Friday, May 23, 2025
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Global Tourism Forum
In an effort to further solidify its position as a leading player in the global tourism landscape, Saudi Arabia is preparing to launch a groundbreaking global event for the tourism industry. This announcement was made during a significant gathering in Riyadh, where Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb emphasized the need for a global platform to better understand trends and set priorities within the rapidly expanding sector. The tourism industry is already a major force in the global economy, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimating that it will contribute a staggering $11.7 trillion to global GDP in 2025. Additionally, the sector is projected to support a remarkable 371 million jobs across the globe, making it an essential driver of economic growth and employment.
Despite the sector’s massive scale and importance, Al Khateeb pointed out that there is currently a lack of a dedicated global forum where industry professionals can meet, analyze trends, and establish priorities. This gap is the driving force behind the launch of TOURISE, a new event that Saudi Arabia hopes will become the tourism sector’s equivalent of global gatherings such as Davos or the Future Investment Initiative (FII). The event will bring together industry leaders, experts in technology, investment, and sustainability, providing a unique platform for collaboration and innovation.
TOURISE: A New Era for Tourism Leadership
The inaugural edition of TOURISE will take place in November in Riyadh, coinciding with the UN Tourism General Assembly, a perfect opportunity to engage the global community in discussions on the future of tourism. According to Al Khateeb, the event is not just about discussing the present but is also aimed at creating a long-term vision for the industry, especially given the challenges posed by climate change, technological disruption, and shifting travel habits.
TOURISE is poised to become a pivotal gathering for all aspects of tourism, from sustainability and green investments to cutting-edge technology in travel. It aims to facilitate an environment where both public and private sectors can come together to exchange knowledge, form strategic alliances, and discuss best practices in the tourism and hospitality industries. This move aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil and position the country as a global tourism hub.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision for a Booming Tourism Sector
Saudi Arabia’s plans to transform its tourism sector are ambitious but grounded in reality. The country is already seeing substantial growth in this sector, which has become the second-largest industry in the kingdom after oil. As part of its diversification efforts, the government is focusing on attracting both leisure and business travelers through initiatives like NEOM, Red Sea tourism projects, and the development of new luxury resorts.
Al Khateeb’s statements reflected the kingdom’s clear goals for the tourism industry, which is projected to generate 447 billion Saudi riyals (approximately $122 billion) in 2025, according to the WTTC. The sheer scale of these projections highlights the tremendous potential that Saudi Arabia sees in the sector. These numbers further underscore why the kingdom has become so focused on diversifying its economy through tourism. The 2030 target of welcoming 100 million visitors annually has already been surpassed, signaling that Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world.
Impact on the Global Travel Industry
The global tourism industry has experienced a paradigm shift in recent years, driven by changing traveler preferences, advancements in technology, and heightened concerns about sustainability. As such, the launch of TOURISE is expected to have a significant impact not only on the Middle East but on the entire global tourism ecosystem. The event will allow industry leaders to discuss emerging trends, such as the increased demand for eco-tourism, sustainable travel, and digital innovations in the tourism space.
One of the core focuses of the event will be sustainability, an area where the tourism industry has been under increasing scrutiny. The rise of conscious consumerism and eco-friendly travel practices means that businesses and governments alike need to rethink the ways in which they approach tourism. In particular, Saudi Arabia’s investment in sustainable tourism initiatives, such as the Red Sea Project and NEOM, will serve as a model for other nations looking to balance growth with environmental responsibility.
TOURISE will also provide a unique opportunity to explore technology‘s growing role in reshaping the tourism industry. From artificial intelligence and big data to virtual reality and blockchain, technological innovation is revolutionizing how tourists plan, book, and experience travel. By bringing together experts in technology, investment, and tourism, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leading force in driving these innovations forward.
Riyadh’s Rising Role on the Global Tourism Map
In addition to the TOURISE event, Riyadh has rapidly become an important destination for global travelers. With its modern infrastructure, luxurious hotels, and cultural offerings, the capital city is increasingly being recognized as a hub for international business and tourism. Hosting a prestigious event like TOURISE not only enhances Riyadh’s reputation but also elevates Saudi Arabia’s standing in the global tourism arena.
The timing of TOURISE is critical, given the rising interest in the Middle East as a prime tourism destination. From historical sites like Al-Ula to modern projects like the NEOM city, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leading destination for both cultural and contemporary travelers. The kingdom’s aggressive push to develop and promote tourism will be a significant factor in reshaping global tourism trends over the coming years.
Global Implications for Travelers
The TOURISE event and Saudi Arabia’s larger tourism strategy will have profound implications for travelers worldwide. For one, it could lead to greater investment in tourism infrastructure, making travel to Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East more accessible. Increased flights, better accommodations, and more attractions could all contribute to an improved travel experience for international visitors.
Moreover, the focus on sustainability and technology will likely inspire tourism businesses globally to adopt more eco-friendly practices and innovative technologies, enriching the travel experience and making it more sustainable in the long run. Travelers will have more options for responsible travel and be encouraged to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in emerging markets like Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Tourism Excellence
In conclusion, the launch of TOURISE marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish itself as a global leader in tourism. By hosting a world-class event that brings together thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its commitment to the sustainable development of the tourism industry. As the kingdom continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, there is no doubt that it will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the global tourism landscape. With its ambitious plans, strategic investments, and forward-thinking approach, Saudi Arabia is on track to become one of the world’s most dynamic tourism destinations.
