SCTA - Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities

SCTA, since its inception has passed through several stages before acquiring its current structure and becoming the first ever government agency responsible for tourism sector in the Kingdom. 

 

Saudi Council of Ministers on 12/1/1421H (16/04/2000), issued, Resolution No. (9), to establish the Supreme Commission for Tourism (SCT). The resolution came to emphasize tourism activity as one of the productive sectors in enduring the Saudi tourists within the country, at the same time increasing investment opportunities, development of human resources, and expansion and creation of new job opportunities for the Saudi citizens.

Subsequently, in view of the importance of the Antiquities and Museums, another resolution by the Council of Ministers No. (78) dated 16/3/1429H (24/3/2008), was issued to integrate Antiquities and Museums sector into the Supreme Commission for Tourism and with this, SCT became a body responsible for implementation of their related tasks in addition to the responsibility of tourism.

According to the resolution, the name 'Supreme Commission for Tourism’ (SCT) was changed to 'Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities' (SCTA), with the confirmation that the domestic tourism is a reality that requires the formation of a national authority responsible for its planning and development, due to the following distinct components of tourism in the Kingdom. 
  
• Huge archaeological treasures, rare historic sites, old museums across the Kingdom linking it to many ancient civilizations.
• Kingdom’s unique geographical location, its vast area, diverse terrains with variety of climates and stunning views.
• Sprawling seacoasts along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
• Genuine traditions and customs of Saudi society and famed generosity and hospitality of the Saudi people.
• Modern infrastructure, sophisticated services and government's strong tendency to develop tourism sector.
• Kingdom's security and political stability, economic prosperity and social advancement.