TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Travel from one country to another is a way of discovering a new land, new culture, sometimes a new environment, enabling people to explore and learn from each other. Peaceful co-existence, respecting others is a trait that needs to be cultivated among human beings from young age, this message should be spread worldwide, as we celebrate UN Tourism Day on 27 September 2024.
Dr Shehara Rizly
When people live together respecting each other’s culture, traditions, and customs, it automatically paves way for peaceful co-existence. For example, in the United Arab Emirates, there are people from more than 200 nationalities living together in peace. However, the Middle East has been in conflicts with different countries at different times over the past many years, but tourism has proved to be a key game-changer. Today, you will witness more countries looking at tourism not just to drive their economy but also for people or tourists to learn about themselves and go forward in life. Tourism is one of the most powerful tools to promote peace and co-existence. It certainly helps people understand each other, provides economic stability which becomes a safety net or safe haven, fosters respect for other individuals and ensures that the environment is also well maintained as they look forward in life. Key industry leaders share their views on this with TRAVTALK.
Julia Simpson, President & CEO, WTTC
Travel & Tourism: A Force for Peace and Understanding. Travel & Tourism is a powerful force for global peace and understanding. As they say travel broadens the mind, fostering respect for different cultures. During natural disasters and conflict our sector keeps air routes, and hotels open. Economic growth lifts people out of poverty and provides work to millions. Today, as we celebrate World Tourism Day, let’s harness the transformative power of travel to build a more peaceful, interconnected world.
Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director for the Middle East, UN Tourism
The pursuit of peace is a continuing endeavour, and its progress through tourism diplomacy is more relevant than ever. Tourism can play a vital role as a catalyst for fostering peace and understanding between nations and cultures and in supporting reconciliation, tolerance, and acknowledgement of the rights of others. Reflecting the harmonious correlation between Tourism and Peace, tourism flourishes where peace prevails, and peace is promoted.
Markus Tan, Regional Director (India, ME, South Asia and Africa), STB
World Tourism Day reminds us that travel is more than just exploration; it is an important occasion for reflecting on the role of tourism in the world, promoting best practices, and advocating for a more sustainable and inclusive approach to travel and tourism. This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Peace,’ aptly echoes this sentiment. Tourism in the modern day is influenced by several factors that influences how people travel and where they go.
Mohamed Al Rais, Executive Director, Al Rais Travel
When considering the profound influence of travel, it is crucial to recognize the important role that tourism plays in advancing peace and mutual understanding between countries. For almost fifty years, Al Rais Travel has been devoted to nurturing cultural ties and establishing connections through travel experiences that surpass boundaries. In today’s world, where divisions and misconceptions often take centre stage, tourism serves as a symbol of hope.
Jaal Shah, Managing Director, Rezlive
Tourism is a powerful tool for fostering peace and understanding. As we celebrate World Tourism Day, let us recognize how travel breaks down barriers and promotes global harmony. I believe tourism is a bridge between cultures. At Travel Designer Group, we are committed to promoting responsible and inclusive tourism and celebrate the power of travel in promoting peace and harmony in the world.
Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager – Northern Emirates – Coral Beach Resort, Sharjah and Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel
This year’s World Tourism Day highlights the “Tourism and Peace”. The theme reflects on the vital role of tourism in promoting peace and harmony across cultures and borders. Tourism is not just a means of leisure and economic growth, it is a powerful tool for bridging cultural divides and fostering mutual respect by allowing individuals to explore and engage with diverse communities. On this day, we acknowledge the efforts of the tourism professionals.
Daisuke Kobayashi, Executive Director, JNTO Dubai Office
World Tourism Day is an essential occasion to celebrate the unifying power of tourism, which fosters global peace and mutual understanding. This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Peace’, underscores tourism’s ability to connect cultures and promote respect among diverse communities. Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, with its theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’, offers an opportunity to showcase how tourism can contribute to global harmony.
Yamina Sofo, Director – Marketing & Sales Office, GNTO GCC
Travel fosters global peace by bridging cultures and promoting mutual understanding. By connecting diverse communities, it creates a platform for cultural exchange. Germany, with its rich history and vibrant heritage, is a prime example. Its historic landmarks, cultural events, and welcoming people offer travellers deep engagement with its culture. The UNWTO highlights tourism’s role in enhancing social cohesion and reducing prejudice.
Jamal Abdulnazar, CEO, Cozmo Travel
Tourism has the unique power to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding between people from diverse backgrounds. As travellers explore new destinations, they encounter different traditions, cuisines, and ways of life, broadening their perspectives and challenging preconceptions. These experiences can break down stereotypes and build empathy, laying the foundation for peaceful interactions.
Dinkar Dasaur, General Manager – UAE, Satguru Travel
World Tourism Day reminds us how travel fosters unity and harmony across the globe. When we explore new destinations, we connect with diverse cultures and perspectives, breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding. To me, tourism isn’t just about seeing new sights; it’s about spreading peace through shared experiences. Each destination teaches us that despite our differences, we all share a beautiful world worth cherishing.
Aga Pytlik, General Manager, Pan World Travel
Tourism is a powerful force that unites people, transcending borders, languages, skin colour, and politics. It brings joy, promote peace and creates a sense of global community. Travellers connect with nature, enjoy positive vibes, and share stories, learning from one another. This journey of integration allows us to disconnect from the world’s chaos and find common ground in our shared humanity. Through tourism, discover the beauty in diversity.
Dileep Nair, General Manager, Al Jaber Travels & Tours Qatar
Tourism is a key foundation of many economies in the world, generating jobs and revenues. Tourism is more than just travel and exploration; it’s a bridge connecting cultures, economies, and people across the globe. It plays a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainable development. On this World Tourism Day, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of tourism for the betterment of our planet and its people.
Rochell Saleem, Sales Manager, Travco LLC
Sitting at a coffee shop in the heart of the Eternal City Rome one pleasant spring evening observed the throngs of people passing by. It was a happy and vibrant atmosphere. Tourists from all over the world and all walks of life were experiencing the ancient city, its culture and cuisine. They were laughing, joining in the street music, applauding the performers, taking selfies, and just enjoying themselves in the moment.
