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Imagination, a global expert in experience design, has created a two-day experience for UNWTO World Tourism Day 2023 hosted by Saudi Arabia, starting today.
The event, hosted by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Tourism in Riyadh from September 27th to 28th, brings together global tourism leaders and sector experts to explore the theme of "Tourism and Green Investments," with the goal of fostering mutual understanding, building bridges, and safeguarding cultural heritage and environmental conservation, thereby contributing to a more harmonious world.
World Tourism Day is a global platform to celebrate the sector's achievements and address its challenges. Saudi Arabia's hosting of this prestigious occasion reflects the nation's commitment to placing tourism and sustainability at the forefront of its Vision 2030 transformation.
With the world's fastest post-pandemic sector recovery among G20 countries, Saudi Arabia showcases its leadership and innovation in the tourism community, aligning with the UNWTO's three pillars of people, planet, and prosperity.
The Ministry of Tourism partnered with Imagination to design and deliver the Conference which has invited 40 speakers and hundreds of delegates to discuss global tourism and green investments over two days at the Four Seasons, Riyadh. The central theme of unity emphasises Saudi Arabia's key role in future global tourism collaboration.
Guests will also enjoy a gala dinner at At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage site at historic Diriyah. The evening will begin with a sensory global journey through five continents - Australasia, Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. Each continent will feature kinetic sculptures and calligraphy that interpret international poems in celebration of the Saudi Year of Arabic Poetry. Guests will be immersed in the culture and traditions of each continent through projected animations and live experiences, which will include Australian Indigenous Dot Art, Japanese tea ceremonies, North African Henna art, and more. The journey will culminate with Saudi hospitality, Arabic coffee, and traditional music.
Guests - including Prime Ministers, Ministers, and VVIPs - will also enjoy a five-course dining experience crafted by Chef Jason Atherton and rising Saudi culinary talents in front of the majestic Salwa Palace.
The evening features immersive performances aligning with the themes of unity and will include calligraphy, piano duets, drum collaborations, orchestras, and a 100-strong Ardah performance.
Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, said: "We have a historic opportunity to chart a new course for the global tourism sector, centered on sustainable development, job creation, and economic resilience. Tourism – as a catalyst for change – fosters mutual understanding, builds bridges and safeguards cultural heritage and environmental conservation, contributing to a more harmonious world.
"World Tourism Day 2023 is an important platform for the world to celebrate the sector's successes and explore solutions to its challenges. Saudi Arabia is honoured to host this esteemed occasion, and we look forward to welcoming tourism leaders from the public and private sectors to Riyadh."
Imagination CEO, Patrick Reid, said: "In partnership with The Ministry of Tourism, we proudly brought World Tourism Day to Saudi Arabia, aligning with the UNWTO's Vision 2030 goals of people, planet, and prosperity. Through previous initiatives like the Saudi Arabia E-visa launch in 2019, we've helped open the doors for global travellers to explore Saudi's rich heritage and vibrant culture, helping shape a future where tourism fuels economic growth, creates jobs, and welcomes millions of visitors by 2030, making Saudi Arabia a beacon of sustainable tourism worldwide."
