The Department of Tourism (DOT) has successfully concluded a series of high-level engagements with Saudi aviation executives in Riyadh, reaffirming the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic and fastest-growing source markets. The meetings centered on significantly enhancing air connectivity and accelerating joint tourism promotion initiatives.
The Philippine delegation, led by Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, met separately with key leaders, including Saudia Airlines General Manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab and Riyadh Air Vice President for Network Planning and Partnerships Wolfgang Reuss. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.
Secretary Frasco, who was designated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to personally oversee Typhoon Tino relief efforts in the Negros Island Region, conveyed her strategic directive: to forge stronger tourism collaboration and enhance accessibility between the two nations.
New Direct Routes Confirmed for 2025
The DOT highlighted Saudi Arabia’s crucial role as a high-value market, citing a 46 percent rise in tourism receipts in 2024, reaching USD 37.86 million. To capitalize on this growth, the Department announced major air connectivity developments.
“Our shared values of hospitality, family, and faith make the Philippines a natural destination of choice for Saudi travelers,” said Secretary Frasco in her official message. “The Philippines expects further increases with the launch of new direct routes in 2025, including Riyadh–Cagayan de Oro and Riyadh–Zamboanga, complementing existing connections to Manila and Jeddah. With enhanced air connectivity, we aim to bring the beauty and warmth of our islands even closer to the Saudi people.”
Currently, Saudi nationals enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 30 days, simplifying travel logistics.
Commitment to Muslim-Friendly Tourism
Under Secretary Frasco’s leadership, the DOT has intensified its focus on making the Philippines a truly inclusive destination for visitors from Muslim-majority countries. These initiatives were highlighted as a key factor in attracting the young, affluent Saudi outbound tourism market.
“As a destination, the Philippines continues to gain ground among Saudi travelers, recognized for its warm hospitality, competitive value, English-speaking service culture, and growing Halal-friendly tourism infrastructure,” Secretary Frasco added.
Key Muslim-friendly advancements include:
- A significant increase in the number of Halal-certified dining establishments.
- Partnerships with major hotel chains, such as Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, to develop properties with Muslim-friendly amenities.
- The launch of Marhaba Boracay, the country’s first Muslim-friendly cove.
- AirAsia Philippines becoming the first airline to offer Halal-certified meals on all routes.
These efforts have earned the Philippines consecutive recognition as an Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination among non-OIC countries in the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index for 2023 and 2024.
Data from the DOT indicates that Saudi visitors are expanding their travel beyond Metro Manila, showing strong preference for premium, family-friendly beach and resort experiences in destinations like Cebu (23.29%) and Aklan/Boracay (21.92%).
The DOT is committed to utilizing these new aviation partnerships to drive sustained growth and cement the Philippines’ position as a preferred, inclusive destination in Southeast Asia.
