Travel trends for 2019 outlined ahead of the 7th Annual MICE Arabia and Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress 2019
Dubai, United Arab Emirates 18 February, 2019: The exponential rise in global tourism industry in recent years remains one of the key drivers for economic boost and development as UNWTO forecasts international tourist arrivals to reach 1.8 billion by 2030. With the global tourism industry on the rise, global MICE, business and luxury travel suppliers are looking at exploring the tremendous potential of Middle Eastern travelers by understanding their tastes, preferences and experiences which is so diverse owing to a vast number of nationalities that are hosted. Connectivity, cultural activities, luxury elements, budget, weather, gastronomical delights, availability of entertainment parks, shopping and sightseeing options amongst many others are part of the criteria for selection of the destination.
Emphasizing on the market for outbound travel from the Middle East, the 7th Annual MICE Arabia and Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress 2019, the regions’ exclusive business platform is set to bring the entire realm of Middle Eastern buyers under one roof along with top global suppliers.
With adventure tourism and adrenaline travel topping the charts of high spending Middle East travelers enhancing it with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration remain its focal points. Zimbabwe noticed a 17% growth in tourism in 2018, “Zimbabwe is well known for its wildlife encounters and we have seen a great demand from travelers for adrenaline travel,” said Robyn Whaley, Managing Director from Off The Track. “Our offerings are tailor-made formulated under the expert knowledge to deliver 50 once-in-a-lifetime experiences including exceptional wildlife safaris and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The scenic Victoria Falls, offered as a part of the package is also known as the ‘adrenaline capital of the world,” she added.
New and unexplored destinations to the likes of Kazakhstan are being added to the travel wish list for 2019 offering a close to nature, immersed in culture and a serene experience. “In the last two years we have seen a hike in tourists from the Middle East region to Kazakhstan. Among its endless grasslands and windswept northern steppes, this region remains unexplored and will be upcoming for MICE related travel ticking the boxes for wholesome packages,” said Asem Kozbagarova, Director, Skyway Travel Kazakhstan.
Exotic locales and favorable weather make Iceland an apt destination for glacier hiking, rafting, horse riding, or caving tours making it one of the aspirational holiday destinations. “For a visitor coming from a GCC country, Iceland is definitely an exotic destination. In contrast to the hot summers in the GCC countries, the outstanding nature, and the very different climate can be very attractive for GCC travelers,” said Harpa Groiss, Co-Owner, CEO – Activity Iceland.
The GCC is a definite melting pot of cultures having a huge expat population that is looking at the region as a place to work in which makes it a big market to operate for MICE, Business and Luxury Travel. “Cost, added value and easy logistical operations of smooth arrivals and departure to and from the destinations are customary to MICE travel. We are primarily focusing on what are the expectations and analyzing buyer trends and behavior across cultures and nationalities,” said Raul Cuadrado, International Sales, NH Collection/nhow Director, Southern Europe & USA from NH Hotel Group
Speaking about the importance of closed door platforms Martijn Timmermans, renowned event designer and international keynote speaker said “What you pay attention to grows. This is what closed door events like the MALT congress are all about. More personal attention to stimulating networking and knowledge sharing. In my experience, it’s in this soil that we grow long term business relationships”
Attendees at the MALT Congress include high caliber industry professionals, government policy makers, senior decision makers from leading organizations such as du, Kanoo Travel, International Congress and Convention Association, ADNOC Group, Emirates NBD, IPSOS, Johnson & Johnson, Saudi German Hospital Group, Orient Travel to name a few as well as global MICE and luxury travel suppliers
The MICE Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress will take place at the luxurious Rixos Premium Dubai JBR on February 26 and 27, 2019 and will be hosted by International presenter and communication coach, Andreea Zoia.
