KUWAIT CITY, Aug 5: Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, has underscored the increasing importance of the tourism sector in Kuwait’s economic development, emphasizing its role in bolstering both the national economy and the country’s cultural identity.

Al-Mutairi highlighted that the rising interest in tourism has been supported by a series of initiatives from government bodies, the private sector, and civil society. This collective effort aims to showcase Kuwait’s rich tourism potential, which encompasses both its cultural heritage and environmental diversity.

Al-Mutairi announced that the Ministry of Information is preparing to launch the "Visit Kuwait" platform, a unified national initiative that will centralize and coordinate tourism-related efforts. The platform is designed to consolidate various tourism messages and initiatives under one umbrella, providing a seamless and integrated experience for visitors, while also enhancing the tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy.

"The platform represents a significant step toward developing a modern and cohesive tourism system," Al-Mutairi explained. He emphasized that the initiative will rely on effective public-private sector partnerships, in line with the broader objectives of Kuwait Vision 2035 — the country’s long-term development plan aimed at diversifying the economy and improving sustainable growth.

In related developments, Al-Mutairi revealed that Kuwait is preparing to host the 52nd session of the United Nations World Tourism Organization's Regional Committee for the Middle East in early 2026. Kuwait, which is currently presiding over the committee, views this opportunity as vital to strengthening its regional presence in the global tourism landscape.

Al-Mutairi emphasized that the event would serve as a platform for Kuwait to exchange ideas, discuss development strategies, and showcase its tourism initiatives to key stakeholders from the Middle East and beyond.

Another major development discussed by Al-Mutairi was Kuwait’s participation in Expo Osaka 2025. He described the event as a significant milestone for the country, offering an opportunity to present Kuwait’s national identity and future aspirations on the world stage.

Reflecting on Kuwait’s involvement in Expo 2020 Dubai, Al-Mutairi highlighted that the Ministry of Information was committed to upholding high standards in governance and organization. He explained that the selection process for Kuwait’s representatives was conducted with great care, ensuring that only national experts capable of accurately representing the country were chosen. Moreover, the ministry paid meticulous attention to the technical and contracting procedures to guarantee that the event would be organized with the highest standards of quality and transparency.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that the Kuwaiti pavilion at Expo Osaka represents our nation in a way that reflects our identity, values, and ambitions,” Al-Mutairi said, noting that the pavilion will highlight Kuwait’s accomplishments in sustainability, innovation, education, culture, and economic development. He expressed confidence that the exhibition would boost Kuwait’s global image and contribute to the country’s long-term goals.

Turning to the cultural sector, Al-Mutairi addressed preparations for the Kuwait International Book Fair, which this year is being held under the patronage of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah. The fair will feature the participation of 33 countries, marking an unprecedented level of international involvement.

A key highlight of the fair will be the launch of the “I Am the Author” initiative, an interactive project designed for children and young adults. This initiative will allow young visitors to experience the entire process of writing, designing, and printing their own books, with access to writing, photography, and printing tools. The project aims to nurture a love for writing and creative expression among the younger generation.

In addition, the fair will host the second edition of the Professional Program, in partnership with the Arab Publishers Association, aimed at empowering publishers and editors from Kuwait and the region. This program is part of broader efforts to strengthen the publishing industry within the Arab world.

Looking ahead, Al-Mutairi revealed plans for a grand closing ceremony to mark Kuwait's selection as the "Capital of Arab Media and Culture for 2025". This highly anticipated event will coincide with Kuwait's national holidays in February and is set to be a major cultural occasion. The ceremony will not only celebrate Kuwait's achievements in the media and cultural sectors but will also showcase its leadership role within the Arab world.

“This event will be a key moment in celebrating Kuwait’s identity and its cultural contributions to the Arab region,” Al-Mutairi said. “It will highlight Kuwait’s position as a beacon of media and cultural excellence.”

With these significant initiatives, Kuwait is positioning itself as a hub for cultural exchange, global tourism, and international partnerships, aiming to solidify its role on the world stage as a leader in both economic and cultural spheres.