Saudi Arabia Hosts the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly: A New Era of Travel Innovation

Published on October 24, 2025

In November 2025, Saudi Arabia will become a global tourism hotspot as it celebrates the 26th United Nations Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh from November 7 to 11. This is much more than an important event for tourism; it is a tourism milestone for the Kingdom, showcasing its emerging influence in global tourism.

Saudi Arabia has astonishingly transformed its tourism sector. As the first Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country to host a UN agency’s general assembly, Saudi Arabia is both signaling and showcasing to the world its newfound prominence as a center for global tourism and conversation.

The General Assembly, in line with Riyadh’s evolving skyline, will examine the most important and future relevant themes of travel. The most important theme for the Assembly is “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future”, signifying the ambition of Saudi Arabia for the future of the tourism industry. The impact of AI on how we interact with the world is profound and the Assembly will discuss how AI will help make tourism smart, personalized, and efficient.

With more than 160 participating member states and international organizations, the UN Tourism General Assembly will not only discuss the first technological impacts on tourism but will also vote in the selection of the next UN Tourism Secretary-General. For the Kingdom, this is a shift in its goal in the pursuit of becoming an international tourism giant.

Riyadh: A Modern Oasis with Rich Heritage

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital, is an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition. As the host city for the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, Riyadh showcases the Kingdom’s dynamic growth and forward-thinking attitude. Known for its impressive skyscrapers and futuristic architecture, Riyadh is also a city steeped in centuries-old traditions and culture, with deep-rooted values that give visitors a chance to experience both old and new Saudi Arabia.

While the General Assembly will bring world leaders to Riyadh, it’s also a great opportunity for travelers to explore the city. For those with a bit of extra time, Riyadh offers a variety of cultural experiences, from the National Museum of Saudi Arabia to the stunning Masmak Fortress, where the Kingdom’s history unfolds.

The Kingdom Centre Tower, one of Riyadh’s tallest buildings, offers an incredible view of the city’s skyline, where old meets new. Explore traditional souks like Souq Al-Thumairi, where vendors offer everything from spices to handcrafted goods, providing a taste of Riyadh’s cultural heritage amidst the city’s modern landscape.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism is set to host multiple high-profile events during the General Assembly, positioning the city as the epicenter of tourism innovation and cultural exchange in the region.

Thematic Focus: AI in Tourism

It’s only fitting that Saudi Arabia chose AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future as the theme for the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly as AI powered technology is transforming how we travel. The assembly will consider the innovative future of travel, highlighting how AI technology can craft bespoke journeys, streamline business processes, and integrate travel systems and frameworks.

Global tourism leaders, tech gurus, and public sector representatives will discuss how AI is revolutionizing the sector from virtual travel to customized trip suggestions. The assembly will focus on AI’s impact on the traveler experience and the tourism ecosystem as a whole.

By adopting cutting-edge technology into its tourism strategy, Saudi Arabia is attempting to future-proof its tourism sector. This will allow leaders to address the global power of the challenges and innovative the solutions that can be implemented across the globe.

TOURISE Summit: The Future of Travel, Culture, and Sustainability

After the UN Tourism General Assembly, Saudi Arabia will take things a step further with the TOURISE Summit, taking place from November 11 to 13, 2025. This summit will bring together public and private sector leaders from across the tourism, technology, investment, sustainability, and culture industries. The TOURISE Summit aims to tackle global challenges in tourism and explore opportunities for sustainable and future-ready travel solutions.

The summit will highlight key issues such as sustainability in tourism, responsible travel, and how to create a more inclusive industry that benefits both travelers and the communities they visit. Sustainability is one of the top priorities for Saudi Arabia, which has committed to reducing its environmental footprint while simultaneously growing its tourism sector.

For travelers, the summit marks a significant opportunity to see how global leaders are collaborating to make tourism more sustainable, accessible, and impactful. Whether you’re passionate about eco-tourism, technology-driven travel, or cultural exchange, the summit promises a range of thought-provoking discussions and practical insights.

The Kingdom’s Vision for the Future of Tourism

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with tourism at the heart of its diversification strategy. With the launch of initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom has set its sights on attracting millions of international visitors by focusing on innovation, technology, and cultural experiences. The upcoming UN Tourism General Assembly and TOURISE Summit are key moments in this vision.

The Saudi government has worked tirelessly to create a more welcoming environment for tourists, with relaxed visa policies and initiatives like the Saudi Green Initiative, which promotes sustainable tourism practices. Saudi Arabia is home to some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes, ancient historical sites, and vibrant cultures, all of which are now being showcased to the world through events like the UN Tourism General Assembly.

As the Kingdom continues to build its tourism infrastructure, Riyadh’s role as a global tourism leader is undeniable. Whether you’re visiting for the General Assembly or simply experiencing the cultural and technological advancements that Saudi Arabia has to offer, the country is ready to redefine the future of travel.

A Glimpse of the Future: Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Potential

Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize its tourism industry while staying rooted in its traditions is creating a tourism ecosystem that blends innovation with culture. This fusion is evident in both the UN Tourism General Assembly and the TOURISE Summit, as well as in the many projects that the Saudi government is spearheading in the tourism sector. The success of these events will not only shape Saudi Arabia’s tourism future but also have a lasting impact on the global tourism industry as a whole.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading player in the tourism space, and with this assembly, the Kingdom is taking a bold step forward in promoting responsible tourism, technological advancements, and cultural understanding on the global stage. This historic event will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, shaping the future of the tourism industry for years to come.

Your Invitation to Explore Saudi Arabia

For travelers, the UN Tourism General Assembly and the TOURISE Summit offer a rare opportunity to witness firsthand Saudi Arabia’s journey as it takes its place on the world stage. Whether you’re attending the events or simply visiting Riyadh for the cultural insights, futuristic vision, and warm hospitality, this is a time to witness the Kingdom at a pivotal moment in its tourism history.

As Saudi Arabia looks ahead to 2030 and beyond, its tourism sector is one to watch. The combination of innovative technology, sustainability, and rich culture makes Saudi Arabia an exciting and dynamic destination for travelers seeking a truly unique experience.

Stay tuned, explore with purpose, and let Saudi Arabia be a part of your next adventure.