Riyadh, Monday, 10th November, 2025 – The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Nabeela Farida Tunis, has reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to embracing technological innovation in the tourism sector, as she delivered a statement at the ongoing UN Tourism conference.

In her speech, Minister Tunis highlighted Sierra Leone’s efforts to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the tourism experience, showcasing the country’s unique cultural and natural attractions to the world. She emphasized the government’s dedication to building a smart tourism ecosystem, citing the establishment of a dedicated ministry for technology and innovation by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.

“Sierra Leone is eager to partner with the industry and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whose leadership in smart tourism inspires us,”* Minister Tunis said, adding that *”With collaboration, Sierra Leone hopes to expand AI capabilities – in digital marketing, capacity-building, and tourism intelligence – so that technology continues to enhance, not replace, human creativity.”

The Minister emphasized Sierra Leone’s ambition to become a leading ecotourism destination, where innovation serves people and communities, and no one is left behind. She expressed the country’s support for the Riyadh Declaration, joining other member states in endorsing the document.

The conference has brought together global leaders to discuss the future of tourism, and Sierra Leone’s participation underscores its commitment to being part of the global tourism transformation.

For more information:
Alhaji Abubakarr Bah
Information Attaché, Embassy of Sierra Leone, Saudi Arabia
Email: information.attache@sa.slembassy.gov.sl