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BY FATIHAH MANAF
ISLAMIC tourism today has expanded beyond the traditional focus on Hajj and Umrah , offering a more comprehensive array of meaningful Muslim-friendly tourist experiences . However , Hajj and Umrah remain significant core aspects of Muslims ’ religious practices . With the easing of Covid-19 restrictions , the resurgence of people undertaking these sacred rituals has led to a notable rise in visitors to Makkah and Madinah . Muslims and travel agencies must stay informed about the latest developments in this sector to ensure seamless and successful Hajj and Umrah experiences .
In line with this , the Asia Hajj , Umrah & Islamic Tourism Conference & Exhibition ( AITEX ) 2023 aims to serve as a platform to enhance knowledge and collaboration within the industry . The event is on Sept 13-15 , 2023 , at Sunway Resort Hotel , Malaysia .
Organised by the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association ( MATA ), AITEX 2023 seeks to bring together industry professionals , experts , and stakeholders to explore new opportunities , discuss emerging trends , and foster partnerships in the Islamic tourism sector , especially Hajj and Umrah .
MATA President Dato ’ Dr Mohd Khalid Harun highlighted that the Hajj and Umrah sector was severely affected by the spread of Covid-19 , causing it to halt . As a long-standing industry practitioner and event organiser , the association planned to organise a special event - AITEX 2023 , for Islamic tourism , consisting of an exhibition that exhibitors from
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Dr Mohd Khalid Harun |
both domestic and international participants would attend .
“ They can engage in discussions and explore opportunities for collaboration within the tourism sector . They can promote their respective tourism products , allowing the public to choose the desired travel packages and stay updated on the latest requirements
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for Hajj and Umrah .
“ We will host a two-day conference on Sept 13 and 14 , with experienced panel speakers , focusing on Islamic tourism , Hajj , and Umrah . Numerous issues related to Hajj and Umrah will be discussed , providing attendees with informative insights .
“ Therefore , stakeholders and entrepreneurs in the Hajj and Umrah sectors are encouraged to attend and learn from the experts we bring from Saudi Arabia . There will be a Q & A session , and we have allocated space for 700 participants ,”
A CEO forum will also be organised , bringing together CEOs , VIPs , and ministers to convene and engage in discussions regarding bilateral matters and gather valuable inputs .
WORLD ISLAMIC TOURISM AWARDS
Khalid added : “ We will also have the World Islamic Tourism Awards , chaired by Dato ’ Noor Zaleha , which will honour and recognise those who have successfully promoted Islamic tourism .”
“ These awards are open to companies , corporations , and individuals who have significantly contributed to this field . It is expected that there will be 60 award recipients . The panel of judges will discuss and determine the winners .”
According to Khalid , these awards will inspire and motivate industry players , including airports , airlines , and others , to enhance the quality of their services and facilities .
“ Receiving this recognition will encourage them . They can showcase the awards at their facilities , making people aware of the recognition and helping boost their marketability .”
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