Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, has joined the World Tourism Organization as an Affiliate Member. The historic move was celebrated during a ceremony held at the 25th summit in Uzbekistan, underlining Diriyah Company’s commitment to global tourism collaboration and the advancement of KSA’s tourism sector.
The Diriyah Project, with a staggering USD$63.2 bn investment pipeline, is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s transformation agenda. It is projected to add approximately US$18.6 bn to the Kingdom’s GDP, generating 178,000 direct jobs, and aspiring to attract 50 million visitors annually by 2030.
Diriyah is located within Riyadh province, just 15 minutes north-west of Riyadh’s city centre. It is recognised as a symbolic centre of inspiration for the generations of leaders that have led the Kingdom since the foundation of the first Saudi Arabian state in 1727.
As the renewed cultural and historic capital of the nation, Diriyah will be designed and built with Saudi traditions and heritage in mind. The mixed-use traditional urban community will be created in an authentic Najdi architectural style, typical of Saudi villages of centuries past.
Affiliate Members play an essential role in the UNWTO Membership by contributing to a more sustainable, innovative, and collaborative global tourism sector, in line with the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. This aligns with Diriyah Company’s vision to create a world-renowned cultural and historical destination.
The Diriyah giga-project is closely aligned with the Kingdom’s Sustainable Development Goals, focusing primarily on urban regeneration and sustainable development in the Diriyah region. It is one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneering giga-projects and a pivotal force driving Vision 2030’s aim to increase tourism’s contribution to the Kingdom’s GDP from 3.2% to 10% by the end of the decade.
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of Diriyah Gate Development Authority, expressed the significance of tourism in connecting people, cultures, and economies: “Diriyah’s importance cannot be overstated, not only for Saudi Arabia but for the world at large. It stands as a shining example of the transformative power of sustainable tourism, bridging heritage and modernity, and contributing to the growth of our global tourism community.”
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, emphasised his organisation’s commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism: We are hugely proud to become an Affiliate Member of the UNWTO. It marks an incredible milestone in our journey to bring Diriyah’s heritage and culture to the world stage, as we share the City of Earth’s rich legacy with the global community. This partnership truly reflects our unwavering dedication to responsible and sustainable tourism. Together, we’ll create unforgettable experiences for travellers and make a positive impact on our world.”
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, commended Diriyah’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism, asserting that the affiliation reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global tourism collaboration: “Diriyah’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism aligns seamlessly with UNWTO’s mission. This affiliation is a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to making tourism a force for positive change globally, and I look forward to the invaluable contributions Diriyah Company will bring to our international network. There is only one Diriyah”.
As an Affiliate Member, Diriyah Company will actively engage with the UNWTO and its global network to collaborate on initiatives, share insights, and support the organization’s mission to harness tourism as a force for positive global change. This partnership promises to enhance cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and sustainable tourism efforts undertaken by Diriyah Company.
The collaboration will facilitate discussions on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity in the tourism sector, crucial components of Diriyah Company’s ongoing efforts to transform the historic city of Diriyah into a vibrant tourist destination. Diriyah Company’s affiliation with the UNWTO underscores Saudi Arabia’s shared global commitment to advancing the tourism industry, promoting responsible travel, and preserving the world’s cultural and historical heritage.
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Article by Diane Lefebvre
