Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, who also chairs the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), led the Kingdom’s delegation at the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting held in Belem, Brazil.
The event, held under the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,” brought together global tourism leaders to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism growth. In his address, Minister Al-Khateeb highlighted the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to transform its rapidly expanding tourism sector into a sustainable industry that fosters cultural exchange and strengthens global ties. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s dedication to improving tourism connectivity and sustainability, a focus area during the Kingdom’s presidency of the G20 in 2020.
Al-Khateeb emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s progress in tourism extends beyond mere economic benefits, offering an opportunity for people from across the world to experience the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage while also
allowing Saudis to explore global wonders.
The high-level event in Belem featured participation from G20 member states and representatives from 32 other countries and international organizations. The ministers focused on finalizing the G20 Tourism Working Group’s report, which outlines collective efforts to promote sustainable, balanced growth in global tourism.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Al-Khateeb held discussions with key tourism leaders, including ministers from Brazil, Italy, India, Spain, and Japan, as well as the UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, and World Travel and Tourism Council President and CEO, Julia Simpson.
The Saudi Tourism Minister also engaged in a dialogue with public and private sector representatives organized by the World Travel and Tourism Council. This discussion coincided with the release of a joint report analyzing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global tourism sector, particularly in job creation, focusing on opportunities for youth and women.
As
part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia has prioritized environmentally-friendly tourism development projects, including flagship ventures in Diriyah and NEOM. The Kingdom has also established the Sustainable Tourism Global Center, an international body dedicated to tracking and supporting sustainability efforts within the global tourism sector.
Al-Khateeb’s participation in the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting comes on the heels of significant achievements in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. The Kingdom surpassed its goal of receiving 100 million tourists by 2030, achieving this milestone seven years ahead of schedule. This success is attributed to initiatives such as adding new air routes, expanding airports, and launching an electronic visa system, which streamlines access for international visitors.
Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in global tourism was underscored by its recent recognition as the fastest-growing tourist destination among G20 countries. International tourist arrivals i
n the Kingdom surged by over 121% compared to pre-pandemic levels, and the sector created 925,000 jobs last year, with 45% of these positions filled by women.
Source: Saudi Press Agency