Jeddah Historic District Program, Cruise Saudi Sign MoU to Take in Rising Number of Int'l Cruise Visitors

The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accommodate the increasing number of international cruise visitors. (SPA)
The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accommodate the increasing number of international cruise visitors. (SPA)
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Jeddah Historic District Program, Cruise Saudi Sign MoU to Take in Rising Number of Int'l Cruise Visitors

The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accommodate the increasing number of international cruise visitors. (SPA)
The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accommodate the increasing number of international cruise visitors. (SPA)

The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi, a company fully owned by the Public Investment Fund, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accommodate the increasing number of international cruise visitors who will enjoy exploring the authentic sites of the historic district.

"Central to the goals of the Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi is introducing the region's historical landmarks and cultural identity, enlivening its commercial outlets, encouraging entrepreneurs to invest in the region, and supporting Saudi tourist guides to enhance the tourist experience," said the Jeddah Historic District Program in a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency on Monday.

Jeddah Historic District Program Director General Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Issa said: "The tourism sector is experiencing growth and prosperity, which contributes to boosting the Kingdom's presence on the global tourism map, in line with Saudi Vision 2030."

"Our strategic partnership with Cruise Saudi aims to drive economic growth and actively engage in the district's revitalization. We are committed to protecting the tangible and intangible heritage that earned the district its UNESCO status, recognizing its profound cultural impact," he added.

"Jeddah’s Historic District is one of our most popular Shorex destinations, and we continue to witness how much international passengers enjoy exploring its unique historic sites through the tours and experiences we offer," said Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen.

"This MoU represents our shared vision and marks an exciting new chapter, paving the way for collaborative efforts to draw even more visitors to this enchanting destination while protecting its heritage and authenticity," he added.



Saudi Arabia Secures Top Spot in Arab Region, 20th Globally in QI4SD

A drone view shows the last supermoon of 2024 dubbed "Beaver Moon" during early hours of moon-rise over Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2024. (Reuters)
A drone view shows the last supermoon of 2024 dubbed "Beaver Moon" during early hours of moon-rise over Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2024. (Reuters)
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Saudi Arabia Secures Top Spot in Arab Region, 20th Globally in QI4SD

A drone view shows the last supermoon of 2024 dubbed "Beaver Moon" during early hours of moon-rise over Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2024. (Reuters)
A drone view shows the last supermoon of 2024 dubbed "Beaver Moon" during early hours of moon-rise over Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2024. (Reuters)

Saudi Arabia came first in the Arab region Middle East and North Africa in the Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development Index (QI4SD) 2024 released biennially by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

It also came in the 20th position globally, climbing 25 places compared to the 2022 index.

Key elements of quality infrastructure assessed in the index encompass standards, metrology, standardization, accreditation, conformity assessment, and national policies.

Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Authority (SASO) Governor Dr. Saad bin Othman Al-Qasbi said the positions in the index mirror the national efforts led by SASO in collaboration with the Saudi Accreditation Center and pertinent stakeholders from the public and private sectors.

These positions bolster Saudi Arabia's global standing and help achieve a more prosperous and competitive economy, he added in a statement.

Al-Qasbi praised the evolution of the Kingdom's quality system and its impact on living standards, economic growth, and business operations, which have contributed to Saudi Arabia's advancements in global rankings.

Saudi Arabia's place among the top 20 nations is testimony to its dedication to boosting quality infrastructure and refining its legal framework and regulations.