RAK TDA hosts UNWTO World Tourism Day conference

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAK TDA) in collaboration with the National Council of Tourism and Antiquities (NCTA) recently hosted an official conference.

The theme of the conference was aptly titled “1 Billion Tourists, 1 Billion Opportunities” in recognition of United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) World Tourism Day.

Held on Al Marjan Island, the conference was attended by HH Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and more than 300 delegates from UAE trade, tourism and hospitality industry.

The event was opened by Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and featured industry speakers such as Alfonso del Corral, head of Dubai operations, Safe Hotel Alliance, Sean James, author and adventurer and Urs Binggeli, senior expert of McKinsey & Company.

Haitham Mattar said: “Tourism plays a crucial role in diversification of our economy, the generation of wealth and foreign investment and sustainable growth of jobs. As we seek to attract one million tourists by end 2018, we continue to work closely with public and private sector to position the emirate and UAE as a dynamic and sustainable opportunity for tourism.”

Event speakers discussed economic benefits of one billion tourists, keys to sustainable job development, recent global tourism trends and effective strategies for destination management.

HE Mohammed Khamis Al Muhairi, Director General, UAE National Council of Tourism and Antiquities (NCTA) said: “UNWTO World Tourism Day is an opportunity to present a unified image of the UAE to the world. As each emirate looks to boost tourism and enhance sustainability under the theme of one billion tourists, one billion opportunities, we support this initiative by Ras Al Khamiah Tourism Development Authority as a firm display of Emirati culture, heritage and unity.”