WTTC and WGS Launch New Era of Public-Private Collaboration to Shape the Future of Travel & Tourism

Date: 13 August 2026

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Governments Summit Organization (WGS), an initiative of the Prime Minister's Office of the United Arab Emirates, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that marks a new era of public-private sector collaboration to shape the future of Travel & Tourism.

By bringing together WTTC's global network of private sector leaders and the World Governments Summit's unique convening power among governments and policymakers, the partnership creates a platform for stronger cooperation on the key issues influencing the sector's long-term growth, resilience and competitiveness.

At a time when Travel & Tourism is navigating rapid technological transformation, sustainability imperatives, workforce challenges and evolving traveller expectations, the agreement will strengthen dialogue between governments and industry leaders to develop shared solutions, unlock new opportunities and support sustainable economic growth.

Through this collaboration, the two organisations will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices, promote more effective public-private cooperation in policymaking and investment, and advance initiatives that support innovation, destination development and future-ready tourism ecosystems worldwide.

A central focus of the partnership will be cooperation within the framework of the WGS to contribute to global dialogue on the Future of Tourism, while collaborating on key events and initiatives in the UAE and internationally, and advancing joint projects aligned with shared strategic priorities that deepen engagement between industry leaders, governments and global experts.

The partnership was formalised between Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of the WTTC, and Mohamed Al Sharhan, Managing Director of the WGS. It is endorsed by His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs of the United Arab Emirates and Chairman of the WGS, who plays a leading role in advancing the Summit's vision to empower collaboration and shape future-ready governments.

Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said:

"The future of Travel & Tourism will be shaped by the strength of collaboration between governments and the private sector. This partnership with the World Governments Summit marks a new era of public-private cooperation, bringing together policymakers and industry leaders to address shared challenges and seize new opportunities for growth. By working together, we can build a more resilient, innovative and sustainable Travel & Tourism sector that continues to drive economic development, job creation and prosperity for communities around the world."

Mohamed Al Sharhan, Managing Director, WGS, said:

"The World Governments Summit continues to reinforce its role as a global platform bringing together governments, international organizations, the private sector and thought leaders to build strategic partnerships that enrich global dialogue, facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, and contribute to developing innovative solutions to future challenges."

The WGS, established in 2013, serves as a global hub that brings together governments, the private sector and thought leaders to explore innovation, technology and solutions to universal challenges.

By combining WTTC's global industry leadership with WGS's unparalleled ability to convene governments and decision-makers, the partnership establishes a powerful platform for public-private collaboration. Together, the two organisations will help shape policies, advance innovation and strengthen international cooperation to ensure Travel & Tourism continues to be a driver of economic growth, job creation and global connectivity for future generations.

ENDS

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About the World Travel & Tourism Council

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is the global body representing the private sector of Travel & Tourism and the leading authority on the sector's economic and social contribution worldwide. Its members include Chairmen, Presidents and CEOs of the world's leading travel and tourism companies across hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, technology platforms and destinations, spanning every major region globally.

WTTC works to advance sustainable growth across the Travel & Tourism sector by driving collaboration between industry leaders and governments, shaping global policy, and providing authoritative research on the sector's economic impact worldwide.

About the World Governments Summit Organization (WGS)

The World Governments Summit is a global platform dedicated to shaping the future of governments. It focuses on assess and analyzing future trends, global challenges and opportunities, while showcasing the latest innovations and leading solutions to inspire government innovation in addressing future challenges.