Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 7, 2025 — The 26th UN Tourism General Assembly officially opened today in Riyadh, marking a defining moment for the global tourism community. This year’s gathering, held under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future,” celebrates 50 years of international cooperation while charting a bold new path driven by innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.
A Historic Milestone for Global Tourism
For the first time in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia hosts the world’s largest tourism assembly, welcoming delegates from over 160 countries, including ministers, industry leaders, and innovators. The five-day event brings together policymakers and experts to discuss how artificial intelligence and advanced data technologies can transform travel experiences, empower local communities, and create a more sustainable future for the sector.
Setting the Agenda for a New Era
The Assembly features four high-level plenary sessions, seven committee meetings, and the 124th and 125th sessions of the Executive Council.
Key discussions focus on:
- Leveraging AI and digital tools to enhance visitor experience and destination management.
- Fostering inclusive tourism growth and job creation.
- Strengthening public-private partnerships to meet UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Saudi Arabia’s Global Tourism Leadership
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, said:
“We are honoured to host this historic assembly in Riyadh, where the world unites to shape the future of tourism. As we celebrate five decades of progress, our focus is on driving innovation, building human capacity, and harnessing the power of AI to create meaningful, sustainable growth for all.”
The event underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment under Vision 2030 to diversify its economy and establish the Kingdom as a global tourism hub — a bridge between cultures, powered by technology and guided by sustainability.
Looking Ahead: From Cooperation to Innovation
Following the Assembly, the TOURISE Summit 2025 will continue the momentum from November 11–13, gathering leaders from tourism, investment, and technology sectors to forge cross-industry collaborations and spark next-generation solutions.
About UN Tourism
UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO) is the United Nations specialized agency for responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. The General Assembly, held biennially, is the organization’s highest decision-making body — setting its global agenda, budget, and leadership direction for the next term.
