Al-Khateeb highlights plans to host more than 70 million international tourists by 2030

Al-Khateeb highlights plans to host more than 70 million international tourists by 2030

NEW YORK — The Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb stated that Saudi Arabia successfully welcomed over 27 million international tourists in 2023, highlighting ongoing efforts to develop plans and strategies to host more than 70 million international tourists by 2030.Al-Khateeb, also the chairman of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), made this statement in a speech in the UN General Assembly Sustainability Week at the UN headquarters in New York City. He is also leading the Saudi delegation participating in the event.UNGA President Dennis Francis and UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili are also attending the event.During the opening session, the minister highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts over the past two years, serving as the chair of the Executive Council of the UNWTO, to enhance the representation of the travel and tourism sector in international forums.Al-Khateeb also indicated that this support has contributed to launching initiatives in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, such as the Best Tourism Villages award, the Tourism Open Minds initiative, and the formation of a team to redesign the future of tourism.Moreover, he noted that Saudi Arabia’s efforts have led to the inclusion of the tourism sector in the agenda of the