In partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has published a report highlighting the severe impact of the pandemic on employment for women and youth in the global travel and tourism industry.
The pandemic resulted in an unprecedented loss of approximately 70 million jobs worldwide, with women and young people bearing a disproportionate burden due to their prevalence in jobs more susceptible to global disruptions, such as those in hospitality and food services.
Impact of the pandemic on employment
The report, SPA reported, highlights the immense potential of the travel and tourism industry to foster inclusive growth, but it also stresses the urgent need for action. Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO, pointed out that women and youth are the backbone of the sector, yet they continue to face significant obstacles. She emphasized that by investing in skill development, promoting inclusive policies, and fostering entrepreneurship, the full potential of these groups can be unlocked, ensuring that the sector leads in creating meaningful and sustainable job opportunities.
Commitment to youth and womenโs employment
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb expressed his support for the findings of the joint report and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing employment for youth and women in the tourism sector. He noted that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes the Kingdom’s dedication to making travel and tourism a key driver of social transformation.
Read more: Saudi Arabiaโs tourism sector contributing record $118.4 billion to GDP: Report
Investment in skills development
Al-Khateeb also mentioned that for 2024, substantial funds have been allocated to the tourism sector, including $100 million for skills development and training at all levels. Moreover, he explained that specialized programs would be available for local guides to gain a comprehensive understanding of the countryโs rich history and natural wonders, and he added that over 50,000 training opportunities have been designated for women.
Progress in women’s participation
Furthermore, Al-Khateeb highlighted that Saudi women have made significant progress in the tourism sector, with their participation rate reaching 42 percent in 2024. According to the World Tourism Organization, Saudi women achieved a participation rate of 46 percent in sectors related to the visitor experience, and their representation in leadership roles within the tourism sector stood at 22 percent. This data further reflects the supportive measures taken by the Saudi government to empower women in various fields.
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