Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – According to a report by the Vietnam News Agency's Middle East correspondent, the UAE's *The National* quoted several tourism industry executives as saying that simplified visa procedures and improved flight connections will help boost tourism between the UAE and Vietnam.
Emily Jenkins, Director of Product and Digital Solutions at DW Travel in Dubai, UAE, stated, “The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will streamline tourism, trade, and investment links between the UAE and Vietnam. This will undoubtedly benefit the tourism industry. Providing UAE citizens with a simpler visa process for traveling to Vietnam will eliminate a significant challenge we often face when bringing businesses to new destinations.”
Under the first free trade agreement signed between Vietnam and a Middle Eastern country, the two countries aim to increase bilateral trade to $20 billion annually. Under the agreement, the UAE agreed to eliminate tariffs on 99% of goods exported to Vietnam, while Vietnam pledged to eliminate tariffs on 98.5% of goods exported to the UAE.
Tourism is expected to be further boosted by the launch of direct flights to Hanoi this month by Etihad Airways, an Abu Dhabi-based airline. Etihad Airways will operate six weekly flights using Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Etihad Airways CEO Majid Al Marzouk, in an interview with *The National*, stated, “The launch of direct flights to Hanoi reflects the important trade relationship between the UAE and Vietnam. This new route will facilitate travel for businesspeople and tourists.”
Majid Al Marzouk believes Hanoi will become a new gateway for UAE residents and travelers flying from Europe via Abu Dhabi to explore Vietnam. Conversely, travelers departing from Hanoi can also connect with the rest of the world through Abu Dhabi, taking advantage of the UAE capital's two-night free transit program.
Meanwhile, Mira Keteit, Head of Retail and Leisure at Dnata Travel, a leading UAE travel agency, stated that thanks to improved flight routes and a growing focus on Vietnamese culture, natural scenery, and beach experiences, Vietnam is gradually becoming a popular destination for UAE tourists.
Ms. Mira Keteit pointed out that UAE tourists are looking for novel and unique destinations in Asia, and Vietnam offers a "perfect combination of culture, nature, and values," in addition to traditional tourist destinations such as Thailand or Bali, Indonesia. (End)
