Greece – Saudi Arabia Take Actions to Boost Tourist Flows

More travelers from Saudi Arabia will have the chance to visit Greece in the coming year following talks between Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias and stakeholders in Riyadh on the sidelines of the 22nd World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit this week.

Among others, the minister met with Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier Saudia Airlines, who said the number of passengers to Greece was up by 20 percent compared to pre-pandemic 2019 and confirmed that in 2023, flights from Saudi Arabia to Greek destinations would increase.

Kikilias also met with Con Corfiatis, CEO of Saudi low-cost airline Flyadeal, who expressed interest in connecting Saudi Arabia with Thessaloniki and Crete.

Tourism minister Vassilis Kikilias with the CEO of Saudia Ibrahim Koshy. Photo source: Ministry of Tourism.

Earlier this week, Kikilias and Saudi Arabia Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb agreed to extend direct flights to Greece in the coming period.

Addressing the Global Leaders Dialogues during the WTTC Global Summit in Riyadh, Kikilias said Greece has been acknowledged worldwide for its for its hospitality, natural beauty, culture, history, and people and that the country was through its dynamic presence in international forums shaping the future of tourism together with important market leaders.

Looking ahead, Kikilias underlined the importance of finding a balance between tourist development and environmental protection, which he said would be necessary for the future of tourism and for next generations.