Around 200 delegates, representing more than 100 affiliated entities, gathered in Riyadh to debate the state of the Affiliate Membership, review the main results achieved since the previous Plenary Session in October 2023, analyze the progress of the ongoing expansion strategy aimed at a quality-oriented and geographically balanced membership, and share proposals for future projects and collaborations. The Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department (AM-PPC) presented the Programme of Work for the period 2026–2027. Among more than 50 proposals received, selected Affiliate Members took the stage to present their initiatives, to be implemented with the support of the AM-PPC Department and UN Tourism in the coming biennium.

Virgin Atlantic has touched down in Riyadh, Saudi, marking Virgin Atlantic’s first ever flight into the country. The VS242, operated by an Airbus A330neo, landed from London Heathrow with founder Sir Richard Branson on board, ahead of schedule at 06:50. ​

Riyadh has become Emirates’ first GCC destination to welcome the refurbished Emirates Boeing 777, offering passengers the all-new Business Class cabin and highly acclaimed Premium Economy seats. The newly refurbished aircraft will operate on the EK 819/820 daily service which departs Dubai at 0710hrs, with a scheduled arrival in Riyadh for 0805hrs. The return flight departs from the Kingdom’s capital at 0940hrs and reaches Dubai at 1235hrs.

Global hotel operator Kerten Hospitality, in partnership with RIKAZ and RAFAL, and with the support of the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, will be launching a pioneering new urban eco resort in Riyadh. Named The House Urban Eco Resort Riyadh, the new project aims to redefine urban living in an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and luxurious environment that harmoniously blends leisure, wellness, and business in the heart of the city.

Al Faisaliah Hotel, one of the most sought-after addresses in Saudi Arabia, has officially rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. This marks Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s debut in the Kingdom, bringing the brand’s prestige and legendary service to a landmark in the heart of Riyadh.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, is set to represent Jamaica at the much anticipated 173rd General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris, France. The BIE is the Intergovernmental Organization overseeing and regulating international exhibitions lasting more than three weeks, including World Expos, Specialised Expos, Horticultural Expos, and the Triennale di Milano.