Omanghana
South Africa and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen cooperation in travel and tourism, with a particular focus on improving services for Muslim pilgrims and increasing visitor traffic between the two countries.
The agreement followed a high-level meeting in Pretoria between South Africa’s Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah.
Discussions focused on making travel to Saudi Arabia more convenient for South Africans undertaking Hajj and Umrah. Both countries agreed to promote streamlined digital services, improve coordination with accredited tour operators and address operational challenges encountered by pilgrims.
A joint working group has been established to supervise the implementation of proposals arising from the bilateral talks and ensure continued engagement between relevant authorities.
The two governments are also encouraging commercial airlines to consider introducing additional direct flight routes between South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Improved air connectivity is expected to reduce travel difficulties and support the growing number of tourists moving between the countries.
Cooperation will extend to destination marketing, tourism workforce development and the promotion of South Africa’s Islamic heritage and halaal-friendly attractions. South African Tourism is expected to develop seasonal holiday packages specifically designed for Saudi travelers.
About 56,000 South Africans travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah in the previous year, representing a 10 per cent increase compared with the year before.
Saudi tourist arrivals in South Africa have also risen significantly, increasing from 5,461 in 2021 to nearly 25,000 in 2025.
Officials believe the partnership will improve the pilgrimage experience for South African Muslims while opening new opportunities for tourism businesses and strengthening relations between Pretoria and Riyadh.
Source: Omanghana
