Da Nang attracts new tourist markets.

In 2025, the tourism industry will focus on implementing various solutions to attract tourists from new markets to compensate for the decline in traditional markets; in particular, markets with Muslim tourists, the Middle East, Russia, and Eastern Europe (CIS)... will be given priority.

International tourists arriving in Da Nang. Photo: NGOC HA

Currently, Da Nang has direct flights connecting with Muslim tourist markets such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad (India); Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia); Singapore; Manila (Philippines)... The city and travel businesses are working with airlines to promote the opening of more direct flights from Jakarta, Bali (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines), as well as increasing the frequency of flights from major cities in India.

For the Russian and Eastern European markets, Da Nang is working to restore direct flights with Russia and expand to other Eastern European countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Belarus. Charter flights from Kazakhstan to Da Nang are expected to begin in April. For the Middle Eastern market, Da Nang is expected to have a direct flight from Dubai (with a 1-hour layover in Bangkok) connecting to serve tourists from 150 countries and territories, operated by the 5-star airline Emirates, starting in June.

According to Emirates, the flight schedules are optimally designed to easily transport passengers from major European cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, Manchester, Milan, Rome, or major US cities to Da Nang. In particular, Emirates' launch of flights to Da Nang also facilitates connections for wealthy travelers from the Middle East to the city on the Han River.

Adnan Kazim, Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, said: “Vietnam plays a strategic role in Emirates’ Southeast Asia network. Expanding our operations to Da Nang as a third destination in Vietnam comes at an opportune time, following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Vietnam. We believe this new route will enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.”

According to the Director of the Department of Tourism, Truong Thi Hong Hanh, in addition to the flight network, accommodation facilities, cuisine, tourism products and destinations, supporting services, and market promotion policies, appropriate strategies are being developed for each target market.

Ms. Hanh cited examples of supporting services for Muslim tourists, such as the establishment of prayer rooms in some hotels, airports, and shopping malls (Da Nang International Airport put into use a prayer room for Muslim passengers in 2023, with separate rooms for men and women, with a maximum capacity of 20 guests).

Many MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) groups visit Da Nang, with a significant number of Muslim tourists. Photo: NGOC HA

In addition, tour guides are trained in Islamic needs and culture, some travel materials have been translated into Arabic and Hindi; and centers such as Vincom, Lotte Mart, and Han Market have added more Halal products and specific items for Muslim tourists.

The city has policies to promote the Muslim market, such as actively promoting itself at major tourism fairs in India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Middle East; the Tourism Association and businesses are affiliated with specialized travel companies in Muslim countries to develop package tours that are friendly to Muslim tourists.

Da Nang has several restaurants specializing in Halal cuisine, suitable for Middle Eastern tourists, such as Family Indian Restaurant; Mumtaz Indian Restaurant; Baba's Kitchen; and Halal-friendly restaurants in 5-star hotels like InterContinental, Sheraton, and Hyatt Regency. In addition, private chef services and fine dining menus are also offered at resorts to cater to the needs of Middle Eastern guests. Resorts also provide luxury chauffeur-driven car services, suitable for affluent groups from the Middle East, and some resorts offer private villas with private pools, suitable for Muslim family culture...

“In the coming period, the Department of Tourism will share market information, cultural customs, and training on serving specific markets with all tourism businesses in the city. At the same time, we will encourage hotels and restaurants to register for Halal certification to ensure quality service for guests,” Ms. Hanh said.

NGOC HA

Source: https://baodanang.vn/kinhte/202503/da-nang-thu-hut-thi-truong-khach-moi-4002337/