The Arab tourism sector is experiencing a moment of growth and transformation, and one of the key figures driving this change is Jamal Satli Iglesias. As the Principal Tourism Advisor of the Arab League, Jamal has been honored with the prestigious Ibn Battuta Award 2025, recognizing his dedication and vision in positioning the region as a global tourism destination.
In this interview, Jamal Satli shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities of tourism in the Arab world, his vision for sustainability, and his commitment to creating unique, accessible, and inclusive travel experiences.
What does receiving the “Ibn Battuta” 2025 award in tourism mean to you?
“Receiving the Ibn Battuta Award is a true honor and a great responsibility. This award not only recognizes my work but also the collective effort of the entire team I fully trust. I am proud to see our contribution to the development and promotion of Arab and global tourism being valued, and it serves as motivation to continue improving the sector.”
How was the award ceremony in Jeddah, and what stood out for you during that special moment?
“The ceremony in Jeddah was a very emotional moment. It was an honor to share this experience with colleagues from the tourism sector, government leaders, and professionals from around the world. What stood out the most was the strong sense of community, the unity within the Arab tourism sector, and the shared commitment to a prosperous future for all.”
What does being named the Principal Tourism Advisor of the Arab League mean to you, and how do you approach it personally and professionally?
“It is an honor and a great responsibility. I take on this role with passion and dedication, as it allows me to contribute to the development of tourism in the Arab region and position it globally. Professionally, it is an opportunity to coordinate efforts, promote best practices, and continue innovating in the sector.”
How important is the tourism sector to the economies of Arab countries?
“Tourism is essential to the Arab economy, generating jobs, attracting investments, and diversifying sources of income. It significantly contributes to GDP and enhances the region’s global image while fostering cooperation among Arab countries.”
What advice would you give to young professionals who want to pursue a career in the tourism industry?
“My advice would be to focus on continuous learning, maintain an open mindset toward new ideas and approaches, and never underestimate the value of authentic experiences in the sector. Passion for what we do is key to standing out and making a difference.”
What role does sustainability play in the development of global tourism?
“Sustainability is crucial for the future of tourism. It’s not just about preserving natural resources but also about creating an inclusive tourism model that benefits local communities. It is our responsibility to ensure that future generations can enjoy the same landscapes and resources we have today.”
With the growing trend of sustainable travel, how do you think we should adapt to offer environmentally friendly tourism experiences?
“It is essential to implement sustainable practices in all our operations, from efficient resource use to integrating policies that support environmental conservation. Additionally, we must educate tourists on the importance of choosing destinations and services that promote respect for nature.”
What technological innovations or trends do you think will shape the future of the tourism sector in the coming years?
“Technological innovations will be crucial. The use of augmented reality, big data to personalize experiences, and artificial intelligence integration to enhance customer service will be key trends. We will also see a rise in green technologies to reduce the environmental impact of tourism.”
How do you plan to continue driving growth and innovation in the tourism sector?
“My goal is to keep contributing to the development of responsible tourism that benefits everyone—tourists, local communities, and the environment. I would like to continue promoting projects that improve tourism infrastructure and enable Arab destinations to keep standing out on a global scale.”
