Monaco participates in the 26th UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh
Published on 4 December 2025 at 12:18 - Modified the 4 December 2025 at 12:52
From November 7 to 11, the 26th UNWTO General Assembly was held in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), at the invitation of H.E. Mr. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Principality of Monaco, a member of this UN organization since 2000, was represented by H.E. Ms. Catherine Fautrier Rousseau, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNWTO, as well as Ms. Isabelle Tello, representing the Directorate of Tourism and Congresses.
The General Assembly, organized for the first time in the Middle East, brought together more than 150 member countries of the Organization. This record participation highlights the importance of tourism, which today generates over 11 trillion dollars in revenue, representing around 11% of global GDP—a strong sign of the sector’s recovery after the pandemic.
During this session, member states elected the Organization’s new Secretary-General for the 2026–2029 term, Ms. Cheikha Nasser Al Nowais. She is the first woman to lead UNWTO. Originally from the United Arab Emirates, she has extensive experience in the tourism sector.
Discussions also focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in the development of the sector. Representatives from Amadeus, Trip.com, Microsoft, and the World Economic Forum participated in the discussions, alongside Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism.
The proceedings concluded with the adoption of the “Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism,” which outlines a common roadmap for more resilient, inclusive, and innovative
tourism. The Declaration emphasizes international cooperation, skills development, investments in digital infrastructure, and the use of AI to support local businesses.
Finally, the Assembly celebrated the 50th anniversary of UNWTO’s creation, recalling the key role played by the Organization in the development of the global tourism sector, its resilience following the Covid-19 crisis, and its contribution to dialogue among cultures and peace among peoples.