UN Tourism Middle East Commission Concludes in Kuwait: AI Innovation and Regional Cooperation Take Center Stage

Last updated on February 18, 2026

Kuwait City, Kuwait (Tourism Reporter) — The 52nd UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, held alongside the International Conference on “Promoting Tourism Through Artificial Intelligence,” concluded today, February 12, 2026, in Kuwait after three days of high-level discussions on advancing sustainable tourism, embracing digital transformation, and strengthening regional collaboration across the Middle East.

Hosted by the State of Kuwait in partnership with UN Tourism and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the event brought together tourism ministers, senior officials, industry leaders, and innovators from across the region and beyond. The commission reviewed progress on regional priorities, while the parallel AI-focused conference explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping destinations, visitor experiences, and tourism competitiveness in the Middle East.

Key discussions centered on responsible AI adoption, data readiness, governance frameworks, and practical tools to enhance operational efficiency, personalize travel, and drive innovation. Delegates highlighted the region’s strong momentum: 80% of Middle East UN Tourism member states already have national AI strategies in place, and 90% plan to increase AI funding for tourism in the coming years, according to insights shared during the sessions.

His Excellency Mr. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), praised Kuwait’s hosting and emphasized AI’s role in boosting the sector.

“These efforts will contribute significantly to boosting economic resources through tourism, evolving the role of modern technologies in shaping travel experiences, and increasing the overall efficiency of the sector while fostering innovation in tourism services,” he stated.

The conference built on the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism (adopted at UN Tourism’s General Assembly in November 2025), which sets standards for responsible AI integration, digital infrastructure investment, workforce upskilling, and inclusive growth. Ministers and experts discussed translating these commitments into actionable strategies tailored to the Middle East’s diverse markets — from luxury and cultural tourism in the Gulf to heritage and adventure offerings elsewhere.

Bilateral and regional cooperation featured prominently, with side meetings between ministers (including Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy and Kuwaiti counterparts) exploring joint promotion, cultural exchange, and technology sharing. Saudi Arabia showcased its leadership in AI-driven tourism, with officials reiterating the kingdom’s focus on responsible innovation to support Vision 2030 goals.

Acting Minister of Information and Culture (and Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology) Omar Al-Omar, who chaired proceedings, described the event as extending critical dialogue on the sector’s future. “The AI-driven tourism conference extends dialogue on the sector’s future,” he noted, underscoring Kuwait’s commitment to positioning the region as a leader in tech-enabled tourism.

While no major new declarations were issued at the conclusion (the focus remained on implementation of existing frameworks like the Riyadh Declaration), participants agreed the event reinforced the Middle East’s competitive edge in adopting AI for sustainable, high-value tourism. Discussions also addressed challenges such as ethical AI use, data privacy, skills gaps, and ensuring technology benefits local communities and SMEs.

As the curtains closed on the 52nd Commission, delegates left with renewed emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and responsible digital transformation to drive resilient tourism growth across the region. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili’s vision for AI as a force for good in tourism — echoed in prior global sessions — found strong regional resonance here.

Tourism Reporter will continue monitoring the implementation of the Riyadh Declaration and emerging AI-tourism initiatives across the Middle East in the months ahead. We will provide updates on how regional destinations are translating today’s discussions into practical projects, workforce training programs, governance frameworks, and measurable sustainability outcomes.