Tourism Malaysia launched its booth in the Jeddah International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (JTTX11) 2023 in Saudi Arabia, from 19 to 21 February 2023 to promote Malaysia as a preferred tourist destination to the travel industry players in the Middle East.

JTTX is the leading international travel exhibition in Saudi Arabia, held annually and aims to connect the international travel business to the Saudi travel market, which is considered one of the fastest-growing markets in the world now. Each year it brings together local key travel leaders and international exhibitors to establish new relations, and strengthen and develop existing business partnerships.

JTTX11 marks the third time participating for Tourism Malaysia in this event since 2020, where it leads a delegation of Malaysian industry players to participate in the exhibition. Among the Malaysian organizations involved in the exhibition are Universal Holidays Travel, GR Travel & Tours, Onthego Travel Tours, Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, IOI Cluster Hotels, Ancasa Hotels & Resorts, Pan Pacific Hotel Group Malaysia and Air AsiaX.

During the 3-day event, Malaysia will highlight its stunning natural environment, exciting array of cultural adventures, and global reputation as a safe, family-friendly destination that cater specially for the Middle Eastern market. JTTX11 also feature city’s highlights such as Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands and Selangor, focuses on the best shopping outlets, theme parks, honeymoon, and luxury holidays. Besides that, it also aims to promote the diversity of attractions and services in Malaysia, as well as to update the local industry players on the latest developments in Malaysia.

The Middle East is seen as a key market for the country, which Malaysia has maintained its position as the preferred destination for Muslim travellers by MasterCard-Cresent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2022. The country was named the “Top Muslim- Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC)” at the Halal Travel Awards in Singapore, last June 2022. The ranking is based on an annual online survey covering several criteria, including the availability of Halal food, access to prayer facilities and Muslim-friendly services in hotels, and the overall safety and security of each destination.

Tourism Malaysia’s promotion campaign as such is a continuous effort to boost inbound tourism to a greater height in the hope to achieve 15.6 million international tourist arrivals with MYR 47.6 billion in tourism receipts for 2023.