The support team of Tourism Development Steering Committee in Al Baha region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, concluded a visit to Abu Dhabi last week. The delegates visited the emirate in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, TCA Abu Dhabi.

Headed by Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Majli, Mayor of Al Baha Region, and Zaher Mohammed Al Shehri, Director of Saudi Commission of Tourism and Antiquities, SCTA, branch in Al Baha, the delegation included high-ranking officials and representatives of the water, agricultural, educational and vocational training sectors, as well as the private sector.

TCA Abu Dhabi hosted the delegation as part of its efforts to consolidate Abu Dhabi's position as a leading regional tourism destination, promote its cultural components in the international arena and support the exchange of knowledge among the region's entrepreneurs.

The visit's programme began with a comprehensive presentation about TCA Abu Dhabi's strategic plan that focuses on stimulating the tourism sector, diversifying the emirate's tourism product and maintaining the authentic elements of local culture while paying special attention to the environment and sustainability. The presentation also highlighted TCA Abu Dhabi's business essentials to attract the regional Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions, MICE, specialised sector.

"TCA Abu Dhabi has keen interest in exchanging expertise and stepping up cooperation with our Saudi peers as the two countries share long-held brotherly ties and history and myriad common traditions. We were delighted to host Al Baha region's tourism development team, in a step towards reinforcing our joint efforts, activating strategic partnerships, promoting tourism, enhancing work environments and developing traditional crafts and products," said Jasem Al Darmaki, Acting Director-General, TCA Abu Dhabi.

The delegation visited Abu Dhabi's iconic attractions, including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, the UAE's first mega water park, Masdar City for sustainable energy, Al Ain Zoo and the popular Souq Al Qattara, which is located amidst Al Ain's palm tree oases. The tour also included a stop at Abu Dhabi Municipality where visitors learned about the city's organisation and sustainability plans.

In Souq Al Qattara, the Saudi team was introduced to the progress of restoration work on the historic clay building, set to be re-used on a daily basis once restoration is complete, illustrating TCA Abu Dhabi's efforts in preserving heritage and local culture, providing a highly professional atmosphere for artisans and craftspeople, marketing their products and documenting their ways of life for future generations.