Tourism as Economic Infrastructure Takes Center Stage at Davos

 

Tourism is now central to global economic planning. At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Saudi Arabia made a direct call to action. “Leaders, manage tourism as economic infrastructure. This is a game changer for growth, resilience, and global collaboration.”

Leadership at the World Economic Forum

During high-level discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, outlined a clear strategy. He stressed that governments should plan tourism with the same discipline used for transport, energy, and digital systems. This approach supports long-term investment and inclusive development.

Tourism growth demands structure

Global travel continues to expand. International arrivals move toward an estimated two billion by 2030. Growth alone does not guarantee value. Strong planning ensures sustainability, safety, and social benefit. Tourism systems require governance, data, and accountability. When leaders plan early, destinations scale responsibly and protect communities.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 model

Saudi Arabia offers a working example through Saudi Vision 2030. Tourism now anchors the Kingdom’s economic diversification. In 2025, Saudi Arabia welcomed about 30 million inbound visitors. The national target aims for 150 million visitors by 203

The country leads global tourism investment. Capital flows into destinations, aviation networks, digital platforms, and workforce development. Tourism contributes nearly five percent of direct GDP. More than one million people work in the sector. These results show how policy alignment turns ambition into delivery.

Master-planned destinations set standards

Saudi Arabia applies a master-planned model to destination development. Projects such as AlUla, Diriyah, and the Red Sea Project reflect this approach. Each project integrates infrastructure, environmental protection, culture, and community benefit.

This model improves investor confidence. It also raises quality of life for residents. Clear governance reduces risk. Long-term planning protects heritage and natural assets while welcoming visitors.

Beyond Tourism: a system-level agenda

Saudi Arabia works with global partners to elevate tourism policy. The Beyond Tourism initiative, developed with the World Economic Forum, reframes tourism as a system that connects sustainability, resilience, inclusion, and capital. Policymakers now discuss tourism alongside trade and industrial strategy. This shift helps leaders measure tourism’s productivity and economic impact with greater accuracy.

TOURISE accelerates execution

The Kingdom also promotes delivery through TOURISE, a global platform that links governments, investors, and industry leaders. Since launch, TOURISE has convened nearly 10,000 leaders from more than 100 countries. It has helped catalyze over USD 113 billion in tourism-related investment. The next global gathering is scheduled for March 2027.

Tourism’s global economic role

Travel and tourism account for about ten percent of global GDP. The sector supports more than 357 million jobs worldwide. These jobs span skills and regions, making tourism one of the most inclusive economic engines. Beyond income, tourism strengthens people-to-people exchange. This role matters more during periods of geopolitical tension.

Supporting underserved destinations

Saudi Arabia also calls for shared growth. Many regions remain under-visited, particularly in Africa and Latin America. By sharing expertise, capital, and planning tools, countries can build resilient tourism economies. Tourism can sustain dialogue when formal channels weaken. Responsible leadership turns travel into a stabilizing force.

Saudi House and global dialogue

At Davos, Saudi Arabia expanded engagement through Saudi House. The platform hosted more than 20 sessions across six themes, including investment, human capability, and quality of life. It also launched “NextOn,” a series of talks from global thought leaders. These sessions reinforced Saudi Arabia’s role as an active partner in global economic dialogue.

Practical Guide for Travelers to Saudi Arabia

What draws visitors

Saudi Arabia offers heritage, nature, and modern culture in one destination. Travelers explore ancient sites, desert landscapes, and new coastal resorts.

Key places to visit

§  AlUla: Rock formations, archaeological sites, and curated cultural experiences.

§  Diriyah: The birthplace of the Saudi state with restored architecture and museums.

§  Red Sea coast: Pristine beaches, coral reefs, and eco-focused luxury resorts.

Travel planning tips

Visitors should check official visa portals and tourism platforms before arrival. Saudi Arabia continues to expand e-visa access. Infrastructure upgrades support smooth domestic travel. New airports, roads, and digital services improve mobility.

Responsible travel

Travelers should respect local customs and heritage guidelines. Many sites operate with sustainability limits. Following official guidance helps protect environments and communities.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s message from Davos reshapes how leaders view tourism. When governments consider tourism as economic infrastructure, then it becomes a catalyst for growth, resilience, and partnership. Through strategy, governance, and investment, Vision 2030 demonstrates how a country can transform a sector and invite the world to participate responsibly.

Tags: World Economic Forum Annual Meeting Davos, Saudi Arabia  Tourism