Travel & Tourism Soars as Growing Source of Opportunity for Women and Youth
A wave of new female and youth employment is rising within the growing tide of global travel and tourism, according to a joint social impact report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Sustainable Tourism Global Center.
Analyzing data from 2010-2019, the study reveals travel’s evolution into a leading job creator specifically for women and young workers worldwide over the past decade. Hospitality emerged as the top employer of women in the sector, accounting for over half of the 24% increase in direct female travel and tourism roles. “The report highlights the tremendous opportunity our sector presents to empower women and young people through meaningful work,” said WTTC President Julia Simpson. “As travel continues to grow, so too will its potential to transform lives.”
Driven heavily by surging hospitality and restaurant jobs, women’s share of direct travel employment soared from 38.6 million positions in 2010 to 47.8 million by 2019. WTTC forecasts a further rise to 54.7 million by 2027. Young travelers ages 15-24 also maintained a steady presence, filling 15% of sector jobs in both 2010 and 2021. Entry-level service roles offer accessible early employment, while inspiring youths to pursue long-term careers across travel fields like aviation, lodging, events and more.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb added, “This report demonstrates the power of our sector as a critical driver of opportunity, we are committed to realizing travel’s full potential to spread economic benefits more widely.”
While women still face an uphill battle reaching leadership ranks, travel’s expansive labor needs provide a promising runway for female advancement. As tourism activities rebound post-pandemic across destinations like the Middle East and beyond, women and youth stand well-poised to fuel this soaring industry engine.
