Page 54 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JUNE 2024

Press Release

Calling for enhanced joint action to implement the Organization’s halal tourism standards more broadly
UAE participates in 12th session of Conference of Tourism Ministers

of OIC in Uzbekistan

>> Al Saleh: The UAE is committed to supporting the OIC’s objectives to promote tourism
development in the region. The meeting is an important step to create opportunities and initiatives
that support the growth and sustainability of the tourism sector.

Abu Dhabi, 4 June 2024:

H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, participated in the
12th session of the Conference of Ministers of Tourism, under the auspices of the Organization of
Islamic Cooperation (OIC), in the City of Khiva in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The meeting brought
together several tourism ministers, senior officials from the tourism sector of OIC Member States,
and representatives from regional and international organizations dedicated to tourism and culture.

Al Saleh expressed gratitude and appreciation to the Republic of Uzbekistan for hosting this
important meeting. He also commended the efforts of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in
organizing this fruitful session aimed at fostering the growth of the tourism sector in the region.

H.E. Al Saleh emphasized that the UAE is committed to supporting the OIC’s objectives of
advancing tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding
among member states. Additionally, the UAE seeks to facilitate the exchange of expertise and
nurture sustained partnerships across diverse sectors and tourism activities. These efforts align with
the nation's new economic model outlined in the vision of ‘We the UAE 2031,’ where tourism plays
a pivotal role.

He said: "This meeting holds significance considering the growing tourism industry in the region
and the dynamic shifts occurring both locally and internationally. It marks a pivotal moment for
enhancing collaborative efforts, fostering new opportunities and initiatives, and finding the best
solutions. Our goal is to harness these resources to boost the growth and resilience of the tourism
sector, thereby bolstering the economic advancement of our Islamic economies. Ultimately, this
initiative seeks to promote the prosperity and welfare of our people, fulfill the aspirations of future
generations, and secure a brighter tomorrow for all.”

UAE Tourism Industry Benchmarks:

1