Visitors are able to experience true Emirati hospitality first-hand
Yaser Al Hamiri, Sea Cruiser Tours
As Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) sets targets to raise the level of Emirati employment within the Emirate’s tourism sector, national pioneers are blazing a product development trail.
For Liwa-born Matar Al Mansoori, who established Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism, the decision to enter the sector stemmed from a love of the UAE’s heritage and tradition instilled in him by his parents.
He now operates a desert camp at Al Khazna on the way to Al Ain.
“I was raised in the Liwa oasis by parents who keep their traditions and heritage alive until now. This made me appreciate my past and I wanted to give visitors the chance to experience the real culture and traditions of our society,” said Al Mansoori.
“I want visitors to experience true Arabian hospitality and to have unforgettable experiences and memories when they return home.
Matar believes young nationals have a great opportunity to leverage and help further develop the UAE’s tourism industry.
“It is the right time for young nationals to lead in this field. The country has beautiful places for tourists - the sea, desert and mountains,” he said.
“Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority conducts a three-month programme every summer for local people and public sector employees to enroll in and become educated about tourism. It is also training young nationals to become involved in the tourism sector and to be ambassadors who can present our culture and tourism projects to visitors.
“Zayed University also has a Masters programme on tourism to encourage young locals to learn about this sector and the Khalifa Fund supports those interested to set up businesses. It has already funded several applicants,” said Al Mansoori.
Forty-one-year-old Emirati Yaser Al Hamiri’s passion for Abu Dhabi’s scenic coastline was the inspiration behind his venture Sea Cruiser Tours.
“My dream was always to give everyone the chance to experience Abu Dhabi’s incredible beaches, warm ocean waters and rich marine life – all at an accessible and affordable price,” explained Yaser.
“Before I started Sea Cruiser I had my own small boats which I would take out for fishing, and friends would constantly ask me to take them out and show them around the small islands that surround Abu Dhabi city.
“I couldn’t keep up with the demand, so it was logical for me to take the next step and start up a dedicated business with larger boats.”
As with Matar, Yaser won the backing of Khalifa Fund, which assists the development of Emirati businessmen and women to contribute to the Emirate’s ongoing economic growth. Sea Cruiser boat tours are now sailing daily from Abu Dhabi’s Fish Market pier.
