Saudi Arabia is setting a global benchmark in workforce inclusion, with women now representing 46% of the tourism sector, the highest since 2020.
The data was revealed at the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome, where Minister of Tourism His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb highlighted the Kingdom’s focus on training, empowerment, and innovation as key drivers of this achievement.
“The Kingdom is a global model to be emulated, having provided hundreds of thousands of training opportunities and increased women's participation in the tourism workforce to nearly 50%,” he said.
In the past five years, the Kingdom has offered over 946,000 training opportunities, equipping Saudis with professional skills aligned with international standards. H.E Al-Khateeb added, “These numbers are even more significant when considering the sector's future projections, as one-third of new global jobs by 2035 will come from travel and tourism, making it a unique engine for economic growth.”
These initiatives also support the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at transforming the Kingdom into a leading global tourism hub.
According to the “Future of Work in Travel and Tourism” report, prepared by WTTC in collaboration with the Ministry and global research institutions, the sector faces a global labor gap of 43 million workers. Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to workforce development, gender inclusion, and digital innovation positions it as a model for other nations.
The report also highlights the growing demand for digital, AI, and sustainability skills, alongside pressures on hospitality jobs, where labor shortages are expected to reach 8.6 million workers (18% gap), emphasizing the need for urgent and coordinated action.
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Al-Khateeb also discussed the impact of AI, sustainability, and digital skills on the sector. “These achievements have been realized through numerous programs and initiatives, including the application of national professional skills standards,” the statement added.
In November, Saudi Arabia will host the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly and the inaugural Touraize Forum, cementing its role as a hub for global collaboration, innovation, and human capital development in tourism.