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PwC Middle East. They also discussed future market trade, highlighting the interplay between

innovation and regulation and shared insights on adapting to an ever-evolving regulatory

landscape.

The session ‘Tourism: The Pillar of Economic Strength,’ was moderated by Sunil John, founder of

Asdaa’ BCW and former CEO of the MENA region for BCW. This discussion examined tourism as

a key driver of economic growth, contributing to job creation, infrastructure development and

cultural exchange, including its effects on small businesses and regional investment. Tourism
serves as a double engine for the Gulf region, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation while

fostering cultural understanding, though growth must be balanced for environmental

sustainability. Speakers included Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of the Strategic

Affairs Sector at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi; and Dr. Saeeda Jaafar,

Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager of the Visa Group in the GCC; and Haitham

Mattar, President of IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East and Africa.

Joe Chidiac, CEO and publisher of Economy Middle East, organized the summit. He said:

"Bringing together visionary leaders, distinguished ministers and industry experts, the Economy

Middle East Summit 2024 served as a vibrant platform for innovative thinking, revolutionary ideas
and collaboration, all aimed at driving accelerated growth across the Middle East.”

The summit was held in partnership with ADGM, one of the world’s leading international financial

centres. It was supported by the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi and Visa,

the leading global company in payment services. Strategic partnerships included Alef Education

and Standard Chartered.

https://gulfnews.com/business/corporate-news/economy-middle-east-summit-2024-highlights-
economic-growth-prospects-of-mena-region-1.1714745695048