Saudi Arabia emerges as a premier destination for tourism

 

Saudi Arabia emerges as a premier destination for tourism

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a premier destination for travelers, according to Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. Speaking at the opening ceremony of World Tourism Day in Riyadh, Pololikashvili praised Saudi Arabia for its forward-looking approach and significant contributions to foreign direct investment projects in the Middle East and Africa.

World Tourism Day, celebrated annually since 1980, serves as a platform for global leaders to discuss strategies and goals to bolster the tourism industry. This year, approximately 500 high-ranking officials from 145 countries gathered at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh to address industry developments, emphasizing sustainability, humanity, and prosperity.

 

Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) establishes new tourism investment company

 

The discussion also delved into Saudi Arabia's thriving tourism sector, acknowledging the country's vision and addressing issues such as climate change, governance, and global empowerment.

Saudi Arabia holds the chairmanship of the UNWTO Executive Council this year, with Riyadh hosting the organization's first regional office for the Middle East. The previous year, the country hosted the 116th session of the UNWTO Executive Council, focusing on advancing sustainability across various facets of the industry, from governance to infrastructure investment and youth development.

Despite the global impact of the pandemic on the tourism sector, Saudi Arabia has witnessed remarkable growth since opening its borders to recreational visitors. The country's tourism industry is expected to reach a value of $93.4 billion in 2023, contributing to 10% of Saudi Arabia's GDP and poised to be the fastest-growing sector in the Middle East.

 

Saudi Arabia's investment in entertainment and tourism boosts economic diversification

 

Saudi Arabia has ambitious plans to welcome over 100 million annual visitors by 2030, creating one million new jobs over the next decade. The Ministry of Tourism has unveiled plans for the Riyadh School for Tourism and Hospitality, a significant initiative costing more than $1 billion. The school aims to offer a comprehensive curriculum to bridge the global tourism skills gap and contribute to the industry's future growth.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia's tourism initiatives align with sustainability and regenerative tourism goals. The NEOM megacity project in northwestern Saudi Arabia, with its commitment to zero carbon emissions and clean energy, exemplifies the country's shift away from an oil-based economy. The Red Sea project, focused on preserving the nation's natural beauty and enhancing coral reefs, is pioneering regenerative tourism.

Saudi hotels are also prioritizing sustainability practices, reducing plastic use, implementing energy-efficient lighting systems, and even developing their own water purification systems to minimize waste.

The tourism and hospitality sectors are recognized as crucial players in building a sustainable future, aligning with Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering opportunities, green transformation, and inclusive prosperity.

Source: https://www.thenationalnews.com/