Ministry of Tourism and Sports Participates in the 26th Ordinary Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Published on 10 November 2025
On November 8-11, 2025, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Miss Wanida Phansa-ard, Deputy Permanent Secretary, represented Thailand at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly (UN Tourism GA) on behalf of Minister Atthakorn Sirilattayakorn.
The UN Tourism GA is the premier biennial global policy forum for tourism, gathering tourism ministers, global industry leaders from over 160 countries, representatives from international organizations, and media to shape sustainable tourism strategies.
On 8 November 2025, the host organized a reception in Diriyah, the historic former capital of Saudi Arabia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key cultural and historical tourism destination under Saudi Vision 2030.
The Assembly officially commenced on 9 November 2025, with key agendas including:
- Reports by the UN Tourism Secretary-General on global tourism trends and the 2026–2027 budget plans
- Appointment of the new UN Tourism Secretary-General, H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais from the UAE
- Election of members to the Executive Council and World Committee on Tourism Ethics (WCTE)
- Endorsement of regional UN Tourism offices
Thailand’s participation reflects its proactive role as a capable member in shaping international tourism policy. The Assembly provided a significant platform for knowledge exchange and networking with member countries to collectively promote sustainable, inclusive, and globally connected tourism development.