The Philippines is positioning Mindanao as its next major international tourism gateway, following a renewed push by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to deepen partnerships with Saudi Arabia’s aviation and travel sector—one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets.
In a series of high-level meetings at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, the DOT reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing air connectivity, expanding tourism collaborations, and capturing a greater share of the lucrative Saudi travel market. Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso, representing Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, led discussions with Saudia Airlines General Manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab and Riyadh Air Vice President for Network Planning and Partnerships Wolfgang Reuss. Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia H.E. Raymond R. Balatbat also joined the engagements.
The talks underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing importance as a source market for the Philippines and paved the way for a landmark achievement: the opening of new direct routes to Mindanao, including the Riyadh–Cagayan de Oro and the highly anticipated Riyadh–Zamboanga flights.
Mindanao Takes Center Stage
Set to open in 2025, the Riyadh–Zamboanga direct flight is expected to be a game-changer for Western Mindanao, unlocking new streams of tourists, investors, and cultural visitors. For the first time, Asia’s Latin City will have direct air access from the Middle East—bringing global travelers closer to its vibrant culture, rich heritage, and pristine marine destinations.
Tourism Secretary Frasco emphasized that Saudi travelers continue to show increasing interest in the Philippines, attracted by the country’s warm hospitality, competitive value, English-speaking environment, and expanding Halal-friendly tourism facilities. She noted that Saudi nationals also enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days, making the country even more accessible.
“As a destination, the Philippines continues to gain ground among Saudi travelers,” Frasco said in her message, adding that Saudi Arabia represents one of its most dynamic and high-value tourism markets in the Middle East.
In 2024 alone, tourism receipts from the Saudi market reached USD 37.86 million—a 46 percent surge from 2023. DOT data also show that Saudi tourists are drawn to premium beach and family-friendly destinations such as Cebu, Boracay, Pampanga, Palawan, and Cavite. With direct routes now heading to Mindanao, the region is poised to join this list of top-tier tourist hotspots.
Boosting Halal and Muslim-Friendly Tourism
The DOT, under Frasco’s leadership, has expanded its Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives to ensure an inclusive and welcoming environment for visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority markets. Halal-certified restaurants have increased nationwide, hotels have adopted Muslim-friendly standards, and AirAsia Philippines has become the first airline to serve Halal-certified meals on all routes.
The launch of Marhaba Boracay, the country’s first Muslim-friendly cove, marks another milestone in positioning the Philippines as an emerging global Muslim-friendly destination. These efforts earned the country recognition in the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2023 and 2024.
A New Gateway for Mindanao
The upcoming Riyadh–Zamboanga and Riyadh–Cagayan de Oro flights signal a bold shift in the Philippines’ tourism strategy—one that spreads development beyond Metro Manila and highlights the diverse experiences Mindanao offers.
For Zamboanga City, the new direct route presents unprecedented opportunities. More visitors will be able to explore its unique Chavacano heritage, vibrant vinta culture, pink-sand beaches, and world-class food traditions. It also opens wider avenues for trade, investments, and cultural exchange between Western Mindanao and the Middle East.
“The world is coming to Mindanao.”
With strengthened partnerships, enhanced air accessibility, and globally recognized Halal-friendly offerings, Mindanao is stepping into the spotlight as a rising international destination.
As Secretary Frasco affirms, the DOT is committed to ensuring that Mindanao becomes not only a gateway but a must-visit hub—where global travelers can discover the beauty, culture, and hospitality that define the Filipino spirit.
Get ready, Zamboangueños and Mindanaoans—the world is coming to see the wonders of the South.