From conflict to recovery: Why connectivity is key to bringing travellers back

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has discussed the importance of connectivity in reviving tourism after conflict. Schubert Lou, CEO of Trip.com, noted that travel demand typically recovers in stages, with early indicators of traveler response including search behavior and online planning. Rebuilding trust takes time and requires visible, credible information, as confidence drops like an elevator, but comes back by taking steps on stairs.

Distinct from simply stating a destination is safe, destinations must offer tangible benefits to regain traveler confidence. With Gulf travellers having multiple choices, the competition for trust is vital. Lou highlighted that social media's influence requires destinations to communicate effectively through credible sources and reliable resources, pushing back against negative news to provide genuine information.

Data plays a key role in tracking recovery, with Schubert Lou emphasizing that understanding traveler searches and planning can inform industry strategies. Abdul Wahab Teffaha, secretary general of the Arab Air Carriers Organisation, stressed that travel and tourism should be viewed as essential services, akin to electricity and telecommunications, rather than luxuries.

He argued that travel demand spikes after periods of instability, and tourism creates more jobs than industries affected by automation and AI. Teffaha urged a partnership between airlines and governments, emphasizing airlines' economic role and the importance of airport facilitation through technology. Nicola Amanda Bernstein, Minister for Tourism and Culture of Seychelles, highlighted the need for more options in travel, including route development, to rebuild confidence.