Friday, August 9, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Global tourism leaders will gather at the World Travel Market Ministers’ Summit to explore AI and emerging technologies’ transformative impact on the industry.
The prestigious Ministers’ Summit at the World Travel Market, held in collaboration with the United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), is set to bring together over 50 tourism leaders and dignitaries from around the world to explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies on the tourism sector.
As the demand for cutting-edge solutions that can revolutionize travel and destination experiences continues to grow, the industry stands on the cusp of significant change driven by technological advancements. Scheduled for Wednesday, November 6th, the Ministers’ Summit will delve into the potential of AI and emerging technologies to shape the future of travel and hospitality while also addressing the ethical considerations that come with their implementation.
This year’s Summit, now in its 18th edition, aligns with the World Travel Market’s TravelPower initiative, highlighting the tourism industry’s capacity to drive positive change. The event will be moderated by a renowned BBC journalist and will bring together representatives from both the public and private sectors for a balanced and thought-provoking dialogue.
Key topics of discussion will include how AI promises to enhance travel experiences and streamline processes while ensuring these innovations adhere to ethical standards. Additionally, the Summit will focus on the importance of equitable access to AI technology, aiming to prevent the widening of existing socio-economic gaps. Ministers will discuss strategies to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all stakeholders, regardless of their background or resources, can benefit from AI in tourism—a key priority outlined in the UN Secretary-General’s report on Science, Technology, and Innovation for sustainable development.
The WTTC has published several reports emphasizing AI’s potential to deliver personalized and enhanced experiences for travelers, both now and in the future. Meanwhile, the UNWTO continues to be a leading advocate for innovation within the global tourism ecosystem, supporting startups and promoting targeted investments that advance the sector.
Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director, World Travel Market London, said: “The Ministers’ Summit represents the biggest annual gathering of Tourism Ministers anywhere in the world. As such, it plays a vital role acting as a platform for debating key issues and finding solutions to shape the future of our industry.
“There has already been much debate around AI and other emerging technologies and how best to harness their potential for positive change. Therefore, it is timely that the opportunities it affords our industry are discussed at the highest level as we continue to contribute to a positive future for the tourism sector.”
