Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb recently highlighted the growing importance of tourism as a key driver of global economic growth during Saudi Arabia’s presidency of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). He emphasized that tourism is expected to contribute 10% to global GDP by 2024, with an annual spending forecast of $11 trillion. This contribution is projected to increase due to factors such as increased air connectivity, post-pandemic demand, and the expansion of the middle-class tourism base in emerging markets. Saudi Arabia has been focusing on enhancing global tourism growth through investments, education, youth empowerment, and sustainability, leading to positive economic and societal impacts for the tourism sector.
During the 122nd session of the Executive Council in Cartagena, Colombia, Saudi Arabia officially concluded its two-year presidency. Al-Khateeb called for continued cooperation among Council members to ensure the sustained prosperity of global tourism. He highlighted the broader impact of tourism on sustainable development and job creation, noting that the sector supports 350 million jobs globally and provides economic mobility opportunities, especially for youth, women, and rural communities. Tourism also contributes to cultural exchange and understanding between diverse cultures, with 1.5 billion international tourists expected by the end of 2024.
In a significant development during the session, Al-Khateeb witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Saudi Arabia and Zambia to cooperate in areas such as training, tourism statistics, event organization, and sustainable tourism planning. The Minister also held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Colombia, Zambia, South Africa, and Brazil, reaffirming the commitment to strengthening international cooperation and advancing collective progress in the tourism sector. Under Saudi Arabia’s presidency, the UNWTO has seen significant regional expansion, with the establishment of regional offices in Brazil, Morocco, Uruguay, and Uzbekistan, further enhancing global tourism development and cooperation.
Overall, Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Executive Council of the UNWTO has focused on promoting sustainable tourism growth and fostering international cooperation within the sector. The Kingdom’s efforts have led to positive economic and societal impacts, supporting job creation and economic mobility. As tourism continues to play a vital role in global economic growth, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the sector through investments, education, and sustainability initiatives is crucial for sustaining the prosperity of global tourism. The signing of memorandums of understanding and bilateral meetings with other countries further demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing collective progress in the tourism sector and strengthening international cooperation for a more sustainable and prosperous future for global tourism.
