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The main principle of the Commission is to implement the programs and activities through METHOD of partnership with the citizen and the government entities and private sector. The citizen is the cornerstone of this route. The Commission waits for him to play his national role in developing the national tourism. In doing so, the Commission provides for him various ways for performing his national role or for contribution through INVESTMENT in tourist MARKETING as he is more aware of his country GAINS.

The main principle of the Commission is to implement the programs and activities through method of partnership with the citizen and the government entities and private sector. The citizen is the cornerstone of this route. The Commission waits for him to play his national role in developing the national tourism. In doing so, the Commission provides for him various ways for performing his national role or for contribution through investment in tourist marketing as he is more aware of his country gains.

Diversity in the categories of tourists and visitors imposes diversity in tourist elements such as the services PROVIDED for them. This in turn, has led to diversity in the fields of tourist marketing. The Commission focuses on value of diversity and RICHNESS in the Saudi tourism as one of the MAIN FACTORS in the Saudi tourist experience, as the tourist is able to live several tourist experiences within the same geographical condition, and on this basis the Saudi product is marketed.

Diversity in the categories of tourists and visitors imposes diversity in tourist elements such as the services provided for them. This in turn, has led to diversity in the fields of tourist marketing. The Commission focuses on value of diversity and richness in the Saudi tourism as one of the main factors in the Saudi tourist experience, as the tourist is able to live several tourist experiences within the same geographical condition, and on this basis the Saudi product is marketed.

MODERN concept of TOURISM is based on investing the PROMINENT tourist elements and offering new touristic models. The Commission believes that the tourist options and the marketing services he requires are variable. Therefore, the Commission finds in all AVAILABLE elements a field of development and marketing, and they also enhance the STANDARD of attraction.

Modern concept of tourism is based on investing the prominent tourist elements and offering new touristic models. The Commission believes that the tourist options and the marketing services he requires are variable. Therefore, the Commission finds in all available elements a field of development and marketing, and they also enhance the standard of attraction.

The objective of tourist marketing is not restricted to domestic tourist, and it extends to both domestic and foreign tourist, and it leaves its effect on the concept of TOURISM and its growth. Tourist marketing focuses on supporting the domestic tourism and contributes to opening projects of tourist development INCLUDING the marketing programs for supporting the national tourism.

The several programs presented by the Commission for tourist marketing will lead to a direct result represented in an increase of the average stay and expenditure, number of tourist journeys, rate of occupancy of the accommodation organizations, stopping seasonal nature, making tourism fruitful on continuous basis around the year, contribution towards sustainability of tourist demand and INVESTMENT, enhancing partner sales, developing their products and promoting them. These objectives are achieved through the cultural and legal awareness of them, and they are IMPLEMENTED WITHIN partnership with the private sector.

The objective of tourist marketing is not restricted to domestic tourist, and it extends to both domestic and foreign tourist, and it leaves its effect on the concept of tourism and its growth. Tourist marketing focuses on supporting the domestic tourism and contributes to opening projects of tourist development including the marketing programs for supporting the national tourism.

The several programs presented by the Commission for tourist marketing will lead to a direct result represented in an increase of the average stay and expenditure, number of tourist journeys, rate of occupancy of the accommodation organizations, stopping seasonal nature, making tourism fruitful on continuous basis around the year, contribution towards sustainability of tourist demand and investment, enhancing partner sales, developing their products and promoting them. These objectives are achieved through the cultural and legal awareness of them, and they are implemented within partnership with the private sector.

The higher vision of the TOURISM marketing is based on the belief that the KINGDOM is RICH with many heritage sites with distinctive tourist importance at the level of religious, historical, cultural or recreational richness, and it needs COLLECTIVE marketing EFFORTS to promote it, and to take its tourist experience to all people.

The higher vision of the tourism marketing is based on the belief that the Kingdom is rich with many heritage sites with distinctive tourist importance at the level of religious, historical, cultural or recreational richness, and it needs collective marketing efforts to promote it, and to take its tourist experience to all people.

The Commission provides different levels of connection with the PUBLIC such as: 

• TOURIST information centers.
• Website of the Commission.
• Tourism communication center.
• Tourism branches at all areas.
• Contact at the number 8007550000 round the CLOCK.

SCTA also establishes a MAIN principle which is adopted by all of its employees, and this is the principle which makes connection with the public an objective ONE. Accordingly, Commission employees commit to continuously contact with all visitors and tourists.

The Commission provides different levels of connection with the public such as: 

SCTA also establishes a main principle which is adopted by all of its employees, and this is the principle which makes connection with the public an objective one. Accordingly, Commission employees commit to continuously contact with all visitors and tourists.

Media field in the Commission is active on several fronts, including: Publications and releases which take multiple shapes, such as:

• BROCHURES which DEFINE the importance of tourism and types of programs and activities.
• Statistical publications such as: Tourism Observer or Tourism in Figures.
• Guiding publications such as: tourist maps for all REGIONS of the Kingdom.
• Procedural publications such as: Tourist Service Directories.
• Investment publications, such as study tour operators and Umra trips operators, 
• Tourism enterprises and SURVEY project of assessing and controlling the implementation of the general strategy objectives.
• Educational and scientific publications, such as: the study of the tourism industry constraints and solutions and resolutions, MEASURES for monitoring and implementation of the objectives of the General Strategy.
• Magazines such as: Tirhal and the Saudi Voyager.

Media field in the Commission is active on several fronts, including: Publications and releases which take multiple shapes, such as:

SCTA tracks RESEARCH and study to evaluate its experience in tourist education due to its awareness of the importance of continuous self-assessment and on the basis of the condition of functionality that is approved by the Commission in the necessity of the continuous growth and upgrading of its systems, PROGRAMS and activities. In addition, it looks seriously to all views, suggestions and criticism offered by the tourists, intellectuals and media towards that through different mass media or through WORKSHOPS, discussion opened by the Commission and made available to all on a regular basis.

SCTA tracks research and study to evaluate its experience in tourist education due to its awareness of the importance of continuous self-assessment and on the basis of the condition of functionality that is approved by the Commission in the necessity of the continuous growth and upgrading of its systems, programs and activities. In addition, it looks seriously to all views, suggestions and criticism offered by the tourists, intellectuals and media towards that through different mass media or through workshops, discussion opened by the Commission and made available to all on a regular basis.

This program enacts the strong PARTNERSHIP between the Commission and Ministry of Education, in order to coordinate EFFORTS of all entities and individuals to DEVELOP tourist activity and nationalize it, and to provide the incubating and supporting environment to it. A number of ACTIVITIES and events have been implemented within this program. This program has received Julius Award for Innovation provided by the World Tourism Organization.

This program enacts the strong partnership between the Commission and Ministry of Education, in order to coordinate efforts of all entities and individuals to develop tourist activity and nationalize it, and to provide the incubating and supporting environment to it. A number of activities and events have been implemented within this program. This program has received Julius Award for Innovation provided by the World Tourism Organization.

AMONG the several activities of the tourist culture adopted by the Commission, there is the program (Tourism Enriches) which is presented through a large number of awareness, educational and training programs adopted by the Commission after monitoring the level of tourism awareness in the Kingdom and its most important factors supporting this. Based on this, the program is targeted towards the community leaders and its members in ORDER to PRESENT tourism as an industry with economic, social and cultural, DIMENSIONS, consolidate thee positive concepts, and help community members to focus their efforts in DEVELOPING themselves through investment of their capabilities.

Among the several activities of the tourist culture adopted by the Commission, there is the program (Tourism Enriches) which is presented through a large number of awareness, educational and training programs adopted by the Commission after monitoring the level of tourism awareness in the Kingdom and its most important factors supporting this. Based on this, the program is targeted towards the community leaders and its members in order to present tourism as an industry with economic, social and cultural, dimensions, consolidate thee positive concepts, and help community members to focus their efforts in developing themselves through investment of their capabilities.

Tourist centers are of great attention to SCTA. So it is betting heavily on maintaining their properties, and EXERTS diligence in their growth and development. This has led to offering the “Leave No Trace” program, which is directed towards the USERS of onshore and offshore areas in educating them on the finest methods and ethical behavior that ENSURE maintenance of tourist sites, in keeping with the vision of national tourism, and on the religious principles which urges for maintaining the cleanliness and the ENVIRONMENT. In order to achieve these objectives, SCTA has propounded through this program most appropriate ways that never interfere with the tourists INSPIRATION to achieve their goals.

Tourist centers are of great attention to SCTA. So it is betting heavily on maintaining their properties, and exerts diligence in their growth and development. This has led to offering the “Leave No Trace” program, which is directed towards the users of onshore and offshore areas in educating them on the finest methods and ethical behavior that ensure maintenance of tourist sites, in keeping with the vision of national tourism, and on the religious principles which urges for maintaining the cleanliness and the environment. In order to achieve these objectives, SCTA has propounded through this program most appropriate ways that never interfere with the tourists inspiration to achieve their goals.

SCTA Open the window to communicate with various segments of SOCIETY, and benefits from the insights of BENEFICIARIES in GENERAL, but may place regulatory frameworks specialized for the benefit of EXPERTS and specialists, as well as benefit from the insights that have been circulating in the media.

SCTA Open the window to communicate with various segments of society, and benefits from the insights of beneficiaries in general, but may place regulatory frameworks specialized for the benefit of experts and specialists, as well as benefit from the insights that have been circulating in the media.

SCTA did not adopt different behavioral patterns other than what was agreed upon by different people of the land. Tourism with other activities such as visiting, travel, meetings shows the existence of GOOD and strong entity on the importance of maintaining the tourist gains as well as understanding and respect for social VALUES, and finding a social MODEL in which all members respect the various tourist options, within the FRAME of the state's laws and principles.

SCTA did not adopt different behavioral patterns other than what was agreed upon by different people of the land. Tourism with other activities such as visiting, travel, meetings shows the existence of good and strong entity on the importance of maintaining the tourist gains as well as understanding and respect for social values, and finding a social model in which all members respect the various tourist options, within the frame of the state's laws and principles.

Here, you can refer to a number of programs such as: 

• “Smile” program.
• “TOURISM ENRICHES" program.
• Rules of tourist behavior.
• Program of "Leave No Trace"

Also publishing of "Tirhal" magazine, Tourism & Antiquities Pamphlet and some published materials which ENHANCE tourist CULTURE and positive connection with DIFFERENT mass media.

Here, you can refer to a number of programs such as: 

Also publishing of "Tirhal" magazine, Tourism & Antiquities Pamphlet and some published materials which enhance tourist culture and positive connection with different mass media.

The COMMISSION set up its ORIENTATION programs and implemented them through the several partnerships. The Commission adopts FRAME of the programs disseminated through various SECTORS such as the students sector. A NUMBER of programs were implemented with the Ministry of Education by investing the large category supervised by the ministry.

The Commission set up its orientation programs and implemented them through the several partnerships. The Commission adopts frame of the programs disseminated through various sectors such as the students sector. A number of programs were implemented with the Ministry of Education by investing the large category supervised by the ministry.

It seems that the expression of having remarkable development in the tourism AWARENESS does not reflect the reality because tourism movement in the KINGDOM is supported by the wise leadership. The Commission presented a huge national project, and it planned for a NUMBER of frames, programs and projects, and a number of the concerned parties participated in the Commission's activities. Therefore, there is a very large boom within this frame represented in the qualitative shit WITNESSED by tourism, and in the discussion, acceptance and interaction. This encourages the Commission to support this trend to reach to other categories in the SOCIETY.

It seems that the expression of having remarkable development in the tourism awareness does not reflect the reality because tourism movement in the kingdom is supported by the wise leadership. The Commission presented a huge national project, and it planned for a number of frames, programs and projects, and a number of the concerned parties participated in the Commission's activities. Therefore, there is a very large boom within this frame represented in the qualitative shit witnessed by tourism, and in the discussion, acceptance and interaction. This encourages the Commission to support this trend to reach to other categories in the society.

The COMMISSION sets up a large number of PROGRAMS of enhancing TOURISM awareness through the general meetings, media programs, books and pamphlets. And ALSO through presenting the tourism products in a professional manner which has REFLECTED on citizen and his tourism awareness.

The Commission sets up a large number of programs of enhancing tourism awareness through the general meetings, media programs, books and pamphlets. And also through presenting the tourism products in a professional manner which has reflected on citizen and his tourism awareness.

DOMESTIC TOURISM does not specialize to any specific seasons but it is open for different seasons. This does not conflict the fact that tourism becomes more active in some seasons particularly in the seasons of specific holidays. The Commission sets up intensive programs to invest the vacations and holidays in a way that benefits the activation of tourism. This administrative view has led to great successes and OPENED fields of PARTNERSHIP with public and private SECTOR in a wide organized way.

Domestic tourism does not specialize to any specific seasons but it is open for different seasons. This does not conflict the fact that tourism becomes more active in some seasons particularly in the seasons of specific holidays. The Commission sets up intensive programs to invest the vacations and holidays in a way that benefits the activation of tourism. This administrative view has led to great successes and opened fields of partnership with public and private sector in a wide organized way.

SCTA never underestimates the international efforts in the field of tourism, and it benefits from its experiences and programs. But the Commission confirms that the Saudi tourism one of the largest areas of international marketing in tourism. Hence and the Commission SETS up its several tourism attraction programs and plans so that the internal tourism becomes the main option of the Saudi tourist. SCTA’s program in its present STAGE is not designed to openness on the entry of foreign tourism to the Kingdom for numerous reasons, and perhaps most important are that the citizens and expatriate residents as being its niche focus.

SCTA never underestimates the international efforts in the field of tourism, and it benefits from its experiences and programs. But the Commission confirms that the Saudi tourism one of the largest areas of international marketing in tourism. Hence and the Commission sets up its several tourism attraction programs and plans so that the internal tourism becomes the main option of the Saudi tourist. SCTA’s program in its present stage is not designed to openness on the entry of foreign tourism to the Kingdom for numerous reasons, and perhaps most important are that the citizens and expatriate residents as being its niche focus.

Tourism BEGAN to mobilize increasing public opinion recently crystallizing faith in the cultural diversity of the kingdom, and indicating that its INTERNATIONAL presence does not stem from its GREAT position on the religious and economic level only, and that there are other gains for the nation, including diversity in the VARIOUS aspects of life in the Kingdom. Tourism has REVEALED the course made by this opinion as demand of tourism in its different environments in the kingdom, the media coverage of it, and the repeated praise of its diversity. All of this emphasize that tourism is one of the main sources of diversity and development.

Tourism began to mobilize increasing public opinion recently crystallizing faith in the cultural diversity of the kingdom, and indicating that its international presence does not stem from its great position on the religious and economic level only, and that there are other gains for the nation, including diversity in the various aspects of life in the Kingdom. Tourism has revealed the course made by this opinion as demand of tourism in its different environments in the kingdom, the media coverage of it, and the repeated praise of its diversity. All of this emphasize that tourism is one of the main sources of diversity and development.

Tourism awareness is correlated to several factors including the scientific and cultural levels. No doubt, the wise leadership of the kingdom and the HIGHER directors of the country have ushered in the movement of civilization and culture, and created a NATIONAL awareness covering the factors of growth including tourism.: So we can dare say: Tourism awareness represents the highest degrees of national awareness, and the COMMISSION finds that it is going up, and this can be known through several indications ,such as: information movement and dealing with the tourist FACILITIES, and intensive presence and influence of the tourism events.

Tourism awareness is correlated to several factors including the scientific and cultural levels. No doubt, the wise leadership of the kingdom and the higher directors of the country have ushered in the movement of civilization and culture, and created a national awareness covering the factors of growth including tourism.: So we can dare say: Tourism awareness represents the highest degrees of national awareness, and the Commission finds that it is going up, and this can be known through several indications ,such as: information movement and dealing with the tourist facilities, and intensive presence and influence of the tourism events.

They constitute a program that organizes the TOURIST SITES and places them on a digital map to know the relative position of the tourist sites with other sites. They help decision makers to develop them by CONNECTING them with the other cities, services and sites as each tourist site has fixed coordinates and ONE description and picture.

They constitute a program that organizes the tourist sites and places them on a digital map to know the relative position of the tourist sites with other sites. They help decision makers to develop them by connecting them with the other cities, services and sites as each tourist site has fixed coordinates and one description and picture.

• Providing investor with technical directories for designing eco-lodges and agri-lodges.
• Technical support to the architectural ideas and designs of the - PROJECT presented by investor.
• Expressing views and providing advice regarding feasibility studies presented by the investor to support decision on feasibility or non-feasibility of investment.
• Facilitating obtaining of financial support through the programs presented by the following entities: The Saudi Credit Bank, Almiawya Fund, Industrial Development Fund, Kafal PROGRAM, according to the mechanism agreed upon between the Commission and the supporting parties.
• IMPLEMENTING suitable training programs directed towards investors in these projects whether for the project owners or the workers through direct coordination with the Human RESOURCES Development program of the Commission and through benefitting from what is presented by the supporting parties in the field of supporting training.
• Uno completion of the project it will be added to the tourist tracks and programs.
• Upon completion of the project it will be among the MARKETING campaigns launched by the Commission.

It is very difficult, theoretically and practically, to find clear difference between environmental inns and rural rest houses as all of these are tourist products and because of their important achievements for the principles and requirements of rural, ECOTOURISM and agricultural tourism. Similarities and differences between them COULD be seen in the following aspects:

Similarity:

• Having minimum negative impact possible on the surrounding natural environment
• Follow the old and TRADITIONAL building style and material in its construction copied from the traditional old style.
• Seeks to create an INTEGRATED PARTNERSHIP with local communities near the project 
• Based primarily on tourism activities to attract tourists to the project, and it provides mainly the accommodation services. 

Difference: 

• Environmental inns are usually located in areas far from the urban communities in sensitive environmental areas or near natural reserved areas while rural rest houses are located in rural farms in or outside the urban outskirts.
• Environmental inns activities such as diving, mountain climbing and desert camping, etc., are done outside the project, while rural rest houses activities, such as identifying traditional ways of agriculture, irrigation , watching domestic animals and their role in the integration of rural life, as well as enjoying the rural atmospheres, etc, are mostly practiced inside the project.
• Environmental inns and rural rest houses are visited by tourists who have cultural awareness on environment's respect and necessity of being preserved. Such projects aim at enrooting principles of preservation of natural treasure and sustainability among the tourists. The environmental inns need better attention from tourists because they are built in more sensitive environmental areas compared to rest houses.

It is very difficult, theoretically and practically, to find clear difference between environmental inns and rural rest houses as all of these are tourist products and because of their important achievements for the principles and requirements of rural, ecotourism and agricultural tourism. Similarities and differences between them could be seen in the following aspects:

Similarity:

Difference: 

Based on what was mentioned, Eco-lodges and Agri-lodges projects can be defined as projects serving the service of environmental and rural resorts where maximum of the following conditions should be available: 

• CONSERVING the surrounding flora and fauna
• Having minimum negative impact on the surrounding natural environment during construction periods.
• Participation of the local community in the sustainable DEVELOPMENT through their involvement in the stages (planning, implementation and operation). 
• An ILLUSTRATIVE program shall be presented through it to educate all workers and tourists of the surrounding natural and cultural environment. 
• USING of traditional technologies in building as far as possible, and merging this in modern models for the purposes sustainability.
• Being in harmony with the surrounding environment through taking care of the formation and the site coordination.
• Using of sustainable alternatives and aids for obtaining water, and minimizing water wastage.
• Reusing the solid and liquid wastes and minimizing their negative effects on the environment.
• Providing needs of energy through natural means and renewable SOURCES of energy. 

However, the eco-lodge and agri-lodges should fulfill the three basic conditions of environmental and rural tourism which are: conserving surrounding environment, physical benefit to local society, building interaction between the local environment, tourists and workers).

Based on what was mentioned, Eco-lodges and Agri-lodges projects can be defined as projects serving the service of environmental and rural resorts where maximum of the following conditions should be available: 

However, the eco-lodge and agri-lodges should fulfill the three basic conditions of environmental and rural tourism which are: conserving surrounding environment, physical benefit to local society, building interaction between the local environment, tourists and workers).

Recently we witness a boom in a new type of tourism, which is the environmental and rural tourism which depends on natural attraction factors. Another sector of tourists appeared which is different from those who spend their holidays, traditionally. This group PREFER to spend their vacation in a novel way that provides them with a opportunity to MOVE away from the hustle and noise of modern life to enjoy the beauty and purity of nature, the richness of its landscape and its neighborhoods wilderness and associate with local people and their cultures both old and contemporary and learn from their range of activities related to surrounding ENVIRONMENT, such as: exploring the mountains, forests, and valleys, watching birds, contemplation on nature, holding camps, watching coral reefs, fishing, crossing deserts in caravans of camels, living with rural environments, watching traditional farming and animal husbandry methods, etc. 

All this constitute new modes of activities ATTRACTING the tourist to explore new areas in the world. The concept of environmental and rural tourism emerged as a practical selection for enjoying the natural and cultural heritage and conserving them, at the same time. This mode of tourism has been defined as environmentally compliant picnics, visits to virgin areas for the purpose of enjoying, studying, contemplating the natural, heritage and cultural environment. This type of tourism can reflect in many FORMS, perhaps the most important and most prestigious are the Eco-Lodges, rural rest-houses and the Agri-lodges, which are considered as one of the products of the eco-tourism and rural or agricultural tourism.

Recently we witness a boom in a new type of tourism, which is the environmental and rural tourism which depends on natural attraction factors. Another sector of tourists appeared which is different from those who spend their holidays, traditionally. This group prefer to spend their vacation in a novel way that provides them with a opportunity to move away from the hustle and noise of modern life to enjoy the beauty and purity of nature, the richness of its landscape and its neighborhoods wilderness and associate with local people and their cultures both old and contemporary and learn from their range of activities related to surrounding environment, such as: exploring the mountains, forests, and valleys, watching birds, contemplation on nature, holding camps, watching coral reefs, fishing, crossing deserts in caravans of camels, living with rural environments, watching traditional farming and animal husbandry methods, etc. 

All this constitute new modes of activities attracting the tourist to explore new areas in the world. The concept of environmental and rural tourism emerged as a practical selection for enjoying the natural and cultural heritage and conserving them, at the same time. This mode of tourism has been defined as environmentally compliant picnics, visits to virgin areas for the purpose of enjoying, studying, contemplating the natural, heritage and cultural environment. This type of tourism can reflect in many forms, perhaps the most important and most prestigious are the Eco-Lodges, rural rest-houses and the Agri-lodges, which are considered as one of the products of the eco-tourism and rural or agricultural tourism.

SCTA implemented a number of projects which deal with the problem of visual distortion, such as the project of changing colors of building of Abha Palace Hotel in Asir region, where the Commission in cooperation with Abha Palace Hotel applied the study of construction and building systems on a number of buildings as an EXPERIMENT through which a LIST of colors consistent with the surrounding nature of the hotel building are used to minimize visual distortion, and help in finding harmony between the buildings of the hotel and its natural environment. A List of colors were offered by the study are applied for all hotel buildings so that this project becomes a MODEL to be followed in other mountain areas. 

Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities also cooperated with the Taif Governorate to prepare a list of colors suitable with the natural environment of the province by selecting Wadi ZI Gazal of Taif as a model for the application of the study done through with the participation of the community, to be circulated to other areas of the province. A List of colors suitable with the natural surrounding are determined, that contribute to minimizing the visual distortion occurring as a result of using building materials and colors inconsistent with the surrounding nature. This joint study was conducted through a technical team from SCTA and the Governorate of Taif. The Commission is currently implementing a list of colors on a number of buildings in the VALLEY and then applies the same methodology to the rest of the mountainous tourist areas.

SCTA implemented a number of projects which deal with the problem of visual distortion, such as the project of changing colors of building of Abha Palace Hotel in Asir region, where the Commission in cooperation with Abha Palace Hotel applied the study of construction and building systems on a number of buildings as an experiment through which a list of colors consistent with the surrounding nature of the hotel building are used to minimize visual distortion, and help in finding harmony between the buildings of the hotel and its natural environment. A List of colors were offered by the study are applied for all hotel buildings so that this project becomes a model to be followed in other mountain areas. 

Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities also cooperated with the Taif Governorate to prepare a list of colors suitable with the natural environment of the province by selecting Wadi Zi Gazal of Taif as a model for the application of the study done through with the participation of the community, to be circulated to other areas of the province. A List of colors suitable with the natural surrounding are determined, that contribute to minimizing the visual distortion occurring as a result of using building materials and colors inconsistent with the surrounding nature. This joint study was conducted through a technical team from SCTA and the Governorate of Taif. The Commission is currently implementing a list of colors on a number of buildings in the valley and then applies the same methodology to the rest of the mountainous tourist areas.

This can be done through the directory of Construction and BUILDING in the Mountain Areas which is prepared by the MOMRA in ASSOCIATION with SCTA. The directory is a scientific methodology to HELP the secretariats and the municipalities of MOUNTAINOUS areas in the preparation of construction SYSTEMS commensurate with the mountainous nature of these areas due to the limited areas of land suitable for urban development planning.

This can be done through the directory of Construction and Building in the Mountain Areas which is prepared by the MOMRA in association with SCTA. The directory is a scientific methodology to help the secretariats and the municipalities of mountainous areas in the preparation of construction systems commensurate with the mountainous nature of these areas due to the limited areas of land suitable for urban development planning.

Physical environment of cities and villages is the most important aesthetic elements which help to highlight tourism. URBAN style has great impact in designing building facades consistent with the natural environment. 

Due to the importance of this element in the tourism, SCTA in cooperation with partners at the Ministry of Rural and Municipal Affairs (MOMRA), the municipalities of governorates and cities are working for developing some architectural requirements and regulations in the municipalities with respect to building colors. Agreements are underway with the municipalities in the mountain areas in Asir, Al Baha and Al Taif in the preparation of necessary technical studies in this matter to list a number of building colors matching the surrounding nature so as to REDUCE the optical distortion throughout the mountain cities and villages RESULTED from the use of building MATERIALS with non-homogeneous nature, or due to painting the BUILDINGS with colors not in harmony with the surrounding environment.

Physical environment of cities and villages is the most important aesthetic elements which help to highlight tourism. Urban style has great impact in designing building facades consistent with the natural environment. 

Due to the importance of this element in the tourism, SCTA in cooperation with partners at the Ministry of Rural and Municipal Affairs (MOMRA), the municipalities of governorates and cities are working for developing some architectural requirements and regulations in the municipalities with respect to building colors. Agreements are underway with the municipalities in the mountain areas in Asir, Al Baha and Al Taif in the preparation of necessary technical studies in this matter to list a number of building colors matching the surrounding nature so as to reduce the optical distortion throughout the mountain cities and villages resulted from the use of building materials with non-homogeneous nature, or due to painting the buildings with colors not in harmony with the surrounding environment.

SCTA prepared a number of directories to enable the partners in the field of sustainable tourism development, and implemented instructive workshops supported by evidences for all partners. 

Some of these directories are:

• Tourism projects development directory.
• Eco-lodges and agro-lodges (investor’s directory).
• Technical MANUAL for the establishment of establishment of Bed and Breakfast Inns.
• Directory of technical guides for establishing rural rest houses.
• Directory for construction in the mountain tourism areas (AL BAHA as a CASE study).
• Directory of model designs of ENVIRONMENTAL houses and rural rest houses.

SCTA prepared a number of directories to enable the partners in the field of sustainable tourism development, and implemented instructive workshops supported by evidences for all partners. 

Some of these directories are:

They are provided with all necessary tools that guarantee the implementation of sustainable tourist projects to enjoy high economic BENEFITS as well as LEADING to environmental conservation and multiple interests for local community. This includes formulating of a joint work team with other relevant sectors to supervise the development of SECTOR's projects. SCTA implements workshops to develop tourist development MECHANISMS, providing them with EXPERIENCE of the prominent international experts in the field of tourism development.

They are provided with all necessary tools that guarantee the implementation of sustainable tourist projects to enjoy high economic benefits as well as leading to environmental conservation and multiple interests for local community. This includes formulating of a joint work team with other relevant sectors to supervise the development of sector's projects. SCTA implements workshops to develop tourist development mechanisms, providing them with experience of the prominent international experts in the field of tourism development.

This means preparing ATTRACTIVE public tourism PLACES, which are ready for investment presently through IMPLEMENTING the minimum limit of facilities and services which enrich the visit for the tourist, such as ROADS, car parks, pedestrian paths, shaded sitting areas, in addition to guiding signboards and some necessary constructions, such as visitor CENTER and water cycles, according to need of each site.

This means preparing attractive public tourism places, which are ready for investment presently through implementing the minimum limit of facilities and services which enrich the visit for the tourist, such as roads, car parks, pedestrian paths, shaded sitting areas, in addition to guiding signboards and some necessary constructions, such as visitor center and water cycles, according to need of each site.

Twenty-four Tourist places were DEVELOPED in eight areas, and they are ready to be offered for tourist INVESTMENT. These areas are Holy Makkah, Allaith, Souk Okaz, Madina Almunawara, Alrais, Sea Frontage in Yanbu, Algunfuda, Jabal Guds, Harrat Ruhat, Eastern Province,- Alaqir, Asir, Albark, Algahma, Al Bark Park, Al Yazid Park, Jazan region, Fursan ISLANDS, Ras Altarfa, Albaha region, Algam Park, Jadar Valley, Tabuk region, GAYAL /Sharma, Aljouf region and Dumat Aljandal.

Twenty-four Tourist places were developed in eight areas, and they are ready to be offered for tourist investment. These areas are Holy Makkah, Allaith, Souk Okaz, Madina Almunawara, Alrais, Sea Frontage in Yanbu, Algunfuda, Jabal Guds, Harrat Ruhat, Eastern Province,- Alaqir, Asir, Albark, Algahma, Al Bark Park, Al Yazid Park, Jazan region, Fursan Islands, Ras Altarfa, Albaha region, Algam Park, Jadar Valley, Tabuk region, Gayal /Sharma, Aljouf region and Dumat Aljandal.

By this we mean the public tourist places outside the urban scope of the kingdom’s cities with several attraction elements and strategic dimensions (economic, historical, cultural, political and environmental) at the national or regional level. The public tourist place on the Red Sea COAST refer to resort, and can be developed as destinations or resorts of multiple use, of which tourism will be an economic pillar.

In these destinations and resorts there will be several ACTIVITIES, and tourism recreational services in addition to the residential, commercial, educational and sport facilities. These will be able to attract investors to implement their projects and tourists to spend their vacations. These destinations or resorts are given high development priority, which REQUIRES supervision, MANAGEMENT and direction by SCTA through the policies of supervision and investment. The COMMISSION classifies the new destinations and sites into categories according to their geographical properties: Coastal, Mountains and Deserts.

By this we mean the public tourist places outside the urban scope of the kingdom’s cities with several attraction elements and strategic dimensions (economic, historical, cultural, political and environmental) at the national or regional level. The public tourist place on the Red Sea coast refer to resort, and can be developed as destinations or resorts of multiple use, of which tourism will be an economic pillar.

In these destinations and resorts there will be several activities, and tourism recreational services in addition to the residential, commercial, educational and sport facilities. These will be able to attract investors to implement their projects and tourists to spend their vacations. These destinations or resorts are given high development priority, which requires supervision, management and direction by SCTA through the policies of supervision and investment. The Commission classifies the new destinations and sites into categories according to their geographical properties: Coastal, Mountains and Deserts.

In association with the MAIN partners in the region, SCTA develops the public tourism places which attract investment through a system developed on the basis of previous international experiences of a series of projects COVERING a number of public tourism places to be developed as TOURIST destinations of MULTIPLE uses, or tourist resorts used as sites for tourist investment projects such as resorts, parks and others. Specific priorities are set for STARTING preparation of development plans of these places according to negotiable standards set up for this purpose.

In association with the main partners in the region, SCTA develops the public tourism places which attract investment through a system developed on the basis of previous international experiences of a series of projects covering a number of public tourism places to be developed as tourist destinations of multiple uses, or tourist resorts used as sites for tourist investment projects such as resorts, parks and others. Specific priorities are set for starting preparation of development plans of these places according to negotiable standards set up for this purpose.

These are the natural tourist sites of public ownership which are good for development and tourist INVESTMENT, and which have been specified through a field survey in partnership with GOVERNMENT authorities in the regions for all tourist sites, that number about 12,000, after analyzing them through specific TECHNICAL standards and in association with RELATED parties in the regions. The output was REPRESENTED in 956 sites, which are good for development and tourist investment (natural and archeological) in thirteen regions of the kingdom, and through these, 430 public tourist sites (place) were specified.

These are the natural tourist sites of public ownership which are good for development and tourist investment, and which have been specified through a field survey in partnership with government authorities in the regions for all tourist sites, that number about 12,000, after analyzing them through specific technical standards and in association with related parties in the regions. The output was represented in 956 sites, which are good for development and tourist investment (natural and archeological) in thirteen regions of the kingdom, and through these, 430 public tourist sites (place) were specified.

No doubt, the depth, the diversity and richness in the cultural, environmental and geographical scope in the KINGDOM represent a great CHALLENGE and greater distinction. So, SCTA does not DEAL with AY one tourist frame, but it puts its plans and programs which deal with this wide diversity, and it keeps asking the society, partners and the concerned parties to CONSOLIDATE and cooperate to give success to the national tourism project as a national duty of all people.

No doubt, the depth, the diversity and richness in the cultural, environmental and geographical scope in the kingdom represent a great challenge and greater distinction. So, SCTA does not deal with ay one tourist frame, but it puts its plans and programs which deal with this wide diversity, and it keeps asking the society, partners and the concerned parties to consolidate and cooperate to give success to the national tourism project as a national duty of all people.

The Commission DEALS with the investor and tourist within the FRAMEWORK of PRODUCTIVE partnership, and therefore it provides for them VARIOUS ways of reaching and assessing the services and their participation in making them.

The Commission deals with the investor and tourist within the framework of productive partnership, and therefore it provides for them various ways of reaching and assessing the services and their participation in making them.

SCTA CONSIDERS its service USERS as partners and have effective role in setting and assessing its strategy. So, the Commission DEALS seriously with any complaint it receives from beneficiaries, and it works for finding a fast solution to the complaints. It looks to the USER complaint as an element of assessment and quality control and it adds it as one of the means of general control and quality assurance of the tourist product. It even opens the ways of continuous CONNECTION with the users in this context in particular.

SCTA considers its service users as partners and have effective role in setting and assessing its strategy. So, the Commission deals seriously with any complaint it receives from beneficiaries, and it works for finding a fast solution to the complaints. It looks to the user complaint as an element of assessment and quality control and it adds it as one of the means of general control and quality assurance of the tourist product. It even opens the ways of continuous connection with the users in this context in particular.

Actually the rate of performance is equal to the rate of demand. It is a commonly agreed marketing CUSTOM. However, SCTA's effort does not stop there. It persistently seeks in its plans and programs to TACKLE rates of lower turnouts in some tourist locations through increasing efforts of development and rehabilitation as well as implementing the RECOMMENDATIONS of specialized workshops and RESEARCHES, in addition to responding to the suggestions of INVESTORS and tourists.

Actually the rate of performance is equal to the rate of demand. It is a commonly agreed marketing custom. However, SCTA's effort does not stop there. It persistently seeks in its plans and programs to tackle rates of lower turnouts in some tourist locations through increasing efforts of development and rehabilitation as well as implementing the recommendations of specialized workshops and researches, in addition to responding to the suggestions of investors and tourists.

• SCTA was assigned to study Timeshare in tourism real estate. Accordingly, SCTA has prepared a bill for which it sought help from a number of international and national consultants and specialists who conducted comparative studies for best international experiments in the field of Timeshare regulations.
•  After the bill was widely discussed by the legislative bodies, in particular the "Majlis Al Shura" and the "Council of Ministries", it has been APPROVED finally through a Royal Decree No. 52/m, dated 13TH September, 2006. The Royal Decree approved Timeshare in accommodation sector after HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, President of SCTA had approved the executive regulation of the system on 12th May, 2005, whereby Timeshare is currently licensed. 
• SCTA has met all REQUIREMENTS of Timeshare regulation to ensure its best execution, including building electronic systems, providing human and TECHNICAL requirements that are necessary for its application.
•  Timeshare concept is buying the right of benefiting from an apartment in tourism accommodation facilities for a specific period of time around the year, not less than three years, due to an agreed contract in return of an agreed amount. Timeshare system allows large revival for capital in the tourism sector.

SCTA has organized tourist guide profession in ORDER to promote the role of tourist guides to provide distinct services while he accompanies tourists and provide them with correct information on tourism sites in a proper manner, as well as pushing up the levels of provided tourism services in the Kingdom. 

Tourist guide activity did not exist before the institution of SCTA. In coordination with the Ministry of Interior, SCTA has set up required controls and conditions for licensing tourist guides. SCTA also, in coordination with the National CENTER for Assessment has laid out vocational assessment for tourist guides fewer than three categories – General tourist guide, Tourist guide for specific area, Tourist guide for specific site. For this purpose it has set up codified examinations to assess tourist guide applicant's skills, EDUCATION, culture and behavior. Also an electronic portal is created to allow anyone that SEEKS tourist guide license to apply for license via SCTA website. 

For the purpose of developing tourist guide skills, SCTA in coordination with the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) has trained a number of Saudi universities’ teachers to conduct training programs for tourist guides. Several training courses were held to qualify tourist guides in a number of provinces ACROSS the Kingdom.

SCTA has organized tourist guide profession in order to promote the role of tourist guides to provide distinct services while he accompanies tourists and provide them with correct information on tourism sites in a proper manner, as well as pushing up the levels of provided tourism services in the Kingdom. 

Tourist guide activity did not exist before the institution of SCTA. In coordination with the Ministry of Interior, SCTA has set up required controls and conditions for licensing tourist guides. SCTA also, in coordination with the National Center for Assessment has laid out vocational assessment for tourist guides fewer than three categories – General tourist guide, Tourist guide for specific area, Tourist guide for specific site. For this purpose it has set up codified examinations to assess tourist guide applicant's skills, education, culture and behavior. Also an electronic portal is created to allow anyone that seeks tourist guide license to apply for license via SCTA website. 

For the purpose of developing tourist guide skills, SCTA in coordination with the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) has trained a number of Saudi universities’ teachers to conduct training programs for tourist guides. Several training courses were held to qualify tourist guides in a number of provinces across the Kingdom.

SCTA has explored the most prominent international experiences in the field of QUALITY control as well as classifying tourism activities like the fixing prices etc. Accordingly it SETS up LICENSING control procedures and quality assurance criteria to ensure proper provision of tourism services. 

As for prices, the maximum limit of rates of residence in tourism accommodation facilities was determined based on the classification of those facilities and level of provided services in these facilities, which made price matching to the quality of SERVICE provided, which would prompt investors to develop and improve provided services in tourism accommodation sector. In SCTA's efforts to fix the price, the price would be in exchange of provided service. It conducts persistent inspection visits to ensure facilities' commitment to licensing and classification conditions, their adherence to specific prices according to the classification grades they had, besides enforcing fines against violating facilities.

SCTA has explored the most prominent international experiences in the field of quality control as well as classifying tourism activities like the fixing prices etc. Accordingly it sets up licensing control procedures and quality assurance criteria to ensure proper provision of tourism services. 

As for prices, the maximum limit of rates of residence in tourism accommodation facilities was determined based on the classification of those facilities and level of provided services in these facilities, which made price matching to the quality of service provided, which would prompt investors to develop and improve provided services in tourism accommodation sector. In SCTA's efforts to fix the price, the price would be in exchange of provided service. It conducts persistent inspection visits to ensure facilities' commitment to licensing and classification conditions, their adherence to specific prices according to the classification grades they had, besides enforcing fines against violating facilities.

SCTA's dealing method with investor and tourist are based on the principle of partnership. SCTA is always keen to learn closer to the INVESTORS’ and stakeholders' views before issuing any new regulations. In this respect it conducts special workshops and meetings to discuss any possible modifications or issue new regulations. Tourist is seen by SCTA as a mirror reflecting SCTA's efforts in its organization of tourism activities, through providing multiple CHANNELS to allow tourist to SUGGEST his views or submit his COMPLAINTS. All considerations are taken into account by SCTA for ensuring the continual processes of improvement and development of its efforts.

SCTA's dealing method with investor and tourist are based on the principle of partnership. SCTA is always keen to learn closer to the investors’ and stakeholders' views before issuing any new regulations. In this respect it conducts special workshops and meetings to discuss any possible modifications or issue new regulations. Tourist is seen by SCTA as a mirror reflecting SCTA's efforts in its organization of tourism activities, through providing multiple channels to allow tourist to suggest his views or submit his complaints. All considerations are taken into account by SCTA for ensuring the continual processes of improvement and development of its efforts.

Travel and tourism agency activity is highly SUPPORTED by SCTA, besides it is also promoting large investment in it. SCTA WORKS to overcome any potential OBSTACLES that may HINDER tourism investment in general, in order to make tourism services accessible easily throughout the KINGDOM of Saudi Arabia's different provinces.

Travel and tourism agency activity is highly supported by SCTA, besides it is also promoting large investment in it. SCTA works to overcome any potential obstacles that may hinder tourism investment in general, in order to make tourism services accessible easily throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's different provinces.

After supervision power on travel and tourism agencies was TRANSFERRED to SCTA, it has immediately created a new database for travel and tourism agencies accessible across the Kingdom. It also developed new procedures to license and control agencies in an effort to assure those agencies are practicing valid activity with REQUIRED quality. SCTA in this regard, REPRESENTED in PTOs, makes FIELD inspection visits to enforce regulations to ensure that agencies are abiding by licensing conditions.

After supervision power on travel and tourism agencies was transferred to SCTA, it has immediately created a new database for travel and tourism agencies accessible across the Kingdom. It also developed new procedures to license and control agencies in an effort to assure those agencies are practicing valid activity with required quality. SCTA in this regard, represented in PTOs, makes field inspection visits to enforce regulations to ensure that agencies are abiding by licensing conditions.

Accommodation sector is considered as one of the most important tourism sectors. For this reason, SCTA waited until being given full authorization on it, where a memorandum of cooperation was signed with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry according to which the two parties agreed to set up and execute joint quality control programs on accommodation sector throughout the Kingdom in order to ensure existence of the key elements of (security, CLEANNESS and safety) as well as rising the level of provided services in accommodation facilities in addition to creating database of accommodation sector in the Kingdom. 

The actual application of these programs has been carried out throughout various provinces of the Kingdom where joint inspection teams were also formed across the Kingdom to check upon hotels and furnished flats in order to address and correct status of violators in the sector. 

SCTA after being given authority on tourism accommodation sector has concluded large number of joint seminars and workshops with a number of relevant authorities in an EFFORT to organize this sector as well as set up its institutional and structure. A comprehensive plan in this context was carried out to reclassify hotels and furnished flats across the Kingdom through applying classification's new criteria which was developed in accordance with the international classification standards, “five stars" type. The plan included reviewing specifications of furnished flats regarding "three levels" in order to avoid any confusion between furnished flats and REAL estate units, taking into account continual changing in requirements of hotels guests, SHOWING transparency towards guests as well as performing higher level of service benefiting from international featured examples and keep on discussions with CONCERNED people in private sector in hotels and furnished flats. 

SCTA's efforts in this respect was crowned by the announcement of full classification of hotels throughout the Kingdom, for five stars, on March, 2010, while furnished flats classification was finalized on June, 2010.

Accommodation sector is considered as one of the most important tourism sectors. For this reason, SCTA waited until being given full authorization on it, where a memorandum of cooperation was signed with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry according to which the two parties agreed to set up and execute joint quality control programs on accommodation sector throughout the Kingdom in order to ensure existence of the key elements of (security, cleanness and safety) as well as rising the level of provided services in accommodation facilities in addition to creating database of accommodation sector in the Kingdom. 

The actual application of these programs has been carried out throughout various provinces of the Kingdom where joint inspection teams were also formed across the Kingdom to check upon hotels and furnished flats in order to address and correct status of violators in the sector. 

SCTA after being given authority on tourism accommodation sector has concluded large number of joint seminars and workshops with a number of relevant authorities in an effort to organize this sector as well as set up its institutional and structure. A comprehensive plan in this context was carried out to reclassify hotels and furnished flats across the Kingdom through applying classification's new criteria which was developed in accordance with the international classification standards, “five stars" type. The plan included reviewing specifications of furnished flats regarding "three levels" in order to avoid any confusion between furnished flats and real estate units, taking into account continual changing in requirements of hotels guests, showing transparency towards guests as well as performing higher level of service benefiting from international featured examples and keep on discussions with concerned people in private sector in hotels and furnished flats. 

SCTA's efforts in this respect was crowned by the announcement of full classification of hotels throughout the Kingdom, for five stars, on March, 2010, while furnished flats classification was finalized on June, 2010.

In view of the intense competition in international tourism market, it is time for setting a regulation and a measurement system to ensure quality of tourism in the Kingdom. For this purpose, SCTA has developed and implemented licensing regulations for tourism activities in which it has included tourism quality criteria for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in an EFFORT to achieve a competitive advantage in tourism products as WELL as setting up requirements of consumer protection. 

Therefore, SCTA's role does not depend on licensing and registration of tourism activities only, rather, it provides consultation to investor before and after the execution of tourism project. Quality regulations aim at integration of all the elements that may impact product or service's quality that are provided by one of the FACILITIES, where many service providers wish to achieve quality and exert great efforts to reach this goal, but most of these efforts are focused on inspection activities and damage control at the end of PROCESS in each phase. 

Inspection itself cannot ensure product quality, to guarantee product's quality one has to design and build quality from the very beginning of the activity. COMMITMENT on quality criteria is appropriate means to achieve customer satisfaction.

In view of the intense competition in international tourism market, it is time for setting a regulation and a measurement system to ensure quality of tourism in the Kingdom. For this purpose, SCTA has developed and implemented licensing regulations for tourism activities in which it has included tourism quality criteria for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in an effort to achieve a competitive advantage in tourism products as well as setting up requirements of consumer protection. 

Therefore, SCTA's role does not depend on licensing and registration of tourism activities only, rather, it provides consultation to investor before and after the execution of tourism project. Quality regulations aim at integration of all the elements that may impact product or service's quality that are provided by one of the facilities, where many service providers wish to achieve quality and exert great efforts to reach this goal, but most of these efforts are focused on inspection activities and damage control at the end of process in each phase. 

Inspection itself cannot ensure product quality, to guarantee product's quality one has to design and build quality from the very beginning of the activity. Commitment on quality criteria is appropriate means to achieve customer satisfaction.

SCTA ALLOWS all AREAS of tourism to investors under the government UMBRELLA and regulations are which consistent with the international regulations in the field of tourism.

SCTA allows all areas of tourism to investors under the government umbrella and regulations are which consistent with the international regulations in the field of tourism.

• TOURIST guide
• Timeshare and tourism REAL estate
• Hotels
• FURNISHED flats
• TRAVEL agencies
• TOUR operators