#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #World Economic Forum #Beyond Tourism

Beyond Tourism Initiative: A New Era for Global Travel

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with the World Economic Forum, has officially launched the 'Beyond Tourism' initiative. This remarkable multisectoral initiative aims to not only transform the global tourism industry but to do so in a way that emphasizes sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. Announced during the TOURISE platform meeting—an event that gathers global leaders from both public and private sectors to shape the future of tourism—the initiative sets an ambitious agenda for stakeholders around the globe.

The Vision Behind Beyond Tourism

Saudi Arabia, under the guidance of Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb, aims to position itself as a leader in creating a more integrated and valuable tourism ecosystem. The 'Beyond Tourism' initiative is built on ten core principles designed to ensure that tourism growth translates into meaningful benefits for communities, businesses, and visitors alike.

Minister Al-Khateeb emphasized that this collaboration demonstrates a shared belief among the partners that solutions for tourism also serve broader humanitarian objectives—those that foster understanding, create opportunities, and promote the resilience of future generations.

The Ten Guiding Principles

At the heart of the 'Beyond Tourism' initiative are ten guiding principles that will shape the future of tourism:
1. Align market opportunities with local strengths and values.
2. Facilitate responsible decision-making for continuously evolving travelers.
3. Boost local businesses and economies.
4. Invest in a future-ready workforce.
5. Develop infrastructure that benefits all stakeholders.
6. Balance demand with local capacity.
7. Promote cultural heritage and community connection.
8. Revitalize and protect natural ecosystems.
9. Strengthen the resilience of ecosystems.
10. Utilize data and technology responsibly.

These principles aim to create not just a system for economic growth but a holistic approach addressing environmental and societal needs. Each principle is designed to ensure that tourism becomes a cornerstone for sustainable development.

Collaborating for Impact

To realize the objectives of 'Beyond Tourism', a global coalition of leaders has been formed to identify and implement pilot projects in key regions around the world. Over the next three years, the Ministry of Tourism, alongside the World Economic Forum, will focus on building a diverse community, developing practical tools, and testing sustainable tourism models. This initiative requires collaboration among different nations and organizations, asserting that the future of tourism will not depend solely on one country or organization but on our collective ability to listen, innovate, and act decisively.

A Commitment to Sustainability

The launch of 'Beyond Tourism' is aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which positions tourism as a vital driver for economic diversification, job creation, and cultural exchange. The Kingdom has already welcomed over 116 million visitors since the inception of Vision 2030, with a goal of reaching 150 million by 2030. The participative approach championed by this new initiative encourages the understanding that tourism is both a bridge connecting various cultures and an opportunity generator that strengthens communities.

Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum, reinforced this vision by stating, “Tourism is a bridge that connects cultures and strengthens communities. By working together, the 'Beyond Tourism' initiative will unlock the sector's full potential, driving quality jobs and vibrant places while nurturing our natural environment.”

The Future of Travel

The 'Beyond Tourism' initiative sets a global agenda for travel that is more connected, inclusive, and sustainable. This ambitious plan reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering international collaboration, ensuring that the tourism sector produces long-lasting benefits for both people and the planet. As the world navigates the complexities of the post-pandemic era, initiatives like this stand as a beacon of hope for a more responsible and resilient tourism industry.

Conclusion

As we look into the future, 'Beyond Tourism' symbolizes a pivotal shift in how we perceive and engage with the travel industry. Through collective action and innovative thinking, it promises a brighter and more sustainable future for global tourism that aligns with the values of communities and the health of our planet. This initiative is not merely about tourism; it’s a commitment to humanity, ensuring that as we travel, we also care for the world we explore.