In an era marked by rapid transformation, the global Travel & Tourism sector stands as a beacon of progress, significantly amplifying its contribution to women and young people’s employment across the globe. A groundbreaking report released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC), commissioned by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, sheds light on this remarkable evolution.
From 2010 to 2019, the sector witnessed a meteoric rise in women’s direct employment, catapulting from 38.6 million to an impressive 47.8 million—a 24% surge. Hospitality emerged as the vanguard, offering more than half of the jobs to women within the industry, reflecting a paradigm shift towards gender inclusivity.
Simultaneously, young workers have carved out a substantial niche within this vibrant sector, consistently comprising 15% of its workforce. This figure starkly contrasts the declining global trend of youth employment, underscoring the pivotal role Travel and tourism play in nurturing the next generation’s career paths.
Amidst this landscape, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, underscores the report’s pivotal role in shaping a strategic roadmap for empowering women and engaging youth. The kingdom’s ambitious Saudi Vision 2030 aligns seamlessly with initiatives boosting female labour force participation by a staggering 64% since 2021.
WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson champions the sector’s monumental impact. For the first time, data vividly illustrates the sector’s transformation into a global powerhouse, fostering high-wage, sustainable, and equitable job opportunities.
Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Gloria Guevara, Chief Special Advisor of the Saudi Tourism Minister, views this collaborative report as a crucial milestone. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about nurturing a sustainable and inclusive sector that resonates with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of a vibrant society where all citizens flourish.
The report doesn’t just enumerate statistics; it delves into the fabric of the sector’s social footprint, dissecting data by age, gender, and income across continents. It highlights that in 2021, the Travel & Tourism sector slightly outpaced other sectors in female employment, accounting for 39.3% of its workforce. Regions like Asia-Pacific and the Americas are leading the charge, with women constituting a more significant portion of the workforce than the broader economy.
The narrative for youth is equally compelling, with a 28% increase in employment from 2010 to 2019. Despite the setbacks of COVID-19, the resilience and potential of young workers shine through, especially in Asia-Pacific, where the growth rate nearly doubles that of other regions.
Moreover, the sector is progressively shifting towards high-wage jobs, with nearly 34% classified as such in 2021. This trend is particularly pronounced in Asia-Pacific and Africa, heralding a future where quality and equity in employment are not just ideals but realities.
This comprehensive report, available in full detail through an interactive microsite, is more than a collection of statistics. It’s a testament to the transformative power of the Travel & Tourism sector. As it continues to evolve, it’s not merely changing landscapes but reshaping lives, communities, and futures.
Written by: Supaporn (Joom) Pholrach
