Riyadh: The 26th session of the United Nations Tourism General Assembly, hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 11, concluded today with the adoption of the 'Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism,' which sets the foundation for international cooperation in the global tourism sector over the next 50 years.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the declaration underscores the Kingdom's role as a key contributor to shaping the future of tourism and highlights Riyadh's position as a hub for major global tourism decisions. The Riyadh Declaration will serve as a framework for the tourism sector in driving Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, focusing on sustainability, digital innovation, integration of artificial intelligence technologies, and inclusive economic growth.
Serving as a roadmap for the global tourism industry, the declaration emphasizes enhancing international cooperation, empowering local communities, and strengthening the sector's resilience to challenges. It outlines a unified vision to promote environmental responsibility in tourism and reinforces its role as a driver of economic growth and cultural understanding.
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb stated, 'As we conclude this session in Riyadh, we move from declaration to implementation. The agreements we have signed and the platforms we have launched will drive investments, develop human capital, advance digital transformation for small and medium enterprises, and protect cultural and environmental treasures.'
The Kingdom will continue to bring international partners together, leveraging Riyadh's hosting of the UN Tourism Regional Office for the Middle East. This will seek to achieve results to ensure tourism remains a bridge between nations and a catalyst for shared prosperity, according to Al-Khateeb.
The adoption of the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism reflects global confidence in the Kingdom's role as a facilitator of international dialogue and a center for collaboration among all stakeholders in the tourism sector, reinforcing commitment to harnessing the economic and social potential of tourism.
During the session, member state representatives approved the appointment of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as the new secretary-general of the UN Tourism Organization, marking the first time a woman and a Gulf national will hold the position. Her term will begin on January 1, 2026.
The conclusion of the assembly marked the official launch of the 'TOURISE Forum,' a global initiative introduced by the Kingdom to enhance cooperation between the public and private sectors and to advance innovation in the global tourism industry. The forum will serve as a platform for leaders to collaborate on promoting digital transformation, sustainability, impactful investments, and workforce development to prepare the sector for future challenges and opportunities.