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Investing in People, Planet, and Prosperity

The overall disruption in the tourism sector brought about by COVID-19, provides an opportunity to redefine and recalibrate the direction and narratives of tourism investments for a more sustainable future for the People, the Planet, and prosperity.  

This  World Tourism Day 2023 , the  UNWTO ,  under the theme “Tourism and green investment” highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for the  Sustainable Development Goals , the UN roadmap for a better world by 2030. Now is the time for new and innovative solutions, not just traditional investments that promote and underpin economic growth and productivity.

Visit the World Tourism Organization’s website

The UN World Tourism Organization has prepared a website and digital materials for social networks. Let’s all contribute to promote tourism investments focused on achieving a better world for the benefit of all.

How tourism should invest to contribute to the SDGs

The possibilities of strategic investment for this triple dimension are immense:

For the People by investing in education and skills

Looking ahead, the global tourism workforce will require millions of hospitality graduates annually between now and 2030 and a further 800,000 jobs a year will require specific vocational training. For these reasons, we need to invest in people, as they are the foundation of tourism so that all those who wish to be part of the sector have the same opportunities to access quality tourism training, anywhere in the world.

For the Planet by investing in sustainable infrastructure and accelerating green transformation

Looking into the future, the need to reduce emissions provides an investment opportunity of $24.7 trillion in the green buildings sector of emerging market cities by 2030, in which hotels, resorts, and restaurants account for $1.5 trillion. In addition, tourism faces a lot more investment opportunities related to new solutions and technologies to decarbonize the sector as well as to ensure climate-resilient infrastructure through adaptation solutions.

For Prosperity by investing in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship

Digitalization and innovation programs are a strategic priority to support particularly young people and women, which are critical to upskill the tourism sector’s workforce. Moreover, the global need to increase investments in programs that support and incentivize entrepreneurship and generate opportunities for innovations is highly need it in the tourism sector.

In order to succeed, let’s make this World Tourism Day a call to action to the international community, governments, multilateral financial institutions, development partners, and private sector investors to unite around a new tourism investment strategy .

What is the Glasgow Declaration?

The Glasgow Declaration is a compromise to accelerate climate action in tourism and to secure strong commitments to support the global goals to halve emissions over the next decade and reach Net Zero emissions as soon as possible before 2050. Over 450 organizations have become signatories of this declaration.

Did you know?

• Tourism employs one in every ten people on Earth.
• Tourism in rural areas can particularly benefit traditionally disadvantaged groups such as women - who make up 54% of the workforce in the tourism sector compared to 39% for the whole economy - youth and Indigenous people.
• In emerging destinations, 50% of young people are unable to work in tourism due to a lack of opportunity, resources, or access to academic training.

Campaign materials

Follow our event live!

The UN World Tourism Organization wants you to join the celebration online ( 27-28 September). You can follow its two-day event through its website or its YouTube channel .  

An indigenous entrepreneur in tune with Mother Earth

After successfully reclaiming her people’s territory in Quebrada de Humahuaca, Northern Argentina, Celestina Ábalos turned to tourism to share and promote her indigenous culture. ILO entrepreneurship training during the COVID-19 pandemic helped her business to grow.

World Tourism Organization

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a leading UN international agency in the field of tourism. Its mission is to promote tourism as a driver of  economic growth, inclusive development  and  environmental sustainability  and offers leadership and support to the sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide. Discover how they are working to cope with this pandemic along with the tourism sector and other UN agencies. 

Why do we mark International Days?

International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances .

About World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is an annual celebration of the global tourism industry, recognized every year on September 27th. This special day provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of tourism, its impact on the world, and to raise awareness about the benefits of responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

What is World Tourism Day?

World Tourism Day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization ( UNWTO ) in 1980. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on the global economy, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. Each year, World Tourism Day has a different theme, highlighting various aspects of tourism and its benefits.

Every year, the UNWTO selects a specific theme for World Tourism Day. The theme is chosen to reflect current trends and challenges facing the tourism industry, and to promote new initiatives and ideas for the future. In 2021, the theme for World Tourism Day was "Tourism for Inclusive Growth," highlighting the importance of creating sustainable tourism opportunities that benefit all members of society, including those in marginalized and vulnerable communities.

When is World Tourism Day?

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. It is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. World Tourism Day provides an opportunity to recognize the immense potential of tourism as a force for good and to raise awareness about the challenges facing the industry.

The Importance of World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27th. This day is an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate the transformative power of tourism and its ability to create a better world.

One of the primary goals of World Tourism Day is to raise awareness about the social, cultural, and economic benefits of tourism. Travel and tourism are among the world's largest industries, generating significant income and employment opportunities in many countries around the world. In fact, according to the UNWTO, the tourism sector accounts for around 10% of global GDP and employs one in ten people worldwide.

But beyond the economic benefits, tourism also plays a vital role in promoting cross-cultural understanding, fostering peace and tolerance, and preserving cultural heritage. Tourism can also help to promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, and support local communities by providing income and employment opportunities.

When it comes to celebrating World Tourism Day, there are a variety of activities and events taking place around the world. Some countries organize tourism fairs and exhibitions, while others hold conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on promoting responsible tourism practices. In recent years, there has also been a growing trend of digital events, including webinars, online forums, and social media campaigns.

One of the most significant achievements of World Tourism Day has been its role in promoting sustainable tourism practices. As more and more people travel, it's essential to ensure that tourism is managed in a way that respects local communities and the environment. The UNWTO has developed a set of guidelines for sustainable tourism, known as the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, which encourages tourists to be responsible and respectful when traveling.

Some of the key principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism include respecting local customs and traditions, protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting cultural understanding. By adhering to these principles, tourists can help to ensure that tourism continues to benefit local communities and the environment while promoting social and cultural diversity.

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, and it has the potential to create enormous benefits for both people and the planet. It contributes to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange, and it is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, with many businesses and communities struggling to survive.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, World Tourism Day presents an opportunity to rethink and transform tourism into a more sustainable and resilient industry. The celebration of this day highlights the importance of tourism and its potential to create a better future for all.

World Tourism Day is celebrated in various ways worldwide, including cultural festivals, food fairs, adventure sports, and nature walks. These activities showcase the unique features of different destinations, promote local businesses, and encourage sustainable tourism practices. They also provide an opportunity for tourists and locals to come together and experience the diversity of cultures and traditions that make our world so fascinating.

World Tourism Day is a crucial event that celebrates the importance of tourism and its impact on the world.

This Day is an occasion to celebrate the power of travel and tourism in creating a better world. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of tourism and its potential to promote economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. As we celebrate this day, we must also recognize the challenges facing the tourism industry and work together to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both people and the planet.

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World Tourism Day honors global travel, promoting cultural awareness, and highlights tourism's socioeconomic importance. Observed annually on September 27th.

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World Tourism Day – September 27, 2024

Get your bulky cameras ready, unfold your maps and make sure your fanny pack still fits snugly. World Tourism Day every September 27,  raises awareness of the need for accessible tourism all over the planet.

World Tourism Day is the result of the work done by the UN’s specialized agency — the World Tourism Organization (WTO). If you’ve ever strolled through a charming, perfectly-preserved European village or town, you’ve probably seen the WTO at work. Boosting local economies and ensuring sustainable tourism are but a few of the benefits of the WTO.

More importantly, on World Tourism Day, the WTO makes sure that travel is accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities and folks with low-income. Whether you’re walking with a cane or rolling in a chair; the world is open for business to you and your friends. So, get traveling!

World Tourism Day related content

Cheap Flight Day

Hopefully, you globetrotters marked your calendars for Cheap Flight Day, well in advance.

World Tourism Day Activities

Treat a normal day like a vacation.

Today, take a step back from your normal routine and consider: If I were on vacation in my hometown, what would I do? Where would a tourist go for the day? By checking out your own turf through the eyes of a tourist, you’ll support local businesses and you may see your town from a new perspective.

Get the word out

The key to continuous improvement in global tourism is economic stability and sustainability. Educate yourself on the best ways to see a new country, city, or village in ways that create a positive impact.

Plan a trip

If you’ve been putting off that vacation, use World Tourism Day as an opportunity to make those plans. Talk to friends and family with special challenges, either physical, financial or both; who may want to travel but have never been able to plan a trip. Together, you can help and encourage each other, following the message of the WTO that tourism is for all.

Why We Love World Tourism Day

It creates jobs.

All over the world, even in its most remote corners, tourism has become a dependable source of jobs. In the U.S. alone, the travel, tourism and hospitality industry supported 7.6 million jobs in 2015. This means one out of every 18 Americans is employed in tourism. When done responsibly, tourism can create jobs in areas where unemployment has risen due to unavoidable factors like automation.

It’s a cash cow

In 2015, international tourism generated $1.5 trillion in export earnings. This can be a tremendous benefit for smaller, under-developed communities. Developing a sustainable tourism ecosystem is paramount for ensuring these earnings are distributed among the community. Thanks to the work of the WTO, these areas are seeing smart tourism strategies put in place.

It creates a better world

Sure, the site of yet another lost tourist in your hometown may induce a small groan, but the reality is that traveling and seeing new places is good for our minds and good for our society. So, start planning your next trip!

World Tourism Day dates

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World Tourism Day: harnessing new technologies to transform travel

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The United Nations is marking this year’s World Tourism Day by exploring how technological advances such as big data, artificial intelligence and digital platforms can contribute to the way people travel and foster innovation in the tourism industry.

“The digital transformation is about providing benefits to all, and we are making sure that tourism contributes to this global commitment,” said Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization ( UNWTO ).

Tourism has become one of the fastest growing and most important economic sectors in the world, according to the Madrid-based UNWTO , with international tourist arrivals having grown from 25 million in 1950 to nearly 1.3 billion today. The sector represents an estimated 10 per cent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 1 in 10 jobs globally.

UNWTO expects that tourism will continue to grow at an average of 3 per cent annually until 2030, as more people have access to travel thanks to the decline in the price of transport, especially air transport, and growing middle classes worldwide.

"The digital transformation is about providing benefits for all. We are making sure that #tourism contributes to this global commitment" #UNWTO SG @pololikashvili on #WTD2018Learn more at https://t.co/N1R1KGb3OO #GlobalGoals pic.twitter.com/G1aiynZ1RT World Tourism Organization UNWTO September 27, 2018

“The sheer size of global tourism and its impact on many other sectors, and all of the Sustainable Development Goals , puts it at the forefront of social responsibility, which today goes hand-in-hand with innovation on all levels,” said Mr. Pololikashvili.

“Harnessing innovation and digital advances provides tourism with opportunities to improve inclusiveness, local community empowerment and efficient resource management, amongst other objectives within the wider sustainable development agenda,” he added.

In his message for the Day, Secretary-General António Guterres said the wide reach of tourism into many sectors, from infrastructure and energy to transport and sanitation, and its huge impact on job creation, make it a vital contributor to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development . At the same time, tourism plays a “pivotal” role in advancing cultural understanding and bringing people together.  

“Yet tourism needs innovation in technology to realize its potential contributions,” he stated, adding that its benefits need to flow to host communities.

“On World Tourism Day, I call on governments to support digital technologies that can transform the way we travel, reduce the ecological burden of tourism and bring the benefits of tourism to all.”

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

World tourism day september 27, 2022: theme, host country, history, and all you need to know.

World Tourism Day 2022 has been marked on September 27 since 1970 globally. This day is celebrated annually to promote tourism in various parts of the world. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) selected the date as September 27, 1970 focusing on tourism but this year, with the idea of "rethinking tourism."

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By Bastian Herre, Veronika Samborska and Max Roser

Tourism has massively increased in recent decades. Aviation has opened up travel from domestic to international. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international visits had more than doubled since 2000.

Tourism can be important for both the travelers and the people in the countries they visit.

For visitors, traveling can increase their understanding of and appreciation for people in other countries and their cultures.

And in many countries, many people rely on tourism for their income. In some, it is one of the largest industries.

But tourism also has externalities: it contributes to global carbon emissions and can encroach on local environments and cultures.

On this page, you can find data and visualizations on the history and current state of tourism across the world.

Interactive Charts on Tourism

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Tourist Appreciation Day Celebrates The Joy Of Travel And Its Global Impact

A s the earth begins to warm up from its winter hibernation, a special day earmarked on the spring calendar reminds us to appreciate a vital segment of the global economy and cultural exchange: the tourists. Celebrating Tourist Appreciation Day on May 6 goes beyond simply acknowledging travel .  It’s a chance to recognize tourism’s significant impact on local economies, cultural preservation, and global understanding.

Why Celebrate Tourists?

Locals often have mixed feelings about tourists. While they bring revenue and vitality to destinations, tourists can also be associated with destructive behaviors , crowded attractions, and environmental concerns. Yet, the positive impacts of tourism usually overshadow the negatives. Tourists support local businesses by spending on hotels, dining, shopping, and attractions—from museums to outdoor adventures.

And that’s not all. Tourism has an enormous economic ripple effect. Every dollar a tourist spends circulates through the local economy, benefiting even the smallest businesses. Moreover, tourism supports cultural heritage, allowing traditions to be shared and celebrated globally. It’s a powerful force for fostering understanding and peace among different cultures.

How to Celebrate the Day as A Traveler

Tourism is not merely about taking Instagram-worthy shots in picture-risque locations or ticking off items from a bucket list. It’s essential for tourists to support local businesses. Make an effort to support local businesses, whether planning a getaway or just exploring your backyard. Stay in lodgings run by locals, eat at family-run restaurants, and peruse artisan markets for unique gifts. Not only do you help the local economy, but you also get to taste authentic local cuisine and learn about the culture and history of the place you’re visiting.

Also, educate yourself on various cultures. When you travel, try to understand the local customs and diverse culture. Get to know the area’s culture by visiting museums, attending festivals, and conversing with people. Interacting with individuals from various walks of life helps one understand and value multiple human experiences. Likewise, tourists should engage in responsible tourism to preserve the local culture and the environment. Lessen your environmental impact by recycling more, using less water, and booking with eco-friendly travel companies. 

Before taking pictures of individuals or religious places, be sure you have their permission and be mindful of local traditions. It is just as important, if not paramount, for tourists to express gratitude. Pause for a second and be thankful for all the new experiences and opportunities traveling has given you. Treasure the experiences and relationships you have when traveling, whether a heartfelt conversation with a local artisan or the memories of a sunset over the Grand Canyon.

Photo: Chen Xia/GT

China is set to witness explosive growth in outbound tourism during the May Day holidays from May 1 to May 5 as data from major online travel agencies showed a strong surge in overseas tour bookings by Chinese travelers. International flight bookings for the first day of the May Day holidays reached a record high, increasing by 20 percent compared with 2019 levels. Nearly 100 outbound destinations saw a rise in flight ticket bookings, according to data Chinese travel platform Qunar shared with the Global Times on Wednesday. Hotel booking numbers showed that Chinese tourists are expected to visit 1,035 cities worldwide during the May Day holidays. The number of air ticket bookings for several visa-free destinations during the May Day holidays surpassed the figures recorded during the same period in 2019. Specifically, flight bookings for Thailand and Malaysia saw an increase of more than 30 percent, while bookings for Singapore and Georgia more than doubled. Chinese tourists also appear more willing to opt for longer-distance travel during the five-day holiday period. The Middle East and Europe emerged as popular choices for holiday destinations, with Saudi Arabia and Egypt experiencing a more than threefold increase in flight bookings. Similarly, countries like the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Qatar saw a surge of over 50 percent in flight bookings. In Europe, popular destinations such as the UK, Hungary, Ireland, Spain, and Croatia witnessed a doubling of air ticket bookings, according to Qunar data. Meanwhile, with the Japanese yen hitting a 34-year low against the dollar on Monday, Japan has attracted large numbers of overseas tourists including Chinese visitors. According to Ctrip, Japan will be the top destination for outbound travel during the May Day holidays, with Thailand and South Korea following closely behind. Airbnb data also indicates that Japan is the most searched destination. According to Qunar, the top 10 destinations for the May Day holidays are Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, the US, the Philippines, and Australia. Bookings for flights to Japan saw a significant increase of over 60 percent compared with the same period in 2019, making it the destination with the largest growth among the top 10. The rise in outbound travel has been facilitated by a surge in international flights. China Southern Airlines announced plans to add over 900 flights from April 30 to May 6, with total planned operation of nearly 19,000 flights. China Eastern Airlines has also expanded its international and regional routes, including flights from various Chinese cities to destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, Japan, and Russia, among others. Global Times

Global hot tourist destinations will welcome a large number of Chinese tourists during the upcoming May Day holidays ...

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World Tourism Day 2021

• All Regions

World Tourism Day 2021: Tourism for Inclusive Growth

Relevant links:

• Provisional Programme (PDF)
• General Information Note
• Attestation
• Promotional Offer Air Côte d'Ivoire

Provisional Programme

Cote d´Ivoire (26 September 2021) (GMT)

Welcome evening reception

Cote d´Ivoire (27 September 2021) (GMT)

• Musical show
• UNWTO launch of WTD Video: Tourism and Inclusive recovery

Master of Ceremony (TBC, Ivorian speaker)

Welcome remarks:

• Mr. Jean-Marc YACE, Mayor of Cocody
• H.E.Mr. Siandou FOFANA, Minister of Tourism and Leisure of Cote d´Ivoire followed by a video of Côte d’Ivoire
• H.E.Mr. Zurab POLOLIKASHVILI, UNWTO Secretary General
• H.E.Mr Patrick ACHI, Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire

Group photo

Visit of the exhibition hall with country booths followed by Press Point (Coffee break)

Keynote address - Salle des Fêtes

Mr. Gustave DIASSO, Resident Representive, UEMOA (TBC)

1 Ministerial Panel Discussion on "Tourism for inclusive growth" - Salle des Fêtes

Moderator: Elcia Grandcourt, UNWTO Regional Director for Africa

• H.E.Mr. Siandou Fofana, Minister of Tourism and Leisure of Côte d’Ivoire
• H.E.Mr. Modero Nsimba Matondo, Minister of tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Hon. Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Awal , Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Ghana
• H.E.Mrs. María Reyes Maroto Illera, Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain
• H.E. Mr. Ahmed Athif, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Tourism of Maldives

Expert Panel discussion:  “How can tourism live up to the inclusive growth opportunity?” - Salle des Fêtes

Moderator: Channels TV

• Mr Donald AKA, Chief Marketing and Technology Officer, Azalai Hotel - Confirmed
• Mrs. Antonia Sodonon, Country representative, UN Women- Confirmed
• Mr. Kwakye Donkor, CEO, Africa Tourism Partners - Confirmed
• Mr. Mark Kaigwa, founder of 254- Confirmed
• Local Expert – TBC from Côte d’Ivoire

WTD Lunch (UNWTO videos playing in loop and WTD Video) – Ancienne patinoire

2 The Future of Africa Speaks – TBC - Salle des Fêtes

• Tourism and innovation towards inclusive recovery

Award Start up competition

B to B meetings for pre-registered project leaders and investors (22nd floor, Tower)

UNWTO Affiliate Membership and tourism private sector development in Africa - Salle des Fêtes

Gala dinner offered by Côte d’Ivoire – Palais des Congrès (at Sofitel)

1 Introduction video before the session (testimonies + CNN restart tourism + alula framework) 2 Introduction video before the session (testimonies + CNN restart tourism + alula framework)

Cote d´Ivoire (28 September 2021) (GMT)

Visit of the lagoon followed by an Ivorian gastronomic and cultural brunch

Culinary and artistic discovery Prize presentation for the various competitions Organization of games Live orchestra

Departure of the delegations

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Related content, world tourism day 2023: tourism and green investments, world tourism day 2022 | “rethinking tourism”, world tourism day 2020, world tourism day.