Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, underscored the unifying power of tourism as he spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, placing particular emphasis on the sector’s ability to bridge nations.

Addressing an audience of global leaders and industry stakeholders on the sidelines of the forum’s “A Spirit of Dialogue” programme, Al Khateeb described tourism as a ‘symbol of connecting nations’ that promotes intercultural understanding and strengthens ties across borders.

Al Khateeb said that tourism not only drives dialogue but also fosters economic opportunity, job creation and inclusivity.

He noted that, under Saudi Vision 2030, the industry is expected to contribute more than ten per cent of the Kingdom’s gross domestic product by the end of the decade, diversifying the economy beyond hydrocarbons and creating employment opportunities for women and youth.

In Saudi Arabia, nearly half of tourism sector jobs are held by young women, reflecting broader social and economic goals.

Speaking on the “Experiencing the World” panel, the minister invited investors and public and private sector partners to help expand global tourism sustainably.

He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s rapid growth in travel and tourism—ranked among the fastest among Group of Twenty economies—and highlighted major destinations such as the Red Sea, AlUla and key urban centres as compelling draws for international visitors.

Al Khateeb emphasised that fostering dialogue through travel can help rebuild cultural understanding at a time of global fragmentation and that the Kingdom stands ready to play a central role in strengthening the global tourism ecosystem.