The DATA (Destination Advancement Through Analytics) Forum 2024, a landmark event focusing on data and intelligence in the travel industry, was held for the first time in the Maldives on 16th October. Jointly hosted by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and E-Tourism Frontiers, the forum provided vital insights to key players in the tourism data sector, addressing how analytics can enhance consumer engagement, destination management, and operational efficiency in the travel trade.
The forum commenced with opening remarks from MMPRC CEO and MD Ibrahim Shiuree, who warmly welcomed attendees to the Maldives. MMPRC Chairperson Abdulla Giyas Riyaz also addressed the audience, underscoring the critical role of data in shaping the future of travel. “The ability to effectively harness data has shifted from being an advantage to a trade necessity,” Shiuree emphasized, as the travel industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace.
Participants from some of the world’s leading tourism data analytics companies shared their expertise. These included E-Tourism Frontiers, Tourism Economics Oxford, Union Pay, Meltwater, ForwardKeys, Adara, Booking.com, Tripadvisor, Amadeus, and EmarketingEye. Each offered valuable perspectives on global tourism trends, providing attendees with actionable data-driven insights.
Notable presentations included Sarah Mathews, CEO of E-Tourism Frontiers, who discussed the ubiquitous role of data in modern travel. Michael Shoory from Tourism Economics Oxford provided an in-depth look at the global economic outlook, while Hu Binghan from Union Pay shed light on the resurgence of Chinese outbound tourism.
In the afternoon, speakers such as Olivier Ponti from ForwardKeys explored traveller behavior prediction, while Bharat Nagpal from Adara demonstrated methods for measuring success through data. Calvin Koh from Tripadvisor highlighted the power of user-generated content in influencing tourism decisions.
Held at Bandos Maldives, the forum also highlighted the country’s strengths in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sector, showcasing the Maldives as an ideal destination to blend professional events with natural beauty and relaxation.
Sponsored by leading organizations including STELCO, MACL, and Jalboot, the event set a new standard for tourism analytics in the Maldives. As a key platform for learning and collaboration, the DATA Forum 2024 ensured that tourism professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the evolving data-driven landscape.
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