Goa Shines At ATM Dubai 2025 Unveiling Cultural And Wellness Offerings

Goa Tourism made an impressive debut at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The vibrant Goa Pavilion drew notable attention from travel professionals, media, and investors across the Middle East, emphasising the state's rich cultural, ecological, and wellness offerings beyond its famous beaches.

Inaugurated by India’s Culture and Tourism Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the booth showcased Goa’s evolving tourism story, from traditional beach vacations to immersive experiences in heritage, wellness, adventure, and regenerative tourism. Goa's Minister of Tourism, Rohan A Khaunte, highlighted how post-pandemic insights have shaped a diverse, sustainable vision that emphasises cultural richness, eco-tourism, and high-value market engagement, particularly targeting the UAE and Gulf countries.

Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, 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 realised that Goa holds immense untapped potential. Tourists today want more than a single experience; they want diversity, and Goa offers just that. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.”

Goa’s focus at ATM Dubai underscores its year-round appeal, especially during the lush monsoon months, with initiatives like direct flights from Dubai and multi-airport connectivity enhancing accessibility. The state is also championing its pioneering Regenerative Tourism model that benefits local communities and ecosystems through authentic experiences like heritage walks, organic farms, and artisanal markets.

The event saw engaging B2B meetings, media interactions, and influencer collaborations aimed at repositioning Goa as a culturally vibrant, sustainable destination that caters to diverse traveller interests, from Bollywood-themed memories and culinary journeys to nature retreats. With strong support from notable tourism partners and officials, Goa Tourism's inaugural day at ATM Dubai set a promising tone for connecting with global travellers seeking authentic, enriching, and responsible tourism experiences.