Key Recognitions and Achievements
Nayarit, a Mexican state, has been appointed as a member of the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) Global Board of Affiliate Members for the 2026-2029 term. Simultaneously, it was recognized as a “Supportive Partner Destination” during the 26th UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Organization: UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization)
- Recognitions:
- 1. Designation in the Board of Affiliate Members for 2026-2029
- 2. “Supportive Partner Destination” award during the General Assembly in Riyadh
- Event: 26th UNWTO General Assembly
- Venue: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Award Date: November 7, 2025
- Term Duration: 2026-2029
- Other notable members: Tripadvisor, Expedia Group, IFEMA Madrid, ICCA, Madrid Destino, Saudi Tourism Authority, Red Sea Global, TGA, and JTB Corporation
Press Release
The Government of Nayarit was appointed by UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili as a member of the Global Board of Affiliate Members for the 2026-2029 term. Concurrently, it was recognized as a “Supportive Partner Destination” during the 26th UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh, Arabia Saudita.
These recognitions signify the highest level of international distinction a destination can receive within the UN system for tourism, highlighting its leadership, institutional commitment, and contribution to sustainable development in the sector.
Through this, Mexico, represented by Nayarit, reaffirms its position as one of the world’s leading tourism players, acknowledged for innovation, sustainability, and public-private cooperation.
Board Membership
Nayarit’s inclusion in the Affiliate Members Board places it on par with global reference institutions such as Tripadvisor, Expedia Group, IFEMA Madrid, ICCA, Madrid Destino, Saudi Tourism Authority, Red Sea Global, Turkish Promotion Agency (TGA), and JTB Corporation from Japan.
Among over 500 organizations worldwide, only three were directly appointed by UNWTO Secretary-General: Madrid (UNWTO’s global headquarters), ICCA, and Nayarit, in recognition of their responsible, inclusive, and sustainable tourism development model.
This appointment grants Nayarit a voice and vote in shaping the global tourism agenda for the next three years (2026-2029), participating in international policy formulation on sustainability, investment, and tourism innovation.
“This recognition is a result of Governor Dr. Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero’s leadership, who has turned tourism into a socially conscious public policy with social benefits,” said Juan Enrique Suárez del Real Tostado, Secretary of Tourism.
“Supportive Partner Destination” Recognition
During the Plenary Session for Affiliate Members held during the General Assembly, UNWTO awarded the Nayarit Tourism Promotion Trust the “Supportive Partner Destination” recognition, distinguishing destinations demonstrating exemplary commitment to the organization’s values and objectives and actively contributing to its institutional strengthening.
UNWTO highlighted Nayarit’s inspiring example of public-private cooperation and institutional commitment, owing to its consistent participation in impact projects, promotion of responsible tourism, and collaboration with global initiatives enhancing Affiliate Membership visibility.
“Receiving this double recognition – board membership and an award at the General Assembly – marks the pinnacle in Nayarit’s tourism history.
“It is a source of pride for Mexico that Nayarit is recognized by the international community for its leadership and forward-looking vision,” emphasized Juan Enrique Suárez del Real Tostado.
