Fujairah unveils UAE’s first adventure tourism conference
UN Tourism hails the emirate’s leadership in sustainable adventure initiatives
DUBAI: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince, Fujairah has hosted the UAE’s inaugural Fujairah International Conference of Adventure Tourism, coinciding with the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai.
The event, held in collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), was organised by the Fujairah Adventures Center.
The Crown Prince of Fujairah, who attended the opening ceremony, underscored the importance of the adventure tourism sector in supporting sustainable development and boosting economic growth globally. The initiative reflects Fujairah’s growing commitment to becoming a regional hub for outdoor and eco-tourism.
What global perspectives were shared?
Amr Zein Eddine, Director of the Fujairah Adventures Center and Chair of the Higher Organising Committee, said the centre aims to align its strategy with global adventure tourism trends. He called for robust investment and regulatory frameworks to support the growing demand.
Mohammed Desouky, Senior Project Specialist at UN Tourism, delivered a keynote address highlighting adventure tourism as one of the most dynamic global travel sectors. He noted Fujairah’s efforts as pioneering and commended its institutional approach to developing the field.
Adding a unique perspective, Dr Ayesha Almemari, an Emergency Medicine and Critical Care consultant, shared her experiences as an avid mountaineer and endurance athlete, inspiring participants with her personal stories of exploration and resilience.
What were the key investment topics?
The conference’s first panel session, Investment in Adventure Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges, featured notable industry leaders including Sheikha Shamsa bint Hashir Al Maktoum from the Ministry of Economy, Imani Kajula of the East African Business Council, Suleiman Mohamed of the Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors, and Troy Ghilham of The Warrior Group.
The panel addressed the need for public-private collaboration, identified potential investment models, and explored the integration of modern technology into adventure tourism experiences. Panellists agreed on the importance of long-term planning, investor confidence, and creating an enabling regulatory environment.
What milestones were achieved?
The day also marked the launch of several publications, including Alpine Skills: Summer, and guidebooks outlining best practices for camping, hiking, and mountain biking. These were presented as part of efforts to standardise safety and environmental practices in outdoor tourism.
Two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed on the sidelines of the event. One between Fujairah Adventures and the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), and another with the Cyprus Mountaineering, Climbing, and Orienteering Federation. These agreements are expected to promote cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing, and joint programming.
UN Tourism, the Ministry of Economy, the Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department, and the Fujairah Environment Authority were also recognised during the ceremony for their instrumental roles in shaping this pioneering initiative.
