Sudan boycotts UN tourism vote, citing UAE’s RSF support
November 9, 2025 (RIYADH) – Sudan’s delegation withdrew on Sunday from the U.N. Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) General Assembly in Riyadh, boycotting the vote to select a candidate from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the organization’s new Secretary-General.
The General Assembly approved the UAE’s Shaikha Al Nuwais as Secretary-General for the 2026–2029 term, based on the Executive Council’s recommendation in Spain last May.
The Sudanese delegation, led by Minister of Culture, Information, and Tourism Khalid Al-Aisar, walked out of the second session during the vote after delivering Sudan’s speech.
The Sudan News Agency (SUNA) said the delegation withdrew “in confirmation of Sudan’s position rejecting the selection of a chief for the U.N. Tourism Organization from the UAE.”
In his speech, Al-Aisar said the systematic destruction of the tourism sector’s infrastructure “came as a result of the attacks by the RSF militia, supported by regional and external powers.”
He said these countries helped finance and fuel the war machine that destroyed the capabilities of the Sudanese people and their country, which he described as rich in tourist attractions, historical landmarks, ancient civilizations, and nature reserves.
Sudan says it has evidence of the UAE’s continued supply of advanced weapons to the RSF and its provision of political cover, and has classified the UAE as an aggressor state.
Al-Aisar said Sudan uses such forums to deliver messages urging world countries to stand with Sudan and its people.
“We realize that this assembly is dedicated to the field of tourism, but we take the opportunity to call on member states and associates of the U.N. Tourism Organization to condemn the positions and practices that contribute to undermining stability and development in member states,” he said.
He called on the international community to take a unified stance against countries and entities that support “outlaw” armed groups, to protect human heritage.
The General Assembly is being held under the theme: “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future.”
The session, which convenes to approve the budget and work program, coincides this year with the 50th anniversary of the U.N. Tourism Organization.