Goa Tourism made a strong impression on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 28th April to 1st May 2025. The state’s participation drew significant interest from travel trade professionals, media representatives, and tourism investors from the Middle East and beyond.
The Goa Pavilion was officially inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, and Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai, alongside Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa. They were joined by Ganesh Gaonkar, MLA Sanvordem and Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC); Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; Shawn Mendes, Officer on Special Duty to the Tourism Minister; Laxmikant Vaigankar, GM Administration; and Assistant Tourist Officer Lodovina Quadros, as well as co-exhibitors and other distinguished guests.
The day was marked by a series of productive B2B meetings, media interactions, and networking opportunities, where Goa Tourism presented its evolving tourism strategy—shifting the focus from conventional beach tourism to a more diverse offering that includes culture, heritage, ecology, and spirituality.
Speaking on the occasion, Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, reflected on Goa’s traditional image and how it is now evolving.
He said, “Goa has long been known for its sun, sand, and sea, a perception that once limited how people viewed the state as a tourism destination. Pre-COVID, tourists often saw Goa as a one-dimensional getaway. However, post-COVID, we’ve realized that Goa holds immense untapped potential. Tourists today want more than a single experience; they want diversity, and Goa offers just that.”
He emphasised the positive impact of diversification on tourism growth. “By diversifying our offerings, we’ve been able to increase the average length of stay, showcasing Goa’s monsoons, hinterlands, culinary richness, heritage, and culture. These post-pandemic learnings have led us to target new, high-value markets like the UAE, which is a strategic region for us.”
Highlighting the unique charm of Goa’s monsoon season, Khaunte added, “Monsoons in Goa, from June to September, offer a lush, soulful experience, one filled with mystique, flavour, and charm that resonates with travellers from the Middle East. At the Arabian Travel Market 2025, we highlight Goa as a year-round destination.”
He further outlined Goa’s broader tourism vision, “Today, Goa speaks not only of beaches, but of adventure, wellness, weddings, hinterland experiences, and most importantly, regenerative tourism. While the world talks about sustainability, Goa has taken it a step further by being the first state in India to actively pursue Regenerative Tourism based on the pillars of Culture, Economy, and Environment.”
Khaunte stressed the importance of community participation in Goa’s tourism model. “We want tourism to benefit every Goan, especially those at the grassroots, ensuring inclusivity and shared prosperity. We’re also amplifying digital outreach to the UAE through influencer collaborations, social media, and targeted campaigns. Trade shows like ATM help us engage in important B2B dialogues that can’t happen online.”
Speaking about the growing importance of digital engagement, he noted, “We’ve already hosted influencers from countries like Uzbekistan, and we plan similar engagements for the UAE market. Such initiatives create authentic content, expand our narrative, and reposition Goa as a culturally rich, emotionally resonant destination.”
Finally, he invited travellers to rediscover the many layers of Goa, “Goa is ready to welcome the curious traveller—those who want to relive iconic Bollywood memories, those who seek culinary exploration, and those who want to reconnect with nature and tradition. To our friends from the UAE and across the GCC countries, come, experience the Goa that lives in our villages, thrives in our culture, and breathes through our people.”
“Come once, and you will always want to return. As we say, Atithi Devo Bhava, the guest is God, and in Goa, we welcome you as family.”
Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sanjay Sudhir, and Consul General of India in Dubai, Dr. Aman Puri, commended Goa’s commitment to promoting Regenerative Tourism. They remarked that the state’s initiatives toward sustainable and responsible travel would encourage even more UAE tourists to explore Goa’s offbeat experiences, adventure tourism, and hidden treasures.
A major highlight of Goa’s participation at ATM Dubai 2025 is its focus on strengthening air connectivity. With direct flights between Goa and Dubai and the dual operation of Goa International Airport (Dabolim) and Manohar International Airport (Mopa), Goa has become significantly more accessible to travellers from the Gulf region.
Further reinforcing its new tourism narrative, Goa Tourism is promoting Regenerative Tourism initiatives that encourage visitors to contribute positively to local communities, culture, and the environment. From heritage walks and organic farm experiences to backwater explorations and artisanal markets, Goa invites travellers to go beyond beaches and embrace authentic, meaningful experiences.
 2025, currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 28th April to 1st May 2025. The state’s participation drew significant interest from travel trade professionals, media representatives, and tourism investors from the Middle East and beyond.){kind=link}