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Tourism in Asia and the Middle East is more than travel; it serves as a force for sustainable development, cultural preservation, and social inclusion.
Travel initiatives promote cultural preservation and social inclusion.
Travel is no longer just about exploring new destinations; it has evolved into a powerful engine for social, cultural, and economic transformation. Across Asia and the Middle East, tourism is fueling initiatives that go beyond sightseeing, from environmental sustainability and heritage preservation to cross-cultural dialogue and post-conflict recovery. As more visitors flock to these regions, the sector is proving its potential to drive meaningful change, foster inclusive growth, and strengthen communities.
Healing Communities Post-Conflict
“Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a means of healing and renewal in Sri Lanka,” says Charith De Alwais, CEO of Unique Lanka Travels. By creating immersive, community-focused experiences, the company channels tourism revenue to regions still affected by the Civil War and the 2004 tsunami. Homestays, heritage crafts, and nature conservation projects offer sustainable livelihoods while preserving cultural identity. These initiatives demonstrate how tourism can rebuild infrastructure, promote cross-cultural dialogue, and strengthen local communities, turning travel into a catalyst for peace and resilience.
Building Public-Private Partnerships
Economic growth is another key area where tourism drives change. Ramanpreet Singh, Chief Growth Officer of SKIL Travel, explains, “We develop public-private partnerships to build integrated travel ecosystems across Asia and the Middle East.” From corporate travel logistics to convention centres hosting global events, these collaborations create jobs, enhance sustainable tourism, and showcase local culture on an international stage. By connecting governments, hospitality providers, and airlines, tourism facilitates cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange, strengthening regional economies.
Climate-Adaptive Travel
Sustainability is increasingly shaping tourism in the region. N.M. Shafiq, General Manager at Mannai Holidays, notes, “Destinations are investing in solar resorts and energy-efficient lodges to minimise carbon footprints while supporting local economies.” From eco-friendly infrastructure to low-impact activities in Qatar and the UAE, tourism now serves as a tool to protect ecosystems, preserve heritage, and educate visitors on environmental stewardship. These efforts highlight how climate-adaptive travel can safeguard natural and cultural assets for future generations.
Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding
Tourism also bridges cultural divides. Emma Le, Inbound Director at Thang Long Tours and Travels, says, “Experiences like cooking workshops, village visits, and community festivals allow travellers to engage authentically with local cultures.” By participating in everyday traditions, visitors build genuine connections, creating lasting memories while promoting social inclusion and cultural appreciation. Travel, in this way, becomes a platform for meaningful dialogue and shared understanding.
Across Asia and the Middle East, tourism is proving that its value goes far beyond revenue. It creates jobs, fosters sustainability, preserves heritage, and bridges cultures. By integrating economic development with environmental responsibility and social engagement, travel is helping communities thrive, building connections that transcend borders and ensuring tourism leaves a lasting, positive impact.
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi…Read More
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi… Read More
Delhi, India, India
October 03, 2025, 18:17 IST
