Global tourism sector is forecast to reach USD 9.5 trillion in 2023, says WTTC
Leaders of travel and tourism industry from around the world are expected to converge at Riyadh in Saudi Arabia to celebrate the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) World Tourism Day (WTD) 2023, which will be observed on September 27 and 28.
According to a press statement by the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, the day will examine the role of investment in people and planet to secure livelihoods and foster mutual understanding, under the theme of ‘Tourism and Green Investments’. It will also explore opportunities to extend the reach of the industry’s economic and social impact to more people around the world, safeguarding prosperity for all.
The ministry says that through a range of impactful events, participating global ministers, industry leaders and experts will highlight the power of tourism in the summit. It will also introspect avenues for collaboration to foster growth of the sector, placing people, the planet and prosperity front and centre of proceedings.
The statement says that global tourism sector is forecast to reach USD 9.5 trillion in 2023, as per World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which aligns with UNWTO’s forecast that tourism remains well on track to reach 80- 95 pc of pre-pandemic levels this year and is widely expected to exceed 2019 levels in 2024.
The ministry says that tourism is one of the biggest economic drivers of the global economy. It is responsible for a wealth of business and employment opportunities, while also playing a key role in bridging cultures, connecting people and enhancing mutual understanding.
Zurab Pololikashvili
The statement adds that reflective of the sector’s potential as a key driver for change, three themes will guide proceedings of the event, including mutual understanding, economic sustainability, and social prosperity.
“This World Tourism Day, we focus on the vital need to invest in building a more sustainable sector for people, planet and prosperity. The day also makes clear why UNWTO underscores the need for investment in education and for greater innovation as the foundations for long-term growth and transformation. This year’s official celebration in Saudi Arabia reflects how tourism is being embraced to diversify economies and generate opportunities for all,” says Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO.
Ahmed Al-Khateeb
“We have a historic opportunity to chart a new course for the global tourism sector, centred on sustainable development, job creation, and economic resilience. Tourism, as a catalyst for change, fosters mutual understanding, builds bridges and safeguards cultural heritage and environmental conservation, contributing to a more harmonious world,” says Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia.
The ministry adds that Saudi Arabia aims to showcase its progress in connecting Saudis with the world, building bridges between cultures, nurturing hospitality talent, and creating investment opportunities for the international community through this event, which it says shows its dedication as a tourism sector convenor.
It adds that the scale of the event being hosted in Riyadh showcases the importance attached by the Saudi Arabian government to the development of the global tourism sector, and follows the Kingdom’s election to Chair of the UNWTO for 2023. Event participants will also attend a gala dinner in Riyadh’s UNESCO Heritage site, Diriyah, to celebrate WTD and its global significance.
“World Tourism Day 2023 is an important platform for the world to celebrate the sector’s successes and explore solutions to its challenges. Saudi Arabia is honoured to host this esteemed occasion and we look forward to welcoming tourism leaders from the public and private sectors to Riyadh,” adds Al-Khateeb.
