The 3rd UNWGIC is a high-level, multi-stakeholder global platform convened by the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). Organized by the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), it brings together Member States, international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society, including the next generation, to strengthen global collaboration and co-create geospatially enabled solutions for impact at all levels.
The Congress is a global platform held once every four years. It serves as the Committee of Experts' flagship event to shape the agenda of UN-GGIM and foster meaningful progress on geospatial information management of global relevance.
The Congress aims to:
Yes. A 3rd UNWGIC outcome document is expected. It will be a visionary global statement capturing the paradigm shift, key commitments, and pathways for the next decade of global geospatial information management and its application for the collective good.
The working language of the 3rd UNWGIC is English.
The 3rd UNWGIC will be held from 16 – 19 November 2026 at The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, Southern Corniche District, Al Hamra, Jeddah 21493, Saudi Arabia. The venue provides state-of-the-art facilities for official sessions, plenary sessions, parallel thematic tracks, exhibitions, and side events.
Yes. In-person preparatory meetings are expected on 14 – 15 November 2026. These will primarily involve the Bureau of the Committee of Experts and its expanded bureau, regional committees, the Congress Coordinating Committee (CCC), and the International Advisory Committee (IAC) of the 3rd UNWGIC. Participants involved in governance or preparatory roles should plan their travel and availability accordingly.
The four-day main program (16 – 19 November 2026) features an Official Opening Ceremony, Keynote Sessions, Plenary Sessions and Panels, Parallel and Thematic Sessions and Panels, and a Closing Ceremony. Each day is dedicated to one of four thematic focus areas: The Vision (Day 1), The Integration (Day 2), The Innovation (Day 3), and The Future (Day 4).
No. The 3rd UNWGIC is strictly an in-person event with no virtual participation component. All participants, presenters, moderators, and panelists are expected to attend in person at The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah.
No. There is no registration fee to participate in the 3rd UNWGIC. Registration is free for all participants.
The Congress is open to a diverse range of participants including leaders, innovators, researchers, educators, practitioners, and users from all stakeholder groups. This includes representatives from governments, non-governmental organizations, international and regional organizations, international and regional geospatial societies, academia and research institutions, the private sector and industry, and civil society. Participation is also actively encouraged from under-represented and emerging professionals, next-generation leaders, and women practitioners.
Registration involves a simple two-step process:
Upon completion, a confirmation of participation letter will be sent to the registered email address, which can also be used as a support letter for visa application purposes.
Please note: Registration has not yet opened. Prospective participants are encouraged to check the 3rd UNWGIC website regularly for the announcement of the online registration link.
After completing online registration, participants can finalize on-site registration at dedicated counters available at the venue starting one day before the Congress opens and throughout its duration. Participants should present their confirmation of participation letter and valid identification to receive their event badge and materials. Moderators, presenters, and panelists are requested to identify themselves at on-site check-in to receive any additional instructions, session details, and materials relevant to their roles.
The 3rd UNWGIC is expected to bring together over 1,800 participants from more than 120 countries, reflecting a globally diverse and participatory geospatial community. Participation is expected at ministerial and senior leadership levels across governments, international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society, together with innovators, experts, professionals and practitioners including the next generation.
The Call for Abstracts is a global invitation launched by the International Advisory Committee (IAC) of the 3rd UNWGIC, together with the UN-GGIM secretariat, to develop a substantive program for the Congress. The IAC invites leaders, innovators, researchers, educators, practitioners, and stakeholders from around the world to submit proposals for the substantive program of the Congress, and help shape the future agenda for the Committee of Experts. The 3rd UNWGIC is anticipated to include over 144 presentations spread across parallel sessions over four days.
The IAC invites future-facing contributions characterized by three key qualities:
The Congress features four thematic focus areas, with each day dedicated to one:
Six parallel tracks/sub-themes cut across all four days: (1) Vision, Governance, and Values; (2) Integration, Interoperability, and Knowledge Systems; (3) Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, and Disruption; (4) Participatory and People-Centered Outcomes; (5) Partnerships, Investment, and Implementation; and (6) Regional, Sub-Regional, Thematic, and Specialized Domains.
The online submission form is divided into four key components:
The key dates are as follows:
Early submissions are highly encouraged.
The IAC, working with the UN-GGIM secretariat, will review all submissions. The review process aims to ensure a balanced and diverse substantive program representing a wide range of geography, sectors, and methodologies aligned with the Congress theme. Submissions will be assessed based on their relevance, rigor, and potential to inform policy, practice, or knowledge creation, with particular emphasis on future-facing insights and perspectives that anticipate emerging trends, opportunities, and applications.
No. Inclusion in the 3rd UNWGIC substantive program as a presenter does not guarantee financial support from the organizer or host for related travel, accommodation, or other local expenses. Selected contributors are responsible for covering their own costs. However, selected presenters will receive a confirmation letter to assist with any institutional funding or visa applications.
Selected contributors are expected to actively participate in the full four-day event engaging in meaningful exchanges across disciplines, sectors, communities, and regions contributing to outcomes that reflect global priorities and advance the future-ready geospatial ecosystem. As the Congress is an in-person event, presenters must attend and present their contributions in person.
Participants traveling to Saudi Arabia must ensure they meet all entry and visa requirements prior to arrival. Saudi Arabia offers several visa options depending on nationality, purpose of visit, and duration of stay. Citizens of eligible countries may apply for a tourist e-visa online via the Saudi Unified National Visa Platform. The e-visa typically allows for multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days within a one-year validity period. Participants are strongly advised to consult the official platforms or the nearest Saudi Arabian consular mission for the latest entry requirements, visa regulations, and application procedures.
All travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and may be required to present proof of accommodation, return or onward travel, and approved medical insurance. Registered participants may request a confirmation of participation letter or a separate letter of support to assist with visa applications.
No. Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation for the duration of their stay in Jeddah. Reservations must be made directly with their chosen establishment. To assist with planning, a list of suggested hotels near the venue and within convenient commuting distance has been compiled.
In addition to the Congress venue (The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah), the following nearby hotels are suggested:
The main airport is King Abdulaziz International Airport (IATA code: JED), located approximately 21 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber and Careem) are readily available. Many hotels provide private airport transfers upon request. Alternatively, the SAPTCO Airport Express bus offers a budget-friendly route to the city center, from where a short taxi ride can complete the journey.
For travel between your hotel and the Congress venue, taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber and Careem) are widely available and recommended. Car rentals are also easy to arrange at the airport and throughout the city. Note that Jeddah is a sprawling city where traffic can be heavy during peak hours, do factor in extra time for your journeys.
November in Jeddah is generally mild and pleasant. Expect average daytime highs around 32°C (89°F) with cooler evenings near 22°C (71°F). Rainfall is minimal and skies are mostly clear, making it an excellent time to visit. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for daytime, along with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are useful for outdoor activities.
The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, including at the airport, major hotels, and shopping centers, and accept most international debit and credit cards. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and larger retail outlets, though smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash. Mobile payment apps such as Mada Pay, Apple Pay, and STC Pay are also widely accepted. International travelers should notify their banks before departure to avoid card usage issues.
Jeddah uses 230V electricity at 60Hz. The standard plug type is Type G (three rectangular pins). Travelers from regions using different plug types will need an adapter; a voltage converter may also be required if devices are not rated for 230V. Many hotels provide multi-standard sockets, and USB charging ports may be available in hotel rooms. Carrying a universal travel adapter is recommended.
Jeddah offers excellent mobile and internet connectivity. International visitors can use roaming services, as most global providers have agreements with local carriers (STC, Mobily, and Zain). High-speed 4G and expanding 5G networks provide reliable coverage across the city. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. For longer stays or to save on costs, purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM (available at the airport and major retail outlets with passport verification) is recommended. Popular messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Zoom work without restrictions.
Jeddah operates on Arabia Standard Time (AST), UTC+3, throughout the year. There are no daylight-saving time adjustments, so the local time remains consistently three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Jeddah offers a wide range of dining options, from international cuisine to traditional Saudi dishes. Many restaurants are family-friendly and observe prayer breaks. Pharmacies and convenience stores are easily accessible near hotels and the Congress venue.
Participants are responsible for:
All associated costs, payments, and premiums are the sole responsibility of participants.
The organizers do not assume responsibility for any illness, injury, or medical condition arising during travel to, from, or during the stay in the host country. Additionally, all prevailing public health measures and regulations issued by the local government at the time of the Congress must be adhered to by all participants.
Saudi Arabia observes Islamic traditions, and visitors are expected to respect local customs:
Saudi Arabia is generally safe for visitors. However, standard precautions are advised. Emergency services can be reached by dialing:
The Congress venue will have its own safety and security protocols in place. Participants should carry identification at all times and follow local guidance.
The most up-to-date information on the 3rd UNWGIC, including registration announcements and logistical updates, is available at the official Congress website: https://www.un.org/globalgeospatial/en/events/2026/third-united-nations-world-geospatial-information-congress
The Congress convenes under the theme “Navigating the Next Frontier: Embracing the Digital Renaissance and a New Geospatial Paradigm,” bringing together the global geospatial community to collectively explore and shape the future of geospatial information management.
16-19 November 2026