MUSCAT – The Sultanate of Oman will take part in the 26th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Tourism Organization, to be held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 7 to 11 November 2025—under the theme “AI-powered Tourism: Redefining the future.”

Oman’s delegation to the meeting will be led by Salim Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism.

The session will see the election of a new Secretary General for the UN Tourism Organization. It will also review the Secretary General’s report on current trends in international tourism and the financial situation of the UN Tourism Organization.

The minister said that the meetings of the UN Tourism Organization provide opportunities to exchange experiences and discuss key issues of relevance to global tourism, including innovation, digital transition and artificial intelligence (AI).

He added that technology and education have become two basic pillars for building a smart and sustainable tourism sector.

The minister pointed out that the Ministry is embarked on developing national expertise in the fields of digital tourism and destination management.

He said that tourism has become an integrated system for development and building bridges among people belonging to different cultures. He explained that the use of AI and digital technologies will contribute to improving the experience of tourists, augmenting the efficiency of operational procedures and supporting innovation in the management of tourist destinations and services.

The minister laid emphasis on the importance of investing in the human capital to achieve competitiveness and sustainability in the tourism sector.