RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Leaders from around the world's tourism sector will convene in Riyadh today  for this year's World Tourism Day (WTD), organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The event aims to highlight the transformative potential of tourism and explore opportunities for collaboration. Anticipated attendees include government ministers, industry titans, and experts.

Under the overarching theme of 'Tourism and Green Investments,' WTD 2023 will delve into the pivotal role of investments in both people and the planet to ensure livelihoods and encourage mutual understanding.

"This World Tourism Day, our focus is squarely on the imperative need to invest in constructing a more sustainable tourism sector, one that benefits people, the planet, and prosperity," said Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of UNWTO. "It also underscores UNWTO's call for investments in education and innovation as the bedrock for sustainable, long-term growth and transformation."

Marking the most significant assembly of global tourism leaders in the 43-year history of World Tourism Day, gauged by the number of ministers in attendance, WTD 2023 will feature sessions, panel discussions, and workshops led by sector experts and government leaders.

Speakers include government ministers from Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, Croatia, and South Africa, as well as Julia Simpson, CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council and representatives from the United Nations.

"We stand on the brink of a historic opportunity to redefine the global tourism landscape, placing emphasis on sustainable development, employment generation, and economic resilience," said Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism, who is scheduled to address the gathering.

Noteworthy is Saudi Arabia's remarkable post-pandemic sector recovery, which stands as the fastest among G20 nations.

WTD 2023 is expected to be a landmark event for the global tourism sector, as leaders come together to chart a new course for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future.