ATM ends on a high note

Shirajiv Sirimane in UAE

The 15th edition of the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) will conclude today. This year the event saw an increase of international representation by ten per cent and the Middle Eastern participation increasing by eight per cent.

This year's ATM saw Sri Lanka fielding a higher number of participants with 25 travel companies turning out as against 17 last year. The main reason for the increase in Lankan participation is that ATM is now considered as an event that yields results.

Director Sales and Marketing Aitken Spence, Anil Udawatte said the main reason for the participation of the travel companies is the focused approach of the Sri Lanka Tourism. "We are happy with the response received at the ATM," he said.

He said Middle East has huge untapped potential and more promotions should be done to woo more travelers. "What the country needs is an up market and luxury type promotion," he said.

Four travel agents, Qatar Airways Holidays, Kanou Travels, Al Madhina Travels and Uni Travels were presented with special awards for the prominent part they played to promote Sri Lanka.

"Exhibitors have gone all out this year to show the stunning diversity of their offerings. The public day is an excellent time for exhibitors to talk and promote their products directly to the end user. All businesses should be listening to the 'man on the street' and I believe that our industry is no different," Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, Simon Press said.

"Arabian Travel Market allowed the public to see the different opportunities a country or company can offer in a face-to-face, interactive forum.

It certainly beats making a decision from a catalogue," he added.

Performing acrobats, caricature artists, dance troupes and magicians adorning the intricate stands attracted many visitors.

An insight...

The largest ever Arabian Travel Market, the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism event opened its doors to the public as more than 2,000 destination, companies and tour operators from 70 countries looked to woo potential end users.

Dancers from internationally renowned performing group Cirque du Soleil are set to entertain crowds with their breathtaking dance routines and one-of-a-kind theatrical delights on the Nakheel stand.

However, many countries’ heritage and tradition were on display. Dubai’s stand, which was organised by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai, is showcased the emirate’s old ‘pearling’ techniques and inviting visitors to sample the delights of Arab coffee. On the Abu Dhabi stand, traditional falconers showed off the mighty bird’s prowess to onlookers.