JEDDAH: Jeddah hosted the International Tourist Guide Day event, organized by the Tour Guides Cooperative Society in historic Al-Balad, with 281 male and female guides taking part from across the Kingdom.

The program focused on introducing guides to the historic Hajj route and Jeddah’s heritage landmarks, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

International Tourist Guide Day, launched in 1990 by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, highlights the role of tourist guides as ambassadors of their countries and cultures.

“Tour guides can influence how tourists perceive history, culture and one another. We act as cultural ambassadors and storytellers,” Abir Abusulayman, a veteran tour guide from Jeddah, told Arab News.

The event also aims to raise awareness of tour guiding’s importance in enriching the visitor experience, promote sustainable tourism, and recognize guides’ efforts in showcasing national identity and heritage.

Mohammed Qari, a tour guide from Jeddah, said: “There was an introduction to the historic district for visitors, and their reaction was amazing and very positive when they saw so many Saudi tour guides gathered together.”

Qari explained the significance of the day: “The main goal of day is to take part in this global gathering and show that Saudi Arabia has professional tour guides with high-level skills — true ambassadors of the nation — who present the Kingdom to tourists through the eyes of its people, their hospitality and generosity. Our aim is to make tourism enjoyable for visitors to Saudi Arabia.”

He added that the celebration reflects the growing importance of professional tour guides in showcasing the Kingdom’s heritage and culture to an international audience.

The celebration coincides with the Kingdom’s rapidly advancing tourism sector, in line with Vision 2030 objectives, the SPA reported.

Tourist guides have become key in presenting historical, cultural and natural sites, conveying their stories with knowledge and professionalism that reflect the depth and diversity of Saudi civilization.

Reflecting on his journey, Qari said: “When the Kingdom opened licensing for tour guides, and encouraged by colleagues, I applied. Since then, I have led many trips across the Kingdom — city tours in major cities and visits to natural, tourist and geological sites, including volcanoes, mountains and other natural areas.”

Qari highlighted that tour guiding is about communication and cultural exchange. “The ‘other’ adds to me as much as I add to them — perhaps even more. Many tourists love to talk about their countries, so I listen and learn, and we compare.

“We share much in common with the world. When tourists see these shared cultural aspects, they are very happy. This brings me great joy, and I also help them engage with our culture in Saudi Arabia.”

Kholoud Abdulwassie, tour guide and board member of the Tour Guides Cooperative Society in Jeddah, said: "Being a tour guide is more than a profession; it is a passion. It is about connecting people to places, turning moments into memories, and serving as a bridge between culture and curiosity.

"Every smile and spark of wonder reminds me why I love sharing the spirit of a place and creating memorable guest experiences."

On Feb. 21, tourist guides worldwide celebrate a day honoring a profession that plays a vital role in fostering cultural understanding, dialogue and responsible travel, according to the federation’s website.

The federation also calls on guides worldwide to celebrate not only their profession, but also their shared duty to foster a more respectful, sustainable and peaceful world.