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Rabat – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) listed the eco-tourist village of Sidi Kaouki, near Essaouira, among the “Best Tourism Villages of the World 2021.”
The UNWTO revealed the list on December 2 at the general assembly of the international body in Madrid, Spain.
The organization designated the best villages that “provide opportunity and drive sustainable development,” it said in a statement.
The list includes 44 villages from 32 countries across the five continents. UNWTO said the villages in the list are committed to “the development of tourism in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
According to its statement, the designated cities “stand out for their natural and cultural resources,” adding that they are engaged in “innovative and transformative actions.”
The villages met the series of criteria set by an independent advisory board. The board assessed the cultural and natural resources of the cities, and how they promote and preserve these resources.
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Additionally, economic and social sustainability factors played a major role in the nomination of the villages, as well as how they enhance tourism potential, development, and value.
In addition to their contribution to the “chain integration” of tourism, the cities proved good governance and prioritization of tourism.
The board also assessed the infrastructure and connectivity of these villages. The last criterion was that of health, safety, and security.
On the effects of tourism on sustainable development, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said that “tourism can be a driver of social cohesion and inclusion.”
He stressed the main objectives of sustainable tourism can be achieved “by promoting a fairer distribution of benefits throughout the territory and empowering local communities.”
Morocco’s Oukaimeden, near Ifrane, will be part of the UNWTO Upgrade Program. The program will help villages to fill the missing gaps in several areas to meet the UNWTO’s criteria.
