Latest news with #religiousTourism
Arab News
03-07-2025
- Arab News
Jordanian and Vatican officials discuss promotion of Petra as destination for Christian pilgrims
LONDON: Officials from Jordan and the Vatican met on Thursday to discuss ways in which they can cooperate to advance religious tourism, including the promotion of the ancient city of Petra as a destination for Christian pilgrims. Fares Braizat, who chairs the board of commissioners of the Petra Development and Tourism Regional Authority, said that highlighting the significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of Christian heritage itineraries could enhance Jordan's position on the global religious tourism map. The country has a number of important Christian sites, the most significant of which is the location on the eastern bank of the Jordan River where Jesus is said to have been baptized by John the Baptist. Several popes have visited it, including Francis and John Paul II. Archbishop Giovanni Pietro Dal Toso, the Vatican's ambassador to Jordan, confirmed the interest in collaborating with Jordanian authorities, and praised the nation's stability and its rich historical and religious heritage. Both officials acknowledged the strategic opportunity that exists to integrate Petra into pilgrimage routes for Christian travelers, the Jordan News Agency reported. The Petra tourism authority recently lit up the Colosseum in Rome with the signature colors of the historic Jordanian site to celebrate a twinning agreement as part of a marketing strategy to attract European visitors, and to raise Petra's profile globally as a premier cultural and spiritual tourism destination. The Vatican itself is also a major tourism destination, for Christian pilgrims in particular. In 2025 it is expected to welcome between 30 and 35 million visitors during its latest Jubilee Year, a significant ecclesiastical event that takes place every 25 years.
Gulf Business
01-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
New Umrah season: How many visas have been issued so far?
The The Umrah season formally began on Tuesday, 14 Dhu Al-Hijjah 1446 AH (June 10, 2025), with visa applications opened through the country's integrated digital platform, 'Nusuk'. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals under Vision 2030, aimed at enhancing religious tourism and modernising services provided to pilgrims. Read- According to a r The early rush of Umrah applications follows a notably successful Hajj season, during which the country implemented streamlined procedures, boosted technical infrastructure, and achieved significant gains in performance and service efficiency. These upgrades contributed to a smoother and more fulfilling experience for pilgrims. Passports directorate launches 30-day grace period for expired visit visas In a related development, the General Directorate of Passports launched a 30-day initiative beginning Muharram 1, 1447 AH, to allow the Eligible individuals must pay any required fees and penalties as per regulations. Applications for extension can be submitted via the 'Tawasul Service' on the Ministry of Interior's Absher electronic platform. Authorities have urged all those affected to take advantage of the grace period and ensure compliance before the deadline to avoid legal complications. Housing contracts now mandatory for Umrah Visa issuance Meanwhile, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a directive requiring Umrah companies, establishments, and international agents to document housing contracts for all Umrah performers. These This new measure aims to improve service quality, protect pilgrim rights, and ensure regulatory compliance. The issuance of Umrah visas is now contingent upon submitting a documented accommodation contract. The policy took effect at the start of the Umrah season and reflects enhanced cooperation between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Ministry of Tourism. Authorities stressed that early documentation is crucial to avoid processing delays or potential violations. This initiative is expected to enhance safety, comfort, and the overall experience for Umrah performers from arrival to departure, while also regulating the hospitality sector during peak seasons. Umrah season launch reflects broader Vision 2030 goals The launch of the 1447 AH Umrah season not only signals the return of millions of religious visitors but also underscores Saudi Arabia's push to realize the objectives outlined in Vision 2030, particularly in the area of religious tourism. According to the Ministry, the Nusuk app continues to play a central role in this transformation. It enables pilgrims to obtain permits digitally, access real-time updates, and receive support in multiple languages. Technical preparations began well in advance of the season's opening, with coordination from several government agencies to ensure high service standards. Efforts have also These enhancements are part of a broader plan to position the Kingdom as a leader in smart pilgrimage management, ensuring that visitors to the Two Holy Mosques enjoy a spiritually fulfilling and comfortable experience. As the 1447 AH Umrah season progresses, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is expected to continue introducing reforms and technological innovations to streamline the pilgrimage journey. With early indicators pointing to strong demand, the Kingdom remains committed to offering an elevated level of service, while maintaining safety, efficiency, and transparency across all stages of the Umrah process.
Trade Arabia
19-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Makkah spending up 162pc during Ramadan: Visa reports
Saudi Arabia's Holy Cities emerged as Ramadan's top economic performers, according to Visa's Travel Pulse Q1 2025, which reveals a 162% surge in visitor spend on Visa cards in Makkah during the Holy Month. The report highlights the growing role of religious tourism in supporting the Kingdom's non-oil economy, a key pillar of The Kingdom Vision 2030. From February 28 to March 30, Makkah and Madinah significantly outpaced Riyadh and Jeddah, reflecting the Holy Cities' draw of religious travel during Ramadan. In Makkah alone, average spend per visitor climbed to $449, up from $356 during the rest of the year. Madinah followed with a 64% increase in visitor spend. 'Beyond their religious significance Makkah and Madinah are also engines of economic growth,' said Ali Bailoun, Visa's Regional GM for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman. 'Our Travel Pulse data reveals that religious tourism is driving economic activity in Saudi Arabia and provides local businesses with unique insights into shopping behaviors and visitor profiles during the Holy Month.' 48% of all Ramadan visitors came from the GCC, with the UAE leading the charge: Growth also came from other regions: Kazakhstan (64%), South Africa (56%), and Egypt (19%) posted the highest increases in traveler numbers. Spending Patterns Reflect Ramadan's Rhythm Dining (27%), retail (25%) and fashion (10%) were the top spend categories. Activity peaked after Iftar, with most visitors heading to malls and restaurants. The second half of Ramadan saw higher transaction volumes, leading into Eid. Bailoun added: 'For merchants in Saudi Arabia, there's a real opportunity to reimagine how they engage with religious travelers. By extending hours during peak post-iftar times, embracing digital payments, and curating offerings that resonate with GCC and emerging market visitors, they can help turn their journey into a seamless experience—while contributing to the Kingdom's digital commerce agenda.'
