June 2, 2010 - The King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah has launched an Institute of Tourism, it was learnt on Tuesday. The institute has the patronage of Prince Mishaal bin Majed bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of Jeddah.
According to details, classes in the institute will commence in the second semester this year and the faculty will comprise academics and instructors from top hotels in the kingdom. Around 14 students have enrolled so far. The study will focus on the practicalities of the industry rather than theories.
Meanwhile, Dr Osama Sadiq Tayeb, President of the University, expressed his gratitude to Prince Mishaal for lending his support to the project. He pointed out that the idea of establishing the institute started from the Saudi government’s keen interest in tourism. He added that the university's efforts were consistent with the efforts of foreign and international experiences to ensure that the tourism institute will achieve its objectives, vision and mission.