The initiative is part of the Kingdom’s tourism strategy for accelerating the pace of growth in the sector, creating new jobs and stimulating innovation
The Saudi Ministry of Tourism and the Saudi Tourism Authority has announced the creation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) souvenirs.
Creators can use these digital files to keep their own products such as art, music, audio recordings and a wide list of collectibles.
The souvenirs can be stored on the blockchain system, allowing these files a distinct dual existence in the real and virtual reality, employing digital media elements for social interactions.
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Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Ahmed Al-Khatib, presented the souvenirs – described as a first of its kind initiative – to the heads of delegations participating in the meetings of the 116th session of the executive council of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), held recently in Jeddah.
Al-Khatib said these souvenirs embody the leadership’s vision for the future of the Kingdom and its keenness on digital transformation.
“Our tourism infrastructure has been designed to be able to contain new trends and we place digital transformation as our top priority,” the minister said.
“These new files show the world the extent of the kingdom’s excellence, which has been able to develop an unparalleled tourism sector, where travelers can expect to see and experience unique and future shows,” Al-Khatib added.
On the sidelines of the event, the guests enjoyed a wonderful virtual reality art show, in which one of the creators drew an amazing set of 3D landscapes, inspired by virtual Saudi landmarks.
According to the minister, the kingdom has been able to make great strides in its digital transformation journey over the past years, and is also striving to advance the growth of its modern economy in line with the goals of Vision 2030.
The ministry of tourism has launched a three-year digital program this year to reiterate its commitment to contribute to achieving these goals.
The Saudi tourism strategy focuses on accelerating the pace of growth in the sector, creating new jobs, and stimulating innovation.
It also includes nine innovative programs containing 31 basic initiatives aimed at attracting 100 million visitors annually, and raising the sector’s contribution to reach 10 percent of the country’ gross domestic product (GDP).
The initiative also aims to create one million new jobs.
The article is originally published in Arabian Business