Navigating tourism growth in collaboration with developing regions worldwide
In an exciting development for the global tourism industry, Shaikha Al Nowais has been appointed as the incoming Secretary General of the United Nations' World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). This marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first Emirati to hold this prestigious role.
Shaikha Al Nowais brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, having made her mark in the Emirati tourism sector. Her focus will be on countries in Africa, Latin America, and island states, regions with great tourism potential that are eager to develop their offerings.
The tourism industry has been a major driver of economic growth in recent years. Last year, travellers contributed a staggering $10.9 trillion to the global economy, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This contributes to 10% of the worldwide gross domestic product, highlighting its importance in the global economy.
However, ensuring that tourist money stays within the country is a challenge for emerging economies in the international tourism market. This is particularly true for regions like Africa, Latin America, and small island states, which are high on Shaikha Al Nowais' list of priorities.
The UAE, under Shaikha Al Nowais' leadership, has been a shining example of successful tourism development. Cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai have risen up the ranks as destination hotspots due to their diverse offerings, first-class infrastructure, and ability to work in concert with other countries.
The government of Uzbekistan has also made significant strides in developing and promoting its Silk Road heritage, attracting over seven million foreign visitors in 2023, a fourfold increase from 2016.
Shaikha Al Nowais emphasises that tourism is not a luxury but a necessary sector for economic growth and community development. It creates jobs, uplifts communities, and keeps small businesses alive. Developing managed, equitable tourism is vital to prevent a seasonal economy vulnerable to shocks like pandemics or climate change.
The journey of tourism is not without its challenges, as history has shown. From shipwrecks and kidnappings to political coups and the Black Death, travellers have faced numerous obstacles. Yet, they persevered, and so too can countries today.
With the right planning and partnerships, every country can benefit from tourism. As Shaikha Al Nowais rightly points out, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to each country's tourism plan. But with global leadership rooted in a tourism success story, this is an opportunity to wisely develop travel in what are rapidly changing times.
As the world continues to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, the role of tourism in driving economic growth and community development cannot be understated. With Shaikha Al Nowais at the helm of the UNWTO, the future of global tourism looks bright indeed.
Ibn Battuta, a North African traveler seven centuries ago, embarked on a 29-year journey. His story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the power of travel to bring people together. Under Shaikha Al Nowais' leadership, we can look forward to a new chapter in this grand journey.
Read also:
- Jaroslav Rudiš is organizing the Wiesbaden Literature Festival in 2025
- Top 5 ASX-Listed Graphite Companies Projected for 2025
- Affordable, Comprehensive Energy Storage Solution for Small-Scale Power Plants: The Marstek Jupiter C Plus, Priced Under 220 € per Kilowatt-Hour, Offers a 100 € Discount per Set.
- Sunscreen: Its Capabilities and Limitations - Unveiling the Facts About Its Protection and Inefficiencies
