ITB Berlin’s opening ceremony, organised by this year’s Official Host Country Oman, kicked off the event on Monday, 4 March. The ceremony featured inaugural remarks from prominent political and tourism industry figures, including Dieter Janecek, the German federal government’s Coordinator for Maritime Economy and Tourism, Julia Simpson, President & CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (newly branded UN Tourism), who praised the powers of travel and saluted ITB Berlin’s success across its almost 60 years of history.
Beyond the official speeches, the inaugural event also celebrated the rich culture and heritage of Oman. Against a backdrop of spectacular immersive visuals showcasing the Sultanate’s natural beauty and architectural wonders, Omani singers and folk groups accompanied by the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra performed traditional Omani melodies as well as works from around the world.
In his official presentation, the Minister of Heritage and Tourism, H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, cited diversity and authenticity as two of Oman’s principal assets, but also underlined the importance of the Sultunate’s efforts to reinforce its tourism ecosystem while remaining mindful of sustainability. After the ceremony, guests were treated to a gala reception featuring culinary specialities from Oman.
The Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, as ITB Berlin tradition dictates, opened the event on the following day, beginning his inaugural tour on the Oman stand.
