(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) The lush island nation hosts one of the largest Asian pavilions at the ATM to promote cultural diversity
Travellers from the Middle East are contributing towards Sri Lanka’s tourism growth with a 10.5 per cent increase recorded last year M.M. Abdul Raheem Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai told Khaleej Times at the Arabian Travel Market.
“Sri Lanka has very friendly ties with the UAE. We have about 50000 Sri Lankan expatriates who consider the UAE as their second home. The UAE is also our largest trading partner in the Gulf with a $1.1-billion two-way trade with large investments towards tourism. Looking at tourism from the Middle East the UAE stands as the second largest major market for Sri Lanka; the first being Saudi Arabia” he said adding that last year saw over 9000 visitor arrivals from the UAE alone.
A visitor takes a selfie with model of Tusker at Sri Lanka pavilion.
Sri Lanka’s participation at the ongoing Arabian Travel Market in Dubai World Trade Centre is marked by the presence of 56 tourism representatives set in a 300-square-metre pavilion reminiscent of a wild jungle with an aim to promote eight exhilarating experiences within Sri Lanka; an eight-day journey of discovery. The themes include ‘Heritage’ ‘Pristine’ ‘Wild’ ‘Thrills’ ‘Scenic’ ‘Bliss’ ‘Festive’ and ‘Essence’.
Saman Priyankara additional secretary Ministry of Tourism and Sports Sri Lanka said: “The Arabian Travel Market is a world travel fair. We are not just limited to the Middle East region but are also handling other countries in the world. In the first quarter we noticed a 40 per cent growth in tourists from the Middle East. We plan to raise this figure in the coming months.”
Priyankara added that summer is an ideal time to visit Sri Lanka thanks to its comparatively cool weather lush greenery and exciting activities during the season.
“Sri Lanka is a beautiful island to explore. We have beaches wildlife and lots of greenery. We are mostly looking to promote the up-country region for honeymoon and family getaways. Some must-see places are Jaffna Nuwara Eliya Galle Negombo Yala and Pasikudah” he said.
According to the latest World Bank report Sri Lanka noted a robust annual growth in economy at 6.5 per cent between 2004 and 2014.
“Tourism plays a major role in the economic growth of the country and contributes towards employment opportunities especially in rural areas. Last year we recorded an economic growth of 7.4 per cent. For the past five years now we have been concentrating on infrastructure development with big hopes for travel trade development and employment opportunities” said Abdul Raheem.
Regional manager — Middle East and Africa of SriLankan Airlines the country’s national carrier Samantha Nagahawatte highlighted their part in boosting tourism prospects via code share agreements notably the Oneworld alliance.
“The tourism growth that we see in the Arab segment is due to high disposable incomes and a preference for business-class travel. We believe we have the potential and the mechanics to fulfil a leading role in tourism. We currently accommodate direct flights to Sri Lanka from Gulf countries and plan to increase its frequency. We look forward to offering competitive products with good value for money” he concluded.
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