• COMMENT
Building Ajman’s future with confidence and purpose
Ajman is advancing a tourism vision grounded in culture, sustainability and innovation, while contributing to the UAE’s position as a safe, resilient and future-ready destination, explains HH Sheikh AbdulAziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi
T ourism has become one of the most important drivers of sustainable economic growth, cultural exchange and community development. In Ajman, we see tourism not only as an industry, but as a platform through which we share our identity, protect our heritage, create opportunities and enrich quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Under Ajman Vision 2030, our focus is to build a destination that is authentic, competitive, inclusive and prepared for the future. This vision is aligned with the larger vision of the UAE, a progressive nation that has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to respond to change with confidence, coordination and long-term thinking. The past year has reminded the global travel industry of the importance of resilience. Across the region, regional and global uncertainties have tested confidence, connectivity and planning. Yet the UAE continues to show why it is regarded as one of the world’s most trusted tourism destinations. Its infrastructure, safety, hospitality, aviation network and public-private collaboration provide reassurance at a time when reassurance matters. Ajman is proud to contribute to this national strength. Our emirate offers a distinctive tourism proposition within the UAE: one grounded in culture, coastline, nature, community and a more personal rhythm of travel. As travellers increasingly seek destinations with meaning, authenticity and connection, Ajman is well positioned to grow while remaining true to its character. A major milestone in this journey has been the establishment of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media in November 2025.
By bringing these sectors under one institutional framework, Ajman is strengthening the way it develops, promotes and communicates its destination offering. This integration is important because tourism does not stand alone. It is connected to culture, heritage, public spaces, environmental stewardship, media narratives, events, infrastructure and community life. By aligning these areas, we can move with greater clarity and ensure that Ajman’s growth remains rooted in its values. Ajman’s cultural heritage remains one of its greatest assets. Our museums, heritage districts, traditional markets, cultural routes and festivals tell the story of who we are and how our emirate has developed over generations. Cultural tourism is not simply about preserving our heritage; it is about connecting past, present and future. Through heritage paths, creative industries, cultural programming and community-led initiatives, we are ensuring that Ajman’s identity remains a living part of its tourism economy. Sustainability is also central to our strategy. Ajman’s natural landscapes, from its coastline and mangroves to its mountains and agricultural areas, are essential to its appeal and must be protected as we grow. Al Zorah Nature Reserve is a strong example of conservation-led tourism, offering low-impact activities such as kayaking and birdwatching while safeguarding important mangrove ecosystems and biodiversity. Inland, Masfout is playing an increasingly important role in Ajman’s tourism story. Its recognition as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages 2025 reflects the value of community- led, sustainable tourism and the importance of
protecting local culture and natural assets. The opening of Masfout Gate further strengthens the area’s position as a mountain tourism hub, improving access, visitor services and wayfinding while supporting responsible development. Ajman’s international profile is also growing. Overseas visitors now account for a significant share of arrivals, and we are taking a measured approach to building awareness in selected source markets. Recent steps include strategic engagement in Europe and the appointment of a representative office in China, one of the world’s most important outbound tourism markets. These initiatives support Ajman’s wider objective of attracting visitors who seek culture, nature, wellness, family experiences and authentic destination stories. As Arabian Travel Market 2026 looks ahead under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology”, Ajman is also planning for the long term. Smart destination systems, digital communication, data- led planning and improved visitor services will all support our next phase of development. For us, innovation must serve people, culture and the environment. Technology should make travel easier, more personalised and more sustainable, while preserving the human warmth that defines hospitality in Ajman and across the UAE. With continued investment, integrated leadership and the support of the UAE’s wider tourism ecosystem, Ajman is ready for its next chapter: building on its heritage and embracing innovation, welcoming the world while protecting what makes the emirate unique, and pursuing sustainable, responsible growth.
62 | ATM YEARBOOK 2026
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