Page 209 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT- NOVEMBER 2024

11/27/24, 1:17 PM UAE and Indonesia’s Ministers Discuss Tourism as Key Economic Driver, with Focus on Joint Ventures and Enhancing Travel Bet…
industry has made remarkable strides, and the government’s commitment to boosting its
global standing is exemplified by the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031. This comprehensive
strategy aims to position the UAE as one of the world’s top destinations, with goals to attract
40 million hotel guests and increase the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Tourism

The UAE and Indonesia have been working closely to foster stronger economic relations,
with tourism seen as one of the main sectors for further growth. Al Marri stated that in recent
years, significant progress has been made in increasing connectivity between the two
countries. With over 174 flights operating monthly between the UAE and Indonesia, many of
them through national carriers like Emirates and Etihad Airways, the ease of travel has
helped increase the number of tourists traveling in both directions.

The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 has set ambitious goals, including attracting an additional
$27 billion (AED 100 billion) in investments to the UAE’s tourism sector. Minister Al Marri
outlined the importance of promoting tourism as an economic engine, particularly in the
context of the ongoing global recovery from the pandemic.

Focus on New Opportunities in Aviation, Tourism, and MICE

The meeting also focused on exploring new opportunities for growth in tourism, aviation, and
travel. Both ministers acknowledged the importance of private sector involvement and
collaboration between businesses in both countries. The potential for expanding in the
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector was also
highlighted, with both nations agreeing on the significance of fostering greater cooperation in
this growing segment of the global tourism market.
Al Marri stated that while the UAE has developed an advanced tourism ecosystem,
Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and its appeal as a diverse tourist destination could
complement the UAE’s efforts in offering more varied travel experiences. By working
together, both countries could increase their visibility in the global tourism market and attract
more international visitors.

The discussion also delved into the potential for new training and recreational programs
aimed at stimulating tourism flows between the two countries. Al Marri noted that these
initiatives would create new avenues for cross-border tourism activities, thus ensuring that
both nations remain competitive in a rapidly changing global tourism landscape.

Building on Cultural Exchange

Both ministers also emphasized the role of cultural exchange in fostering stronger people-to-
people connections. Indonesia, with its rich cultural and natural heritage, offers a wealth of
attractions that complement the UAE’s own tourism offerings. By promoting mutual
understanding and celebrating their shared values, both countries can enhance their cultural
diplomacy and attract a diverse range of tourists from across the globe.

The ministers agreed that these collaborations should be centered on sustainable tourism
practices, ensuring that both nations prioritize environmental and social sustainability as the
sector continues to grow. They emphasized the importance of developing sustainable

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