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In the wake of the global pandemic’s gradual subsidence, the tourism industry is primed for a resounding resurgence. Wego reports that this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD), organized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, is set to be an exceptional assembly marking its 43-year milestone. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has been chosen as the host city, symbolizing the sector’s remarkable rebound in the face of formidable challenges.

Tourism and Green Investments

The focal point of this year’s WTD is the theme ‘Tourism and Green Investments’. This theme accentuates the tourism industry’s potential to propel sustainable development, foster job creation, and fortify economic resilience. It also underscores the imperative for targeted investments in environmentally conscious initiatives within the sector.

Green tourism: A rising trend

Indeed, the burgeoning trend of green tourism is gaining momentum within the industry. Travel enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly experiences that minimize their environmental footprint while making positive contributions to local communities. Investments in green tourism are positioned to meet these evolving preferences, advocating sustainable practices such as robust waste management, heightened energy efficiency, and steadfast conservation efforts.

Keynote speakers

His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, stands as one of the distinguished keynote speakers at the event. His address will underscore the pivotal role of green investments in tourism, elucidating their potential to underpin sustainable development and bolster economic fortitude.

The event will further benefit from insights provided by leaders and experts hailing from Spain, Turkey, Croatia, and South Africa. Julia Simpson, the Chief Executive Officer of the World Travel & Tourism Council, and Pierfrancesco Vago, Chief Executive Officer of MSC Cruises, are slated to offer their perspectives on the role of green investments within the tourism sector.

Digital nomadism: A new frontier

Another pivotal force reshaping the tourism landscape is the phenomenon of digital nomadism. With remote work gaining ever-increasing popularity, a growing number of individuals are seeking opportunities that enable them to work while exploring diverse corners of the world. Green investments are positioned to support this trend by cultivating infrastructure tailored to the needs of digital nomads, all while upholding principles of sustainability.

Shaping a sustainable future

In summation, WTD 2023 holds the promise of sculpting a sustainable and prosperous future for the tourism industry, anchored firmly in the theme ‘Tourism and Green Investments’. It seeks to explore the manifold ways in which these investments can underpin trends such as green tourism and digital nomadism, thereby shaping a more inclusive and ecologically conscious terrain for the tourism sector.