Saudi Arabia unveiled Monday Paris Saint Germain (PSG) and Argentina football superstar as its new tourism ambassador.
The 34-year old icon arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah accompanied by a group of friends in his new role for the Saudi Tourism Ministry.
Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the Saudi Minister of Tourism on Twitter announced the visit, the fourth of the global football legend.
“I am pleased to welcome Lionel Messi to Saudi Arabia. We are excited for you to explore the treasure of the Red Sea, the Jeddah Season and our ancient history. This is not his first visit to the Kingdom and it will not be the last.”
The Gulf country has made tourism an important sector in its efforts to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues. The ministry has not revealed the details of the contract. January last year, both Messi and Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronald were reported to have rejected the Saudi offer to become brand for the tourism ministry for a check of 6 million euros per year.
Saudi Arabia picks Lionel Messi as country’s tourism ambassador
