TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
The past years have seen a marked increase in Middle East travellers seeking more wellness and medical travel to various destinations around the world. From Europe to Asia, every region is making sure that it gets a piece of this affluent market of travellers. TRAVTALK speaks to some of the experts in the field to shed light on what the latest is from their side.
Jamal Abdulnazar, CEO, Cozmo Travel
In recent years, wellness and medical tourism have grown in popularity worldwide. More people are now travelling abroad for medical treatments and wellness experiences due to affordable options, top-notch facilities, and the desire for overall well-being. I’m delighted to mention the recent partnership between Cozmo Travel and HealthTrip.com. This tie-up aims to improve the accessibility and quality of medical and wellness tourism services in the 11 countries we serve.
Asoka Hettigoda, Chairman, Siddhalepa Group
Sri Lanka plans to attract Middle Eastern travellers for medical tourism. During Arabian Travel Market, we met several parties, who are keen to support us. Within Sri Lanka, we are currently conducting a program to train and certify all therapists, and everyone involved in the wellness industry, and I think that is important, and also, we are located just four-and-a-half hours away, and after the treatments we can follow up much easily than other destinations.
Ashiya Nazar, Director GCC – Akbar Travel
Wellness and medical tourism destinations have become an integral part of travel plans for ME travellers. They have always had a strong inclination towards leading a healthy lifestyle, and this mindset extends to their travel choices. The region’s residents are increasingly recognizing the significance of holistic well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. They seek destinations that offer comprehensive wellness experiences.
Aga Pytlik, General Manager, Pan World Travel
I wanted to bring your attention to the growing trend of wellness tourism, which has gained significant popularity among Middle Eastern travellers, particularly those from countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Middle Eastern culture often places a strong emphasis on holistic approaches to health and well-being. Wellness tourism provides an ideal opportunity for travellers to engage in activities that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and rejuvenation.
Yamina Sofo, Director GCC, German National Tourist Office
We have seen steady increase in wellness tourism from the GCC market. Our campaign, Embrace German Nature spotlights natural landscapes and activity holidays and shortlists an array of offerings to enjoy wellness in Germany. In addition, our ongoing successful ‘Feel Good’ sustainable travel campaign emphasises how to enjoy an eco-friendly holiday in Germany with a plethora of
options just waiting for visitors to experience.
Dimitri Belov, Head of Health Marketing, Manager EMEA & Asia – Düsseldorf Tourism Board, Germany
What do guests from the Middle East need when undergoing treatment abroad? High-quality medical care combined with international offices that address the needs of Arab patients accordingly, excellent tourist infrastructure because the treatment is either combined with a vacation and/ or the relatives who come with you should also recover. And a mild climate, especially when it comes to rehabilitation. Düsseldorf covers all these points.
