Ethiopia participating in 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh

Addis Ababa, November 10, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia is taking part in the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The Ethiopian delegation is led by State Minister of Tourism Endegena Abebe, together with Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Muktar Kedir.

Held from 7–11 November under the theme “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation in Shaping Global Tourism,” the Assembly brings together ministers, high-level officials and guests from 160 member states. UN Tourism said the theme reflects the growing role of artificial intelligence in reshaping the global tourism sector.

A thematic session will feature curated presentations and discussions on cutting-edge AI applications and innovative strategies currently transforming tourism development and management.

The General Assembly is UN Tourism’s highest decision-making platform, convening every two years to approve its budget and programme of work, and to deliberate on issues of strategic importance to global tourism. It also serves as a forum to strengthen international cooperation among member states.

As the Assembly marks the 50th anniversary of UN Tourism, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a message to participants.

He described tourism as a powerful force that connects societies, builds understanding between cultures and creates pathways to peace.

The UN chief noted that the sector has fully rebounded from the pandemic, with international tourist arrivals reaching record levels and new destinations emerging, particularly in the Middle East and Africa.

Guterres stressed that the renewed growth of the industry must be accompanied by responsibility and sustainability, ensuring that tourism benefits local communities, reduces inequality, safeguards cultural heritage and limits environmental impact.

In his message, he also praised the expanding global work of UN Tourism and commended Riyadh for demonstrating how tourism can support economic diversification and generate opportunities.

UN Tourism said the Assembly will continue to provide a platform for knowledge-sharing and partnership building. It added that the gathering offers member states, including Ethiopia, an opportunity to further strengthen competitive and sustainable tourism development.