Riyadh — November 6, 2025: Oman is spotlighting artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation as key drivers of the tourism industry’s future during the 26th United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 7–11, 2025. Themed “AI-powered Tourism: Redefining the Future,” the global event focuses on how emerging technologies are transforming travel experiences and sustainability worldwide.
Leading the Omani delegation is Salim Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, whose participation underscores Oman’s ambition to integrate AI, data-driven tools, and digital transformation into its national tourism strategy. His leadership reflects Oman’s growing influence in global tourism policymaking and its commitment to positioning itself as a regional hub for smart, sustainable travel.
Al Mahrouqi emphasized that AI represents a strategic enabler for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in tourism. Oman aims to harness AI for predictive visitor insights, real-time crowd management, itinerary personalization, and cultural preservation — offering travelers immersive, customized experiences while ensuring environmental responsibility.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is also prioritizing human capital development, launching initiatives to train Omani professionals in digital tourism management, AI applications, and data analytics. This investment in local expertise aligns with Oman’s broader Vision 2040, which seeks to diversify the economy and empower youth through innovation and technology.
Oman’s participation in the UNWTO General Assembly reflects a forward-looking vision where technology and education form the foundation of a smarter, more inclusive tourism ecosystem. By embedding AI into destination management, Oman aims to balance progress with preservation — showcasing how technology can both elevate visitor experiences and protect cultural heritage.
As the tourism industry embraces a new era of AI-driven transformation, Oman’s digital strategy serves as a model for other nations, demonstrating how innovation, sustainability, and cultural authenticity can coexist to shape the future of global travel.
