Geneva:The World Economic Forum (WEF), in collaboration with Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism, has unveiled the first cohort of Beyond Tourism Impact Stars during the inaugural Beyond Tourism Day event. According to Saudi Press Agency, the ceremony was opened by Mahmoud Abdulhadi and Hawazen Nassief, deputy ministers representing the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. They highlighted the ministry's role as a global partner in the WEF's Beyond Tourism initiative. Nassief emphasized tourism's potential to transform nations, diversify economies, and sustain culture, reinforcing the collaborative commitment to fostering sector progress. The inaugural cohort showcases six initiatives addressing vital sector challenges with practical solutions. Among the selected are Sommet Education's program to advance local hospitality talent in Saudi Arabia and Accor's global water conservation efforts. Other initiatives include Discova's support for community-led livelihoods in Asia, GHE Impact Ventures' integration of clean ener gy and regenerative tourism in the Himalayas, Al Ismaelia's urban restoration in Cairo, and Iberostar Group's sustainable hotel practices and marine stewardship. The Beyond Tourism Impact Stars program aims to expand these successful models globally. The chosen initiatives will engage in a year-long journey to enhance international collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and promote scalable solutions across emerging destinations. Through its collaboration with WEF, Saudi Arabia continues to lead in uniting global stakeholders to ensure tourism growth benefits destinations and their communities sustainably.
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