During the inaugural sustainability week hosted by the United Nations in New York from April 15 to 19, Saudi historical destination developer Diriyah Co.’s CEO, Jerry Inzerillo, received a prestigious appointment as a UN Tourism ambassador. In joining the ranks of esteemed individuals such as Lionel Messi, Georgio Armani, and Placido Domingo, Inzerillo has been recognized for his lifelong dedication to innovative design and development strategies that enrich local communities and promote sustainable tourism destinations.
The appointment, announced through a press statement, highlights Inzerillo’s commitment to employing visionary approaches that not only enhance tourism but also contribute to the well-being of local populations. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili expressed pride in welcoming Inzerillo to this esteemed role, emphasizing his potential to amplify the organization’s messages on tourism’s role in driving change and achieving sustainable growth.
Diriyah, situated on the outskirts of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is at the heart of Inzerillo’s efforts. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, the historic capital of the First Saudi State, Diriyah is undergoing extensive development to accommodate residents, workers, students, and visitors. Upon completion, the project aims to offer a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces.
This strategic development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes economic diversification and sustainable growth. Inzerillo emphasized the importance of responsible tourism development, citing the sector’s significant potential for job creation and economic prosperity.
Under Inzerillo’s leadership, Diriyah Co. is committed to adhering to the highest international standards of sustainability, preservation, and conservation. Their development strategies prioritize the well-being of the local community while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Inzerillo expressed optimism about the transformative changes underway in Riyadh, noting that visitors and residents will experience palpable differences in the city’s landscape every year. He emphasized that the tourism sector’s evolution is already evident and does not require waiting until 2030 to witness its impact.
Formerly known as the World Tourism Organization, UN Tourism advocates for responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism on a global scale. As a leading international organization, it promotes tourism as a catalyst for economic development, inclusive growth, and environmental stewardship.