UNWTO Recognizes Abo Noghta Castles, Tabab among World’s Best Tourism Villages
The UN Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced the world’s best tourism villages for 2024, with Abo Noghta Castles and Historic Tabab in Aseer Region topping the list.
The UNWTO made the announcement during a ceremony in Cartagena, Colombia, attended by the Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, and an array of global tourism leaders, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Global Recognition
On this occasion, Al-Khateeb expressed his pleasure for the inclusion of Abo Noghta Castles in the UNWTO list, noting that this recognition underscores the historical significance and archeological diversity of Saudi Arabia’s various destinations.
Abo Noghta Castles in Historical Tabab among the #BestTourismVillages2024 by #UNTourism pic.twitter.com/t30hyjFagS
— وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) November 15, 2024
Moreover, the Saudi Minister said that the inclusion of Abo Noghta Castles among the world’s best tourism villages reflect the site’s rich history and cultural heritage that date back centuries ago. He added that the Tourism Ministry has supported the nomination of the site, in cooperation with other government agencies, as part of its efforts to highlight the Kingdom’s rural heritage on the global stage.
Furthermore, Al-Khateeb pointed out that this milestone bolsters Saudi Arabia’s efforts to position itself as a global tourist destination that boasts natural, historical, and cultural diversity.
During the ceremony, the Chairman of Abo Noghta Castles, Saeed bin Saud Abu Nuqta Al-Mutahami, received a commemorative gift to mark this achievement.
The Power of Tourism
The UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, said: “The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism.”
He added: “By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents. We celebrate the villages that have embraced tourism as a pathway to empowerment and community well-being, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to a brighter future for all.”
Abo Noghta Castles
The Abo Noghta Castles are located in the Historic Tabab town in Aseer Region. They include 6 forts and palaces made from mountain rocky stones. The structure has a unique architectural style that showcases Aseer’s authentic heritage, with white marble-trimmed windows and edges. The site also boasts a captivating landscape, overlooking the banks of the green Tabab Valley.
The Tabab town, located 25 kilometers northwest of Abha, is a prominent tourist and cultural hub in Aseer, with a multitude of ancient castles, palaces and mosques which attract a large number of visitors.
