anuvibes 
May 2025, Prague — During his attendance at the World Tourism Forum 2025, which was recently held in Prague, His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, emphasized the UAE’s innovative and technologically advanced role in advancing sustainable tourism.
The summit, which was organized by UN Tourism in partnership with the Czech government, brought together world leaders, decision-makers, and tourism specialists with the topic “Shaping the Future of Tourism through Innovation and Technology.” The gathering acted as a forum for discussion on how AI and other cutting-edge technology may be incorporated into the travel industry, with a focus on sustainable growth.
H.E. Bin Touq highlighted in his keynote address that the United Arab Emirates has made tourism a vital component of its economic plan. The UAE is solidifying its position as a top international tourist destination by making forward-thinking infrastructural investments, implementing digital solutions, and forming strategic international alliances.
“The UAE has firmly established its footprint on the global tourism map as a hub for innovation and sustainability,” said H.E. Bin Touq. “Our success stems from integrating advanced infrastructure and smart technologies into our tourism policies, and by actively participating in international efforts to shape the future of the sector.”
Highlighting the importance of the Forum, H.E. noted that it provides a valuable platform to foster global cooperation, share insights, and showcase the UAE’s cutting-edge tourism initiatives powered by artificial intelligence and other digital innovations.
“We are committed to cultivating global partnerships and empowering local talent as we drive toward a prosperous and resilient tourism future,” he added.
The UAE National Tourism Strategy 2031’s objectives, which include making the UAE the world’s most popular travel destination, were also restated by H.E. Bin Touq. The strategy expects 40 million hotel guests each year, seeks to attract AED 100 billion in new tourist investments, and intends to raise tourism’s GDP contribution to AED 450 billion.
The Forum featured a series of high-level discussions and workshops on topics ranging from the use of big data and AI to sustainability, education, and attracting talent to the tourism sector. Sessions also spotlighted leading smart tourism projects and the role of environmental responsibility in future tourism models.
Through its active engagement and forward-thinking policies, the UAE continues to play a central role in shaping a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable global tourism ecosystem.
