RIYADH HOSTS 26TH UN TOURISM GENERAL ASSEMBLY, A FIRST FOR GCC REGION

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 (Bernama) -- The 26th session of the United Nations (UN) Tourism General Assembly opened in Riyadh, marking the first time the event has been held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and the largest gathering since the organisation’s founding 50 years ago.

Themed “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future”, the assembly brings together around 160 delegations from member states, including ministers, senior officials and industry leaders, to celebrate five decades of global tourism cooperation.

Hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with UN Tourism and various partners, the assembly underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing the tourism sector and strengthening dialogue on its future development.

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Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb said the event marks a defining moment for the global industry.

“Through stronger connectivity, greater sustainability, deeper investment in human capital, and innovation powered by AI, we can shape how tourism grows in the decades ahead,” he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, UN Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili added that the assembly provides a platform to harness the power of technology to drive positive change, diversify economies, and create jobs for millions worldwide.

For half a century, UN Tourism has promoted economic growth, cross-cultural understanding and peace through travel. This year’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI) reflects the industry’s rapid digital transformation and the need to ensure that technology supports people, destinations and small businesses in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Over the next few days, delegates will attend plenary sessions, committee meetings and the 124th and 125th sessions of the Executive Council, the organisation’s top decision-making body. Discussions will focus on how digital innovation and AI can drive sustainable and inclusive growth.

Saudi Arabia’s close partnership with UN Tourism includes several milestones, notably the establishment of the organisation’s first Middle East regional office in Riyadh and the Kingdom’s two-term chairmanship of the Executive Council in 2023 and 2024.

-- BERNAMA