The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) generates about 56,000 new job opportunities a year in tourism and related activities, according to Prince Sultan Bin Salman, Chairman of the SCTA. Prince Sultan made the comment while addressing the annual meeting of the SCTA held at the Culture Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh on Monday. He said there is now more awareness among Saudis of their heritage and the history of the many ancient civilizations in the region. He said the SCTA has helped to finance the National Saudi Company for Investment and Development which, along with the private sector, will help to develop the country's tourism industry. “It should be understood that there can be no tourism development without strong investment.” He said the tourism sector has attracted thousands of Saudi jobseekers and that there is now 26 percent Saudization in the hotels, restaurants and furnished flats sector. He also underscored the substantial role played by the late Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz, the pioneer and architect of the SCTA. He also expressed his heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Prince Faisal Bin Khaled Bin Abdul Aziz, Emir of Asir, for being the chief guest of the meeting and supporting the SCTA's efforts.
