Riyadh is hosting more than 160 delegates from around the world for the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, with the opening ceremony and first plenary scheduled for Nov. 9. This marks the first time a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country is hosting a UN agency’s general assembly, underscoring the region’s growing influence in global tourism.
Over the coming days, delegates will participate in four plenary sessions, numerous meetings of seven specialized committees, and the 124th and 125th sessions of the Executive Council, the organization’s highest executive body.
Sunday’s agenda will begin with the General Assembly opening ceremony at 10 a.m. KSA time, followed by the first plenary meeting.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said, “The UN Tourism General Assembly brings together tourism leaders from across the world to set the agenda and build a more innovative and inclusive sector. Over the next few days, first with our Affiliate Members and then with the sessions of our General Assembly, Riyadh will showcase the power of tourism as a driver of transformation, modernization, and opportunity.
Together, we can harness technology to drive positive change, diversify economies, and create jobs for millions everywhere”.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb added, “The Kingdom is proud to welcome the world to the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly as we celebrate 50 years of UN Tourism’s global cooperation.
“This week marks a defining moment for our industry, a chance to shape tourism growth in the decades ahead through stronger connectivity, sustainability, investment in human capital, and AI-driven innovation”, he said.
Al Khateeb further highlighted that tourism is one of the world’s most powerful forces for prosperity and understanding, creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and connecting cultures. Guided by Vision 2030, the Kingdom is committed to ensuring this growth continues to drive opportunity and inclusion, welcoming the world with the spirit of Saudi hospitality.
While the first public sessions are set for Sunday, preparatory work has already been underway behind closed doors, with 200 delegates representing over 100 affiliated entities tackling key tourism issues.
According to UN Tourism, affiliate members met to advance public-private collaboration, including a dedicated segment on the first UN Tourism Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism, powered by FIA. These awards will honor projects that integrate sustainability, innovation, and community impact in sports tourism.
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