The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) is gearing up for its most ambitious trade networking event, NUSUK, set to take place on August 27th at the Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur. This landmark event will gather over 40 leading Saudi stakeholders alongside 500 travel agencies from Malaysia and Southeast Asia. His Excellency Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan AlRabiah, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj & Umrah, will be in attendance to mark the occasion.
NUSUK aims to foster connections between the STA and crucial industry partners, including Destination Management Companies (DMCs), hotels, and transport providers. The event’s goal is to gain insights into the needs of these partners to enhance and tailor STA’s travel offerings. This initiative is set to improve the experience for Malaysian pilgrims undertaking Umrah and make it easier for them to explore other destinations in Saudi Arabia.
Among the highlights of the event are several significant collaborations and announcements:
- Exclusive Travel Experience by Andalusia and WeXpress: Starting in December, Andalusia will roll out a distinctive travel package in partnership with WeXpress. This package will offer exclusive itineraries and travel tips, featuring content produced by WeXpress ambassador Alif Satar and supported by STA.
- Mitra Kembara and Grab’s Umrah Initiative for Drivers: Mitra Kembara and Grab will join forces to provide specialised Umrah packages for over 300,000 eligible Malaysian Grab drivers. The initiative will see Grab covering the cost of the packages, while SAUDIA will supply the airline tickets. STA will assist with itinerary planning, logistics, and exclusive access to key sites to ensure a seamless experience.
- Launch of Saudi Aroya Cruise: Saudi Arabia will debut its first halal cruise line, Aroya Cruise, starting from Jeddah in December 2024. This launch represents a major step forward in the development of a world-class cruise industry in the Kingdom.
Furthermore, to facilitate travel for Malaysian visitors, Saudi Arabia is offering a complimentary 96-hour Stopover Visa and a 90-day eVisa. Those holding an Umrah visa will also have the opportunity to explore additional Saudi destinations during the visa’s validity period.
Coinciding with NUSUK is the inaugural Saudi Travel Fair, running from August 28th to September 1st at IOI Putrajaya Mall. Attendees can look forward to exclusive deals, enticing travel packages, interactive virtual and cultural experiences, and a chance to win exciting prizes.