Saudi Arabia Highlights Sustainable Tourism At G20 Ministerial Meeting In South Africa

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its Ministry of Tourism, took part in the G20 Tourism Ministerial Meeting and Tourism Investment Summit. These events were held for the first time in Mpumalanga and Cape Town, South Africa. This participation underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to sustainable tourism and its leadership role globally.

Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa bint Mohammed represented Saudi Arabia at the meeting. She emphasised the country's significant influence in shaping tourism's future. "Saudi Arabia shares and celebrates the G20's commitment to advancing tourism growth and embedding sustainability at the heart of our efforts. The lesson from South Africa and Saudi Arabia is clear: lasting transformation happens when we share ideas and build together. This is why we created TOURISE, the first-ever global platform for action, year-round collaboration, and meaningful impact. We invite the world to join us this November to design and deliver the future of tourism in partnership," she stated.

The Kingdom continues to play a leading role on the global stage. Through its participation in the G20 Tourism Ministerial Meeting as a permanent member, Saudi Arabia helped shape the final ministerial declaration, ensuring that priorities such as sustainability, digital transformation, inclusivity, and skills development are reflected in global tourism policy.

Princess Haifa also highlighted how tourism can transform lives and economies. "Tourism has the power to change lives, transform economies, and bring the world closer together. Through Saudi Vision 2030, we are demonstrating that tourism is not only a driver of economic prosperity but also a catalyst for inclusive social progress. But this potential can only be realized if we act boldly and collaboratively," she added.

The vice minister hosted a TOURISE-sponsored ministerial dinner on behalf of Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb. Delegates were invited to participate in TOURISE, which brings together leaders from public and private sectors to create a new global tourism agenda for future decades.

Saudi Arabia remains a key driver of global tourism growth. The Kingdom's tourism sector is among the fastest growing worldwide. In 2024, it welcomed 116 million domestic and inbound visitors—a 6% increase over 2023—exceeding its target of 100 million annual visitors by 2030 for two consecutive years.

Strategic Partnerships

This growth is supported by major investments in destinations, flight routes, airport capacity, and world-class tourism infrastructure. Projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and Diriyah are pivotal in positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for tourism innovation.

The Kingdom continues to strengthen its position in the global tourism sector through sustainable development, empowering national talents, and enhancing international cooperation. Through strategic partnerships with prominent global organizations, Saudi Arabia is establishing new standards for a more resilient and inclusive tourism sector.

These efforts ensure long-term economic and social impact both locally and globally by offering opportunities across hospitality, cultural heritage, entertainment, and sports tourism.

With inputs from SPA