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5/10/24, 8:31 AM Economy Middle East Summit 2024 highlights economic growth prospects in MENA region | Emirates News Agency
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.

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