Forums such as ATM key to sustaining tourism

Economic pressure from a strong US dollar and America’s bans are major challenges facing region

Now is a critical time for the region’s tourism industry. The ongoing battle with the United States and other countries over passengers from the Middle East — whether it be from the US’ unconstitutional bans on select Muslim-majority countries or the less-than-subtle attack on regional airlines under the umbrella of a “gadget ban” — represent a challenge to the industry, but one that is surmountable. But there is also the economic pressure from a stronger-than-usual US dollar, to which many regional currencies are pegged, which will require strategic thought on the part of industry executives and government officials in order to ensure the sustainability of regional tourism.

Tourism is a critical industry for the UAE. Nearly 4.57 million travellers visited Dubai in the first quarter of 2017, and Abu Dhabi aims to attract 4.9 million visitors this year. The total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to the UAE’s gross domestic product is expected to reach 8.5 per cent this year, with a value of Dh122.6 billion. That means that events like this year’s Arabian Travel Market are becoming increasingly important. This year’s event is already looking to be a major success, with industry leaders across aviation and tourism turning out in force to discuss current issues and find ways to overcome them.

That their efforts should continue was acknowledged on Monday by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who said: “Tourism is a culture and art, and our national institutions and youth should be creative and turn their knowledge and expertise into action so as to contribute to developing the tourism industry.”