Approximately 160 delegations from member states, including ministers, senior officials, and industry leaders, have gathered to honor five decades of global cooperation under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future.”
The Assembly is hosted by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, in close collaboration and planning with UN Tourism and various partners. This partnership highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing the industry and fostering meaningful dialogue on the international stage.
Also read | Thailand sees the return of Chinese tourists following no-casinos pledge
For 50 years, UN Tourism has promoted economic opportunities, cross-cultural understanding, and peace through travel. As the sector rapidly embraces digital transformation, altering how travelers discover, book, and experience destinations, this year’s Assembly emphasizes ensuring that AI benefits people and places, supporting jobs, small businesses, destination stewardship, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
In the coming days, delegates will engage in four plenary sessions and numerous meetings across seven specialized committees, as well as the 124th and 125th sessions of the Executive Council – the organization’s top executive body. The agenda aims to stimulate discussions on how artificial intelligence and digital transformation can foster sustainable, inclusive growth and enhance international cooperation in tourism.
Tourism stands as one of the world’s most influential forces for prosperity and understanding, creating jobs, supporting small enterprises, and connecting cultures. With Vision 2030 as its guide, the Kingdom is dedicated to ensuring that growth continues to generate opportunities and inclusivity — welcoming the world with the spirit of Saudi hospitality that defines our identity.
Also read | Qatar to invest $3.5 billion in Egypt’s Mediterranean resort project
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili remarked: “The UN Tourism General Assembly unites tourism leaders from around the globe to set the agenda and foster a more innovative and inclusive sector. Over the next few days, beginning with the gathering of our diverse and dynamic Affiliate Members and followed by the sessions of our General Assembly, Riyadh will exemplify the power of tourism as a catalyst for transformation, modernization, and opportunity. Together, we can harness the power of technology to drive positive change, diversify our economies, and create jobs for countless individuals worldwide.”
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
