In 2017, I decided to take my first-ever solo trip — a weeklong jaunt to London during Christmas.
An Open Letter to the Middle East's Travel Industry
18.11.2024 - 21:17 / skift.com / Rafat Ali
The third edition of Skift Global Forum East begins in Dubai tomorrow evening. As Skift’s work in the region becomes more extensive with every passing year, I wanted to write out my observations on the main challenges I see the region’s industry has to overcome.
As an Indian-American living in New York, my ties to the Middle East and the larger MENA region run deep. My parents once called this region home, my sister and her family still reside here, and so do many of my closest cousins, spread across various Middle Eastern countries. Moreover, my own family is a beautiful blend — we have three wonderful children, two of whom were born in the Arab world. When I speak about the Middle East, I do so not as an outsider, but as someone who cares deeply about its future and is genuinely invested in its success.
Over the past few years, I’ve traveled to the Middle East dozens of times, witnessing firsthand the incredible potential and energy that permeate the region, especially in the young people. However, I’ve also observed areas where improvements could accelerate growth and innovation, particularly in the travel industry and the broader business sector. I’d like to share three key points that I believe could make a significant difference.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from spending more than half my life in the United States is the simplicity and clarity of business transactions. The fundamental value exchange — “You give me money; I give you work” — is straightforward yet powerful. This simplicity fosters an environment where businesses can thrive without unnecessary complications.
In the Middle East, however, I’ve noticed that excessive formalities, red tape and being excessively ceremonial often slow down processes. There’s a lack of transparency that can hinder business transactions between individuals and between companies.
By embracing professionalism and cutting through unnecessary layers, we can create an environment where innovation thrives and ideas become reality faster.
Imagine what could be achieved if you streamlined your processes and focused on what truly matters. Prioritizing efficiency and clear communication not only advances your own business but also sets a positive example for the entire industry. It’s about adopting best practices that make doing business easier and more efficient, without compromising your cultural values.
The Middle East is an incredible mix of cultures, traditions, and talents. Each country and region has its unique heritage that deserves to be showcased. Yet, there’s a tendency to look toward the West for solutions, often overlooking the incredible resources we have right here.
I recall meeting with a very senior government leader from the
The website maxtravelz.com is an aggregator of news from open sources. The source is indicated at the beginning and at the end of the announcement. You can send a complaint on the news if you find it unreliable.
Top Autors
Popular Topics
cntraveler.com
04.12.2024 / 22:11
39 Travel Tuesday Deals 2024: Save Big on Flights, Hotels, & More
Travel Tuesday may be technically over, but there are still a bunch of ongoing deals you can take advantage of. From glamorous resorts to beachfront hotels to tour operators and cruise lines, the Travel Tuesday deals were bigger and better than ever this year, and the savings haven't ended yet. Whether you're interested in scoring 30% off low-cost flights to Iceland via PLAY or want to hop on a cruise by HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) for close to half off the original price, this is the best time of year to save. Use the links below to jump to a specific section, or scroll through to see all the best Travel Tuesday travel deals that you can still cash in on.
travelpulse.com
03.12.2024 / 21:21
Applications Are Now Open for the First Dog-Friendly Cruise
Want to travel the world with your dog? Applications are now officially open for the first-ever dog-friendly cruise, hosted by Expedia Cruises of West Orlando and Margaritaville at Sea.
cntraveler.com
03.12.2024 / 18:27
60 Travel Tuesday Deals 2024: Save Big on Flights, Hotels, & More
It's that time of year again! Thrifty travelers know that Travel Tuesday deals are the best of the best. While Cyber Monday and Black Friday boast some good offers, it's Travel Tuesday that really has the big savings. If you're anything like us, you've been eyeing up your favorite hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators for months, just waiting for them to roll out the big sales. Good news: From glamorous resorts to beachfront hotels to tour operators and cruise lines, the Travel Tuesday deals are bigger and better than ever, and there are tons of ways to save for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in scoring 30% off low-cost flights to Iceland via PLAY or want to hop on a cruise by HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) for close to half off the original price, this is the best time of year to save. Don't wait! While some sales run into early December, many end today with Travel Tuesday on December 3—be sure to add to cart before everything is sold out.
cntraveler.com
02.12.2024 / 11:33
49 Cyber Monday Travel Deals to Save Big on Flights, Hotels, & More
It's that time of year again! Black Friday may already be on its way out, but Cyber Monday is in full swing, and if you're anything like us, you've been eyeing up your favorite hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators for months, just waiting for them to roll out the big sales. Good news: From glamorous resorts to beachfront hotels to tour operators and cruise lines, the Cyber Monday deals are still rolling in, and there are tons of ways to save for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in scoring 30% off low-cost flights to Iceland via PLAY or want to hop on a cruise by HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) for close to half the original price, this is the best time of year to save. From now through Travel Tuesday, we're seeing new sales drop every day—be sure to check back in daily so you don't miss anything good.
cntraveler.com
29.11.2024 / 10:37
33 Black Friday Travel Deals to Save Big on Flights, Hotels, & More
It's that time of year again! Black Friday is finally here, and if you're anything like us, you've been eyeing up your favorite hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators for months, just waiting for them to roll out the big sales. Good news: From glamorous resorts to beachfront hotels to tour operators and cruise lines, the deals are rolling in, and there are tons of ways to save for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in scoring 30% off low-cost flights to Iceland via PLAY or want to hop on a cruise by HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) for close to half the original price, this is the best time of year to save. From now through Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday, we're seeing new sales drop every day—be sure to check back in daily so you don't miss anything good.
cntraveler.com
27.11.2024 / 13:33
This Is the Ultimate Tool for Finding Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations
Off-the-beaten-path travel destinations are set to be a major trend in 2025—and it's no surprise, considering the overtourism of popular destinations in Europe this summer and the record-shattering holiday travel season.
euronews.com
26.11.2024 / 02:01
Under tight security measures, G7 foreign ministers focus on Middle East and Ukraine in Italy
High-security measures surround the G7 foreign affairs ministers' two-day summit in Italy, which began on Monday.
cntraveler.com
23.11.2024 / 07:35
The Best Places to Go in Africa in 2025
If you were looking to this list to help you narrow down your options for the best places to go in Africa in 2025, we’re going to apologize right now: Given the abundance of thrilling new openings to choose from, chances are, when you finish reading, your travel wish list will be longer than ever. But before you blow your budget entirely, a good place to start could be figuring out your “why”—what is it that excites you most about your next trip, and why do you travel?
thepointsguy.com
22.11.2024 / 17:47
Give the gift of travel and save up to 25% on Hyatt hotel stays
Few things in life are better than getting a great gift from someone you care about — especially when it's the gift of travel. Travel is a gift that keeps on giving and lasts way longer than expensive skin care products or kitchen gadgets that end up untouched in a random drawer. In fact, a recent survey from Hyatt found that 85% of consumers would rather receive a trip or vacation than a physical gift this holiday season.
thepointsguy.com
22.11.2024 / 13:51
Fairmont Breakers Long Beach officially opens in Southern California
Accor's luxury Fairmont Hotels & Resorts brand has a new property that's just as much California chic as it is Old Hollywood.
lonelyplanet.com
21.11.2024 / 17:36
The 19 best free things to do in Chattanooga
Nov 21, 2024 • 9 min read