Riyadh: The UN Tourism has successfully concluded the biggest General Assembly in its 50-year history, confirming new leadership, and announcing a shared vision for innovation and Artificial Intelligence.
According to Emirates News Agency, the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly welcomed delegation from 148 Member States to Riyadh, including 90 Ministers of Tourism and 70 Ambassadors. Over three days, the Organisation's Member States advanced the shared Programme of Work, setting the course for a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable future.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the transformative potential of innovation and Artificial Intelligence in the sector. He emphasized the Organisation's commitment to supporting top innovators and guiding Member States to harness AI's power for diversifying the sector, driving inclusive growth, and expanding opportunities for all.
Reflecting UN Tourism's leading role in advancing innovation and digital transformation, a special Thematic Session on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence convened both public and private sector leaders. Executive Director Natalia Bayona provided an overview of AI's place in the Organisation's agenda, setting the stage for a policy debate with interventions from more than 30 Heads of Delegation or high-level equivalents. Notable participants included representatives from Amadeus, Trip.com, Microsoft, and the World Economic Forum.
In Riyadh, the final of the UN Tourism Artificial Intelligence Challenge recognized innovators transforming the sector through new technology. Smart Tour from Brazil emerged as the overall winner among the finalists.
The session concluded with the announcement of the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, a roadmap to guide the sector forward. The Declaration emphasizes strengthening international cooperation, resilience, and empowering local communities through digital innovation, AI integration, and inclusive tourism economies. Signatories pledged to take concrete steps, such as incentivizing investment in digital infrastructure, addressing workforce shortages and skills gaps, and leveraging technological and AI-driven initiatives to support local entrepreneurship.
On the first day of the General Assembly, Shaikha Al Nowais was confirmed as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism. Her nomination was formally ratified by Member States, marking her as the first woman to lead the United Nations Specialised Agency for tourism in its 50-year history. She will begin her term at the start of 2026.
Member States approved proposals to celebrate World Tourism Day 2026 with the theme of 'Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence', with El Salvador as the host country. The 2027 celebrations will focus on 'Transforming Tourism through Education', with Cabo Verde as the host.
Finally, Member States voted to hold the 27th edition of the UN Tourism General Assembly in the Dominican Republic.