Indonesia uses phinisi to lure tourists from Dubai

A phinisi boat and Lombok architecture were among the highlights of Indonesia's pavilion at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) held in Dubai from April 28 to May 1.

A traditional wooden Phinisi boat, built by the indigenous people of South Sulawesi, at Port Paotere, Makassar. (Shutterstock.com/Ye Choh Wah)

In a bid to further promote Indonesian tourism in the United Arab Emirates city, the Tourism Ministry also equipped the 496-square-meter pavilion with promotional materials showcasing the beauty of Raja Ampat, Lake Toba, Bali and Mount Bromo.

Hosting more than 3,285 exhibitors from 141 countries and aiming to attract more than 120,000 visitors, the 2019 ATM included not only a travel fair but also business meetings.

“Up to 85 industries from Indonesia participated in ATM Dubai, which include tour operators, hoteliers and tourism agencies from Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Bali, West Nusa Tenggara and Aceh," said Nia Niscaya, one of the ministry's deputies for marketing development in a statement.

Indonesia also promoted its wide variety of coffee, herbal drinks and batik to visitors. Traditional dance and music performances and shows by the Jember Fashion Carnival were also presented to entertain the crowd.
During a gala dinner themed "Lombok Night" on April 29, representatives from 15 Indonesian industries met with those of about 85 industries from Middle Eastern countries to discuss potential cooperation and business opportunities. (JakartaPost)