Emirates Airlines Group Chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum yesterday gave a big boost for Sri Lanka’s latest push at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which began yesterday in Dubai.
Sheikh bin Saeed Al Maktoum engaged in the lighting of the traditional oil lamp to inaugurate the Sri Lanka Pavilion at the ATM 2025.
Sri Lanka is set to make a dynamic presence at the ATM in Dubai, UAE, showcasing its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and diverse tourism offerings. The participation is organised by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), aiming to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in the UAE and wider Middle East travel markets.
Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates Alexi Gunasekera, SLTPB Managing Director Sampath Nissanka, SriLankan Airlines Regional Manager – Middle East Jayantha Abeysinghe, senior officials, and other dignitaries also graced the occasion. Over 70 Sri Lankan travel agents, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and leading hotels have joined the delegation to showcase the country’s unique tourism experiences to an international audience.
Recognising the UAE’s role as a major aviation and travel hub, Sri Lanka is intensifying efforts to position itself as a preferred destination for Emirati nationals and residents. Under the new Government’s tourism strategy targeting 3 million visitors and $ 5 billion in revenue by 2025, Sri Lanka is focusing on high-quality, diversified experiences, including wellness tourism.
The UAE has been identified as a key priority market in this renewed vision for sustainable tourism growth.
As part of strategic efforts to enhance connectivity and travel convenience, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between the SLTPB and Emirates Airlines today (29). This agreement is expected to enhance opportunities for cooperative marketing and strengthen direct air links between the two countries.
Additionally, a press conference will be held today at the ATM 2025 to announce key initiatives and share insights into Sri Lanka’s new tourism campaigns targeting the UAE and Gulf markets. (Daily FT)
