INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the 15th Asia Tourism Forum 2026: “The Asian Paradigm in Hospitality and Tourism”
We are thrilled to invite you to the 15th Asia Tourism Forum, taking place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 11th to 13th June 2026. The 15th Asia Tourism Forum 2026 (ATF 2026) is designed with the theme of “The Asian Paradigm in Hospitality and Tourism” for tourism academia and practitioners to share their insights. The forum is co-hosted by School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
Join us on a journey through the captivating history city of Ulaanbaatar, where ancient nomadic traditions blend seamlessly with modern vitality. While you're in Ulaanbaatar, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique experiences Mongolia has to offer. Discover the breathtaking landscapes and explore the unique tapestry of culture, heritage, and the warm hospitality that defines Mongolia. Share your knowledge and engage in discussions about tourism and hospitality in the Asian Paradigm.
We eagerly await your presence at the 15th Asia Tourism Forum 2026 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia!"
SAVE THE DATE: 11th-13th June 2026 Great Hall, Ulaanbaatar Hotel: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Join us for the 15th Asia Tourism Forum (ATF 2026) in the vibrant capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, from June 11 to 13, 2026. This landmark event will bring together global academics, tourism professionals, policy makers, and students to discuss the future of tourism in Asia under the themes of development, sustainability, innovation, and cultural preservation. Set against the backdrop of Mongolia’s unique nomadic heritage and breathtaking landscapes, ATF 2026 offers a rare opportunity to explore new perspectives while engaging with leaders and experts from across the region.
We warmly invite you to share your knowledge, present your research, and connect with a passionate community committed to shaping the future of travel. Whether you are an academic, student, practitioner, or policymaker, ATF 2026 is your platform to contribute to meaningful dialogue and collaborative solutions. Beyond the forum, experience authentic Mongolian hospitality, cultural performances, and curated excursions that reveal the soul of this extraordinary land. Mark your calendar and be part of this unforgettable journey in the heart of Asia.
MESSAGE FROM THE MONGOLIA TOURISM ORGANIZATION
Dear participants of the 15th Asian Tourism Forum and esteemed partners of the industry, welcome to the "Hospitality Service, the Asian Paradigm of Tourism."
The Government of Mongolia has designated the tourism sector as a priority economic direction and declared 2023-2028 as the "Year of Visiting Mongolia." Together, during this period, we have effectively promoted Mongolia in the global tourism market, attracting the attention of tourists from many countries. For the first time, Mongolia received over 800,000 tourists in a year and generated 1 billion USD in revenue from tourism. Internationally renowned magazines and media have named Mongolia one of the safest countries to travel to. Our pristine nature, wildlife, and the history and culture of the Mongolian people are the main attractions for tourists. In addition to traditional tourism, various adventurous and winter tourism activities are developing.
Hospitality service is a crucial part of the tourism sector, and hosting the "Hospitality Service, the Asian Paradigm of Tourism" event in our country is of great importance for the development of the industry.
May the forum be fruitful and contribute significantly to the development of the regional tourism sector. I wish success to all participants. Please enjoy your stay in Mongolia!
Best Regards,
Battulga Tumurdash
President of Mongolia Tourism Organization
MESSAGE FROM THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY
With the rapid rise of Asia as a major player in the global tourism landscape during the 1990s, it became evident that there was a pressing need for an international platform where tourism industry leaders, researchers, academics, and policymakers could convene to exchange knowledge and ideas. The Asia Tourism Forum (ATF) was established to fulfill this vision.
Since its inception in 1993 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam under the theme “Tourism in Vietnam – Opportunities for Development, Marketing and Investment”, ATF has evolved into a pivotal biennial event that fosters dialogue, research collaboration and shared strategies for the sustainable development of tourism across Asia. Over the years, the Forum has been held in dynamic destinations including Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Mainland China, France, and Indonesia, reflecting its international scope and regional influence.
Co-hosted by the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Mongolia Tourism Organisation, the 15th Asia Tourism Forum will be held from 11 to 13 June 2026 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, under the theme “The Asian Paradigm in Hospitality and Tourism”.
Committed to its mission, ATF continues to advance tourism knowledge and best practices. The 2026 Forum will bring together leading scholars, researchers, industry professionals, policymakers and students pursuing higher degrees in tourism to share insights and cutting-edge research on emerging issues and trends in tourism, particularly in the areas aligned with the conference core themes of tourism development, marketing and sustainability.
With its rich cultural heritage and vast tourism potential, Mongolia offers an inspiring backdrop for this international gathering. We warmly invite you to join us in June 2026 for what promises to be an enlightening and impactful event. Together, we will continue to shape the future of tourism in Asia.
Professor Kaye Chon
Dean and Chair Professor
Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management School of Hotel and Tourism Management
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Founding Chairman, Asia Tourism Forum