World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27th, marking a significant occasion. This day raises awareness about the role of tourism in fostering cultural exchange, socio-economic development, and mutual understanding.
In addition, it provides an opportunity for the international community to come together and explore ways to make the tourism industry more sustainable and inclusive. This is the focus of this year’s celebration of this important day.
In this light, we will focus our attention on the immense potential green tourism holds for the Middle East.
Tourism in the Middle East
On this World Tourism Day 2023, there is a sense of optimism brewing in the Middle East. The region’s tourism is experiencing a significant resurgence. As global travel restrictions ease, data indicates a promising recovery in the Middle East’s tourism sector.
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, particularly the Middle East, experienced one of the most robust industry recoveries last year. Contrastingly, while the global recovery was at 63 percent, the Middle East saw tourism arrivals reach 83 percent of pre-pandemic numbers in 2022.
Moreover, the closing quarter of 2022 further testified to this upward trend. The region recorded a 4 percent increase in arrivals compared to 2019, significantly surpassing the global reduction of 30 percent compared to the same year.
Parallel to this recovery, the region’s tourism infrastructure has been on an expansionary course. The Middle East’s rich tapestry of cultural diversity, historic landmarks, and hospitable offerings continues to lure in a steady stream of tourists.
Whether it is the architectural marvels of the UAE, the ancient ruins of Jordan, or Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty, every country brings to the table a unique set of attractions for tourists to relish.
Read: Saudi’s heritage preservation efforts shine at 45th session of UNESCO World Heritage Committee
What are green investments?
Essentially, green investments refer to funding put into ventures that are environmentally friendly and sustainable. They reflect a commitment to reducing environmental impacts and promoting resource efficiency.
Further, these investments span a broad spectrum. They encompass initiatives like promoting eco-friendly accommodations, advocating sustainable transport options, or investing in renewable energy sources and conservation projects.
Green investments in Middle East tourism
As we commemorate World Tourism Day, it is particularly imperative for us to shine a light on the impressive strides made in green investments within the Middle East.
The UAE sets sustainability goals for its lively tourism industry. Additionally, it pours funds into energy-efficient buildings and massive solar power projects, showing its commitment to a sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia invests significantly in eco-tourism. It views it as a vehicle to fuel the economy, conserve natural resources, and promote sustainability. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan commits to developing natural reserves and creating green jobs.
Likewise, Jordan adopts a remarkable conservation-based tourism approach. It fosters community involvement, preserves cultural heritage sites, and sustainably uses natural resources. For instance, the renowned Feynan Ecolodge illustrates the impact of such investments.
These practices emphasize the key role green investments play in sustainable tourism, particularly meaningful on World Tourism Day. These examples show that integrating sustainability within tourism models can offer ecological, cultural, and socio-economic benefits.
Benefits of green investments in tourism
- Economic development. Green investments foster growth, create jobs, and promote long-term stability within the tourism sector.
- Social wellbeing. Similarly, they support local communities, create education and training opportunities, thereby boosting local economies.
- Sustainability awareness. More so, they encourage a culture of responsibility and sustainability among both tourists and host communities.
- Cultural preservation. They likewise contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage sites and unique traditions.
- Long-term value: Green investments also ensure that natural tourist attractions are preserved for future generations to cherish and enjoy.
Final thoughts
This World Tourism Day, let us embrace the opportunity to encourage continual commitment towards green investments in the Middle East and globally.
This strategy bolsters the tourism industry’s longevity and resilience. Additionally, it furthers the larger goal of cultivating a world that cherishes and protects its natural and cultural gems for future generations.
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