JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia joined countries worldwide in celebrating World Tourism Day, observed annually on Sept. 27.
The day aims to raise global awareness about the tourism sector’s significant economic, social, cultural, and political value, and its role in supporting sustainable development through various events and initiatives.
Tourism acts as a powerful soft power, capable of reshaping economies and societies by expanding job opportunities, developing infrastructure, and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The Kingdom has prioritized this sector within the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, investing heavily to promote comprehensive development, enhance the culture of travel, and open up broad horizons for global visitors.
Recently, a UN tourism official said that rich natural and cultural assets mean Saudi Arabia had strong potential to become a leading destination for wellness tourism in the Middle East.
Tourism provides communities across the planet with their livelihoods. The worldwide tourism industry was worth $10.9 trillion in 2024, or 10 percent of the global economy, and is projected to contribute $11.7 trillion in 2025, supporting 357 million jobs in 2024 and an estimated 371 million in 2025.
