More than 1,000 industry and government leaders from over 75 countries are in Dubai to take part in the 'Global Travel&Tourism Summit, being organised by World Travel&Tourism Council (WTTC).

The summit, which runs up to April 22, aims to address the responsibilities the sector should exercise amid a rise in its global influence, said the organisers.

At the special welcome address, director general of Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) Khalid bin Sulayem said as the success of Dubai has demonstrated, Travel&Tourism can be a factor for growth, for jobs, for trade, for positive change - and above all, for understanding."

"We know, that this potential puts Travel&Tourism in a powerful position of influence right around the world."

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE vice president and prime minister and Dubai ruler, the summit will be the travel industries' most significant public/ private partnership comprising DTCM, Emirates Group, Jumeirah Group and Nakheel.

Jean-Claude Baumgarten, WTTC president highlighted the importance of this year's summit. "While the industry's growth is positive, without adequate planning, investment and responsible development these opportunities could be undermined and this industry's full potential could be limited," he said.

"The spotlight now turns to you as participants and guests to use the springboard that this meetings offer, for debate, for exchange and for building new relations together on how far we as an industry have come until today and on how we should develop tomorrow."

Under the theme of "World Citizens," the summit format of 'The Round' will facilitate an open exchange of ideas aimed at informing and inspiring individuals, businesses and governments along a path which will guide them in acting as responsible global citizens in a rapidly evolving world and more importantly with renewed energy and commitment.

The summit will aim for a maximal agreement on the priority areas for responsible Travel&Tourism for industry, host communities, governments and for travellers - each playing a vital role as global citizens.

Key messages will be listed from one session to the next to ensure a clear, coherent and constructive line towards attaining the overall aims demonstrating how challenges can be met through shared partnerships, innovation and creativity, Baumgarten noted.-TradeArabia News Service