What's Happening?
Dusit Thani College, a leading hospitality education institution from Thailand, is expanding its global reach by introducing a fast-track hospitality training program in Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part
of a partnership with Alkhaleej Training and Education, a prominent education provider in the Kingdom. The program, known as the Talent Opportunity Programme (TOP), is designed to provide intensive practical learning and internships, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the hospitality industry. The training will be conducted at Alkhaleej's state-of-the-art center in Riyadh, marking the first time a non-Swiss hospitality school offers such a program in Saudi Arabia. This move aligns with Dusit International's commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's hospitality ambitions, as the country aims to significantly boost its tourism sector.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Dusit Thani College's training program in Saudi Arabia is significant as it supports the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil by expanding the tourism sector. The World Travel & Tourism Council projects that tourism will contribute over 10% to Saudi Arabia's GDP by 2025, with employment in the sector expected to reach 2.7 million jobs. By providing high-quality, internationally benchmarked training, the program will equip Saudi talent with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly growing market. This initiative not only enhances local workforce capabilities but also positions Saudi Arabia as a competitive player in the global hospitality industry.
What's Next?
The first phase of the program is set to launch in January 2026, with additional specialized courses planned to address specific industry needs. Dusit Thani College is also exploring further international partnerships to expand the program to other destinations. The opening of Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah in Riyadh in early 2026 will further solidify Dusit's presence in the Kingdom, providing more opportunities for local talent to gain practical experience. As the program progresses, it is expected to play a crucial role in preparing Saudi professionals to meet the demands of the evolving tourism and hospitality landscape.
