Page 912 - MOE ENGLISH PR - MAY 2024

5/10/24, 2:51 PM Economy Middle East Summit 2024 highlights economic growth prospects in the MENA region
The future of tourism
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 is a double engine for the Gulf region. It encourages
entrepreneurship and innovation while fostering cultural understanding. However, a balance in this growth is key
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 Jaffar, 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.”
ADGM, one of the world’s leading international financial centers, was the key event partner. The Department of
Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, and Visa, the leading global company in payment services, supported the
event. Strategic partnerships included Alef Education and Standard Chartered.
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