Indonesian Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana discussed potential collaborations with her Saudi counterpart, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al Khateeb, during a bilateral meeting in Riyadh on Saturday (November 8), according to a statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday.
"Since Indonesian visitors are among the largest contributors to religious tourism and pilgrimages in Saudi Arabia, we hope to see more Saudi tourists visiting Indonesia, a tropical country rich in natural and cultural heritage, especially during extended holidays," Wardhana said.
The minister emphasized that the long-standing, harmonious ties between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia serve as a vital foundation for deepening tourism cooperation between the two nations.
Wardhana expressed optimism that the inaugural tourism dialogue would reaffirm Indonesia's commitment to implementing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) already formulated, which outlines collaboration in human resource development, tourist exchange, and tourism investments.
Minister Al Khateeb, in response, welcomed Indonesia's eagerness to strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation and assured Wardhana that his government shares the determination to realize the joint initiatives stipulated in the MoU.
The bilateral meeting took place ahead of Wardhana's participation in the 26th Session of the United Nations Tourism General Assembly, held in Riyadh from November 8 to 11, which gathered representatives from 160 countries.
Before arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Indonesian minister had attended the World Travel Market 2025 in London, the United Kingdom, where the Ministry of Tourism launched the "Wonderful Indonesia: Go Beyond Ordinary" campaign.
As part of the campaign, 17 customized black taxis featuring the "Wonderful Indonesia" branding will roam across the British capital for eight weeks to promote Indonesia's cultural and natural attractions.
Related news: Indonesia seeks to bring Saudi tourists home on Hajj return flights
Related news: Indonesia moves to secure Hajj assets in Saudi under Prabowo's order
Related news: Indonesia exports 15 tons of premium coffee to Saudi Arabia
Translator: Hreeloita D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
