Diriyah, October 19, 2023, In a significant step toward global tourism collaboration and the advancement of Saudi Arabia's tourism sector, Diriyah Company has officially joined the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as an affiliate member. This affiliation underscores Diriyah Company's dedication to promoting sustainable tourism practices and its role in fostering the growth of the global tourism industry.
At the heart of this development is the renowned Diriyah Project, a flagship initiative within Vision 2030, central to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's transformation agenda. With a substantial investment of US$63.2 billion and a projected contribution of around US$18.6 billion to the Kingdom's GDP, the project aims to create 178,000 direct jobs and attract 50 million annual visitors by 2030.
Affiliate members like Diriyah Company play a vital role within the UNWTO, contributing to the organization's vision of a more sustainable, innovative, and collaborative global tourism sector, aligning perfectly with the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. Their commitment to shaping the future of tourism perfectly complements Diriyah Company's vision of establishing a world-renowned cultural and historical destination.
Under the guidance of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Vision 2030 initiative, Diriyah is dedicated to achieving sustainable development, economic diversification, and social progress. The giga-project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, focusing primarily on urban regeneration and sustainable development in Diriyah. As one of Saudi Arabia's pioneering giga-projects, Diriyah plays a pivotal role in realizing Vision 2030's ambitious goal of increasing tourism's contribution to the Kingdom's GDP from 3.2% to 10% by the end of the decade.
Saudi Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Ahmed Al Khateeb, emphasized the role of tourism in connecting people, cultures, and economies. He described Diriyah's affiliation with the UNWTO as a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia's commitment to global tourism collaboration and recognized Diriyah's transformative impact on sustainable tourism and the growth of the global tourism community.
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, expressed immense pride in becoming a UNWTO affiliate member, highlighting their dedication to responsible and sustainable tourism. He stressed the importance of sharing Diriyah's heritage and culture on the global stage to create unforgettable experiences for travelers and make a positive global impact.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili commended Diriyah's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism, emphasizing its alignment with the UNWTO's mission. This partnership exemplifies Saudi Arabia's dedication to making tourism a force for positive change globally.
As an affiliate member, Diriyah Company will actively collaborate with the UNWTO and its global network, sharing insights and supporting the mission of using tourism as a force for positive change worldwide. This partnership is set to enhance cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and sustainable tourism efforts initiated by Diriyah Company.
The collaboration will also facilitate discussions on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity within the tourism sector, aligning with Diriyah Company's ongoing efforts to transform the historic city of Diriyah into a vibrant tourist destination. Diriyah Company's affiliation with the UNWTO underscores Saudi Arabia's shared global commitment to advancing the tourism industry, promoting responsible travel, and preserving the world's cultural and historical heritage.
