Saudi Arabia and WTTC: The Disproportionate Impact of the Crisis on Tourism

25-09-24

In an effort to assess the impact the crisis has had on the tourism sector, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism recently presented a report that reveals a disproportionate impact on certain segments of the sector. This analysis highlights how different geographic areas and categories within the tourism industry have been unevenly affected by the disruptions resulting from the pandemic and other global crises.

WTTC and the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism agree that the tourism sector has suffered significantly in recent years, with particular emphasis on those economies that rely heavily on tourism for economic development and job creation. The report highlights that countries and regions that were once tourism leaders have seen a considerable drop in revenues, severely affecting their GDP and employment.

In particular, developing country economies that rely heavily on tourism as a primary source of income have experienced more severe impacts. The pandemic, accompanied by global travel restrictions, disproportionately affected destinations dependent on international tourism. However, the analysis also notes that, as restrictions have eased, growth in domestic tourism has begun to mitigate some of these losses, driving economic recovery in several destinations.

The report points to another crucial aspect: the disproportionate impact on the sector's female workforce. Women represent a large percentage of employees in tourism, in roles ranging from hospitality to destination management. However, recovery has been slow for them, as many female workers have been the first to lose their jobs during the pandemic and have found it more difficult to re-enter the labor market.

Gender inequality in tourism recovery is a key area that Saudi Arabia and WTTC are committed to addressing. Women are not only central to the day-to-day operation of tourism, but also play a key role in its future growth. Efforts to improve the inclusion of women in tourism's economic recovery will be essential to ensure a full and equitable recovery.

Saudi Arabia has seized this opportunity to position itself as a global leader in the global tourism revitalization effort. Over the past few years, the country has invested significantly in its tourism infrastructure, not only to attract more international tourists, but also to encourage domestic tourism. This diversified approach is part of its long-term plan, known as Vision 2030, which aims to reduce dependence on oil and diversify the country's economy.

In addition to infrastructure investment, Saudi Arabia has been a key player in establishing international dialogues, providing platforms where governments, international bodies and the private sector can come together to find collaborative solutions and ensure that tourism regains its place as a vital economic driver. The country seeks to lead the way in creating a more resilient, sustainable and equitable tourism.

The report concludes that while tourism is showing signs of recovery, considerable challenges remain. Greater international cooperation is needed to address inequalities in the recovery, especially in regions where tourism is still struggling to return to its previous levels.

Saudi Arabia and WTTC are committed to ensuring that this recovery is inclusive, benefiting all sectors of tourism and opening up opportunities, especially for women and the most affected communities. Commitment to a collaborative and long-term approach is essential to ensure that tourism not only regains its strength, but also becomes a fairer and more sustainable sector.