UN Tourism sets AI agenda for global tourism as General Assembly concludes in Riyadh

 

26TH UN TOURISM GENERAL ASSEMBLY – RIYADH – REPORT: UN Tourism has concluded the largest General Assembly in its 50-year history, setting a new global agenda for Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and sustainable development. The 26th session, held in Riyadh, brought together delegations from 148 Member States, including 90 Ministers of Tourism and 70 Ambassadors, to chart a shared vision for the future of global tourism.

Artificial Intelligence at the centre of global tourism transformation

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “As UN Tourism celebrates 50 years, we look ahead to the next half-century. The sector will be transformed by innovation and Artificial Intelligence. We are proud to support the top innovators and to guide our Member States to fully benefit from the power of AI to diversify the sector, drive inclusive growth and expand opportunities for all.”

A dedicated Thematic Session on Artificial Intelligence highlighted the Organization’s leadership in advancing digital transformation and innovation within the tourism sector. The session brought together public and private stakeholders to explore how AI can drive competitiveness, inclusion, and sustainability.

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona presented the Organization’s AI agenda, followed by policy interventions from over 30 Heads of Delegation and high-level representatives, including Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport & Tourism, and executives from Amadeus, Trip.com, Microsoft, and the World Economic Forum.

The Assembly also hosted the final of the UN Tourism Artificial Intelligence Challenge, recognizing innovators shaping the sector’s technological future. Smart Tour from Brazil was announced as the overall winner, reflecting the growing impact of start-ups in the AI-driven tourism ecosystem.

Riyadh Declaration outlines roadmap for the future

The session concluded with the adoption of the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, a shared roadmap emphasizing international cooperation, digital innovation, and AI integration. The declaration calls for:

• Incentives for investment in digital infrastructure;
• Bridging workforce skill gaps through education and reskilling;
• Empowering local communities and entrepreneurs through technology; and
• Strengthening resilience and inclusivity across global tourism economies.

The declaration reinforces Riyadh’s growing role as a hub for global tourism dialogue and innovation, following the city’s successful hosting of multiple UN Tourism events in recent years.

Also read → Riyadh Declaration charts a global roadmap for sustainable, inclusive and AI-enabled tourism transformation

Leadership renewal and global expansion

During the opening day, Shaikha Al Nowais was formally confirmed as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism, becoming the first woman to lead the Organization in its history. Her term will begin in January 2026.

The Assembly also approved key institutional decisions, including the institutionalization of the UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit as a biennial platform for cooperation between the two regions, and the creation of a Mechanism for South-South Cooperation to enhance knowledge exchange among developing nations.

In addition, Member States approved the Government of China’s proposal to establish a UN Tourism Regional Office in Shanghai, further strengthening the Organization’s global presence and regional engagement.

Looking ahead: AI and education at the core of tourism’s future

Member States approved upcoming World Tourism Day themes that align with UN Tourism’s long-term strategic direction:

• 2026: “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence” – hosted by El Salvador;
• 2027: “Transforming Tourism through Education” – hosted by Cabo Verde.

The Assembly also voted for the Dominican Republic to host the 27th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly, underscoring the Organization’s expanding geographical reach and inclusive approach.

As UN Tourism moves into its next 50 years, the Riyadh Declaration and AI-driven agenda mark a turning point for the sector – positioning tourism as a catalyst for innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable growth in the digital era.