Tourism and Green Investment Take Center Stage in Riyadh: World Tourism Day 2023

Tourism and Green Investment Take Center Stage in Riyadh: World Tourism Day 2023

By Author

Published on September 29, 2023

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.


PM Modi Announces Adoption of Delhi Declaration at Asia-Pacific Aviation Conference

PM Modi Announces Adoption of Delhi Declaration at Asia-Pacific Aviation Conference

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 16, 2024

The second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, held at Bharat Mandapam, concluded with the formal adoption of the Delhi Declaration, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This landmark initiative seeks to enhance regional cooperation, address emerging challenges, and foster sustainable growth within the civil aviation sector.

The conference saw participation from 29 countries, ministers, policymakers, and representatives from eight international organizations, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the delegates, emphasized India's technological and infrastructural advancements, transforming the nation from an "aviation-exclusive" to an "aviation-inclusive" country over the past decade.

Highlighting the inclusivity of the sector, PM Modi noted that 15% of pilots in India are women—well above the global average of 5%. He outlined plans to further increase this number and underscored the importance of connecting people, cultures, and prosperity through aviation. A noteworthy proposal was the idea of creating an International Buddhist Circuit by linking holy places across Asia, benefiting civil aviation and the region's economies.

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The Delhi Declaration builds on regional air connectivity, sustainable aviation practices, and inclusivity. India's Civil Aviation Minister, K. Rammohan Naidu, stressed the need for sustainable fuel adoption, aiming for 1% blending of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by 2027, increasing to 2% by 2028. Additionally, plans are in place to develop 106 airports and airstrips to boost regional air connectivity.

International civil aviation leaders, including ICAO President Salvatore Sciacchitano, lauded India’s role in aviation safety and security, while Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol highlighted key areas ranging from green aviation to air navigation. Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, including startups and international organizations, to ensure a robust path forward.

The conference also marked ICAO’s 80th anniversary and the Chicago Convention, celebrating decades of international aviation standards. As India aims for 350-400 airports by 2047, the country is poised to become a key player in the global aviation landscape.


Cleartrip Records 150% Growth in Bus Category with High Repeat Bookings

Cleartrip Records 150% Growth in Bus Category with High Repeat Bookings

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 16, 2024

Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, has witnessed an impressive 150% growth in its bus travel category since its launch in April 2023. This growth underscores the increasing demand for affordable and convenient bus travel, particularly from tier 2 cities across India.

Consumer data from Cleartrip highlights that the bus category boasts the highest number of frequent travelers, with 32% of users repeating their bookings within the last three months. In addition, 15% of users have booked at least three times in the same period. The data also reveals that 75% of bus travelers are highly value-conscious, consistently using discount coupons during bookings.

Popular routes with high repeat bookings include Indore-Bhopal, Bengaluru-Hyderabad, Indore-Pune, Chennai-Madurai, and Coimbatore-Bengaluru.

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Cleartrip Introduces "Bus Pass" to Boost Value for Travelers

To capitalize on the surging demand for bus travel, Cleartrip has introduced an industry-first initiative called the “Bus Pass.” Designed to make bus travel more affordable for frequent travelers, the Bus Pass offers cost-effective solutions, enabling customers to save more on their regular journeys.

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Anuj Rathi, Chief Business and Growth Officer at Cleartrip, expressed enthusiasm over the rapid growth in the bus category. He stated, “Over the last year, Cleartrip’s bus category has experienced a remarkable 150% growth, mirroring the booming consumer demand in this category. We are committed to building products powered by in-depth market research, aligning with our customers’ ever-evolving needs. The Cleartrip ‘Bus Pass’ will offer exceptional value and convenience to our user base. We aim to make travel affordable while strengthening our position as a trusted travel partner.”

Cleartrip: A Growing Force in Online Travel

Cleartrip, launched in July 2006, has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing online travel technology companies. With Flipkart acquiring a majority stake in April 2021, Cleartrip has continued to strengthen its foothold in the travel sector. A recent study by VIDEC recognized Cleartrip as the second-largest online travel agency (OTA) in India.

As the demand for bus travel continues to rise, especially in tier 2 cities, Cleartrip is poised to remain a major player in this segment, offering innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.


Desa Potato Head: Where Creativity Meets Sustainability in the Heart of Bali

Desa Potato Head: Where Creativity Meets Sustainability in the Heart of Bali

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 15, 2024

Imagine a place where vibrant creativity meets tropical bliss, where every detail is crafted to elevate your experience while embracing sustainability.

In the heart of Seminyak's creative village, just steps from the sand, Desa Potato Head is more than just a boutique hotel. Here, an ever-evolving vignette reveals modern rooms that sit aside art installations, a buzzy beach club, sound stages and studios, a library and unique concept stores. It's a holistic scene that draws globetrotting creatives, hedonists and sun-kissed locals alike.

Welcome to Desa Potato Head Resort, beach club and creative playground. Inspired by Bali we built a Desa: a creative village that embodies the world we want to live, create, and dream in.

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Spaces That Transform Moments into Memories

Whether you're working, socializing, or celebrating, these versatile venues are crafted to offer unforgettable experiences.

Studio Eksotika

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A multifunctional space offering a co-working centre with a curated selection of architecture, design, art, food and wellness reads. On special occasions, watch the interior transform into a hub for sharing ideas, audiophile sessions, and even late-night dance sessions.

Beach Front Pool Deck

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Overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean, the Beachfront Pool Deck exudes classic tropical charm. With ample space for socialising, from the inviting long bar to cosy table setups and relaxing daybeds, it's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Sunset Park

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An elevated expanse overlooking the ocean on the third floor of Potato Head Studios. Sunset Park has a bar area perfect for large groups seeking a private socialising space.

Klymax

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The newest addition to Potato Head, is a multi-functional venue that offers a diverse program of sonic experiences, including a listening bar, cinema screenings, morning raves, conferences, and mindful sessions. The highlight is the Klymax Discotheque, open every Friday and Saturday, showcasing international and resident DJs with house, disco, and techno dance nights.      
 
Special Features

Comfort, Style & Sustainability in Every Detail

imageEclectic accommodation set: The wide array of studio and suite types offers couples, families, large groups, or friends gathering together with plentiful options to choose from. The beachfront living spaces are a quiet haven offering seclusion to wind down or party in your private accommodation.

imageUltimate Event Destination: The Oceanside Village boasts a diverse selection of venues and event spaces ideal for private rental, catering to a variety of gatherings—from weddings and birthdays to corporate meetings. With a blend of distinctive indoor and outdoor options such as the Amphitheatre, Nightclub, Beach Club, Library, and several outdoor venues, guests can bask in the enchanting sunset while enjoying their event.

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Commitment to sustainability: A firm belief in sustainability is ingrained in the hotel's DNA with a focus on planet-positive practices like a strict no single-use plastic policy, its own water filtration system, composting organic waste, recycling, zero waste policy and more. In its journey towards zero-waste, the hotel has reduced the amount of garbage going to landfills by 90% as compared to when it first opened, twelve years ago.

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The Beach Club: As a guest, you have free access to an array of amenities: two infinity pools, locally-accented eats & drinks and a sun-drenched soundtrack fuelled by our favourite DJs & musicians from across the globe.Variety of art installations including the famous 5000 Lost Soles. A large-scale installation constructed from over 5,000 plastic flip-flop sandals salvaged from the beaches of Bali with a powerful message: "Everything we throw away comes back to us—via the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil we grow."

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Library - The extensive in-house library features over 500 hand-picked titles covering a wide range of subjects, including music, art, fashion, architecture, well-being, philosophy and local Balinese culture.

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In-room cocktail bar - In all Suites and the Oceanfront Studio and Residence Studio only, a built-in ice well, custom cocktail tools, house-infused spirits, natural syrups, aromatic bitters, fresh fruit, and a recipe book from award-winning mixologist Dre Masso.

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