Riyadh - Sharikat Mubasher: The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mastercard to attract visitors from key global markets by launching joint marketing campaigns and initiatives.
Under the MoU, Mastercard will provide data-driven insights to help the authority analyze visitor trends, spending patterns, travel flows, and the impact of major events, according to the official statement released yesterday.
The authority will also leverage the Mastercard Economics Institute's expertise to support tourism planning through segmentation analysis, predictive analytics, and consumer behavior insights that will help develop more targeted campaigns, guide policymaking, and measure the long-term impact of tourism growth.
Through this collaboration, both parties will explore opportunities to enhance visitor engagement through technology-based loyalty and rewards programs.
Abdullah Aldakhil, Official Spokesperson for the Saudi Tourism Authority, stated that the partnership with Mastercard will help attract more visitors and promote Saudi Arabia’s destinations across priority markets in the GCC, the region, and internationally.
“This collaboration is part of our broader approach to building strategic partnerships with leading global partners, which continue to advance the STA’s objectives and support the wider Saudi tourism ecosystem in line with Vision 2030,” he added.
In turn, Saud Swar, Country Manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant at Mastercard, commented: “At Mastercard, we see a powerful opportunity to redefine the future of tourism through innovation and collaboration. Saudi Arabia's vision to build a sustainable and world-class tourism sector aligns closely with our mission to use technology and insights to unlock possibilities. By combining data-driven insights with authentic experiences, we are creating priceless experiences that fuel economic growth and showcase the Kingdom's cultural vibrancy on a global stage.”
Additionally, the authority will leverage Mastercard’s Priceless platform to curate and promote exclusive, culturally rich experiences across the Kingdom, showcasing its diverse heritage and attractions.
The MoU underscores Mastercard’s commitment to supporting data-driven growth and innovation of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, enhancing the visitor experience, and contributing to the Kingdom’s broader economic diversification ambitions.