Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Riyadh will host the 26th session of the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism -UNWTO) from November 7 to 11. This session, under the theme "AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future" coincides with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of this global organization.
The conference focuses on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in the tourism sector. A thematic session will feature presentations on cutting-edge AI integrations, strategic policy guidelines, and collaborative efforts to establish a global AI framework for tourism.
Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Tourism, is set to receive delegations from more than 160 member countries of the organization, in addition to a number of organizations and actors in the global sector. They will participate in an international dialogue aimed at charting a roadmap towards a more sustainable and prosperous tourism future. Participants will also celebrate five decades of cooperation and progress under the umbrella of the UNWTO.
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb invited the world to come to Riyadh and participate in this historic event of global tourism diplomacy, saying: "We look forward to hosting the General Assembly and organizing a session that will redefine joint international action in the tourism sector and enhance its impact on other sectors."
He highlighted the importance of this hosting, given that Saudi Arabia is the first Gulf country to host the General Assembly of the UN Tourism "This achievement increases the importance and symbolism of the session and reflects international confidence in the Kingdom as a trusted platform for global tourism dialogue. Our role as the host country is to welcome the world, bring viewpoints closer together, and enhance international cooperation to support the growth of the tourism sector and harness it to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals," he said.
Al-Khateeb emphasized that Saudi Arabia believes in the transformative impact of the tourism sector and its ability to stimulate comprehensive and sustainable development for national economies and local communities. “We have seen through the success of the Saudi tourism model the impact and potential of this vital sector, as the Kingdom has been able to transform tourism into a major driver of economic growth and diversification, and a key enabler supporting the achievement of the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030," he said.
The agenda of the global event, that takes place every two years, includes four main sessions of the General Assembly, such as the election of the new secretary general of the organization, in addition to meetings of specialized committees, and a thematic session to discuss the future of tourism in light of the development of artificial intelligence technologies. The session will also witness the holding of the 124th and 125th meetings of the organization's Executive Council.
November 2025 is expected to be a pivotal month in shaping the future of global tourism for the next 50 years. Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural TOURISE summit in Riyadh from November 11-13, following the conclusion of the General Assembly. This will be a new global platform for shaping the future of the tourism industry. TOURISE summit will bring together leaders from public and private sectors, experts, and investors to collaborate on innovative solutions for the sustainable growth and transformation of global tourism. It will also address global challenges, open new horizons and opportunities, and develop a plan of action that builds a more sustainable and inclusive tourism future.
By hosting the UNWTO General Assembly and holding the first TOURISE Forum, Saudi Arabia strengthens its long-standing partnership and ongoing cooperation with the organization and international institutions in this sector. It affirms the Kingdom’s global position as an incubator for dialogue between various sectors and a global force that leads international cooperation and contributes to shaping global tourism policies.
