UN Tourism Hosts First Regional Workshop on Wellness Tourism in the Middle East

International

Event in Riyadh explores wellness as a driver of sustainable growth and tourism diversification

Representatives from 12 Middle East Member States, industry experts, and stakeholders gathered to discuss wellness-focused tourism strategies and cooperation.

UN Tourism has hosted its first Regional Workshop on Wellness Tourism in the Middle East at the organization’s regional office in Riyadh. The two-day event (9–10 September) brought together more than 30 participants from 12 Member States, alongside experts and industry leaders, to explore the potential of wellness tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, diversification, and sustainability across the region.

Wellness as a regional priority

A representative from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism emphasized:

“Hosting this workshop in Riyadh underscores Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 commitment to positioning tourism as a driver of economic diversification and well-being. Wellness is deeply rooted in our heritage, and we see it as a defining pillar of the region’s tourism identity and future.”

Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of UN Tourism, added:

“Travellers increasingly seek experiences that support their physical and mental well-being. Wellness tourism provides Member States with opportunities to diversify, create jobs, and respond to evolving traveller needs while fostering regional cooperation.”

Sharing knowledge and best practices

The program included interactive sessions led by Dr. László Puczkó, Wellbeing and Experience Strategist and co-author of UN Tourism’s Exploring Health Tourism report. Participants exchanged best practices, identified challenges, and explored how wellness can be integrated into tourism strategies.

The event follows priorities set by Member States at the 50th and 51st Meetings of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, particularly in capacity building and product diversification.

Samer Al-Kharashi, Director of the UN Tourism Regional Office for the Middle East, said:

“Wellness tourism aligns perfectly with the region’s ambition to deliver meaningful, high-value travel experiences. By embracing wellness, Middle Eastern destinations can tap into a global trend while promoting cultural authenticity, healthier lifestyles, and environmental stewardship.”

A growing tourism sector

According to the UN Tourism World Tourism Barometer, the Middle East welcomed 101 million international arrivals in 2024, 8% more than in 2023 and 41% above pre-pandemic levels. As the first region to surpass pre-pandemic numbers, the Middle East is now positioning wellness tourism as a leading innovative segment in its continued growth.