King Khalid University (KKU) has announced a significant partnership with leading five-star hotels in Thailand to initiate an inaugural internship program for tourism and hospitality management students. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to attract 100 million tourists annually by 2030 and position the Kingdom as a major global tourism hub.

This partnership is part of The Apprenticeship Program for Training in the Tourism Sector, an initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia to enhance the skills and expertise of individuals in the tourism and hospitality industry. The program provides participants with hands-on training opportunities through collaborations with leading global hospitality institutions. Its objective is to equip trainees with practical experience and international exposure, enabling them to contribute effectively to the growth and development of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Reham Mashat, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism at KKU, revealed that 14 students pursuing degrees in International Hospitality Management and Mountain Resort Management will embark on a two-month internship program in Thailand. The initiative, supported by the Saudi Arabian government and the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on providing hands-on hospitality management experience in Thailand—a globally recognized tourism leader. The program also aims to foster long-term, mutually beneficial relationships between the two nations within the tourism sector.

The selected students will gain practical experience at prominent destinations, including Bangkok and Phuket. Their placements include the Al Meroz Hotel in Bangkok, the leading halal-certified hotel catering to Muslim travelers, and the Amatara Welleisure™ Resort in Phuket, a multi-award-winning wellness resort known for combining luxury with holistic well-being. The program is designed to equip students with valuable industry experience, preparing them to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism goals upon their return.

A key component of this program is its collaboration with Siam Senses, a leading Thai hospitality management brand under World Reward Solutions. With extensive expertise in managing luxury and mid-range hospitality properties, Siam Senses is committed to promoting exceptional service standards and operational excellence. The brand will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the training program by offering students practical exposure to core hospitality functions, guest services, and cultural sensitivity training within the Thai tourism context.

Additionally, the program highlights the importance of Aseer, a rapidly developing region in Saudi Arabia that is central to the Kingdom’s tourism growth strategy. Nestled amidst scenic mountains, Aseer is set to become a global year-round tourism destination through substantial government investments aimed at enhancing infrastructure, eco-tourism, and cultural offerings. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, pleasant climate, and rich heritage, Aseer is poised to attract international visitors seeking nature, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Looking ahead, King Khalid University and the Saudi government plan to expand this internship program, targeting the placement of over 400 students in Thailand by 2026. This collaboration is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand, as both nations work toward establishing themselves as prominent players in the global tourism industry.

The logistics and coordination of the internship program in Thailand are managed by World Reward Group, ensuring students have seamless access to on-the-ground training and experiential learning. Through exposure to Thailand’s highly developed tourism sector, the program not only benefits participating students but also lays the groundwork for continued collaboration between the two nations in areas such as hospitality, destination management, and sustainable tourism development.

As Saudi Arabia progresses on its Vision 2030 journey, this partnership with Thailand reflects the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a robust tourism industry and developing a new generation of leaders poised to elevate the nation’s hospitality and travel sectors. With the involvement of Siam Senses and other key players, this initiative will contribute to long-term growth and innovation in both countries’ tourism industries.