Diriyah Recognised Among Global Eco-Friendly Destinations For 2025 By Wanderlust

Diriyah has been recognised as one of the Global Eco-Friendly Destinations for 2025 by Wanderlust, a British travel platform. This annual recognition highlights destinations committed to sustainable tourism. The nomination was a collaborative effort between the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, showcasing Diriyah’s initiatives in environmental, cultural, and tourism sustainability.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasised that Diriyah's selection reflects Saudi Arabia's growing dedication to sustainable tourism. "This recognition is a testament to our strategy of empowering local partners and showcasing national destinations in international markets," he stated. "It further solidifies Saudi Arabia’s position on the global tourism map as the fastest-growing destination in the world."

The Kingdom's expanding presence in global tourism is driven by Vision 2030. This initiative aims to diversify the economy and enhance various sectors, including tourism. The Saudi Tourism Authority continues to support its partners across the tourism ecosystem, aligning efforts to meet ambitious national targets.

Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, expressed pride in this achievement. He noted: "This international recognition highlights Diriyah’s role as the cradle of the Saudi state and our dedication to preserving its heritage while applying the highest environmental and cultural sustainability standards." He also acknowledged the importance of collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority in promoting Saudi destinations globally.

In 2024, approximately 116 million visitors were welcomed by Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom remains on track to achieve its goal of hosting 150 million visitors by 2030. This growth is supported by significant infrastructure investments and vibrant tourism seasons featuring hundreds of immersive experiences and partnership opportunities.

The recognition from Wanderlust reaffirms Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability in tourism. It underscores efforts made under Vision 2030 to enhance cultural preservation while promoting eco-friendly practices. These initiatives are crucial for positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourist destination.

With inputs from SPA