Tourism & Hospitality | Thursday 20 April, 2017 9:20 am |

Emir of Asir Prince Faisal Bin Khalid on Tuesday evening launched the celebrations marking the selection of Abha as the capital of Arab tourism for the year 2017. The prince said Abha obtained the status as a result of 10 years of hard work and concerted efforts.

Chairman of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) Prince Sultan Bin Salman, Chairman of the Arab Organization of Tourism Bandar Al-Fihaid, a number of Arab ministers of tourism, diplomats, journalists and men of letters attended the celebrations, which were held at the Dam Lake.

In his inaugural speech, Prince Faisal said Abha had been working hard to deserve the title of the Arab tourism capital.

“We have made great efforts and established committees to work toward making Abha the capital of Arab tourism, a title which it really deserves,” he said.

The emir also opened an exhibition being held on the occasion in which more than 20 government and  private departments are participating.

Among others, the exhibitors included the Ministry of Defense, King Khalid University, the region’s police, a number of chambers of commerce and industry, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.

During the celebrations, the SCTH signed cooperation agreements with Bisha University and the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC).
The attendants watched a theatrical show titled “A Child’s Dream”, which projected Abha’s rich natural sceneries.

Famous Saudi singer Abbadi Al-Jouhar presented a number of songs, including one specially written for Abha.

Fireworks brightened up the skies of Abha as part of the celebrations.
In a separate development, King Khalid University and the Abha Chamber of Commerce an Industry together launched the first career day, which will continue for three days.

As many as 35 private companies and establishments will be offering job opportunities for job seekers during the fair.