World Tourism Day being observed today

World Tourism Day is being observed on Saturday across the globe, including Bangladesh, with various programmes. 

This year's theme, set by the World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), is "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation".

Marking the day, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, in a message, said Bangladesh is one of the most promising countries in South Asia in the tourism sector. He called upon the young generation to come forward for the development of this industry to ensure its proper growth.

Mentioning that tourism has now been recognised worldwide as one of the key drivers of sustainable development, the Chief Adviser said that the sector is also playing a vital role, both directly and indirectly, in the socio-economic advancement of Bangladesh.

Referring to this year's theme as relevant and significant, Professor Yunus said tourism not only accelerates the overall development of tourism regions but also raises awareness for preserving local heritage, culture, and environment.

Since 1980, all member states of the UN Tourism have been observing the day every year with due importance to promote tourism worldwide.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism said its departments, agencies, Tourist Police, and other government and non-government organisations have undertaken elaborate programmes to celebrate the day amid great enthusiasm.

According to Bangladesh Tourism Board, 500,665 foreign nationals visited the country in 2017, followed by 552,730 in 2018, and the highest 621,131 tourists visited in 2019. 

The number declined sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic, with 181,518 arrivals in 2020, followed by 135,186 in 2021, and 150,000 in 2022. 

In 2023, until August, 214,000 foreigners visited the country, while last year's final statistics are yet to be compiled.