Gloria Guevara Manzo has stepped down from her pivotal role as Saudi Arabia’s chief special advisor in the Ministry of Tourism, a position she held since May 2021.
This development occurs amidst Saudi Arabia’s ongoing tourism transformation, aiming for a dramatic increase in international visitors and the establishment of major tourism projects.
Gloria Guevara’s tenure marked a significant period of change within Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. Assigned directly to Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb, she played a crucial role as the kingdom endeavoured to redefine its global image. During her term, Saudi Arabia pursued ambitious objectives, including hosting 150 million visitors by decade’s end.
The government aims to add 320,000 hotel rooms to accommodate growing tourist numbers. Under her guidance, ‘Giga-projects’ such as The Red Sea and Diriyah Gate have become operational, marking milestones in the region’s tourism expansion.
Efforts are made to ensure the tourism sector’s growth is sustainable and beneficial to the environment, economic development, and culture.
Manzo’s previous roles also include her tenure as Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism from 2010 to 2012, and her advisory position at Harvard University’s Center for Health and the Global Environment.
As these projects advance, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a leading global tourist destination, ready to compete on the world stage.
The continuity of ongoing projects and the introduction of new initiatives are crucial as Saudi Arabia seeks to solidify its standing in global tourism.
Gloria Guevara Manzo’s exit marks the end of a transformative era for Saudi tourism, with ongoing projects continuing to shape the kingdom’s tourism landscape.
Her leadership has been instrumental in setting a foundation for future growth, with Saudi Arabia poised to become a top travel destination.
As changes unfold, the tourism sector will undoubtedly undergo significant developments, reflecting Manzo’s influence and the kingdom’s broader aspirations.