Middle East recovery on agenda of WTTC Suez Canal leadership cruise

Industry leaders and government ministers are set to discuss Middle East travel recovery amid the Iran war on board a cruise ship.

 

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has convened the three-day session hosted by the Egyptian government on Crystal Serenity during a transit through the Suez Canal in early May.

 

Expected participants include senior figures from across the global travel and tourism sector, including ministers and policymakers from key markets including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Latin America and across Europe.  

 

The WTTC said: “At a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the Middle East, the WTTC gathering sends a clear signal of confidence in the region and reinforces the sector’s role as a driver of stability and economic growth.

 

“Discussions will directly address the impact of current challenges, with a dedicated strategic roundtable on policies to accelerate recovery in the Middle East, reflecting the urgency of coordinated action across both public and private sectors.  

 

“Heads of state and industry leaders will engage in high-level discussions covering geopolitics and global travel, workforce and talent shortages, seamless cross-border travel, high-value tourism, and destination stewardship - all critical to unlocking the next phase of sector growth.”

  

The event will also cover Egypt’s continued growth as a global destination, with a dedicated session outlining the country’s long-term tourism strategy and investment priorities, reinforcing its position at the forefront of the sector’s recovery, the private sector organisation noted. 

 

“Set against the transit of the Suez Canal, this initiative represents more than a high-level gathering,” the WTTC added.

 

“It reflects a collective commitment from across the global travel and tourism sector to move forward with confidence, strengthen international cooperation, and shape a more resilient and sustainable future for the industry through unified global action.”

 

WTTC president and chief executive Gloria Guevara said: “While geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are impacting travel flows worldwide, our research shows that travel and tourism is one of the most resilient sectors, capable of recovering quickly when there is strong coordination between governments and the private sector.

 

“This event represents the first major global platform dedicated to recovery, bringing together governments and industry leaders to accelerate progress and unlock opportunities worldwide.

 

“The focus now is on accelerating recovery and ensuring long-term, sustainable growth. This requires continued collaboration, investment, and clear leadership to support destinations and unlock the full potential of travel and tourism in the years ahead.”

 

WTTC chairman Manfredi Lefebvre added: “Egypt remains one of the world’s most compelling destinations and a perfect one to host this WTTC leadership cruise.

 

“As industry leaders, it is our duty to move forward with confidence and clarity, continuing to champion the sector’s unique appeal.

 

“Hosting this event aboard the Crystal Serenity reflects our unwavering belief in the resilience of travel and tourism and underscores the vital importance of sustained partnership and investment in shaping the future of our sector.”