KSA Re-elected to Chair Executive Council of UNWTO
Saudi Arabia has been re-elected as the chair of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the year 2024 during the 120th session held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Triumphant Past Endeavors
Ahmad Al Khateeb, the Minister of Tourism and the Chair of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organization, reminisced about the prosperous tenure in 2023 filled with initiatives fostering partnership, innovation, and progress.
He emphasized the shared vision, collaboration, and steadfast commitment among all members of the organization.
Highlighting the ambitions for 2024, Al Khateeb stressed on continuing their leadership role to build a resilient tourism sector, echoing the hopes and aspirations of all member countries.
The focus is on ensuring the sustainability of the tourism sector which facilitates economic exchange, cultural understanding, and humanitarian closeness globally.
Unwavering Support for Tourism
The limitless support from the Kingdom’s leadership not only encompasses domestic interests but extends to significant international initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development.
The establishment of the Global Center for Sustainable Tourism, announced by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud during the Saudi Green Initiative in October 2021, is a prime example.
This center aims to cater to the needs of the entire sector, including multinational corporations and small to medium enterprises, which constitute 80% of the sector.
Saudi Arabia’s role in reimagining the tourism sector was exemplified through the co-creation of a task force dedicated to redesigning tourism for the future, in collaboration with Spain.
This initiative seeks to empower the World Tourism Organization to better meet the vital needs of the tourism sector, focusing on promoting sustainable and responsible tourism globally.
Hosting International Events
Continuing its active role in global tourism, the Kingdom is set to host the 26th session of the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization in 2025, marking a historic first for the Middle East region.
This event underscores Saudi Arabia’s position on the global tourism stage and its efforts in promoting sustainable tourism and inclusive global development.
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