Sri Lanka unveils renewed tourism vision at ATM
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) outlined the country's strategic tourism focus on community-based experiences, wellness and nature travel, and premium hospitality at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai.
At a press conference on the sidelines of ATM, SLTPB reaffirmed its commitment to expanding tourism partnerships and boosting arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the broader Middle East, and international markets.
The conference highlighted key developments across Sri Lanka's tourism sector, including infrastructure upgrades, market trends, and evolving traveller experiences.
Sampath Nishshanka, Managing Director of SLTPB, said: 'Sri Lanka is not just a destination — it is an experience shaped by warmth, culture, and meaningful connections that today's discerning travellers seek,' he said. 'We take pride in our heritage and the genuine hospitality that defines us. As we present a renewed vision for tourism, we invite the world — here at Arabian Travel Market — to rediscover Sri Lanka with fresh eyes and open hearts.'
The press conference emphasised SLTPB's collaboration with GCC-based travel agencies and airlines to enhance connectivity and curate personalized experiences for travelers in GCC and the wider region. It also spotlighted efforts to strengthen media and trade engagement through authentic storytelling and by reinforcing confidence in Sri Lanka as the ideal travel destination for GCC and Middle East traveller.
The Sri Lanka Pavilion at ATM 2025 features a mix of co-exhibitors — including boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and destination management companies (DMCs) — keen to forge partnerships across the region and beyond. SLTPB also unveiled initiatives targeting families, spiritual travelers, and adventure seekers, aligning with summer travel trends. Visa-free entry for GCC nationals, direct air links, and attractive luxury packages further reinforce Sri Lanka's appeal as a premier holiday destination.
Sri Lanka is steadily emerging as a top choice for travellers from the GCC and wider Middle East, offering halal-friendly services, safety, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes. With its year-round appeal, upscale accommodations, and expanding infrastructure, the island caters to a broad range of travel preferences from the region.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Syyaha
18 hours ago
- Syyaha
Unicharm: The First Hygiene Company to Celebrate Father's Day in the GCC
Unicharm achieved a milestone by becoming the first hygiene manufacturer in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to officially celebrate Father's Day. This pioneering move not only reflects the company's deep commitment to family values but also highlights the evolving cultural landscape where fathers are increasingly recognized for their essential role in raising the heart of this groundbreaking celebration is BabyJoy, Unicharm's flagship diaper brand, which holds the title of the #1 brand in the GCC. BabyJoy is not only a symbol of superior quality and innovation in baby care, but it also stands out as a brand that understands and supports the emotional journey of parenting. As the official sponsor of this special Father's Day campaign, BabyJoy is bringing dads into the spotlight with a heartwarming campaign's emotional core is amplified by the iconic song 'Ya Tayyib Al-Qalb' by the legendary Saudi artist Abdul Majeed Abdullah. Known for its touching lyrics and deep emotional resonance, the song perfectly captures the spirit of fatherhood – a blend of kindness, strength, and unconditional love. Through this campaign, Unicharm and BabyJoy aim to honor fathers across the GCC who give their all for their families with patience, sacrifice, and joy. By leading this initiative, Unicharm is not only celebrating fathers, but also setting a new standard for corporate social engagement in the hygiene industry. It's a bold and heartfelt gesture that reaffirms Unicharm's role as a brand deeply rooted in the region's values – one that truly understands the meaning of family.
Gulf Insider
a day ago
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Multiple Entry eVisa For GCC Expats: How UAE Residents Can Apply Online
Are you planning to travel to Saudi Arabia soon? If so, expatriates residing in the UAE or other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can apply for a one-year multiple-entry eVisa. This visa provides ample time for business trips, visiting friends and family, exploring the country, and even performing Umrah (excluding the Hajj season). UAE expatriates can apply for the eVisa through Saudi Arabia's unified visa platform, launched in 2023, at Duration and validity of Saudi eVisa for GCC residents Visa types – Single or multiple entry . . Visa period – 90 days for single entry and one year for multiple entry and Duration of stay in Saudi Arabia – 90 days The residency document should be valid for at least three months.• The passport must be valid for at least six months.• The minimum age of applicants should be 18 years old, if they are travelling without their parents. • Passport photo with white background.• Passport copy.• UAE residence visa page copy On the homepage, click on the 'Visit' category and select the following options from the drop-down menu:• Select 'tourism' as the purpose of the visit.• Enter your nationality.• Select 'Valid residence in the GCC countries (No less than three months)' from the drop-down on 'Show Eligible Visas'. You will be provided with two options – transit visa and Electronic Visa (e-visa). Click on 'Apply Now' under the eVisa option. Based on the details you provided in step one, your nationality and GCC residency will be automatically filled in. Select the visa type (single or multiple) and the duration. You must enter the following details:• Enter the expected date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.• Enter the country of residence.• Select the nearest embassy to you – Abu Dhabi or can also enter the transport mode and port of entry, but these are optional entries. Click on 'Next'. • Type in your full name exactly as it is stated on your passport.• Enter your mobile number and address.• Enter your gender and marital status.• You can enter your occupation, but this is optional. You also have the option to select 'I do not work at the moment'.• Enter your occupation title – this is mandatory. If you selected the 'I do not work at the moment' option, you do not need to enter anything.• Enter your date of birth. Next, answer the question –'What do you plan on doing during your stay?' but this is optional. You can select Umrah, leisure or visit friends and family from the drop-down menu. Then, upload a recent, coloured passport-sized photograph with a white background. When you are uploading the photo, it must meet the following requirements:• Photo size – 35x45mm• Use a plain background• Face the camera directly with your head straight• Neutral facial expression.• No smiling and mouth should be closed• Ensure proper lighting to avoid shadows• Dress appropriately for the visa applicationYou must upload the photograph in PNG or JPEG format, with the maximum file size being 5MB. • Upload your passport copy scan.• Select your passport type.• Enter your passport number.• Select the country of issuance.• Enter plate of birth.• Enter the passport issue and expiry date. • Upload your UAE residency visa – to find out how to access a digital copy of your UAE residency visa, click here.• Enter your visa number.• Enter your UAE residence visa expiry date.• Enter the emirate you reside in and your address. Once that is complete, click on 'Agree' for the terms and conditions. Then, review the details in your application and click 'Next'. • Next, answer a few questions for the medical insurance coverage by selecting 'yes' or 'no'.• Click 'Next' and select a medical insurance provider in Saudi Arabia. You will also be able to view the cost of each provider. Once you have selected a medical insurance company, you will be able to review the cost of the visa application, including the insurance cost. Click on 'Pay Now' and pay for the application online with your credit or debit card. After the payment is confirmed, you will receive a transaction number to track the application. To track the status, visit and select 'Track Application' and enter your transaction number or passport number. If you have any questions about the status of your application, you can also contact the call centre – +966 920011114 • $81 (Dh297.48) for visa fees• $10.50 (Dh38.5) for application fees Medical coverage for the eVisa can range from $7.50 (Dh27.54) to $252.04 (Dh925.65). According to while GCC residents can expect their visa to be issued instantly, in general the issuance of a visa can take up to three working days. Once the visa application is accepted, you will receive eVisa via email.
Daily Tribune
a day ago
- Daily Tribune
US steps up sanctions as Mideast attacks flare
AFP | Washington The United States issued new Iran-related sanctions yesterday, taking aim at the procurement of machinery for the country's defense industry at a time when war is flaring in the Middle East. The US Treasury Department said it was targeting an individual and eight entities over their roles in the sourcing and transshipment of 'sensitive machinery for Iran's defence industry.' 'The United States remains resolved to disrupt any effort by Iran to procure the sensitive, dual-use technology, components, and machinery that underpin the regime's ballistic missile, unmanned aerial vehicle, and asymmetric weapons programs,' said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in a statement. He added that Treasury would continue to target Iran's ability to make and proliferate such weapons, 'which threaten regional stability and global security.' The action comes as conflict is heating up in the Middle East. Iran has been firing daily missile salvos at Israel for the past week, since a wide-ranging Israeli attack on the Islamic Republic's nuclear installations and military bases triggered war. The Treasury's latest targets included Iranian firm Towse Sanaye Nim Resanaye Tarashe and Hong Kong-based Unico Shipping Co, whose vessel was carrying machinery for a designated company. In a separate statement, the Treasury Department said it imposed sanctions directed at Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels as well -- on four individuals, 12 entities and two vessels that imported oil and other illicit goods in support of the group. 'The Houthis rely on a series of front companies and trusted facilitators to clandestinely generate revenue, procure weapons components, and advance their reign of terror in partnership with the Iranian regime,' said US Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. He said the latest move was the department's 'most significant to date against the group.' In a separate statement, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce added that Washington seeks to deprive the Huthis of 'resources they need to carry out their reckless and destabilizing actions.'
