Mai Alsaied

Purpose-This research aims to highlight the importance of promoting and protecting women's dignity at work in the hospitality and tourism sectors as a key component of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 (gender equality) and 8 (decent work). It seeks to map the existing literature to examine the factors that promote women's dignity. Previous research on dignified and decent work has largely overlooked the integration of a gender perspective in studies of workplace dignity. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by addressing this critical gap in the literature. Design/methodology/approach-This research systematically reviewed the literature and conducted a conceptual analysis of dignity and gender-related themes in hospitality and tourism. Findings-The findings reveal the key factors that influence women's dignity at work. Several challenges in tourism research on women's workplace dignity are identified, including an overemphasis on qualitative methods and a geographical imbalance in the literature. A critical and comprehensive research agenda is provided to guide future research. Practical implications-This paper highlights the link between SDGs 5 and 8 in addressing women's workplace issues in hospitality and tourism. It emphasises the role of managers and organisations in promoting respectful, gender-sensitive practices through training, values and Human Resources (HR) systems, thereby improving employee well-being, ethical work environments, retention and workforce sustainability. Originality/value-The originality of this paper lies in its emphasis on the importance of a distinct conceptualisation of dignity at work from women's perspectives. Previous research argues that tourism scholarship has been significantly gender-blind and should consider distinct gendered experiences, as women's experiences in tourism work differ from men's and are shaped by gender.

A multi-stage, multi-method approach using participatory research methodology that considers the perspectives of tourism and hospitality professionals, and academic experts is used to develop an integrated model of transferable skills gained by working in the industry. Grounded in career construction theory, this study is anticipated to provide a comprehensive understanding of essential skills in the tourism and hospitality industry. It also aims to reshape the image of working in the industry into a more positive one, emphasizing the opportunities of the sector not only as a career but also as a steppingstone to learn transferable skills needed in different sectors, and ultimately contribute to the long-term and sustainable development of the tourism and hospitality sector. [Display omitted] •Explore transferable skills crucial in tourism and hospitality via a robust multi-method study.•Illuminate key competencies to transform the image of tourism and hospitality work positively.•Contribute to the long-term vitality of the industry by addressing skill shortages and fostering a positive perception.•Provide a nuanced view of essential skills, informing both professionals and the public alike.