With an ambition to rewrite the rules of global travel, the inaugural TOURISE Summit officially opened today in Riyadh under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The Summit was inaugurated by His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of TOURISE.
TOURISE marks a bold new era for the tourism industry, serving as the world’s premier platform uniting ministers, policymakers, investors, innovators, and visionaries to shape the next 50 years of global tourism.
Taking place from November 11–13, 2025, immediately following the 50th United Nations Tourism General Assembly, TOURISE aims to reimagine how sectors collaborate—where competitors become partners, investments are optimized, and fragmented industries converge. The event seeks to transform visionary ideas into tangible solutions that will drive the evolution of global tourism.
A Call for Collaboration and Action
In his opening address, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb emphasized that the world stands at a critical inflection point for the tourism sector.
“There has never been a more urgent or opportune moment for convergence,” he said. “Tourism has rebounded to historic highs, with international arrivals and investment surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Yet, the sector faces new challenges—from technological disruption and sustainability imperatives to the need for greater resilience amid global uncertainty.”
His Excellency added:
“TOURISE is more than an event—it is a platform for action. Here, we will work hand in hand to overcome long-standing challenges in skills, investment, infrastructure, sustainability, and digital transformation. Our goal is simple: deliver shared prosperity—returns for investors, accessible and affordable experiences for travelers, and jobs and opportunity for communities worldwide. We are not here just to discuss ideas. We are here to act. That is why TOURISE exists.”
Global Leaders Converge in Riyadh
Over three days, TOURISE brings together some of the most influential leaders from across industries and continents. Notable speakers include:
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Ariane Gorin, CEO, Expedia
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Ambassador Patricia Espinosa, Founder, onepoint5
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Gloria Guevara, Interim CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council
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Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Incoming Secretary-General, UN Tourism
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Luis Maroto, CEO, Amadeus
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Francis Suarez, Mayor of Miami
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Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports
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Lucia Penrod, Co-Founder & Owner, Nikki Beach
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Sébastien Bazin, CEO, Accor
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Eduardo Santander, CEO, European Travel Commission
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Harvey Goldsmith CBE, Founder, Nvisible Productions
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Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Heathrow Airport
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Steve Hafner, Co-Founder & CEO, Kayak.com
This diverse speaker lineup underscores TOURISE’s mission to bridge sectors rarely seen together—sparking the collaborations and innovations that will drive the next phase of tourism growth globally.
Shaping the Future of Global Travel
The Summit’s agenda tackles the biggest questions redefining travel—from AI-powered experiences and frictionless borders to sustainable destination design, investment innovation, and the race to attract tomorrow’s travelers. Through ministerial dialogues, main-stage keynotes, boardroom sessions, and innovation showcases, TOURISE transforms ideas into actionable strategies.
The first-ever TOURISE Awards will also be presented this evening, recognizing destinations that exemplify excellence, innovation, and sustainability in tourism.
Beyond the Summit
Powered by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, TOURISE is more than a three-day event—it is an always-on, global platform for collaboration. The conversations initiated in Riyadh will continue year-round, fostering cross-sector partnerships that translate bold ideas into real-world impact.
