Today, the global community celebrates World Tourism Day, an annual event established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to spotlight the transformative power of tourism in bridging cultures and fostering sustainable development. While the UNWTO officially introduced the observance in 1979, it began being celebrated globally from 1980 onwards. This year, the theme of World Tourism Day is ‘Tourism and green investment,’ emphasizing the necessity for targeted investments that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations’ vision for a better world by 2030.
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably disrupted the tourism sector, but it also presents an opportunity to reshape tourism investments for a more sustainable future. As the UNWTO states, this moment allows for a recalibration of the industry’s direction and narratives toward a more harmonious world that safeguards cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and mutual understanding.
“In the face of the pandemic, the global tourism workforce will require millions of hospitality graduates annually between now and 2030, and a further 800,000 jobs a year will require specific vocational training,” notes the UNWTO. Therefore, investing in people is crucial, ensuring equal access to quality tourism training worldwide.
As Saudi Arabia currently holds the chair of the UNWTO Executive Council, more than 500 government officials and industry leaders from 120 countries are gathering in Riyadh from September 27 to 28 for the World Tourism Day 2023 celebration. Saudi Arabia’s role highlights its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and green investments in the sector.
Tourism serves as a powerful catalyst for mutual understanding, building bridges between cultures and nations, and promoting digitalization and innovation. It contributes to a more harmonious world and offers a platform for people to explore history, luxury, heritage, diverse cultures, unique places, and thrilling adventures.
In summary, World Tourism Day 2023 is a momentous occasion for the global community to come together and celebrate the tourism sector’s successes following the challenges posed by COVID-19. It underscores the importance of investing in sustainable tourism practices and fostering a future that benefits both people and the planet.
News Summary:
- World Tourism Day 2023, established by the UNWTO, highlights the transformative power of tourism and its role in bridging cultures.
- This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and green investment,’ underscores the need for sustainable investments aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- The COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to reshape tourism investments for a more harmonious world, focusing on cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and mutual understanding.
- Saudi Arabia, as the chair of the UNWTO Executive Council, hosts over 500 officials and industry leaders from 120 countries in Riyadh for the celebration.
- Tourism promotes mutual understanding, bridges cultures, and encourages digitalization and innovation while offering opportunities for exploration and adventure.
