Saudi Arabia launches new global TOURISE tourism platform ahead of Riyadh summit, Nov 11-13, 2025, to reshape travel industry and boost international partnerships

Saudi Arabia revealed that it had launched a new global tourism platform named TOURISE, aimed at fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to map out the future of tourism. The announcement was made by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, who also disclosed plans for the TOURISE Summit to take place in Riyadh from November 11 to 13, 2025.

During a press briefing held in Riyadh, which was attended virtually by numerous international journalists, it was stated that TOURISE would represent a bold and innovative initiative designed for continuous, year-round impact. The platform was said to be structured around close collaboration and guided by a high-profile global advisory board consisting of leading figures from the international tourism sector.

Minister Al-Khateeb emphasized that TOURISE was not an ordinary initiative but rather a dynamic and defining project that sought to deliver tangible, lasting solutions to the challenges faced by the tourism industry. He described it as a meeting point where “the innovation of the future would meet the experience of the past” and where capital investment would align with creative talent. This, he said, would foster a powerful new partnership between the public and private sectors.

The advisory board associated with TOURISE was said to include some of the most influential leaders within the global tourism community. Their involvement was expected to steer the platform towards meaningful outcomes that could influence tourism development worldwide.

The November summit would also feature the inaugural TOURISE Awards, designed to recognize excellence and innovation within the sector. Minister Al-Khateeb invited all those who valued tourism and believed in its transformative power to join the initiative and contribute towards changing hearts and minds through travel.

Julia Simpson, the President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), spoke in support of TOURISE during the announcement, characterizing it as a critical and perfectly timed partner for the industry. She conveyed optimism that the platform would help unify global efforts to rejuvenate and advance travel and tourism in the post-pandemic world.

Potential Impact on the Travel Industry

The launch of TOURISE was viewed as a strategic step by Saudi Arabia to position itself as a leader in the global tourism recovery and growth effort. The initiative was anticipated to facilitate new collaborations, enhance investment opportunities, and help overcome ongoing industry challenges such as sustainability, innovation, and market diversification.

By bringing together government agencies and private enterprises under a unified platform, TOURISE was expected to accelerate the development of tourism infrastructure and experiences not only within Saudi Arabia but across the region and beyond. The platform could serve as a blueprint for other countries aiming to modernize their tourism sectors and improve resilience against future disruptions.

The timing of the TOURISE Summit in Riyadh was seen as significant, coming at a time when the global travel industry was still recovering from the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The summit’s focus on practical and visible solutions suggested that Saudi Arabia intended to lead by example in adopting forward-looking strategies and best practices.

Moreover, the platform’s emphasis on year-round engagement implied a continuous dialogue and collaboration, rather than a one-off event. This could foster stronger partnerships and consistent innovation, which are critical for sustaining long-term growth in tourism.

Effects on Global Travelers

For travelers worldwide, the development of TOURISE promised enhanced tourism experiences and greater access to innovative travel products. As destinations adapt and upgrade through initiatives like TOURISE, travelers could expect improvements in service quality, infrastructure, and diversified offerings that cater to evolving preferences and demands.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to integrate cutting-edge innovation with cultural heritage through this platform might also attract new visitor segments, including those interested in immersive cultural tourism, sustainable travel, and luxury experiences. The global advisory board’s involvement suggested that travel trends and insights from across the world would help shape the platform’s direction, potentially leading to more traveler-centric policies and programs.

Additionally, the collaboration encouraged by TOURISE could facilitate smoother travel processes and better coordination among tourism stakeholders internationally. This may translate into improved connectivity, seamless travel experiences, and safer journeys for tourists globally.

Key Points Summarized

Saudi Arabia launched TOURISE, a global tourism platform to promote public-private partnerships and define future industry roadmaps.
TOURISE Summit is scheduled for November 11-13, 2025, in Riyadh.
The platform aims for continuous impact with a high-profile global advisory board.
The initiative focuses on innovation, capital, creativity, and practical solutions for tourism challenges.
WTTC supports TOURISE as a critical global tourism partner.
The platform is expected to positively influence global travel infrastructure and experience.

Broader Industry Implications

The TOURISE platform exemplified a broader trend in the travel industry toward greater cooperation and strategic alignment between public bodies and private sector players. It underscored the necessity for tourism to adapt to a rapidly changing global environment marked by new traveler behaviors, digital transformation, and sustainability priorities.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to hosting the summit and fostering such a platform highlighted its intent to diversify its economy through tourism, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals. Success in this endeavor could encourage other nations to develop similar platforms, potentially transforming how global tourism governance and development are approached.

The initiative also reflected growing recognition of tourism’s role as a force for economic recovery and cultural exchange. By promoting partnerships that emphasize innovation and creativity, TOURISE might contribute to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable global tourism ecosystem.

(News Source: business-standard)

The post Saudi Arabia launches new global TOURISE tourism platform ahead of Riyadh summit, Nov 11-13, 2025, to reshape travel industry and boost international partnerships appeared first on Travel And Tour World.