At this week’s World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, the critical role of tourism in enhancing economic diversification will be a major focus. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, will be a key participant at the WEF as a member of the delegation led by Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Minister Al-Khateeb will spearhead discussions emphasizing the vital contribution of travel and tourism to economic vitality.

“The Travel and Tourism sector is a cornerstone of global economies and, as we convene in Davos for the WEF Annual Meeting 2025, acknowledging the importance of the sector in discussions is vital,” His Excellency said.

“I am honored to be invited to the WEF Annual Meeting and underscore tourism’s potential as a catalyst for inclusive global economic transformation through sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. Saudi Arabia remains committed to strengthening international cooperation and promoting sustainable growth in tourism.”

In partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Tourism and guided by insights from Minister Al-Khateeb, the WEF has published a briefing paper titled “The Future of Travel and Tourism: Embracing Sustainable and Inclusive Growth.” This document delves into the transformative trends within the sector, the readiness of destinations, and the necessity for cooperation across various sectors. This briefing paper will frame the dialogue on travel and tourism throughout the WEF Annual Meeting, featuring livestreamed discussions on:

• The role of Travel and Tourism in Establishing Trust; Tuesday, January 21, 9am CET
• Expanding Sustainable Tourism: Connecting People and Places; Tuesday, January 21, 4.40pm CET
• Future Travel Trends; Wednesday, January 22, 11.30am CET

Saudi Arabia has also unveiled an Investor White Paper as part of its Vision 2030 initiatives, which are reshaping the country’s tourism industry. The document showcases the advanced tourism infrastructure development, the increasing influx of international tourists, and the distinctive cultural experiences offered. Achieving more than 100 million tourist visits in 2023, Saudi Arabia is on track to become a leading global tourism destination, strategically positioned within a six-hour flight from 40% of the global population.

The 2025 WEF Annual Meeting in Davos is set to be a landmark event for global tourism, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building cross-sector partnerships and utilizing tourism as a driver of economic expansion. Minister Al-Khateeb’s involvement is expected to foster new partnerships and initiatives that will utilize tourism as a catalyst for worldwide economic progress. The Kingdom is dedicated to promoting a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving future for the tourism sector, ensuring continued growth and innovation.

Furthermore, Minister Al-Khateeb will participate in discussions focused on driving Africa’s development through investment, the influence of women leaders in the global economy, and strategies for scaling sustainable tourism, engaging with top leaders from both private and public sectors.

The post Saudi Arabia’s Ahmed Al-Khateeb to Spearhead Global Tourism Talks at World Economic Forum in Davos, Here is What You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.