The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), in collaboration with the Uganda Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Emirates Airline, the world’s largest international carrier, has hosted 11 key trade partners on an exclusive familiarization trip to explore Uganda’s iconic tourist attractions.
The trip, which commenced on January 21, 2025, follows a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UTB and Emirates Airline aimed at promoting Uganda as a premier global tourism destination.
Among the key highlights of the itinerary is a visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, renowned for its population of the world-famous mountain gorillas.
“This visit is a step forward in strengthening the ties between Uganda and UAE through the Emirates Airlines,” said Zaake Kibedi, Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE. “By showcasing Uganda’s exceptional tourism assets, we aim to build lasting partnerships that will bring more visitors to experience the Pearl of Africa.”
Lilly Ajarova, chief executive officer of UTB, emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying “The partnership between UTB and Emirates Airlines demonstrates our shared commitment to promoting Uganda as a must visit destination. The familiarization trip is a testament to the strategic importance of collaboration that enhances connectivity and showcases Uganda’s unique tourism offerings to the world. Together, we are opening new doors for travelers to discover the beauty, culture, and adventure that define the Pearl of Africa.”
Mohamed Taher, Emirates country manager, Uganda, said to mark their 25th anniversary of flight service to Entebbe airport, they are proud to support the Uganda Tourism Board and bring key tastemakers in travel trade to experience the Pearl of Africa’s stunning natural landscapes, wildlife, adventure sports and warm culture.
Is it Emirates who have secured the partners or is it Uganda Tourism Bureau? Who is in charge here? Is UTB partnering with Emirates to bring in tourists? What is the whole essence of this deal?
Too many questions and I don’t think it matters who is in charge. Let us get the tourists in!
We have the best tourism sites in the world, but are not doing enough to promote them. Kidepo national park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi, just to mention but a few!
Let us not question the wisdom of UTB, let us ask for results instead.
Just fix the country’s human rights record, he roads, imrpove security and protection for tourists, we shall not need to invite specialist to fix our tourism sector once that is done
Fix the roads that is smooth roads well tarmacked up to standard hotels and security. Well trained personnel in Travel and Tourism