DATA Forum 2024 Unveils the Future of Tourism Through Data Analytics

The Maldives hosted its first-ever DATA (Destination Advancement Through Analytics) Forum on October 16, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to harness data for tourism advancement. Jointly organized by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and E-Tourism Frontiers, this one-day event focused on integrating data and intelligence into the travel and tourism industry.

Held at the scenic Bandos Maldives resort, the forum attracted experts from leading global tourism data firms, including Tourism Economics Oxford, Union Pay, Meltwater, ForwardKeys, Adara, Booking.com, Tripadvisor, Amadeus, and EmarketingEye. These industry leaders shared insights on how data can enhance consumer engagement, destination management, and overall operational effectiveness.

MMPRC’s CEO and Managing Director, Ibrahim Shiuree, kicked off the event with a warm welcome, underscoring the importance of data-driven decision-making in today’s fast-evolving travel industry. “Data has shifted from being an advantage to a necessity,” Shiuree remarked, noting the forum's focus on equipping professionals with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Chairperson of MMPRC, Abdulla Giyas Riyaz, delivered a keynote address on “The Importance of Data in the Tourism Sector,” emphasizing how data is reshaping the future of travel.

The forum’s morning sessions featured several thought-provoking presentations, including Sarah Mathews, CEO of E-Tourism Frontiers, who highlighted the omnipresence of data in modern travel. Other key speakers, such as Michael Shoory from Tourism Economics Oxford, examined the global economic outlook, while Hu Binghan from Union Pay delved into the resurgence of Chinese outbound tourism.

Afternoon discussions provided deeper insights into predicting traveler behaviors and measuring success through data. Olivier Ponti from ForwardKeys focused on forecasting travel trends, and Bharat Nagpal from Adara explored effective metrics for success in tourism. Calvin Koh from Tripadvisor discussed the power of user-generated content in shaping travel decisions.

The forum concluded with a forward-looking panel discussion on the future of travel and data, providing participants with actionable insights into the evolving role of data in tourism. Networking opportunities allowed professionals to discuss potential collaborations, solidifying the forum as a catalyst for future innovations in tourism analytics.

The success of the event was bolstered by its sponsors, including STELCO, MACL, Jalboot, Maagiri Hotel, STO, Maldives Moments, and Dhiraagu as the Digital Partner.

The DATA Forum 2024 set a new benchmark for tourism analytics in the Maldives, paving the way for future advancements in the industry. MMPRC’s commitment to leveraging data is expected to drive the ongoing growth and success of the Maldives’ tourism sector.