UAE - Tourism Malaysia places a strong emphasis on attracting Middle Eastern tourists to country following the reopening of borders for international tourists, officials said at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai.

Tourism Malaysia, the promotion board under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, is participating once again in the ATM 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 is also underscoring its reputation as a safe travel destination.

The Malaysian delegation for the ATM is led by Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia. The Malaysia Pavilion consists of 64 delegates representing 32 organisations, eager to meet key industry buyers from the Middle East. ATM, which opened on May 9, runs till May 12.

Malaysia reopened its borders to international tourists on April 1, 2022.

Dato’ Sri Nancy said: “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 two million international tourist arrivals this year generating more than RM8.6 billion ($1.96 billion) in tourism receipts.”

Pre-pandemic, in 2019, Malaysia received 397,726 tourists from MENA region. Saudi Arabia was Malaysia’s top market, accounting for 121,444 tourists, more than 30% of arrivals, from the West Asia and North African regions, an 8.2% 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 will be presenting their respective tourism products and services that cater specifically for the Middle Eastern market.

The mission aims to enhance the commitment to establishing good tourism cooperation, engaging in future collaborations, and cooperation with the travel and tourism industry in the region.

“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,” said Dato’ Sri Nancy.

Throughout the event, Dato' Sri Nancy is scheduled to meet up with senior executives from key Middle Eastern airlines to discuss future collaboration. 

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