Emirates has signed an MoU with Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau that reaffirms the airline’s commitment to reviving tourism business for the destination.
Both entities will conduct joint activities such as tradeshows, trade fam trips, exhibitions, and workshops.
Ahmed Khoory, senior vice president, commercial West Asia & Indian Ocean at Emirates, said: “Sri Lanka remains a very key market in Emirates’ global network and the agreement signed today underscores our unwavering commitment to the country. We launched operations to Colombo more than 35 years ago, and our partnership continues to grow from strength to strength. We look forward to exploring mutually beneficial initiatives that will help revive the nation’s trade and tourism sectors, and provide Emirates with an opportunity to serve market demand.”
Kimarli Fernando, chairperson, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, said the partnership was “crucial for us to explore and capitalise opportunities that emerge and to open up many beautiful avenues to establish brand awareness and perceived quality in the global tourism market”.
Since reopening borders to international tourists in February 2021, Sri Lanka has welcomed more than 80,000 passengers to Colombo onboard Emirates flights. The top inbound markets include the UAE, Italy, the UK and Germany.
The airline currently operates 28 weekly flights to Colombo and is the only international carrier to serve the country with First Class services.
