Page 93 - AJMAN TOURISM PR REPORT - February 2025

2/26/25, 10:39 AM Ajman Tourism Development Department organises panel discussion to discuss groundbreaking tourism innovations in Arab World…
H.E. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director-General of the The Ajman Tourism Development
Department, attended the session alongside a group of tourism experts and professionals. The

discussions focused on the significance of integrating modern technologies, such as artificial
intelligence, augmented reality, and the Internet of Things, into tourism projects to enhance

visitor experiences. It addressed how innovation can propel the sustainable growth of the sector
and boost the competitiveness of tourism destinations. Speakers also discussed strategies to
expand and diversify tourism offerings to provide visitors with one-of-a-kind experiences, in

addition to highlighting successful tourism models from across the Arab world.

H.E. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi further explained how the UAE is actively working to cement its
status as a leading global tourism hub through a comprehensive strategy that prioritises
innovation, in line with global trends and the rapid advancements in the industry. H.E. Alhashmi

added, “This session reflects our wise leadership’s emphasis on sustainability and economic
diversification as core strategic priorities, which aligns with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision to

position the country as the world’s most innovative and sustainable tourism hub. In this regard,
the ATDD is integrating innovation across all its initiatives to advance national and regional
objectives, with a particular focus on enhancing visitor experiences through cutting-edge

technologies such as digital tourism and artificial intelligence.”

The session was also attended by entrepreneurs in the tourism sector, including Patrick Antaki,
Vice President of Operations for the Middle East at Valor Hospitality; Rasha Youssef, Founder of

Fafla Travel; and Darren Derieh, Founder of Turhal Al-Asayel Travel and Tourism Experiences.
Participants showed great interest in the discussion, actively sharing their thoughts and

experiences on global best practices. The session concluded with several key recommendations
for driving innovation in Arab tourism, promoting collaboration between government and private
entities to promote innovation-driven tourism projects, adopting modern digital solutions to

improve tourism services, encouraging entrepreneurship in the sector, and introducing
specialised training programs to empower tourism professionals with advanced technological

skills.

In line with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which seeks to increase the tourism industry’s

contribution to the national economy and promote sustainable tourism development, the
department aims to accelerate the sector’s growth by establishing a vibrant environment that

encourages new ideas and supports entrepreneurial innovation.

rafiq@biztoday.news

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