The PATA Annual Summit 2026 (PAS 2026) is set to take place in the South Korean cities of Gyeongju and Pohang from May 11 to 14, bringing together global tourism leaders, policymakers, and senior industry professionals to discuss the future of travel in the Asia-Pacific region.
The summit is being co-hosted by Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organisation (GCTO). It will be held under the theme “Navigating Towards a Resilient Future,” focusing on innovation, sustainability, and cultural preservation in global tourism.
Focus on Innovation, Sustainability and Heritage Tourism
The four-day programme will feature a combination of executive meetings, conferences, and destination experiences across the two host cities. Key discussions will center on regional tourism innovation driven by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, alongside strategies for sustainable post-APEC tourism development based on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
Another major theme will be the advancement of global heritage tourism, with a strong emphasis on protecting and promoting cultural assets as key drivers of sustainable destination growth. Organizers say the summit aims to shape a forward-looking vision for the Asia-Pacific tourism industry while addressing current global challenges.
75th Anniversary of PATA Adds Historic Significance
The 2026 edition of the summit holds special importance as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). The milestone will provide an opportunity to reflect on PATA’s long-standing contribution to tourism development across the Asia-Pacific region while also focusing on future growth opportunities and industry transformation.
High-Level Participation from Global Tourism Leaders
A strong lineup of global speakers has been confirmed for the summit. Among them is Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board. Other prominent speakers include PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid, UN Tourism Executive Director Shijun Liu, Global Sustainable Tourism Council CEO Randy Durband, and AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer, along with economists, policy experts, and senior tourism officials from across the region. The diverse participation highlights the summit’s role as a key platform for shaping global tourism policy and industry collaboration.
Multi-Stage Programme Across Two Cities
The summit will open on May 11 at Lahan Hotel in Pohang with the PATA Executive Board Meeting, followed by destination experiences across both cities. The opening day will also include a youth symposium and an industry and education roundtable.
Main conference sessions, the PATA Annual General Meeting, and a policy forum will be held on May 12 and 13 at the Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO) in Gyeongju. The event will conclude with the PAS 2026 Gala Dinner. On May 14, delegates will be offered a complimentary half-day tour of Gyeongju and Pohang before departure.
Gyeongju and Pohang Highlight Korea’s Cultural and Industrial Strength
The host cities of Gyeongju and Pohang represent two contrasting yet complementary aspects of South Korea’s heritage and development. Gyeongju is widely recognized as a cultural treasure, known for its ancient temples, historic villages, and UNESCO-listed heritage sites that reflect centuries of Korean history.
Meanwhile, Pohang is regarded as an industrial hub with strong coastal landscapes and modern infrastructure, symbolizing South Korea’s economic progress and innovation. Together, the two cities offer delegates a blend of history, culture, nature, and modern development, making them an ideal setting for a global tourism summit.
A Platform Shaping the Future of Tourism
The PATA Annual Summit 2026 is expected to serve as a significant platform for redefining tourism strategies in a rapidly changing global landscape. With a strong focus on resilience, technology, sustainability, and cultural preservation, the summit aims to strengthen cooperation among Asia-Pacific destinations and guide the future direction of the global tourism industry.
