Dominican Republic selected to host UN Tourism General Assembly

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.- The Dominican Republic will, for the first time in its history, host the UN Tourism General Assembly in 2027. The landmark decision, passed by resolution during the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly being held in the Saudi capital, recognizes the Caribbean nation’s sustained leadership within the global tourism sector.

Dominican Minister of Tourism David Collado expressed his gratitude for the distinction, highlighting the immense importance of hosting the 27th meeting of the assembly. The organization was formerly known as the World Tourism Organization (WTO). The selection is viewed as a major diplomatic and professional achievement for the country.

Recognition for a successful transformation

Minister Collado took to his social media channels to frame the hosting decision as validation of the country’s tourism strategy. “Being the host of the General Assembly of the @UNWTO in 2027 is not just an achievement: it is recognition of a management strategy that transformed the way tourism is done in the region,” Collado wrote. He affirmed that the Dominican Republic’s leadership and influence continue to grow in global tourism, noting that the country is “marking the course” for tourism on the continent.

This prestigious hosting role follows recent high-level recognition from UN Tourism, which recently named Minister Collado as the Minister of Tourism of the Americas, the first time the United Nations body has granted this distinction. These consecutive acknowledgments underscore the country’s innovative approach and success in navigating the complex global tourism market.

While the selection was made in Riyadh, where the Dominican Republic is being represented by Vice Minister of Tourism Carlos Peguero, the focus has already shifted to 2027. Hosting the General Assembly will provide the Dominican Republic with an unparalleled platform to showcase its unique destination and share its successful governance model with tourism leaders and professionals from around the world.