Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation in the tourism sector and supporting global partnerships aimed at enhancing the future of tourism worldwide during the 126th Executive Council session of UN Tourism held in Toledo on June 10–11, 2026.
The Kingdom’s participation reflects its growing influence in the global tourism landscape and its continued efforts to support initiatives that promote a more sustainable and resilient tourism industry.
Al-Khateeb Highlights Tourism’s Resilience
Ahmed Al-Khateeb emphasized the importance of translating strategic visions into practical actions capable of strengthening the sector’s resilience against future challenges.
He noted that the outcomes of the UN Tourism General Assembly hosted in Riyadh last year, particularly the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, provide a valuable framework for supporting sustainable growth across the global tourism industry.
Al-Khateeb also stressed that tourism continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and recovery despite ongoing global economic and geopolitical challenges, reinforcing its role as a major driver of economic development worldwide.
Expanding Tourism Partnerships with Greece and France
On the sidelines of the council meeting, Al-Khateeb co-chaired a tourism committee meeting with Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni under the Saudi-Greek Strategic Partnership Council.
The discussions focused on cooperation in talent development, tourism expertise exchange, and destination promotion.
Saudi Arabia also signed a joint work program with France aimed at strengthening collaboration in tourism investment, sustainable tourism, innovation, advanced technologies, workforce development, and tourism marketing.
Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Global Tourism Role
Saudi Arabia has significantly expanded its international tourism presence in recent years through major initiatives and global events.
Among the most notable milestones was the selection of Riyadh as the regional headquarters of UN Tourism for the Middle East, as well as the Kingdom’s hosting of the organization’s 26th General Assembly.
The event concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global platform for dialogue and cooperation in shaping the future of the tourism industry.
These efforts continue to reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a leading contributor to global tourism development and sustainable economic growth.
