The 12th Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers (ICTM) is currently in full swing in Khiva, Republic of Uzbekistan. As senior officials convene today, June 1, 2024, to discuss draft decisions, anticipation builds for the pivotal sessions slated for tomorrow, June 2, 2024, including the highly anticipated discussion on the OIC City of Tourism Award. The conference, themed “Development of the Tourism Industry in a Sustainable and Resilient Way,” aims to chart a new course for the future of tourism within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states.
Strategic Roadmap for Islamic Tourism
One of the conference’s primary focuses is the “Strategic Roadmap for the Development of Islamic Tourism in the OIC Member States,” first adopted at the 10th ICTM. This comprehensive roadmap outlines a structured approach to fostering cooperation among member states, providing necessary resources for upcoming changes, and setting guidelines for the future growth of Islamic tourism. It covers key areas such as Islamic tourism standards, quality control in management, operations, and implementation.
Key Thematic Areas
The Strategic Roadmap is built on five key thematic areas:
- Data and Monitoring: Enhancing data collection and monitoring to inform better decision-making.
- Policy and Regulation Development: Establishing robust policies and regulations to support the tourism sector.
- Marketing and Promotion: Developing effective marketing strategies to promote Islamic tourism destinations.
- Destination and Industry Development: Investing in infrastructure and industry development to improve tourist experiences.
- Capacity Development: Enhancing the skills and capabilities of those working in the tourism sector.
These areas are designed to enhance intra-OIC cooperation and improve the overall Islamic tourism ecosystem. By focusing on these core themes, the roadmap seeks to create a more cohesive and effective tourism sector within OIC member states.
Adoption of Halal Food and Tourism Standards
In addition to the Strategic Roadmap, the OIC is also prioritizing the adoption of OIC Halal Food and Tourism Standards. These standards are intended to improve the ownership and popularization of Islamic products, benefiting Muslim consumers and boosting intra-OIC trade and investment. The implementation of these standards will not only enhance the quality of services provided to Muslim tourists but also strengthen the economic ties between member states.
The City of Tourism Award
A major highlight of the 12th ICTM is the highly anticipated selection of three winners for the OIC City of Tourism Award for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027. Seven cities, nominated by six OIC member states, are vying for this prestigious recognition. The City of Tourism Award aims to recognize and promote cities that have made significant strides in developing their tourism infrastructure and services in line with Islamic values.
Leading Contenders
As the competition for the City of Tourism Award heats up, let’s take a closer look at some of the cities in the running. Each city has demonstrated exceptional commitment to enhancing its tourism offerings, making it a prime candidate for this esteemed award. The winning cities will not only gain international recognition but also receive support to further develop their tourism infrastructure, attract more visitors, and boost local economies.
Khiva, Uzbekistan
One of the frontrunners in this competition is Khiva, Uzbekistan, the current host of the ICTM. Khiva has made significant investments in preserving its rich cultural heritage while modernizing its tourism infrastructure. The city’s efforts to blend historical preservation with modern amenities make it a strong contender for the City of Tourism Award.
Fez, Morocco
Another strong candidate is Fez, Morocco, known for its ancient medina and vibrant cultural scene. Fez has successfully leveraged its historical and cultural assets to attract tourists from around the world. By enhancing its tourism infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices, Fez aims to set a benchmark for other Islamic cities.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is also in the spotlight, thanks to its dynamic tourism sector and commitment to promoting Islamic tourism. The city’s strategic location, modern amenities, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular destination for Muslim travelers. Kuala Lumpur’s efforts to develop halal tourism products and services further strengthen its candidacy for the City of Tourism Award.
As the 12th ICTM progresses, the discussions and decisions made here in Khiva will undoubtedly shape the future of Islamic tourism. The conference’s emphasis on sustainable and resilient development, coupled with the strategic initiatives outlined in the roadmap, will pave the way for a brighter future for Islamic tourism. With the City of Tourism Award shining a spotlight on exceptional cities, the stage is set for continued growth and innovation in this vital sector.
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