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Saudi Arabia emerging as a global hub of tourism and women empowerment

Dec 05,2024
Travel and Tour World

Speaking at the 122nd UNWTO Executive Council Meeting in Colombia, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia highlighted key initiatives and achievements that are shaping Saudi Arabia into a global tourism powerhouse. Unlocking Saudi Tourism Potential Saudi Arabia unveiled its National Tourism Strategy in 2019, aiming to diversify the economy beyond oil and petrochemicals. “We are investing $100 million in training 100,000 young Saudis, with 50% being women,” said Al-Khateeb. This initiative prepares youth for roles in tourism, fostering careers in hospitality, travel, and entertainment. Programs like the Riyadh School of Hospitality and international scholarships to top institutions are central to this effort. Women at the Forefront of Tourism Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in empowering women, with over 100,000 women entering the tourism workforce since 2019. “Women are passionate, skilled, and enthusiastic to share Saudi Arabia’s story with the world,” Al-Khateeb noted. Initiatives to enhance women’s participation include vocational training, wage increases, and roles in the growing Red Sea resorts and NEOM developments.