Israel’s Minister of Tourism arrives in Saudi Arabia for tourism summit
September 27, 2023 by J-Wire News Service
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Israel’s Tourism Minister, Haim Katz, arrived in Saudi Arabia yesterday to attend the United Nations Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) summit taking place in Riyadh.
Haim Katz
This is the first time in history that an Israeli minister has led an official delegation to Saudi Arabia.
The two-day visit, attended by global tourism leaders and held to coincide with International Tourism Day, will have Minister Katz participating in several events and professional discussions coupled with meetings with other ministers from across the world, including key leaders from the Middle East. With a seat at the tourism table, the Middle East continues to become more integrated and interconnected with the world.
“Tourism is a bridge between nations,” said Minister Katz. “Partnership in tourism issues has the potential to bring hearts together and economic prosperity. I will work to create collaborations to promote tourism and Israel’s foreign relations.”
With the U.S. brokering peace talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia, many hope the outcome will result in the two countries arriving at a peaceful connection and understanding where citizens can travel freely between the two nations.
Under Minister Katz’s leadership, Israel has strengthened its position with the UNWTO in the past year. He was elected for the first time to an official position in the UNWTO and currently leads a task force overseeing the organization’s global tourism initiatives alongside Spain’s delegate.
“The last few years have been transformative for travel to Israel and in the Middle East, with the introduction of the Abraham Accords, allowing more flight routes and combinations of travel to be available for American travellers,” said Eyal Carlin, North America’s Commissioner for the Israel Ministry of Tourism. “There are ancient sites, iconic architecture, bustling markets and savory cuisine. We are excited about the tourism opportunities this relationship could bring to both of our countries.”
Following the UNWTO Summit, Minister Katz will return to Israel later this week.
