Advancing Tourism and Hospitality Education Through International Collaboration, Innovation, and Leadership
27–29 September 2026 | César Ritz Colleges, Brig, Switzerland
HTMi Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to international collaboration and excellence in tourism and hospitality education through its participation in THE-ICE 19th International Panel of Experts (IPoE) Forum, held from 27 to 29 September 2026 at César Ritz Colleges in Brig, Switzerland.
Held under the theme “Redefining Leadership: Innovating for Impact in Global Tourism and Hospitality Education,” the Forum brought together distinguished educators, hospitality professionals, academic representatives, and industry leaders from around the world to exchange knowledge, explore emerging trends, and discuss the future of tourism and hospitality education.
The participation reflects HTMi Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its international presence, embracing global best practices, and translating valuable international insights into meaningful educational and professional opportunities for its trainees.
Connecting with Global Leaders in Hospitality Education
The Forum provided an important platform for engaging with international experts and institutions, fostering professional dialogue, and exchanging perspectives on the evolving needs of the global tourism and hospitality sectors.
Throughout the discussions, participants explored how educational institutions can respond to rapid industry transformation while maintaining high standards of academic quality, practical training, and graduate employability.
Key areas of discussion included:
- Transformational Leadership: Developing forward-thinking leaders capable of navigating change and driving innovation within tourism and hospitality organizations.
- Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation: Understanding how emerging technologies are reshaping hospitality operations, guest experiences, and educational practices.
- Industry-Ready Graduates: Strengthening the connection between education and employment to ensure graduates possess the practical competencies, adaptability, and professional skills required by employers.
- Creativity and Innovation: Encouraging innovative thinking and new approaches to hospitality education and professional development.
- Sustainable Tourism: Promoting responsible tourism practices and preparing future professionals to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the industry.
These discussions highlighted the importance of educational institutions remaining closely connected to international industry developments and continuously adapting their programmes to meet emerging workforce requirements.
Bringing International Best Practices to Saudi Arabia
At HTMi Saudi Arabia, international engagement represents an essential component of institutional development and continuous improvement.
Participation in global forums such as THE-ICE IPoE creates opportunities to learn from leading educational institutions, exchange experiences with industry professionals, and explore innovative approaches to teaching, learning, and workforce development.
The knowledge and perspectives gained through these engagements contribute to HTMi Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its training programmes, strengthen industry alignment, and deliver educational experiences that combine international standards with the specific needs of the Saudi labour market.
By connecting global expertise with local priorities, HTMi Saudi Arabia continues to support the development of a highly skilled, adaptable, and competitive national workforce.
Innovation, Technology, and the Human Touch
One of the central messages emerging from the Forum was the importance of balancing technological advancement with the human qualities that define exceptional hospitality.
While artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation are increasingly influencing the tourism and hospitality industries, interpersonal communication, cultural awareness, emotional intelligence, and personalized service remain essential professional competencies.
HTMi Saudi Arabia recognizes the importance of preparing trainees for this evolving environment by promoting technical proficiency alongside the interpersonal and leadership skills required to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
This balanced approach helps ensure that graduates are prepared not only to adapt to industry developments but also to contribute positively to the future of hospitality.
Supporting Saudi Vision 2030 Through International Collaboration
Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding tourism and hospitality sectors are creating significant opportunities for education, training, employment, and professional development.
In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, HTMi Saudi Arabia remains committed to supporting national workforce development by providing industry-focused education and training that responds to the Kingdom’s evolving economic and tourism priorities.
International participation and knowledge exchange play an important role in this mission, enabling the Institute to remain informed about global developments, strengthen its educational approach, and identify opportunities for collaboration with international institutions and industry stakeholders.
Through its training operations in Riyadh, Al-Baha, and Jazan, HTMi Saudi Arabia continues to contribute to developing qualified Saudi professionals equipped with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to succeed in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Turning Global Insights into Local Impact
HTMi Saudi Arabia’s participation in THE-ICE 19th International Panel of Experts Forum represents more than an opportunity for international networking. It demonstrates the Institute’s commitment to continuous learning, institutional advancement, and meaningful global engagement.
By building connections with international educators and industry leaders, exploring emerging innovations, and exchanging best practices, HTMi Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its ability to deliver relevant, high-quality tourism and hospitality education.
At HTMi Saudi Arabia, we believe that the true value of international engagement lies not simply in crossing borders, but in bringing knowledge, innovation, and opportunities back home.
Through this commitment, the Institute continues working toward its vision of preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals and contributing to the sustainable growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and hospitality industries.
Global Knowledge. Local Impact. Future Leaders.
