RIYADH: More than 21 festivals and tourism events will be held across the country during the mid-term holiday that starts next week. Of the events, 13 are sponsored by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA). The organizing committees of the events, supported by the Emirs, the SCTA and other partners, have completed all preparations. The events include cultural, social, heritage, sports and entertainment shows for all members of the public. Abdullah Bin Salman Al-Juhani, SCTA Deputy President for Marketing and Information, said the SCTA is working on stimulating domestic tourism with these events. He said the SCTA is trying to encourage residents to go on trips to different Saudi regions and enjoy the mild weather and beautiful sights. He said regional tourism increases demand for attractions. They also showcase the Kingdom's wealth of heritage and culture, especially as many of these events are held at heritage locations. He said that the events also contribute to social development in terms of family bonds and making young people spend their free time usefully by learning new things while enjoying themselves. The events would also encourage businessmen to invest in economic and tourist establishments. He said there are several established and successful festivals that are the fruit of the SCTA's partnership with provinces. Al-Juhani cited the festivals of Yanbu Spring in Madina Province, the Shrimp Festival in Asir, Mid-Term in Jizan, Umloj Ajmal in Tabuk, Taif Flowers in Makkah Province, Almajma'ah Heritage in Riyadh, Hajr in Eastern Province, and Rabea Najran festival in Najran. The Saudi tourist website, www.sauditourism.com, contains information on all events in the Kingdom during the holidays.
