Establishment and Purpose
Foundation
The Saudi Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. (9), dated 12/1/1421 H (16/04/2000 CE) to establish the Supreme Commission for Tourism (SCT), confirming tourism sector as one of the productive sectors, and in order to contain the Saudi tourists within the country, increasing investment opportunities, developing human resources, and creating new job opportunities for Saudi nationals. Subsequently, in view of the importance of Antiquities and Museums, Royal Order No. 2/A dated 28/2/1424 H (30/04/2003 CE ) was issued to integrate Antiquities and Museums within the Supreme Commission for Tourism, and become a body responsible for implementing the functions of the antiquities as well as responsibility for tourism. The Council of Ministers Resolution No. 78, dated 16/3/1429 H (23/3/2008 CE) changed the name of Supreme Commission for Tourism in the Kingdom to the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), with an emphasis on the domestic tourism as a reality that requires a national authority responsible for its planning and development, taking into account the following distinct tourist potential of the Kingdom:
- Blessing of security and safety as characteristics of the Kingdom
- The genuine hospitality of the Saudi society
- Distinguished geographical location
- Kingdom of vast area of different terrains with variety of climate and stunning panoramic views
- Abundance of archaeological sites, historical and cultural heritage of national distinctions
- Availability of a modern infrastructure and distinguished services for the development of tourism industry
Objectives
To stimulate general interest in the area of tourism in the Kingdom; To organize, and promote its development; Work persistently to strengthen the role of the tourism sector and to overcome obstacles to its growth as a major contributor to the national economy, in a manner consistent with the status of the Kingdom and its fundamental values; Concern for the preservation and maintenance of monuments and enhance their contribution to the cultural and economic development. Give adequate attention to the museums and carry out sophisticated archaeological work in the Kingdom. Finally promote private sector to take precedence in establishing tourist facilities through investment in the Kingdom.