Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: Virgin Atlantic is considering new investments in Saudi Arabia across sectors such as hotels, cruises, and space tourism, following the launch of its direct flight between Riyadh and London, according to founder Richard Branson.

In an interview with Asharq Business during the inaugural flight event, part of a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program (ACP), Branson revealed that daily flights between the two capitals are now operational. He also said discussions are underway with Saudi officials to bring Virgin Hotels, cruises, space tourism ventures, and other projects to the Kingdom.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, told Asharq Business that attracting foreign companies enhances Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness as a global tourist destination, aligning with the national aviation strategy.

Tourism plays a central role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy away from oil. The Kingdom plans to invest nearly $1 trillion in the sector over the next decade and has already made major moves in entertainment and sports to boost its appeal.

These efforts helped Saudi Arabia surpass its original goal of 100 million annual tourists, reaching a new target of 150 million by 2030. Tourism's contribution to GDP rose to 5% in 2023, with an aim to reach 10% by the end of the decade.