Goa Tourism made a powerful impression on Day 1 of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, capturing global attention with its bold new positioning: a move beyond beach holidays to showcase Goa’s rich cultural fabric, wellness experiences, and regenerative tourism practices.
The Goa Pavilion, located at the Dubai World Trade Centre, was inaugurated by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, alongside Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India, Dubai, and Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa’s Minister for Tourism. The opening was followed by a flurry of B2B meetings, media sessions, and networking events that set a dynamic tone for the rest of the exhibition.
Goa’s Post-Pandemic Travel Evolution
In his keynote address, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized Goa’s pivot from “sun, sand, and sea” to diverse, high-value travel offerings.
“Today’s travellers are no longer looking for just one experience — they want diversity, depth, and discovery. Goa delivers all that and more. We’ve increased average stay durations by promoting the monsoon, hinterlands, cuisine, heritage, and culture,” Khaunte noted.
He stressed that Goa is positioning itself as a premium destination for cultural, wellness, adventure, and wedding tourism, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to Regenerative Tourism, which focuses on local communities, heritage conservation, and environmental stewardship.
Spotlight on Regenerative Tourism
Unlike traditional sustainability pitches, Goa is going a step further. The state is the first in India actively implementing regenerative tourism policies — a model that ensures tourism benefits every Goan, especially those at the grassroots.
From heritage walks, organic farm visits, and backwater explorations to artisanal markets and immersive workshops, Goa is pitching an experience that’s personal, purposeful, and deeply local.
Strengthening Air Access and Digital Reach
With direct flights between Goa and Dubai and dual airport operations (Dabolim and Mopa), Goa is now more accessible to Middle Eastern travellers than ever before. Khaunte also highlighted increased digital campaigns, influencer collaborations, and social media outreach targeting UAE audiences.
“We’ve hosted influencers from places like Uzbekistan and are planning similar experiences for the UAE market,” he added. “This is about creating authentic narratives and bringing travellers face-to-face with the real Goa — the Goa of villages, culture, and community.”
Goa’s Industry Backs the Vision
Ambassador Sanjay Sudhir and Consul General Dr. Aman Puri applauded Goa’s regenerative vision, stating that the approach could attract quality tourism from the UAE and GCC region. They also pointed to the appeal of offbeat, soulful, and eco-friendly experiences as travel preferences evolve globally.
Goa’s Diverse Travel Ecosystem on Display
The Goa Pavilion featured a strong roster of co-exhibitors, reflecting the state’s vibrant and varied tourism ecosystem. Notable participants included:
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Concord Exotic Voyages, SpeedBird Travels, Shining Sand Beach Resort, DSK Holidays, Travel Unlimited, Spice Route, Travel Smith, Freedom Holidays, Flying Fish Diving, Konkan Explorers Goa, La Passage, The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort, The Astor Goa, and ADAMO THE BELLUS.
Each brought a unique perspective — from diving and eco-tours to heritage hospitality and luxury travel.
A Bold First Step in a Global Journey
Goa’s impactful debut at ATM Dubai 2025 signals a new chapter in the state’s global tourism journey. With a narrative rooted in authenticity and cultural richness, Goa speaks directly to the conscious, curious, and connected global traveller.
As Khaunte concluded, “Come experience a Goa that breathes through its villages, thrives in its traditions, and welcomes you not just as a tourist but as family.”
