Minister Fernandez Leads Delegation to 26th UN Tourism General Assembly
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 8th, 2025…..The Hon. H. Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, is leading Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation to the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 7–11, 2025.
The Assembly, hosted under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future,” marks the 50th Anniversary of UN Tourism and brings together over 160-member state delegations to explore innovations in the global tourism sector, with a particular focus on the integration of artificial intelligence. Sponsored by the Government of Saudi Arabia, the landmark event seeks to chart the global tourism agenda for the next 50 years; fostering collaboration, resilience, and sustainable development across the industry.
Minister Fernandez is joined by H.E. Theon Ali, Ambassador to Qatar and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda in the United Arab Emirates; Mr. Vernon Jeffers, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority; and Mr. St. Clair Soleyn, Director of Policy and Planning within the Ministry of Tourism.
Throughout the week, Minister Fernandez is expected to participate in a series of high-level thematic sessions, panel discussions, and bilateral meetings with key international partners.
A key highlight of his participation includes his contribution to the High-Level Thematic Session on Tourism Statistics: Elevating the Role of Evidence in Policy, where global leaders and institutions shared practical pathways, from governance models to innovative data ecosystems, aimed at transforming tourism data into actionable insights for policy and decision-making.
During the session, Minister Fernandez emphasized the importance of evidence-based tourism management, noting:
“Harnessing the power of tourism statistics through adaptive management and targeted policy interventions is essential for fostering a resilient and sustainable tourism sector. By continuously analyzing data and remaining flexible in strategic planning, decision-makers can better respond to evolving trends, emerging challenges, and new opportunities. This data-driven, adaptive approach not only enhances the competitiveness of tourism destinations but also ensures their long-term viability, benefiting communities, economies, and the environment alike. Embracing these practices will position stakeholders to navigate future uncertainties with confidence and agility.”
Reflecting on the proceedings, H.E. Theon Ali commended the host nation, saying:
“The unparalleled hospitality of our Saudi hosts has set the stage for a historic gathering. The Riyadh Declaration will be a pivotal charter, guiding us to harness AI for a more sustainable and inclusive tourism future. This region, from the UAE’s transformative initiatives to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious projects, is a living laboratory for innovation. We are committed to turning these principles into tangible progress for Antigua and Barbuda.”
The Antigua and Barbuda delegation is also expected to engage in a series of bilateral meetings and strategic dialogues, including the World Economic Forum Travel & Tourism Leadership Meeting, as well as discussions with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, the Ministry of Tourism, and the General Authority of Civil Aviation. These engagements aim to strengthen partnerships and explore areas of mutual interest that will further enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism, aviation, and investment landscape.
In closing, Minister Fernandez reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainable tourism leadership on the global stage, stating:
“Antigua and Barbuda remains steadfast in its pursuit of a tourism model that is inclusive, technology-driven, and environmentally conscious. As we collaborate with our international partners, we continue to position our twin-island nation as a leader in shaping a smarter, greener, and more connected tourism future; one that creates opportunities for our people and safeguards the beauty and authenticity that define our Caribbean identity.
