SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 - UN Tourism’s new guidelines spotlight Namibia as a rising hub for global tourism investment
A strategic push to attract international investors
UN Tourism has officially launched its “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Namibia” guidelines, a forward-looking initiative aimed at showcasing Namibia’s promising tourism sector to global investors. The presentation took place in Windhoek, aligning with the 35th Anniversary of Namibia’s Independence and marking a pivotal step toward inclusive economic development through tourism.
Namibia’s thriving tourism landscape
A nation of unmatched natural beauty and growth potential
Namibia stands out with its rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes, including iconic destinations such as the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and the wildlife-abundant Etosha National Park. The country’s tourism ecosystem is gaining rapid momentum, as outlined in the new guidelines:
- Namibia recorded GDP growth of 3.1% in 2024, with projections indicating a rise to 4.2% in 2025.
- International tourism is on the rise, with 863,872 visitors arriving in 2023—an 87.4% increase from the previous year.
- The tourism sector contributed 6.9% to the national GDP, generating USD 348 million in international receipts in 2023.
- Foreign Direct Investment reached an impressive USD 2.61 billion in 2023, nearly doubling from USD 1.06 billion in 2022.
Key investor interest came from China (29.6%), South Africa (22.4%), the United Kingdom (9.4%), and Mauritius (6.8%).
High-level support and strategic alignment
Celebrating leadership and progress
The launch event coincided with the inauguration of H.E Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s 5th President—and the first woman to hold the role—highlighting the country’s commitment to inclusive governance and development. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was present at the event and participated in related celebrations.
A vision for sustainable and inclusive tourism
In his remarks, Secretary-General Pololikashvili emphasized Namibia’s unique position on the global stage:
“Namibia’s diverse investment opportunities and its dedication to sustainable growth make it an interesting destination for global investments. The country’s efforts in energy transition and tourism expansion reflect its commitment to innovation and inclusivity.”
The Secretary-General also delivered a keynote address at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, highlighting how technology can power a more resilient tourism sector across Africa.
Unlock investment opportunities
To explore the full scope of investment possibilities, visit the official UN Tourism website: unwto.org