Saudi Arabia is preparing to take center stage in global tourism as it hosts the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly from November 7 to 11, 2025, in Riyadh. This historic gathering marks the first time a GCC nation will host the world’s most significant tourism assembly. It’s a milestone moment that places the Kingdom at the heart of global travel and innovation.
A New Chapter for Global Tourism
This year’s theme, “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future,” perfectly captures the transformation taking place in the global travel industry. The assembly also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the UN tourism organization. This makes it not only a celebration of five decades of collaboration but also a look forward to a future shaped by technology, sustainability, and inclusivity.
For Saudi Arabia, this event reinforces its position as a pioneer in tourism development and innovation. The Kingdom’s leadership in hosting such a prestigious event reflects its growing influence in shaping the global tourism agenda. This agenda balances progress with purpose.
Riyadh: The Chosen Destination
Hosting the assembly in Riyadh highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global hub for tourism and hospitality under its ambitious Vision 2030 plan. Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has launched groundbreaking projects such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Diriyah Gate. All are designed to redefine the region’s tourism landscape.
The event will bring together ministers, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world. They will discuss how artificial intelligence can revolutionize the travel experience, improve sustainability, and enhance global collaboration.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, emphasized that the assembly represents an opportunity to bring the world together. It is a chance to share knowledge and build partnerships that advance the global tourism industry toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
What to Expect at the 26th Assembly
The five-day event will include:
- High-level plenary sessions and committee meetings focused on innovation and sustainable tourism.
- A special session dedicated to the role of AI in transforming travel experiences.
- The election of the next UN Tourism Secretary-General.
- Parallel meetings of the UN Tourism Executive Council.
Adding to the excitement, immediately after the General Assembly, Saudi Arabia will host the TOURISE Summit (November 11–13, 2025). It is a new global platform focusing on technology, investment, and sustainability in tourism.
Why It Matters
The upcoming assembly is more than a diplomatic milestone. It’s a statement about the future of global tourism. It shows how Saudi Arabia is evolving from being a fast-growing destination to becoming a leader in shaping global tourism policy and innovation.
By championing AI-powered solutions, the Kingdom is setting new standards for smart tourism, sustainability, and digital transformation. For the Middle East and beyond, this event symbolizes a shift toward collaboration, innovation, and responsible travel.
Opportunities for the Hospitality and Events Sector
The assembly presents significant opportunities for hospitality and event professionals in the region. With global delegates, leaders, and media converging in Riyadh, demand for premium event staffing, multilingual hospitality teams, and world-class guest services is expected to soar.
Hotels, event organizers, and tourism service providers are preparing to deliver seamless experiences. These reflect Saudi Arabia’s spirit of hospitality. This wave of global attention positions the Kingdom as a preferred destination for international conferences, exhibitions, and tourism investments in the years ahead.
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