The inclusion of Al Ain on Unesco’s World Heritage List represents a huge opportunity for responsible tourism in the UAE to flourish, an industry expert said.

“As the first UAE site to be included on the Unesco World Heritage list, a great responsibility comes with having what is now recognised as one of the world’s greatest and most important cultural treasures,” said Justin Francis, co-founder of the pioneering travel website, responsibletravel.com.

“It will be thrust into the spotlight as a remarkable place to visit, and all eyes will be watching to see how it is being conserved for future generations. I encourage the UAE to embrace this responsibility and benefit from a huge opportunity for responsible tourism in the country to flourish, with Al Ain at the forefront”.

Francis will spotlight current consumer trends in travel related to responsible tourism when he joins an international line-up of speakers at the second World Green Tourism conference taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) from December 5 to 7.

“For the UAE, as in other countries in the Middle East, if there is a real desire from organisations, tourism providers and opinion formers, a lot can be achieved,” said Francis. - TradeArabia News Service