UN Tourism General Assembly 2023 Opens In Riyadh With Focus On AI-Powered Sustainable Growth

The 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly commenced in Riyadh, themed "AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future." Hosted by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism, this event is a first for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and marks the largest assembly since UN Tourism's inception 50 years ago. Approximately 160 delegations, including ministers and industry leaders, are gathering to celebrate five decades of international cooperation.

For half a century, UN Tourism has promoted economic opportunities, cultural understanding, and peace through travel. With digital transformation rapidly changing how people explore destinations, this year's assembly focuses on ensuring AI benefits people and places. It aims to support jobs, small businesses, destination stewardship, and Sustainable Development Goals.

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb expressed pride in hosting the assembly. He stated: "Saudi Arabia is proud to welcome the world to the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly as we celebrate 50 years of UN Tourism's global cooperation and shared progress. This week marks a defining moment for our industry — a chance to shape how tourism grows in the decades ahead through stronger connectivity, greater sustainability, deeper investment in human capital, and innovation powered by AI."

Over the coming days, delegates will engage in four plenary sessions and numerous meetings across seven specialized committees. The agenda includes discussions on how artificial intelligence and digital transformation can accelerate sustainable growth and enhance international cooperation in tourism.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the assembly's significance: "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... Riyadh will showcase the power of tourism as a driver of transformation, modernisation, and opportunity."

The Ministry of Tourism is hosting this assembly with extensive collaboration alongside UN Tourism and various partners. This partnership underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to advancing the industry and facilitating impactful dialogue on a global scale.

Saudi Arabia's Commitment to Growth

As host of this significant event, Saudi Arabia leads efforts to promote growth, sustainability, and multilateral cooperation under UN Tourism's umbrella. The Kingdom's partnership with the agency includes opening its first Middle East regional office in Riyadh and chairing the Executive Council for two terms in 2023 and 2024.

The inaugural meetings are set to begin today with state-of-the-art venues ready to welcome participants. This reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to global engagement through its vibrant hospitality sector.

This assembly represents a pivotal moment for tourism as it embraces technology-driven change while fostering inclusivity. By focusing on AI-powered solutions, it aims to create jobs worldwide while supporting small businesses and promoting cultural exchange.

With inputs from SPA