Saudi Arabia and France have signed a joint action programme aimed at strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector, marking a further step in their expanding economic partnership.
The agreement was signed during a meeting in Toledo, Spain, between Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb and France’s Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises, Trade, Crafts, Tourism and Purchasing Power Serge Papin, on the sidelines of the 126th session of the UN Tourism Executive Council.
Both sides discussed the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and France, highlighting tourism as a key driver of economic growth, investment, and job creation.
The newly signed programme sets out several areas of cooperation, including workforce development, investment promotion, sustainable tourism practices, and the exchange of expertise between the two countries.
It also focuses on supporting training initiatives and strategic planning to strengthen human capital in the tourism industry, alongside efforts to encourage greater private sector participation and cross-border investment.
Another key element of the agreement is cooperation on innovation and digital transformation, including collaboration between French technology startups and Saudi tourism stakeholders.
The two countries also agreed to enhance data sharing and explore the use of artificial intelligence in tourism analytics, aiming to improve planning and destination management.
In addition, the programme covers joint work on organising international events and sharing best practices in destination marketing between the Saudi Tourism Authority and Atout France.
Officials said the agreement reflects a shift from dialogue to practical cooperation, with a focus on delivering tangible projects that support the long-term growth of the tourism sector in both countries.
