Saudi Arabia to Unveil New Tourism Strategy Utilizing AI and Seamless Technology
In an exclusive interview with Arab News at the Future Aviation Forum 2024, Gloria Guevara Manzo, chief special adviser at the Ministry of Tourism, revealed that Saudi Arabia is gearing up to introduce a cutting-edge tourism strategy this year. This strategy will harness the power of artificial intelligence and seamless technology to enhance the Kingdom’s cultural, historical, and hospitality assets.
Manzo emphasized the significance of sustainability in the tourism industry, stressing the need to preserve resources for the future while ensuring that people can still “enjoy” the world today. This holistic approach encompasses economic, environmental, and social considerations.
Highlighting the economic impact of travel and tourism, Manzo pointed out that before the COVID-19 pandemic, this sector contributed significantly to global GDP and job creation. She underscored the positive social outcomes of tourism, including poverty reduction and the prevention of illegal migration through the creation of local job opportunities.
Despite the numerous benefits, there has been a lack of clear measurements regarding the sustainability of the industry. A groundbreaking study sponsored by Saudi Arabia and the Ministry of Tourism addressed this gap, revealing that travel and tourism account for 8.1 percent of greenhouse emissions.
Moving forward, Manzo emphasized the need for a more sustainable approach to travel, acknowledging the importance of finding ways to reduce the environmental impact without sacrificing the economic benefits that the industry provides.
The adviser also highlighted the importance of the Future Aviation Forum in enhancing connectivity within and outside the Kingdom. She emphasized the essential role of partnerships at various levels in promoting tourism and transportation for mutual growth and development.