Bottom-line benefits of marketing committed eco-tourism to be drawcard at METMS 2009

Ecotourism has been considered as one of the world tourism industry's major growth areas, and estimates, according to www.tourism-research.org, have suggested that the demand for ecotourism is growing by between 10 and 30% per annum. Commitment in supporting eco-tourism in the Middle East is also growing, through efforts such as an eco-focus in Oman through the Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay, the improving of eco-technology in Lebanon and in 2007, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approving Dubai's environmental plans, which include applying green building standards to future projects and facilities.

The Summit, which is under the patronage of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), will tackle a number of hot topics on tourism marketing. This will include the importance and future of sustainable, ecologically responsible travel issues and the relevance of eco-tourism to marketing in the Middle East. Geoffrey Lipman, the Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, will present his views and reviews on 20 years of promoting eco-tourism as the METMS opening keynote speaker. Renowned for his strong stance on responsible and proactive measure to ensure sustainable eco-tourism structures and initiatives, Lipman has written and lectured around the world on tourism strategy, sustainability, climate change and airline liberalization.

The Middle East Tourism Marketing Summit will take place on 5 November 2009 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai. The event will host the travel and tourism industry's biggest and most influential market players ad is aimed at Marketing Directors, Managers, Senior Finance and Operational Colleagues as well as tourism and travel planners, operating directors and chief executive officers.

Professionals involved in the following industries should also ensure that they do not miss the summit - Medical tourism; Sports and leisure tourism; Entertainment tourism; Cultural and heritage tourism; Business, economic & commercial tourism; Retail tourism; Adventure tourism and Educational tourism. In addition, delegates from hotels and resorts, Government ministries of tourism, shopping malls as destinations and entertainment complexes will gain real added value by attending the Summit.

Registration for the Summit has officially opened and delegates will enjoy an early bird-rate until 17 August.