The World Tourism Forum Institute (WTFI) has unveiled its highly anticipated “Tourism Power List 30,” showcasing the most influential individuals shaping the global tourism industry in 2023. 

 

From the GCC region, Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, and Amit Jain, Group Chief Executive Officer of Emaar Properties, figure on the list.

 

Curated by a panel of industry experts, the Tourism Power List 30 recognises the visionaries, innovators, and leaders who have made significant contributions to the tourism sector over the past year. From pioneering sustainable practices to driving technological advancements and fostering inclusive growth, these individuals represent the forefront of change in the dynamic world of travel and hospitality.

 

“This year’s Tourism Power List 30 highlights the diverse talents and groundbreaking initiatives that are driving the evolution of the tourism industry,” said WTFI President Bulut Bagci. “We are honoured to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals who are shaping the future of travel and tourism worldwide.”

 

Their dedication, expertise, and leadership have not only propelled their organisations to new heights but have also inspired positive change across the global tourism landscape, Bagci said.

 

From CEOs leading sustainable tourism initiatives to policymakers shaping industry regulations, the list showcases the diverse array of talents driving innovation and excellence in the tourism sector.

 

The release of the Tourism Power List 30 coincides with the World Tourism Forum Institute’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development within the global tourism community. By recognising and celebrating the achievements of industry leaders, the institute aims to inspire others to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of travel and hospitality, it said.

 

The distinguished honorees featured on the Tourism Power List 30 are:

Eric Adams - Mayor of New York City

Ahmed Al Khateeb - Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

Paolo Ardoino - CEO of Tether

Ed Bastian - CEO of Delta Airlines

Sebastian Bazin - CEO of Accor

Brian Chesky - Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb

Anthony Capuano - President and CEO of Marriott International

Luigi Cabrini - Chair Person of Global Sustainable Tourism Council

Bilal Ekşi - CEO of Turkish Airlines

Sebastian Ebel - CEO of TUI Group

Glenn D. Fogel - CEO of Booking Holdings

Gianni Infantino - President of FIFA

Robert Isom - CEO of American Airlines

Amit Jain - CEO of Emaar 

Paul Kagame - President of Rwanda

Olga Kefalogianni - Minister of Tourism of Greece

Peter M. Kern - CEO of Expedia Group

Sadiq Khan - Mayor of London

Dara Khosrowshahi - CEO of Uber

Neşet Koçkar - Founder of ANEX Tour

Jason T. Liberty - CEO of Royal Caribbean Group

Ma Xu Lun - Director & General Manager at China Southern Air Holding

Luis Maroto - CEO of Amadeus

Christopher J. Nassetta - CEO of Hilton Worldwide

Cristiano Ronaldo - Football Player

Stephen Squeri - CEO of American Express

William M. Walsh - Director General of IATA

Xu Xiaoliang - Co-CEO of Fosun International

Sun Yeli - Minister of Culture and Tourism of China

Mark Zuckerberg - CEO of Meta

*Names are listed in alphabethical order by the surnames.