The Minister of Information chaired a meeting of the Tourism Promotion Council in Socotra.

Socotra, Yemen – The Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Muammar Al-Eryani, chaired the inaugural meeting of the Tourism Promotion Council today in Hadibo, Socotra Archipelago. This meeting aimed to enhance the council’s role in promoting Socotra, Yemen’s premier tourist destination.

Government Commitment to Socotra

At the beginning of the meeting, Al-Eryani welcomed all members, marking the significance of holding the council’s first session in Socotra. He expressed his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the archipelago. Al-Eryani highlighted Socotra’s unique tourism potential, which positions it among the world’s top tourist destinations.

Review of Past Activities

Following the approval of the previous meeting’s minutes and the current agenda, Al-Eryani presented an achievement report. This report detailed the activities undertaken by the Tourism Promotion Council and the ministry in recent months. Notable events included a celebration for World Tourism Day at Qena Resort in Shabwa and a partnership with the Hadhramaut Cultural Foundation to produce promotional films for various tourist sites, especially in Socotra, in multiple languages. The council also organized a training course in tourism guidance in collaboration with Socotra University, training 30 participants.

New Developments in Tourism Education

Al-Eryani welcomed Socotra University’s announcement of establishing Yemen’s first college of tourism and hospitality, set to open next year. This initiative aims to attract students to this vital sector.

Challenges for Yemenia Airlines

The minister praised Yemenia Airlines for its efforts to overcome challenges in transporting citizens and connecting them globally, despite facing difficult circumstances. He condemned the Houthi militia for seizing four out of seven national carrier planes, exacerbating the airline’s operational pressures.

Airline Expansion Plans

Captain Nasser Mahmoud, Chairman of Yemenia Airlines, confirmed plans to purchase a fourth aircraft. Currently, the airline operates three planes under heavy pressure, which complicates efforts to establish direct flights between provinces. He noted that the Houthi seizure of aircraft disrupted the airline’s plans for expanding its services.

Socotra’s Tourism Potential

Engineer Raafat Al-Thaqali, Governor of Socotra, expressed his delight at hosting the Tourism Promotion Council for the first time. He highlighted the archipelago’s promising tourism opportunities and discussed challenges, particularly the limited number of domestic and international flights affecting residents and tourists.

Financial Report Overview

The council’s financial officer presented the 2024 financial report, detailing the fund’s resources and expenditures, as stipulated by the tourism promotion law. The report noted the financial constraints faced by Yemenia Airlines due to recent extraordinary circumstances. After discussion, the council unanimously approved the financial report.

Audit Findings

The legal auditor provided a comprehensive overview of the audit procedures for the fund’s accounts for 2023 and 2024, addressing procedural notes that did not impact the fund’s financial position or indicate corruption. The council approved the auditor’s report unanimously after discussion.

Key Decisions Made

The meeting concluded with several key decisions, prioritizing external tourism promotion for Socotra. The council approved direct international flights to and from Socotra through Yemenia Airlines to facilitate tourism and address high travel costs for residents. Additionally, the council allowed for special direct flights to the archipelago in coordination with relevant authorities, aiming to provide opportunities for many tourists unable to reach Socotra due to limited international flights.

Future Revenue Development

The council discussed strategies to enhance revenue by engaging airlines to settle outstanding financial obligations. If airlines fail to comply, the council will consider legal action.

Upcoming Events and Activities

The council also deliberated on internal and external activities for 2025, approving participation in the Mukalla Town Tourism Festival, the Socotra Tourism Season, and several international exhibitions and conferences.

Meeting Attendance

The meeting included members such as Captain Saleh Bin Naheed, Chairman of the General Authority for Civil Aviation, and various representatives from the ministries of tourism and media, along with the Executive Director of the Tourism Promotion Fund, Intisar Al-Hadali. The meeting also featured remote participation from Deputy Chairman of the Tourism Promotion Council, Hamdi Al-Hareebi, and other officials.

This meeting marks a significant step toward enhancing tourism in Yemen, particularly in the Socotra Archipelago, which boasts unparalleled natural beauty and cultural heritage.

 

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