UN Tourism Launches Investment Guidelines: “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Namibia”

UN Tourism has introduced its “Tourism Doing Business” guidelines, which emphasize opportunities for international investors in Namibia’s growing tourism industry.

“Tourism Doing Business Investing in Namibia” seeks to draw potential investors by offering crucial insights into the diverse prospects present within Namibia’s tourism landscape. These guidelines highlight Namibia’s rich cultural heritage, strong economy, and welcoming business climate, underlining potential areas for substantial growth in the coming years.

Namibia: A Thriving Tourism Ecosystem

Namibia, celebrated for its landscapes and cultural heritage, is ready for substantial growth in tourism investment. As a unique gateway to Southern Africa, the country presents an array of attractions, including the famous Sossusvlei dunes and the extraordinary wildlife found in Etosha National Park. According to UN Tourism’s guidelines:

• Namibia has demonstrated steady economic growth and stability. In 2024, the country recorded GDP growth of 3.1%, which is projected to rise to 4.2% in 2025.
• The country is also growing as a tourism destination. Namibia welcomed 863,872 international visitors in 202, an 87.4% increase on 2022
• The tourism sector contributed 6.9% to GDP, generating USD 348 million in international tourism receipts in 2023.
• Namibia has experienced remarkable growth in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows reaching USD 2.61 billion in 2023—a significant increase from USD 1.06 billion in 2022. Major contributors to FDI include China (29.6%), South Africa (22.4%), the United Kingdom (9.4%), and Mauritius (6.8%).

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Namibia's diverse investment opportunities and dedication to sustainable growth make it an interesting destination for global investments. The country's energy transition and tourism expansion efforts reflect its commitment to innovation and inclusivity."

Highest Level Political Support For Tourism In Namibia

The Investment Guidelines were officially introduced during the UN Tourism leadership's visit to Namibia. In Windhoek, Secretary-General Pololikashvili had the privilege of attending the inauguration of H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who became Namibia’s 5th President and the first woman to hold this position. This event aligned with the celebrations marking the country’s 35th Anniversary of Independence.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili gave a Keynote Address at the Namibia University of Science and Technology during a special event aimed at leveraging technology to create a more inclusive and resilient tourism industry throughout Africa.