudi ties.
The ambassador invited Saudi travelers to consider India as a preferred destination for leisure and cultural tourism, pointing to the country’s diverse range of experiences. From iconic monuments and rich wildlife to adventure tourism, meditation and Ayurveda, India offers a comprehensive tourism package, he said. He also highlighted India’s 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and outlined measures taken by the Indian government to facilitate travel, including the introduction of e-Visas for Saudi nationals in 2023.
The program featured presentations on key Indian tourism destinations, with a special focus on the states of Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Cultural performances and culinary showcases were also part of the event. Celebrity chef Sanjay Thakur highlighted India’s culinary tourism offerings, drawing attention to the shared food heritage between India and Saudi Arabia shaped by centuries of trade and interaction. Embassy officials briefed participants on the Indian visa process for Saudi travelers.
India continues to attract Saudi tourists, whether traveling independently or with families, supported by improved direct air connectivity. In recent years, the number of flights has increased, with eight Indian cities now directly connected to Saudi Arabia. Officials also noted that a new Ministerial Committee on Tourism and Culture was established in April 2025 under the India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council to further enhance tourism and cultural cooperation.
വാര്ത്തകള് വാട്സ്ആപ്പില് ലഭിക്കാന് ലിങ്കില് ക്ലിക്ക് ചെയ്യൂ…
വാര്ത്തകള് editor@sauditimesonline.com എന്ന വിലാസത്തില് ഇമെയില് ചെയ്യുക. വാര്ത്തകള് അയക്കുന്നവര് പേരും മൊബൈല് നമ്പരും എഴുതാന് മറക്കരുത്.
