The climate crisis was under the spotlight during the opening session of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023 today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The discussion gathered tourism and economy figureheads from across the Middle East region to address how the travel industry needs to adapt totackle the issue of climate change and meet current regulations by implementing new sustainable policies, funds and support. Taking place on the Global Stage at ATM, the discussion was moderated by Eleni Giokos, Anchor and Correspondent CNN, and the prestigious line-up of speakers included Sujit Mohanty, Regional Division for the Arab States, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR); Dr Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director, Jordan Tourism Board; and H.E. Walid Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Lebanon. According to Sustainable Travel International, tourism is responsible for approximately 8% of global carbon emissions from transport, food and beverage, accommodation and related goods and services. The opening session at ATM looked at the industry’s crucial role in climate change – a particularly pertinent topic as the UAE prepares to host COP28 later this year. The UNDRR works closely with governments, the private sector and stakeholders across the globe, including 22 Arab nations, to reduce disaster risk. Building a picture of the current situation, Mohanty said, “Globally, in the last 20 years, there have been $2.97 trillion in economic losses due to disasters. Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe climate-related hazards such as floods, heatwaves, cyclones and hurricanes. In turn, the tourism industry loses enormous amounts of money due to these hazards. Therefore the return on investment is clear – invest now to help protect the future.”   Jordan is one of the …

ICRA estimates pan-India premium hotel occupancy at 70-72 per cent in FY2024, after recovering to 68-70 per cent in FY2023. Pan-India premium hotel average room rates (ARRs) are expected to be at Rs 6,000-6,200 in FY2024.  

Yas Island has established a dedicated team and allocated resources to offer attractive incentives for MICE companies and events. They also provide incentives for Indian weddings, which are a substantial market. Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, announced this proactive approach.

The 38th IATO Convention will be held from 29 Sept to 2 Oct in Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra. The inauguration will be done on 29th evening, sessions on 30th and 1st, and 2nd Oct the post-tours will take place. 

Tourism Minister G. Kishan Reddy said that the centre provides 100% finance to the state to implement the tourism-related schemes. And, more than Rs 4000 crore is being spent to develop infrastructure for adventure tourism in border villages. 

Himalayan Travels, a leading travel and tourism company, is proud to announce that they will be hosting a free Sikkim Fam Trip for 100 delegates in July 2023. The trip is designed to promote Sikkim as a premier destination for tourists and to showcase the region’s unique culture, natural beauty, and adventure opportunities. The fam trip will provide an opportunity for travel agents, tour operators, and other industry professionals to experience firsthand the beauty of Sikkim and its surroundings. The delegates will visit popular tourist spots of Gangtok and Darjeeling, and will have the opportunity to participate in various sightseeing activities. “We are thrilled to host this fam trip to showcase the beauty of Sikkim,” said Mr. Aditya Bothra, the CEO of Himalayan Travels. “Sikkim is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists, and we hope that this trip will encourage more people to visit and discover its natural beauty and unique culture.” The fam trip is completely free, and delegates will be provided with accommodation, transportation, and meals for the duration of the trip. Participants will also have the opportunity to network with other industry professionals and gain valuable insights into the tourism industry in Sikkim. “We believe that this fam trip will be an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to learn about Sikkim as a destination and to create new partnerships,” said Mr. Bothra. “We are excited to share our passion for Sikkim with delegates and to showcase all that this beautiful region has to offer.”

WTTC’s 2023 Economic Impact Research reveals the Travel & Tourism sector is close to its 2019 peak, recovering over 95%. It’s expected to reach $9.5TN in 2023, just 5% below pre-pandemic levels. 34 countries surpassed 2019 levels. The sector is also predicted to recover 95% of its 2019 job level. 

Rajasthan aims to promote water activities and golf tourism alongside its existing attractions. Stakeholders predict a bright future for golf tourism in the state, with the RTDC already issuing an EOI for interested parties to develop and operate golf courses. 

The Tripura government plans to invest Rs 1,000 crore to improve tourism infrastructure and make the state a world-class destination. Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury expressed confidence that the funding will be sufficient for a tourism boom, with support from the Centre. 

G Kishan Reddy, Minister of tourism highlighted that under Hon. PM’s leadership the whole of government is focussed on addressing the issues faced by investors and urged them to consider greater investments in tourism and hospitality sector.