https://arab.news/4syde
Tourism Malaysia, the promotion board under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia, is participating once again in the Arabian Travel Market, with the country’s tourism trade partners, to promote Malaysia to the Middle Eastern market. Showcasing the latest attractions and destinations for shopping, family fun, eco-adventure, honeymoons, luxury holidays, Malaysia will also underscore its reputation as a safe travel destination.
This year, the Malaysian delegation is led by Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, the minister of tourism, arts and culture of Malaysia. The Malaysia Pavilion consists of 64 delegates representing 32 organizations, eager to meet key industry buyers from the Middle East.
Malaysia reopened its borders to international tourists on April 1.
“It was indeed a significant milestone for our tourism industry as we welcome more international visitors, first time and returning visitors alike, to further boost our economy. Now that our borders are fully open again, we are confident that we will witness a strong rebound in tourism numbers, to bolster the recovery of our economy. We estimate 2 million international tourist arrivals this year generating more than RM8.6 billion ($2.04 billion) in tourism receipts,” Shukri said.
Before the pandemic, in 2019, Malaysia received 397,726 tourists from the MENA region. Saudi Arabia was Malaysia’s top market, accounting for 121,444 tourists, more than 30 percent of arrivals from the West Asia and North African regions, an 8.2 percent increase over the previous year.
The Malaysian delegation comprises hotels and resorts, travel agents, tourism product owners, and representatives from state tourism boards. During the four-day event, they are presenting their respective tourism products and services that cater specifically for the Middle Eastern market.
“We will continue to place a strong emphasis and focus on attracting Middle Eastern tourists to Malaysia, so naturally we will be stepping up our promotional efforts here,” added Shukri.
Throughout the event, the minister was scheduled to meet with senior executives from key Middle Eastern airlines to discuss future collaboration.