Fujairah Hosts First Adventure Tourism Conference To Boost Economic Growth And Sustainability
Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Fujairah hosted its inaugural adventure tourism conference. The Fujairah International Conference of Adventure Tourism began on April 30, organised by the Fujairah Adventures Centre with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism). The event highlighted the growing importance of adventure tourism globally and its role in economic and sustainable development.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, attended the opening ceremony. He emphasised the sector's contribution to economic growth and sustainable development. The conference aimed to set a benchmark for state-led adventure tourism initiatives worldwide.
Amr Zein Eddine, Director of the Fujairah Adventures Centre, underscored the significance of adventure tourism in realising the centre's vision. In his keynote speech, Mohammed Desouky from UN Tourism described adventure tourism as a rapidly expanding sector with significant global impact. He also discussed challenges and how Fujairah is establishing itself as a leader in this field.
The event included a panel discussion titled "Investment in Adventure Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges." Participants included Sheikha Shamsa bint Hashir Al Maktoum from the Ministry of Economy and Imani Kajula, CEO of East African Business Council. They explored government roles in facilitating investments and collaboration between private and public sectors.
Suleiman Mohamed, Chairman of Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors, and Troy Ghilham, CEO of The Warrior Group, also participated in the panel. They discussed investment models with potential market opportunities and modern technology's role in advancing adventure tourism.
The conference featured several key events following the opening ceremony. A book titled "Alpine Skills: Summer" was launched alongside guides on outdoor camping, hiking adventures, and mountain biking standards. These publications aim to promote best practices within the industry.
Memoranda of Understanding Signed
Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed during the conference. One was between Fujairah Adventures and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), while another was with Cyprus Mountaineering, Climbing, and Orienteering Federation. These agreements aim to foster collaboration in promoting adventure tourism.
The opening ceremony honoured UN Tourism, the Ministry of Economy, Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department, and Fujairah Environment Authority for their contributions to making this conference a milestone event.
Dr Ayesha Almemari shared her experiences as an Emergency Medicine consultant passionate about mountaineering and long-distance running. Her insights added a personal touch to discussions on adventure tourism's impact on individuals.
With inputs from WAM
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