The minister added that he hopes China eases Covid restrictions, which could lead to an influx of Chinese tourists.
"We definitely have [a] very strong religious market, people visiting the two holy cities," Al Khateeb said.
The Abraj Al-Bait Towers also known as the Mecca Royal Hotel Clock Tower, is seen from Jabal al-Noor or 'Mountain of Light' overlooking the holy city of Mecca, on July 5, 2022. The kingdom is home to two of Islam's holy sanctuaries, Mecca and Medina. Before the pandemic, Saudi Arabia drew about $12 billion of revenue annually from 2.6 million pilgrims embarking on the week-long haj.The kingdom is home to two of Islam's holy sanctuaries, Mecca and Medina.
"China used to be a very important market, but it is still closed. This year, we've seen a great demand from Europe and the U.S.," he said. "I absolutely would love to see some of these restriction ease because Chinese market is a very big market, not only for Saudi Arabia — for all the other countries."The FIFA World Cup tournament begins on Nov. 20 and lasts for a month.
Qatar has been scrutinized in recent months for its treatment of migrant workers employed in construction projects ahead of the tournament.
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