Riyadh, September 27, 2023 – Riyadh, the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia, hosted World Tourism Day 2023, centred around the theme "Tourism and Green Investment." Over 500 government officials, tourism leaders, and experts from 120 countries convened to champion growth, sustainability, and global cooperation in tourism.

Minister of Tourism, Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khateeb, delivered an impassioned speech, underlining Riyadh's pivotal role as the host. Tourism, a cornerstone of the world economy, employs one in every ten individuals globally and contributes significantly to countless livelihoods. In some countries, it makes up over 20% of GDP.

Minister Al-Khateeb illuminated the astonishing growth of the tourism sector. In 1970, tourism and global travel accounted for less than 3% of the global GDP. Today, as the sector rebounds vigorously from COVID-19, it is on track to represent 10% of the world's GDP. Passenger numbers surged from 118 million in the 1970s to a staggering 1.5 billion in 2019, marking a phenomenal 700% increase.

Cooperation emerged as a central theme. Minister Al-Khateeb emphasised the importance of nations collaborating to ensure balanced growth in tourism. By uniting regionally and globally, countries can double opportunities in the sector while fostering connections between nations and sectors.

Saudi Arabia, under the government's guidance, has embraced international investments in tourism, enabling the private sector to access global capital for world-class facilities.

World Tourism Day's expert panels explored key priorities, including education, destination diversification, innovation, and green transformation. UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili and Saudi Minister of Tourism Al Khateeb announced the establishment of the Riyadh School for Tourism and Hospitality, bridging skills gaps.

The event also celebrated the winners of the Women in Tech Start-Up Competition, spotlighting women-led enterprises poised for tourism development. Under the theme "Tourism & Green Investments," UNWTO stressed the significance of investments for tourism's recovery and expansion, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals—prioritising economic growth, environmental sustainability, and inclusive prosperity.

In 2023, UNWTO's theme "Tourism and Green Investment" advocates for innovative, planet-friendly solutions that drive economic growth.World Tourism Day isn't just a celebration; it's an opportunity to spotlight tourism's transformative potential. Bali's tourism representatives led this year's event, reinforcing global commitment to advancing sustainable tourism.

Speech Excerpts from UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili and UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General, UNWTO:

"Tourism is a pillar of our economies, offering solutions to some of our biggest challenges, including the climate emergency. It is not a force that can be taken for granted but must be supported, above all with investment. This year's theme of 'Tourism and Green Investments' couldn't be more timely. We need to make it easier for investors to support sustainable tourism projects."

António Guterres, Secretary-General, UN:

"Tourism is a powerful force for progress and mutual understanding, but it must be protected and nurtured. The climate emergency threatens many travel destinations. On this World Tourism Day, we recognize the vital need for green investments to build a tourism sector that delivers for people and the planet. We must invest in sustainable and resilient tourism practices, adopt zero-emission pathways, protect biodiversity, and empower communities."

These excerpts capture the essence of their speeches, emphasising the critical role of green investments in ensuring sustainable tourism and addressing global challenges such as climate change.