Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council and Hospitality Advisory Council for the UAE, led the country’s delegation to the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The forum focused on “International Cooperation, Growth, and Energy for Development” and took place from April 28 to 29. The delegation included Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy. Bin Touq highlighted the importance of working with other Gulf Cooperation Council countries to activate a unified Gulf tourist visa and promote the region as a leading tourist destination in the world.
During a session at the forum, Bin Touq discussed sustainable tourism development and the role of tourism in driving economic growth. He emphasized the UAE’s commitment to sustainability in the tourism sector and its efforts to develop infrastructure and provide job opportunities. Bin Touq also addressed challenges facing sustainable tourism, such as improving worker skills and promoting innovation in the industry.
The UAE’s tourism sector has seen significant growth and recovery from the pandemic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in terms of GDP contribution and job creation. Bin Touq highlighted the country’s achievements in developing sustainable practices and promoting eco-tourism, showcasing projects like the Al Marmoum Desert Reserve and Sir Bani Yas Island. He also mentioned the success of hosting international events like Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28, which have bolstered the growth of the tourism sector in the UAE.
Overall, Bin Touq emphasized the importance of sustainability in tourism and the UAE’s dedication to achieving sustainable growth in the industry. The country’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, promote eco-friendly practices, and support the growth of the sector have positioned it as a key player in the global tourism landscape.