Nadia Ibrahim explains why they must view sustainability as a long-term investment rather than a short-term cost
Rather than cost, the Middle East’s luxury travel sector should focus on the long-term gains offered by decarbonisation, waste reduction and community initiatives. That was the assessment of experts speaking on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market 2023.
The conference session entitled, ‘Sustainable Luxury: At What Cost?’ included a range of insights into how luxury travel is leading the tourism industry’s sustainable charge in the Middle East.
Commenting on growing demand for sustainable offerings among consumers, Nadia said: “Luxury and sustainability have not always gone hand in hand, but this is changing. We are encountering a new generation of travellers that 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.”
Also speaking on the panel alongside Nadia were Amir Golbarg, Senior Vice President Operations – Middle East & Africa at Minor Hotels; Candice D’Cruz, VP Luxury Brands at Marriott International; and William Harley-Fleming, Vice President of Operations for JA The Resort and Indian Ocean.