Domestic bookings rise 60% during pandemic, health safety prime concern: Seera acting CEO

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Saudi Arabia’s domestic bookings rose between 50-60% during the COVID-19 pandemic, as foreign travel declined, on the back of the Kingdom’s large geographical area and its diverse tourist offerings, Al-Arabiya TV reported, citing acting chief executive officer (CEO) of Seera Group Holding, Majed Al Nefaie.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, Al Nefaie said the rate of reservations retreated by more than 30% during 2020-2021, when compared to 2019, noting that this decline was logical.

According to studies conducted by the company in the recent period, the percentage of Saudis willing to travel, from the first day after the travel restrictions were lifted for citizens, reached 70-80%.

Al Nefaie indicated that the travel ban period was difficult, pointing out that the return will be gradual, while adhering to the precautionary measures.

The current situation is linked to the precautions and the countries that are open to travel, he clarified, stressing that health safety will be the main factor in determining the destinations for travelers across the world, and not only Saudis.

Al Nefaie said that Seera will act as an advisor to clients, as it will direct them to places that ensure health safety, while also meeting the desired offerings.

According to data compiled by Argaam, Saudi Arabia’s decision to allow citizens to travel abroad and fully reopen sea, air and land borders came into effect on May 17, 2021.