Saudi Arabia cuts hotel fees to stimulate its tourism industry
The move reflects ongoing efforts to transform the economy from its longtime dependence on oil and develop tourism, finance and manufacturing
Downtown Riyadh at night (Getty Images)
Saudi Arabia is tearing down barriers to entry when it comes to tourism.
Having poured billions into developing its Red Sea spas, historical desert sites and sporting events, the kingdom has decided to scrap municipal licensing fees for hotels, hotel apartments, and residential resorts.
The move reflects the country’s efforts to transform the economy away from its longtime dependence on oil and develop industries such as tourism, finance and manufacturing.
Saudi Arabia has been determined to strike a balance between making foreigners feel welcome while guarding the Islamic country’s conservative ideals.