Published on
October 2, 2025
In a significant development for the bilateral relationship and tourism expansion, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam have signed five investment deals with the aim of deepening cooperation in several areas, including tourism, construction, manufacturing, and human resources development. The signing occurred during the Saudi-Vietnamese Business Forum held in Hanoi, which brought together stakeholders in the two nations to review the future of their economic partnership.
These deals are all part of the larger push to make Saudi Arabia a global tourist destination and Vietnam an up-and-coming high-end travel destination with a common vision for sustainable tourism and cultural exchange. With the tightening of relations, both countries aim to generate new opportunities for economic development and tourism cooperation.
The Role of Tourism in Saudi Arabia and Vietnam’s Bilateral Agreement
One of the most important agreements between Saudi Arabia and Vietnam focuses on tourism development, with both countries recognizing the power of cultural exchange and tourism in fostering stronger connections. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes diversifying the tourism sector, with an emphasis on religious tourism, eco-tourism, and luxury travel. This new agreement with Vietnam allows Saudi Arabia to tap into Vietnam’s growing tourism market while promoting Saudi Arabia’s unique offerings, such as the Red Sea coast, historical sites, and the holy city of Mecca.
Vietnam, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing tourism sector, offers ample opportunities for tourism collaboration. The partnership will help both countries exchange best practices and create new initiatives that appeal to international travelers seeking authentic and immersive experiences in Asia.
Vietnam’s Tourism Growth: Emerging as a Strong Global Destination
Vietnam has become one of the most sought-after tourism destinations in Southeast Asia, thanks to its lush landscapes, bustling cities, and cultural heritage. The country’s tourism industry continues to grow, attracting visitors for beach holidays, historical tours, eco-tourism, and culinary experiences. This collaboration with Saudi Arabia will provide Vietnam with an opportunity to showcase its unique tourism offerings on a larger, global stage.
As part of the investment agreements, the countries will work together to enhance the tourism infrastructure in both nations, improving transportation links and accommodation options for international tourists. This is expected to open up new tourism pathways, especially for visitors seeking experiences that combine modern luxury with local authenticity.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ambitions: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships for Growth
Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions align closely with the goals of its Vision 2030 agenda, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce the Kingdom’s dependence on oil. Tourism is a key focus in this strategy, with major investments in luxury tourism, heritage tourism, and sports tourism. Through its partnership with Vietnam, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury, spiritual experiences, and cultural engagement.
Minister Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, emphasized the importance of the Saudi-Vietnamese Business Council, stating that the agreements would strengthen the tourism industry by improving both infrastructure and cultural exchanges. He noted that these initiatives would also create more employment opportunities for locals, fostering an inclusive and sustainable tourism economy in both nations.
Enhancing the Saudi-Vietnam Tourism Experience with Technology and Innovation
Technology is playing a central role in tourism development in both Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. The Saudi-Vietnamese business partnership focuses on digital innovations, such as AI-driven platforms, virtual tourism experiences, and smart destinations that enhance the visitor experience. Virtual reality (VR) applications, for example, allow tourists to explore Saudi Arabia’s historical sites or Vietnam’s natural wonders remotely before making the journey.
By embracing technology in tourism, both countries can streamline booking systems, improve visitor engagement, and create more personalized travel experiences that appeal to tech-savvy travelers looking for modern, interactive ways to engage with destinations.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainability: A Shared Vision for the Future
A major component of the Saudi-Vietnam tourism agreement is the focus on eco-tourism and sustainable development. Sustainable tourism practices are becoming increasingly important to travelers worldwide, who seek to experience destinations while minimizing their impact on the environment. Vietnam’s eco-tourism sector is growing rapidly, with the country’s lush jungles, serene beaches, and cultural sites attracting nature lovers from around the world.
Saudi Arabia, in line with Vision 2030, is also increasingly prioritizing sustainable tourism. The Red Sea Project is one of the Kingdom’s flagship initiatives to develop a sustainable coastal tourism destination that will integrate luxury with eco-conscious practices. By collaborating with Vietnam, Saudi Arabia is able to tap into Vietnam’s expertise in eco-tourism and adopt best practices for sustainable travel.
The Future of Tourism and Investment in Saudi-Vietnam Relations
The signing of these five investment agreements marks just the beginning of a long-term commitment to strengthening tourism ties between Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. With both nations focusing on expanding their tourism offerings, infrastructure, and cultural exchange programs, the future looks bright for this growing partnership.
Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head of Holidays, MICE and Visa at Thomas Cook India, notes that expanding tourism infrastructure is essential for unlocking sustainable growth in both countries. He adds, “There’s huge potential to develop niche markets in both countries, from eco-tourism to luxury cultural tourism, and these agreements lay a foundation for future growth.”
Creating New Tourism Pathways: Collaborations to Boost Regional and Global Tourism
The Saudi-Vietnamese collaboration will not only increase tourism arrivals but also create new pathways for regional tourism across Asia. Both countries are keen on promoting multi-destination travel, where visitors can explore both Saudi Arabia’s historical and religious sites and Vietnam’s vibrant cultural and natural destinations. By facilitating cross-border travel, the partnership will also encourage greater cultural exchange and tourism-related investment.
Tourism Development Projects: A New Era for Saudi Arabia and Vietnam
Looking ahead, both Saudi Arabia and Vietnam are committed to furthering tourism development projects that foster both economic growth and cultural preservation. Projects such as the development of luxury resorts, sustainable infrastructure, and cultural experiences will enhance the tourism experience and provide affordable options for travelers. These investments will also contribute to job creation, business development, and increased tourism revenue.
Saudi Arabia and Vietnam’s Growing Tourism Partnership
The five new investment accords between Vietnam and Saudi Arabia represent a turning point in the tourism industry, boosting both bilateral relations and tourism development in Asia. With an emphasis on sustainable tourism, technology-based innovation, and cultural exchange, the two nations stand poised to become giants in the global tourism market. Tourism infrastructure development being at the top of the alliance, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia are laying the foundations for a strong and sustainable tourism future, luring global tourists, and also establishing long-term economic growth for both countries.
