Latest news with #tourismstrategy
Skift
29-05-2025
- Business
- Skift
Philippines Tourism Chief: Courting Digital Nomads and Growth Beyond China
With a focus on infrastructure, digital nomads, and Muslim-friendly travel, the Philippines is reshaping its tourism strategy for longer, more meaningful stays. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco explained the country's approach at the Skift Asia Forum. Christina Garcia Frasco, tourism secretary of the Philippines, discussed the country's strategy to attract more long-term visitors at the recent Skift Asia Forum in Bangkok. Work is underway to improve the Philippines' infrastructure, and Frasco believes the country has advantages in attracting digital nomads, including the widespread use of English. Frasco also addressed the Philippines' growing efforts to target markets beyond China and the competition with other Southeast Asian destinations during her chat with Skift Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia. Watch a full video of the discussion below: An Evolving Country Franco said the Philippines is rebranding itself on the global stage by emphasizing its assets. 'The Philippines finds itself at an age of transformation where it seeks to reintroduce itself to the world from the lens and the strength of its cultural identity, its heritage, its stories ...' The Case for Digital Nomads Frasco explained why she believes the Philippines is a high-value destination for digital nomads. 'We hope to attract long-stay travelers to work in paradise, where the value proposition is not just a low-cost stay, but one of high value that provides cultural and immersive experiences.' Expanding Beyond China Frasco highlighted the Philippines' successful efforts to reduce its reliance on Chinese tourists. "Because of our efforts to diversify, we are seeing, for example, from the Middle East and the GCC an average of no less than 500 to 800% growth rate in terms of international tourism arrivals." Growing Appeal For Muslim Travelers The Philippines has also taken strides to become a more welcoming destination for Muslim travelers. "Under this administration, there has been a very serious push towards expanding the Philippines' halal and Muslim-friendly tourism portfolio. So strong has this push been that the crescent rating of the global Muslim tourism index has recognized the Philippines for the second year in a row as the emerging Muslim-friendly travel destination." A Deeper Takeaway for Visitors Frasco said those traveling in the Philippines often make a meaningful connection with the country's citizens. "What we bring to the table… is a story — a story of a proud people… You arrive in the Philippines as a guest, but you leave as family. That is the Filipino way, and that is the Philippine experience that we are able to offer to anyone who comes to the country."
Arab News
25-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Human-centered travel takes priority in Saudi Arabia's tourism vision
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is placing human-centered travel at the forefront of its tourism strategy, focusing on authentic cultural experiences, meaningful interactions, and community engagement as it reshapes its global tourism identity. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb emphasized that this people-first approach is designed to balance the Kingdom's rapid infrastructure development with heritage preservation and stronger community connections. The strategy, he said, forms a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's broader ambition to become a leading international tourism destination. Al-Khateeb's remarks come amid the launch of TOURISE, a new platform introduced by the Kingdom to unite global leaders across tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability. The initiative aims to foster innovation and collaboration as Saudi Arabia accelerates its tourism growth while maintaining a focus on sustainable and inclusive development. In an interview with CNN, Al-Khateeb emphasized the importance of human connection in travel, stating: 'We want the experience in travel and tourism to be human.' While acknowledging the role of innovation, Al-Khateeb stressed that technology should enhance — not replace — personal interaction. 'We will definitely always use technology, but we will encourage and protect' human interaction because travel is all about people, he said. The recently launched TOURISE platform, unveiled in late May, is designed to serve as a global forum bringing together key players in the tourism industry. According to Al-Khateeb, the initiative will unite regulators, operators, investors, and nongovernmental organizations to shape the future of a sector that accounts for '10 percent of global GDP and 10 percent of global jobs.' He described the initiative as 'unique' in its ability to bridge government and business to foster innovation and sustainable development in tourism. The Kingdom welcomed 30 million international visitors in 2024, a 9.5 percent increase from the previous year. This influx is part of the kingdom's broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil. Riyadh is a focal point of the Kingdom's destination development plans. 'Riyadh is top priority. Riyadh winter is the most beautiful winter in the world,' said Al-Khateeb, referencing attractions like Diriyah, King Salman Park, and the entertainment hub Qiddiya, which he described as 'the largest-ever built sport, entertainment and culture city.' Al-Khateeb pointed to the Red Sea as a top priority, noting the launch of new resorts under Red Sea Global. 'People love to visit the Red Sea, to explore the Red Sea,' he said, highlighting the region's appeal alongside heritage tourism and Arabian hospitality. Despite geopolitical challenges, Al-Khateeb maintained that Saudi Arabia is moving forward with confidence. 'We're happy to see that it's de-escalation in many areas in the region. And I think what is happening in Syria is a very positive thing, and I hope the rest of the region will follow,' he said. 'It is very normal you have some huge investment, upload investment in a country like Saudi Arabia this investment is exposed to, sometimes, risk — capacity, availability risk, financial risk and so on.' 'However, we know this. We have all the mitigation in place,' he added. Looking to the future, Al-Khateeb emphasized the Kingdom's preparations for hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 across multiple cities, including the mountainous south. 'We are holding the World Cup in many cities in Saudi Arabia that will give the chance for the fans to explore the nature and the topography,' he said. Among the projects is the new Mohammed bin Salman Stadium in Qiddiya, which he described as 'out of this world' and offering a 'different experience for fans and for the players.' This strategic focus on human-centered tourism aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to position the Kingdom as a leading global tourism destination.
