Madagascar debuts at ATM 2025

Kanto Ravelojaona, Director of Partnerships, Tourism Board of Madagascar; Zoelisoa Rajohnson, Marketing and Commercial Director, Ravinala Airports and Manitra Andriamanantsoa, Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications, Radisson Hotels Madagascar, share details about Madagascar’s offerings at Arabian Travel Market 2025 with TRAVTALK.

TT Bureau

What key messages or themes is Madagascar aiming to highlight at Arabian Travel Market?

Madagascar will highlight 3 key messages:

• Authenticity and diversity of experience: Madagascar is a unique destination offering rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and exceptional biodiversity.
• Travel and leisure experiences connected to nature: Madagascar offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to relax while exploring the country’s natural beauty. From peaceful beaches to tropical forests, travellers can enjoy quiet moments, outdoor walks, or wellness stays in an authentic and welcoming environment.
• Investing in sustainable tourism: A strong commitment to responsible development that empowers local communities and protects the environment.

How does your participation in ATM 2025 align with Madagascar’s broader tourism and investment goals for the coming years?

Our participation in ATM 2025 is fully aligned with Madagascar’s national strategy, as the Malagasy government has set an ambitious goal of welcoming one million tourists by 2028. As the official promoter of the destination, we have a key role to play in achieving this target. The upcoming Emirates route to Madagascar presents a major opportunity to increase tourist arrivals, while also serving as a catalyst for attracting investment in both tourism infrastructure and airport development.

What partnerships are you seeking to explore or strengthen with Middle Eastern travel operators and investors?

We are looking to establish business partnerships with tour operators specialising in tourism and leisure. We aim to open up to new market opportunities and strengthen our presence in the Middle East.

How is Radisson Blu Madagascar adapting its offerings to attract high-value travellers from the GCC region?

As part of our commitment to delivering exceptional, culturally rich and tailored experiences for high-value travellers, Radisson Blu Madagascar has developed a series of curated offerings designed to resonate with the preferences of the GCC market. These experiences combine luxury hospitality with immersive local discovery, making Madagascar an exclusive and meaningful destination.

Elevated Culinary Journeys: At Radisson Tamboho, our sister hotel a few steps from the Radisson Blu Antananarivo Waterfront, guests can enjoy an authentic Malagasy dining experience in a refined culturally inspired setting. FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar at Radisson Blu Waterfront presents a curated selection of Madagascar’s premium local products.

Wildlife & Biodiversity Encounters: Our concierge-led excursions highlight Madagascar’s unique wildlife — lemurs, chameleons and endemic fauna — offering guests a rare and intimate connection with nature.

Outdoor & Wellness Experiences: Madagascar’s varied terrain offers ideal conditions for golf, trekking and eco-sports in year-round weather.

Customised itineraries can be developed around wellness, soft adventure or nature-focused experiences, appealing to travellers seeking exclusivity and balance.

Outskirts Discovery & Eco-Retreats: We offer curated overnight and day trips to Madagascar’s most scenic rural destinations, including Andasibe’s rainforests and Ampefy’s volcanic lakes and waterfalls.

Cultural Immersion & Urban Heritage: Through private city tours, we provide a deeper understanding of Antananarivo’s identity — from visits to the Royal Palace and colonial landmarks, to curated access to institutions such as the Musée de la Photographie.

Are there any upcoming infrastructure developments or airport expansion plans to improve international connectivity to Madagascar?

Madagascar has taken up several projects aimed at improving international connectivity. The most notable initiative is the expansion of its two primary international airports, Ivato Airport in Antananarivo and Fascene Airport in Nosy Be. These upgrades include reinforced runways, expanded terminal facilities, and the ability to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft for the first time. Ivato Airport’s passenger handling capacity is set to more than double to 1.5 million annually, while Fascene Airport will support up to 500,000 passengers per year.

These developments are expected to enhance Madagascar’s global competitiveness, particularly in tourism and trade, while also boosting employment and generating substantial tax revenues.