Page 547 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2025 (Part 1)

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10/28/25, 10:35 AM Tourism makes up 10% of global economy but faces challenges: Al Nowais
continue rising to US$11.7 trillion in 2025, marking an increase of 6.7% over 2024 and 13% higher than
2019 levels.

Citing a report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), she noted that the sector grew by 8.5%
in 2024 compared with 2023, and by 6% compared with 2019.

Al Nowais stressed that these figures reaffirm tourism’s role as a key driver of sustainable economic

growth, highlighting it as one of the most dynamic sectors in attracting both domestic and foreign
investment.

She underlined that the strength of the sector lies in its ability to deliver direct economic and social
benefits to destinations and host communities, while also playing a vital role in job creation, supporting

local businesses, increasing revenues for both the public and private sectors, and advancing the
economies of developing and developed countries alike.

In a related context, Al Nowais pointed out that the tourism industry is currently undergoing a pivotal
phase amid unprecedented global challenges, notably climate change, rapid technological
advancement, and geopolitical shifts.

She emphasised that this reality calls for agile, forward-looking leadership capable of fostering
innovative and collaborative solutions aimed at redefining the future of sustainable and responsible
tourism.

Concluding her statments, Al Nowais praised the UAE’s model, affirming that the country offers a world-

leading example in developing an integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem.

She commended the UAE’s ambitious strategies and pioneering initiatives that have cemented its global
standing as a destination distinguished by innovation and sustainability.