Saudi Arabia: The 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly has got underway in Riyadh, with Saudi Arabia acting as the first Gulf Cooperation Council country to host such an event.

Taking place from Nov. 7 to 11 under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future,” the gathering coincides with the 50th anniversary of the agency’s founding, and  will be attended by leaders from across the globe to unite to shape the future of tourism.

The General Assembly is the principal gathering of the World Tourism Organization and engages in dialogue aimed at securing a brighter, more sustainable future for the industry and shaping the next 50 years of global tourism.

It meets every two years to approve the budget and program of work and to debate topics of vital importance to the tourism sector.

In addition to four General Assembly plenaries, the 26th session will include several meetings of specialized committees, a thematic session to address the future of tourism in an AI-powered age, and the election of the next UN Tourism Secretary-General.

On Friday closed meetings were held, with the opening ceremony and the first plenary session set for Sunday morning.

The 124th and 125th sessions of the Executive Council will also be held in the framework of the Assembly on Nov. 8 and 11, respectively.

Represented by the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia is welcoming delegations from more than 160 member states, alongside representatives of international organizations and key players in the sector to discuss sustainability and innovation.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb toured the venue ahead of the General Assembly, and posted on X: “Honored to be on the ground with our talented team as they bring the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly to life. The precision, energy, and unwavering commitment behind every detail are a true reflection of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to hosting a global gathering of the highest calibre.”

He added: “As we prepare to welcome the world to Riyadh, I had the privilege of visiting the completed venue for the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly. It is a proud moment to see guests from around the world arriving and enjoying the spirit of hospitality and unity that defines this gathering.” 

Al-Khateeb said he was “honored” to address the 45th Plenary Session of UN Tourism’s Affiliate Members — “a powerful platform uniting public and private sectors to turn ideas into action and ensure tourism continues to be a force for good worldwide.”

The minister added that the Kingdom is looking forward to serving as host, and organizing a gathering that will redefine joint global action in tourism and amplify its impact across other sectors.

On being the first GCC country to host a UN agency’s general assembly, Al-Khateeb said: “This adds to the significance of this session and underscores the global vote of confidence given to Saudi Arabia as a convener and a trusted platform for international dialogue on tourism. 

“Our mission — as hosts — is to bring the world together, unite views, and foster international cooperation that capitalizes on the growing tourism industry to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Several ministerial delegations have arrived in Riyadh, including Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis..

Some delegates, including the Indonesian Tourism Minister, are arriving Saturday ahead of the opening ceremony on Sunday, a member of the country’s contingent told Arab News. 

Those attending will not only take part in an international dialogue that charts a roadmap for a more sustainable and prosperous future for global tourism, they will also celebrate five decades of cooperation and progress under the UN Tourism framework.

This will be a decisive month for shaping the next 50 years of global tourism, as immediately after the UN Tourism General Assembly Saudi Arabia will launch the first TOURISE Summit, taking place on Nov. 11 to 13. 

TOURISE is a new global platform that will convene public and private sector leaders in areas including tourism, technology, and investment, as well as sustainability, and culture.