Lilshira
Arab Tourism Organization and Union of Scientific Research Councils Agree New Collaboration Framework
The Arab Tourism Organization and the Union of Scientific Research Councils have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen scientific, cultural and tourism collaboration across Arab countries. The partnership was announced during a meeting in Jeddah and targets research, training and digital innovation in the tourism sector.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A formal cooperation framework between the Arab Tourism Organization and the Union of Scientific Research Councils
- Timing
- Announced on 10 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Tourism researchers, academic institutions and tourism operators in Arab states
The details
- Announced by
- Arab Tourism Organization and Union of Scientific Research Councils
Meeting and Agreement
The President of the Arab Tourism Organization, Dr. Bandar bin Fahd Al Fahid, met with the Secretary General of the Union of Scientific Research Councils, Prof. Dr. Abdul Majid Banamra, at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah. The discussion focused on expanding joint Arab initiatives and deepening cooperation between scientific and tourism institutions.
Scope of Cooperation
Both parties outlined a broad agenda that includes exchange of expertise, joint studies, and development of cultural, heritage, environmental, medical and smart tourism projects. They also plan to leverage modern technologies and digital transformation to improve tourism products and services across the region.
- Exchange of specialized tourism research and studies
- Joint projects on sustainable tourism development
- Collaboration on smart tourism and digital solutions
Capacity Building and Investment
The agreement calls for joint training programmes, capacity‑building initiatives and the creation of partnerships between universities, research centres and tourism entities. It also aims to produce joint studies that support tourism investment, highlight cultural and natural assets, and promote intra‑Arab tourism.
Both organisations emphasized that turning research outcomes into practical projects will generate new economic opportunities and reinforce tourism as a driver of regional development.
- Support for training and skill development in tourism research
- Encouragement of public‑private partnerships for tourism projects
- Focus on showcasing heritage, natural and medical tourism assets
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing travel itineraries are not altered by the agreement
- No changes to entry requirements or visa processes are expected
- Travelers may see new tourism products introduced in the coming years
Cost and documents
- The cooperation does not introduce new fees for travelers
- No additional documentation is required for entry or transit
What you need to do
- Monitor announcements from national tourism boards for new programmes
- Check future tourism promotions that may arise from the partnership
- No immediate actions are needed for current bookings
Who this affects
-
Tourism researchers in Arab countries
The agreement creates new channels for joint studies and data exchange
What to do Engage with the announced research programmes and funding calls
-
Universities and research institutes
They are invited to partner on training, capacity‑building and joint projects
What to do Seek collaboration opportunities through the two organisations
-
Tourism operators and destination managers
They will benefit from new research‑driven tourism products and digital tools
What to do Watch for pilot projects and adopt recommended innovations
Frequently asked questions
What is the new cooperation between the Arab Tourism Organization and the Union of Scientific Research Councils?
The two bodies have signed a framework to collaborate on tourism research, training, digital innovation and sustainable development across Arab states, aiming to turn scientific findings into practical tourism projects.
When was the cooperation agreement announced?
The agreement was announced on 10 November 2026 during a meeting in Jeddah between the leaders of the two organisations.
Will this partnership change visa or entry requirements for travelers?
No, the cooperation focuses on research and development and does not affect visa policies or entry procedures for tourists.
How might travelers benefit from this agreement in the future?
Travelers could see new tourism products, smarter digital services and enhanced cultural and environmental experiences as research outcomes are implemented in the region.
Which groups are expected to participate in the new initiatives?
Tourism researchers, academic institutions, tourism operators and destination managers in Arab countries are invited to take part in joint studies, training programmes and pilot projects.
