Travel Industry Events News Page 92
The future is set for tourism’s next era as the inaugural TOURISE Summit opens
With the bold ambition to rewrite the rules of travel, the inaugural TOURISE Summit under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister was officially opened today by H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of TOURISE.
Riyadh Declaration Sets a Global Roadmap for Tourism’s AI-Powered Future
Riyadh has once again placed itself at the heart of the global tourism conversation. As host of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomed ministers, CEOs, and industry leaders from around the world for a defining moment in travel policy: the adoption of the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism.
UN Tourism General Assembly 2025 Wrap-Up: Riyadh Charts a Bold AI-Powered Future for Global Tourism
Riyadh has concluded the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly — the largest and most transformative gathering in the organization’s 50-year history — setting a bold global agenda for the future of tourism powered by artificial intelligence, innovation, and sustainability. The assembly, held from 7–11 November 2025, brought together delegates from 148 Member States, including 90 Ministers of Tourism and 70 Ambassadors. Hosted at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, it marked the first time the event was staged in the Gulf region and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s leadership in shaping the global tourism dialogue.
PhocusWire Unveils the Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2026
The next generation of travel innovators has arrived. PhocusWire today announced its Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2026, highlighting the companies redefining how the world moves, books and experiences travel in an age of economic uncertainty and rapid artificial intelligence transformation. Despite two years of contracting venture funding, innovation in travel continues to surge. According to Phocuswright research, 95% of travel startups are either using AI or actively exploring its use, signaling a decisive shift toward AI-native business models. This wave of leaner, faster and more focused startups is transforming the competitive landscape, even as investors and incumbents recalibrate for a new era.
Orlando's Dazzling Holiday Celebrations Kick Off This November with 70 Days of Festivities
Orlando's holiday celebrations kick off this month, ushering in more than 70 days of festive experiences across the destination — from a Nutcracker-themed afternoon tea at the ette Hotel and Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to more than one million lights illuminating a three-quarter-mile trail with snowball fights and dazzling chandeliers at Leu Gardens. Orlando offers endless ways to make a holiday getaway unforgettable. It's no wonder that Orlando made the No. 1 U.S. destination to travel to in 2025 by AAA.
Verbier Crowned “Switzerland's Best Ski Resort 2025” at the World Ski Awards
For the seventh time in eight years, Verbier has claimed the title of Switzerland's Best Ski Resort at the World Ski Awards. Already a winner in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, the resort once again confirms its status as an icon of Swiss skiing. This new achievement, the result of a collective effort, celebrates an entire community with partners, residents, seasonal workers and enthusiasts who make Verbier shine far beyond its borders. Thanks to this shared momentum, the destination secured the highest number of votes among Switzerland's most prestigious resorts.
World Ski Awards names 2025’s best in ski tourism
World Ski Awards, the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism, has announced the winners of its 13th annual programme. Val Thorens, Europe’s highest resort, was named ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ in recognition of setting the global standard for lift infrastructure, resort facilities and slopeside accommodation. Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Utah was voted ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, and Chalet Zermatt Peak claimed the stellar title of ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’. Hôtel Le Pashmina took the title for ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’ thanks to its exquisite facilities and ski-to-door access to Les Trois Vallées.
KrisFlyer Members Secure Priority Access To The OneRepublic Concert In Singapore
KrisFlyer, the Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group’s rewards programme, is the Official Lifestyle Rewards Partner for American pop-rock band OneRepublic’s concert in Singapore on 2nd March 2026. The Grammy nominated band will perform at the Singapore Indoor Stadium as part of their From Asia, With Love Tour 2026, with KrisFlyer members receiving priority access to this highly anticipated show. OneRepublic is known for numerous chart-topping hits including Counting Stars and Apologise, as well as a track titled Singapore. Fans can look forward to a high-energy performance that showcases their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sound, as well as a captivating stage presence that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Tamil Nadu Showcases its Rich Heritage and Diverse Landscapes at WTM London 2025
Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India known for its ancient temples, rich history, literature, architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, captivated audiences at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025. The state’s participation highlighted its deep connection with London — a relationship built on centuries of trade, education, and cultural exchange — and invited travellers to discover its timeless charm.
Half a Century Closes, a New Chapter for Tourism Begins, with Saudi Arabia at its heart
Riyadh, now more a symbol of transformation than tradition, is right now playing host to one of the most significant gatherings in global tourism history. The 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, taking place from 7 to 11 November 2025, marks the fiftieth anniversary of the organisation and the first time the event has been held in the Gulf. As delegates entered the third day of discussions this morning, the sense of momentum was unmistakable.
From Constellations to Zodiac Adventures: SAii Phi Phi Island Village Unveils the New Astro Moments
Following the recent repositioning of SAii Hotels & Resorts as a lifestyle brand rooted in the belief that peace of mind is the ultimate luxury, SAii Phi Phi Island Village unveils a refreshed take on its “Astro Moments” experience. Now enhanced with expert-led stargazing sessions and a newly launched Zodiac-to-Experience Guide, the programme invites guests to reconnect with the cosmos in one of Thailand’s most breathtaking island settings.
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Confirmed as First Female Secretary-General of UN Tourism
The UN Tourism Executive Council has marked a historic milestone, nominating Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism, effective 1 January 2026. Her nomination, announced during the 123rd session of the Executive Council in Segovia, will be presented for confirmation at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (7–11 November 2025).