Saudi and Oman tourist destinations recognised by UNWTO

A total of 44 locations across the globe were included in this year’s list of Best Tourism Villages

Two destinations from the Gulf region – Rijal Alma’a in Saudi Arabia and Misfat Al Abriyeen in Oman – have been included in the list of Best Tourism Villages compiled by United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for 2021.

The two GCC landmarks are among 44 villages from 32 countries across the five world regions that were granted the recognition

According to the UNWTO, the destinations were chosen for their natural and cultural resources, as well as their innovative and transformative actions and commitment to the development of tourism in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative was launched to highlight the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages, along with their natural and cultural diversity, local values and gastronomy.

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The villages were evaluated by an independent advisory board based on a set of criteria covering areas including Cultural and Natural Resources, Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources, Economic Sustainability, Social Sustainability, Environmental Sustainability, Tourism Potential and Development and Health, Safety and Security.

Along with the 44 recognised villages, another 20 villages will enter the upgrade programme of the initiative and all 64 villages will be part of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Network.

For the complete Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO listing, visit the UNWTO website