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Sustainability A long Term Investment In Tourism: ATM Leaders | |
| Radhika Laghate |
The panel discussion, titled ‘Sustainable Luxury: At What Cost?" highlighted the benefits of decarbonization, waste reduction, and community initiatives for the long-term growth of the industry.
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Luxury travel in the Middle East is increasingly turning towards sustainable practises, according to experts at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023 in Dubai.
The panel discussion, titled ‘Sustainable Luxury: At What Cost?" highlighted the benefits of decarbonization, waste reduction, and community initiatives for the long-term growth of the industry. Rather than focusing solely on costs, panellists discussed the ways in which luxury travel could lead the charge towards more sustainable tourism in the region.
Moderated by Joe Mortimer, Editor-at-Large at Destinations of the World News, the panel included experts such as Nadia Ibrahim, Member of the Board of Directors of the UN Global Compact; Amir Golbarg, Senior Vice President Operations, Middle East & Africa at Minor Hotels; Candice D’Cruz, VP Luxury Brands at Marriott International; and more.
The panelists acknowledged that sustainable practises could be costly in the short term but emphasised that the long-term benefits far outweighed the initial expenses. The points put forward were how waste reduction and decarbonisation measures could lead to cost savings while also benefiting the environment and local communities.
The UN Global Compact’s Ibrahim commented: "Luxury and sustainability have not always gone hand in hand; however, this is changing. We are encountering a new generation of travellers who want high-end experiences that do not compromise sustainability. This is why airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and tourist destinations are thinking about how sustainability can be integrated into their existing services and how it can be used to attract more customers."
Middle East’s Involvement in Sustainable Tourism
The panel discussion at ATM 2023 showcased the growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in luxury travel in the Middle East. The region has long been associated with opulence and extravagance but is now starting to acknowledge its impact on the environment and local communities. By adopting sustainable practises, luxury travel in the Middle East can continue to thrive while also benefiting the planet and the people who live there.
Overall, the panel discussion emphasised that sustainable luxury is not only possible but also necessary for the long-term growth of the industry. It urged businesses to take a more holistic approach to their operations, considering not only their financial bottom line but also their environmental and social impact. As the world becomes increasingly conscious of sustainability, luxury travel in the Middle East must adapt to remain relevant and attractive to travellers who value responsible and ethical tourism.