India, United Arab Emirates: Goa’s Regenerative Tourism to Be Highlighted at ATM Dubai 2025 for Gulf Travelers Seeking Authentic Experiences

Published on April 24, 2025

Goa Tourism is gearing up to make a dynamic presence at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, scheduled to take place from April 28 to May 1, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. With an increasing interest from Gulf region travelers, Goa aims to build deeper engagement with Middle Eastern tourists, travel trade partners, and investors. The state plans to spotlight high-value tourism experiences, emphasizing luxury, wellness, culture, and sustainability.

Goa’s Focus on High-Value, Authentic Travel Experiences

At ATM Dubai, Goa will introduce a refreshed image that goes beyond its world-renowned beaches, showcasing a destination rich in heritage, spiritual depth, culinary diversity, and community-led tourism. The Goa Tourism pavilion will present curated experiences designed for discerning travelers, including luxury boutique stays, wellness retreats, exclusive cultural trails, and family-friendly escapes. In addition, Goa will highlight its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE)-ready venues, making it a prime location for business events as well as leisure getaways.

Strengthening Connectivity and Access to the Gulf Region

As part of this year’s ATM theme—Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity—Goa will focus on the growing air connectivity between the state and key cities in the Middle East. Goa’s two international airports—Manohar International Airport at Mopa and Goa International Airport at Dabolim—are now more accessible to Gulf travelers. Direct international flights from Dubai and Sharjah make it easier for Middle Eastern tourists to visit Goa, positioning the state as an accessible and convenient getaway for those looking to explore India’s coastal beauty.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, India, shared his enthusiasm ahead of the event: “Goa is evolving into a global model for regenerative and community-based tourism. Our participation at ATM Dubai reflects our commitment to quality tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities. We invite Gulf travelers to experience Goa in new and meaningful ways.”

Goa’s Regenerative Tourism: Sustainability and Authenticity at the Core

Goa stands out as the first state in India to embrace Regenerative Tourism, a model that encourages visitors not only to travel sustainably but to contribute actively to the well-being of local communities and the ecological restoration of the region. This initiative includes organic farm experiences, heritage walks, village immersions, and artisan markets that allow tourists to experience the authentic culture of Goa while helping to preserve its natural resources.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, emphasized the importance of this approach: “The Arabian Travel Market is a significant platform for us to connect with global industry leaders and showcase Goa’s multifaceted offerings. With growing interest from the Gulf region, this event offers us an excellent opportunity to strengthen our visibility and build long-term partnerships.”

A Culturally Inclusive Destination for Gulf Travelers

Known for its warmth and hospitality, Goa has always welcomed travelers from across the world with open arms. It remains a culturally inclusive and traveler-friendly destination, offering a mix of relaxation, connection, and authenticity. The state is becoming an ideal choice for Gulf residents seeking a meaningful getaway, whether for wellness, adventure, or family-focused vacations.

Goa’s emphasis on community-led tourism enhances the visitor experience by offering meaningful engagement with local cultures and traditions. It provides Gulf travelers with a space to relax while also connecting with the destination in a deeper, more enriching way.

Strengthening B2B Relationships and Partnerships

In addition to promoting Goa as a desirable destination, the Goa delegation at ATM Dubai will participate in a series of B2B meetings, networking sessions, and media interactions aimed at strengthening partnerships with travel agents, media outlets, hospitality groups, and investors from the UAE and the broader Middle East. These efforts are expected to further cement Goa’s position as a top travel destination for Middle Eastern tourists seeking luxury, culture, and sustainability.

Looking to the Future: Goa’s Vision for Premium, Inclusive Tourism

Goa’s participation in ATM 2025 reflects its vision to become a premium, inclusive, and future-ready destination. By showcasing the diversity of its offerings, from luxury accommodations to community-led experiences, Goa aims to attract discerning Gulf travelers who are looking for more than just a beach holiday. With its emphasis on regenerative tourism and authentic cultural experiences, Goa is poised to position itself as a leading destination for meaningful travel in the coming years.

As Goa continues to strengthen its ties with the Middle East, it will also serve as a global model for sustainable tourism, showing how destinations can balance development with environmental responsibility and community involvement. Through its innovative tourism model, Goa offers a vision for the future of travel—one that focuses on deepening connections and creating lasting impacts for both visitors and locals.