Training national personnel to promote cultural tourism
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the visitor experience in Historic Jeddah and promote it as a leading tourist and cultural destination, the Ministry of Culture organized specialized workshops for tour guides. This initiative aims to equip guides with accurate and reliable historical information, ensuring the delivery of rich content that reflects the area's deep-rooted cultural and historical value, and elevates the quality of services provided to visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad.
Historical context and global importance of historic Jeddah
Historic Jeddah, known as Al-Balad, has held exceptional importance for centuries. It served as the main gateway to the Two Holy Mosques via the Red Sea and a vital meeting point for pilgrims and merchants from around the world. This rich cultural and commercial exchange is reflected in its unique urban fabric, characterized by its towering buildings adorned with intricate wooden latticework. In 2014, this significance was further cemented by the area's inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, placing it on the global map of human heritage and underscoring the need to preserve its authentic character.
Workshop content and its impact on visitor experience
The workshops focused on several key areas to develop the skills of tour guides. These included introducing the region's main routes, such as the "Historical Hajj Trail," highlighting the documented scientific and historical facts about each site. The workshops also included training in global best practices in tour guiding, such as storytelling techniques to make history engaging and enjoyable, time management skills, and positive interaction with visitors. Equipping guides with these tools not only ensures the accuracy of information but also transforms tours into unforgettable, immersive cultural experiences.
Integration with Saudi Vision 2030
These efforts are part of the broader “Revitalizing Historic Jeddah” project, which enjoys the direct attention of the Crown Prince and aims to restore and rehabilitate the area, transforming it into a vibrant hub for business and cultural projects and a world-class tourist destination. This initiative aligns directly with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which places the tourism and culture sectors at the heart of its plans to diversify the national economy. By developing specialized national talent, the Ministry contributes to building a sustainable tourism sector that cherishes its heritage and presents it to the world in the best possible light, thus enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a regional and international cultural and tourist center.
