The Philippine Department of Tourism, in conjunction with Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, have come together to launch a new revitalized promotional push. This initiative is to encourage more Saudi nationals and expatriates to holiday in the Philippines in 2014, as reported by Saudi Gazette.

To kick-off activities, a week-long promotional campaign in Riyadh and Jeddah is on-going until 20 December 2013 that includes seminars, industry meetings and events to highlight attractions of the Philippines as an exciting destination for seaside luxury escapes, outdoor adventures, urban experiences and family fun.

The Philippine Department of Tourism has identified Saudi Arabia as a priority outbound market for development, especially as it currently ranks largest visitor market to the Philippines from the Middle East.

In 2012, the country hosted a total of 30,040 visitors from Saudi Arabia, which was an increase of 7.5% compared to the previous year. 2013 results also bode well, with arrival numbers from the Kingdom between January to September 2013 standing at 30,258 and already exceeding the 2012 total. The number represents a robust 34.7% when compared to the same nine-month figures experienced in 2012.

Raymund Glen Agustin, Chief, Russia, India and the Middle East Market Development Group, Philippine Department of Tourism, said: “With the support of our industry partners, compatriots at the Philippine Embassy and consulates in Saudi Arabia, and our new marketing representative office with AVIAREPS, a cohesive program of promotional activities, events, seminars and participation at key travel exhibitions will be rolled out over the forthcoming months, with the objective of enticing more visitors to the Philippines.”