AIM Congress Highlights Strategic Policy Innovations For Future Tourism Investment

The Ministerial Roundtable at AIM Congress 2025 focused on "Investment in Tourism: Shaping Tourism Investment Opportunities through Policy Innovation." This event gathered ministers and global stakeholders to redefine tourism investment's future through strategic policy changes. The session featured 13 speakers, including officials from the UAE, Bahrain, Georgia, Montenegro, Egypt, and Iran, alongside senior executives from UNCTAD, UN Tourism, World Economic Forum, ESCAP, and the World Free Zones Organisation.

Abdulla Ahmed Alsaleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, stated that under wise leadership, the UAE has solidified its status as a global hub for tourism investment. He added that the nation aims to attract AED100 billion in new investments by 2031. The roundtable highlighted tourism's vital role in economic resilience, job creation, and sustainable development.

Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi from Bahrain discussed the country's evolving tourism policies and strong investment climate. She emphasised Bahrain's strategic role in promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth. Bahrain aligns with global tourism goals by integrating UN initiatives and offering attractive investment opportunities through Golden Licences tailored for tourism.

Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri of Iran announced a significant shift in the country's tourism strategy. This change focuses on increasing private sector involvement and driving growth through investments. Meanwhile, Yomna Elbahar from Egypt highlighted Egypt's independent progress in tourism and commitment to hospitality innovation. "We are bringing together industry pioneers to explore the future of branded living and luxury hospitality in Egypt—shaping new possibilities for the sector," she said.

Nan Li Collins from UNCTAD stressed the need for innovative investment frameworks that are both resilient and environmentally friendly. Matthew Stephenson of the World Economic Forum highlighted digital transformation and AI's role in shaping post-pandemic tourism. These technological advancements are seen as crucial for future growth.

The session concluded with a call for public-private collaboration, green financing, and human capital investment as essential pillars to unlock tourism's full potential. Participants urged integrating policy innovation, technology, and sustainability as guiding principles for shaping global tourism investment's next era.

Bahrain continues to position itself as a premier destination for tourism development by offering streamlined regulations, investor privileges, and a "one-stop-shop" approach to project facilitation. This approach fosters global collaboration while advancing sustainable tourism goals.

With inputs from WAM