North Africa Embraces Sustainable Tourism Amid Climate Pressures
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, renowned for its iconic deserts, cedar forests, and the Red Sea coastline, is intensifying efforts to safeguard its fragile ecosystems from the impacts of climate change, over-tourism, and pollution. According to the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 , the region contributes 6.7% to GDP and accounts for 9.5% of global international tourist arrivals. With tourism forecasted to grow at 7.7% annually through 2032, regional stakeholders are under increasing pressure to align economic growth with environmental preservation.
Prominent sustainability efforts are emerging across the region. In Morocco, the Moroccan Sustainable Tourism Programme is prioritising eco-friendly hospitality, conservation of natural sites, and community-based tourism to minimise the environmental footprint while promoting cultural heritage. Elsewhere, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea Project combines biodiversity protection with renewable energy and visitor caps, and Bahrain International Airport has become the first globally to achieve the International Air Transport Association’s Environmental Assessment Certification . These initiatives highlight North Africa and neighbouring MENA regions' commitment to pioneering sustainable travel practices in response to rising global demand for eco-conscious tourism.
Source: TTW
