The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism has announced the establishment of an International Academy for Hospitality and Tourism, which aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of Saudi nationals in the industry. The academy will offer a wide range of courses, certifications, and training programmes, with a focus on developing local talent and creating job opportunities in the sector.
The move comes as part of the Saudi government’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil. As part of this effort, the government has been investing heavily in the tourism sector, and aims to attract 100 million visitors per year by 2030.
The establishment of the academy is a significant step towards achieving this goal, as it will provide the necessary training and skills development to support the growth of the industry. The academy will be open to both Saudis and expatriates, and will be located in Riyadh, the country’s capital.
The academy will collaborate with international institutions and experts in the hospitality and tourism industry, and will offer courses in areas such as hotel management, tourism marketing, resort management, and culinary arts. The aim is to provide a comprehensive education that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of the industry, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer service.
The announcement of the academy has been welcomed by industry professionals, who believe that it will help to address the shortage of skilled workers in the sector. The academy is expected to create job opportunities for Saudi nationals, as well as expatriates, and will help to attract more investment into the industry.
The academy will also provide a platform for research and development in the hospitality and tourism industry, which will help to drive innovation and improve the quality of services and experiences offered to tourists.
Overall, the establishment of the International Academy for Hospitality and Tourism represents a major milestone in the development of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. It is expected to play a key role in strengthening the sector’s human capital, and will help to position Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for tourism and hospitality.