United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili
United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili has commended Kuwait’s growing role in strengthening regional tourism cooperation and advancing joint strategies across the Middle East.
Speaking to KUNA on the occasion of World Tourism Day, Pololikashvili said Kuwait’s leadership of the UNWTO Middle East Regional Committee for 2025–2027 carries significant responsibility. He noted that the chairmanship reflects Kuwait’s relevance in tourism development and provides an opportunity to translate regional priorities into concrete actions.
Kuwait has been a member of UNWTO since 1975. Pololikashvili said the country’s tourism policies align with the New Kuwait 2035 development plan, which seeks to enhance its global presence. He added that Kuwait is positioned to guide regional efforts in sustainability, digitalization, education, innovation and connectivity.
The UNWTO chief recalled that during the organization’s 51st Middle East Regional Committee meeting in Doha, member states expressed strong interest in developing sports, educationaland luxury tourism. He said Kuwait can lead this trend and strengthen cooperation among GCC and regional countries to address shared challenges, including climate change, economic diversification and job creation.
Pololikashvili confirmed that UNWTO will fully support Kuwait in its new role, while the organization’s regional office in Riyadh will continue to provide technical assistance.
He also highlighted the Gulf region’s growing influence in global tourism. He noted that Gulf states have strengthened political representation within UNWTO and launched strategic initiatives in priority areas. The upcoming UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh will confirm the appointment of Emirati entrepreneur Sheikha Al-Nuaimi as Secretary-General in 2026, marking the first time in five decades that a woman will lead the organization.
The secretary-general said Gulf countries are using tourism as a driver for economic diversification, job creation and international visibility. He praised the region’s ability to adapt despite global economic and geopolitical challenges. Kuwait, he noted, recorded a 151 percent increase in tourism revenues in 2023 compared with 2019, while Saudi Arabia led global tourism expenditure growth in 2024 with a 17 percent rise.
Major events such as the FIFA World Cup, Formula 1 races and the Dakar Rally have also positioned the Gulf as a leading host for international gatherings. According to UNWTO data, the Middle East welcomed 101 million tourists in 2024, 41 percent above pre-pandemic levels, making it the first region to surpass its pre-2020 performance.