KUWAIT CITY, Oct 9: The Embassy of India in Kuwait organized a B2B networking event to promote Indian tourism at the Millennium Hotel & Convention Centre. This event saw the participation of a delegation comprised of ten prominent entities from India’s tourism industry, showcasing the diverse and rich heritage of the country as a travel destination. The event was inaugurated by HE Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, alongside the Ambassador of India to Kuwait, HE Dr. Adarsh Swaika. Sheikha Intisar Al-Sabah welcomed the initiative, reflecting on her fond memories of visiting India, including her recent trip to Rajasthan earlier this year.

In her remarks during the event, Sheikha Intisar, President of the Intisar Charity Association, praised the strong and historic bilateral relations between India and Kuwait. She emphasized the mutual commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation across various sectors and noted the significant cultural connections, stating that many Indian terms are part of the Kuwaiti dialect. She described India as a safe and peaceful country, rich in cultural diversity, and commended the Indian community in Kuwait for their dedication and hardworking nature. Sheikha Intisar encouraged Kuwaiti tourists to explore India, portraying it as a vast continent with a wealth of experiences and opportunities waiting to be discovered. Meanwhile, Ambassador Swaika emphasized India’s vast tourism potential, highlighting attractions that range from picturesque hill stations and serene beaches to historic forts and unique niche tourism products such as adventure tourism, medical tourism, yoga tourism, and wildlife safaris.

He pointed out that India boasts 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites, underscoring the cultural and historical significance that makes India an appealing travel destination. The ambassador also addressed the growing trend of medical tourism to India, which is characterized by high-quality and affordable healthcare services. In the previous year, the Embassy issued over 8,000 multiple-entry tourist visas, a figure expected to rise in the coming year. With an impressive growth trajectory, Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India surged to 9.24 million in 2023 and are projected to reach 30.5 million by 2028. India welcomes 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the tourism sector under the automatic route, facilitating investments in tourism infrastructure, including the development of hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities.

The Indian delegation included representatives from various prestigious organizations, such as Maharajas Express -- luxury train experiences by the Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), Taj Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses Fort Barwara in Jaipur, and Six Senses Vana in Dehradun. Other participants included wellness centers like Prakriti Shakti -- CGH Earth Experience Hotels, MEDISAFAR, and Somatheeram Ayurveda, along with destination management companies such as Trail Blazer Tours India (TBI) and Gateway Malabar Holidays. Airlines IndiGo and Akasa Air were also represented at the event.

The event attracted over many tour operators and travel agents from Kuwait, who engaged in B2B interactions with the visiting delegation. These discussions revolved around India’s tourism offerings and potential opportunities for collaboration with their Kuwaiti counterparts. The event was well-attended by key stakeholders in the tourism sector, including social media influencers and representatives from print and electronic media. This “Exploring Incredible India 2.0” B2B Networking Event is part of the Embassy’s ongoing initiative to position India as a preferred travel destination for Kuwaiti tourists. The Embassy has been actively conducting tourism promotion events in Kuwait, utilizing both B2B and B2C formats, and continues to engage regularly with local tourism stakeholders to enhance travel opportunities to India.

By Paulo Francisco X. Fernandes
Arab Times/Al-Seyassah Staff