By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zimbabwe’s global tourism resurgence took center stage in Dubai as President Emmerson Mnangagwa attended the World Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates, accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation that included the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi.
Beyond the main summit proceedings, tourism emerged as a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s international engagement.
On the sidelines of the event, Hon. Rwodzi held strategic discussions with Emirates Airline leadership, led by Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Adnan Kazim.
The engagements underscored Emirates’ pivotal role in the growth, recovery, and global positioning of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector—support that has helped propel the destination onto the world travel map.
This renewed visibility has translated into international acclaim, with Zimbabwe being named the World’s Number One Must-Visit Destination by Forbes in 2025, a milestone that reflects the country’s rich natural heritage, cultural vibrancy, and improving accessibility.
Building on this momentum, discussions with Emirates focused on strengthening air connectivity between Zimbabwe and key global markets.
Central to the talks was the prospect of a direct Dubai–Victoria Falls route, a move that would significantly enhance access to one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
Such a connection would further position Victoria Falls International Airport as a KAZA Regional Hub, leveraging the KAZA UniVisa to enable seamless cross-border travel within the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area.
With the airport’s proven technical capacity to handle wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380, Zimbabwe is signaling its readiness to welcome increased long-haul traffic and high-volume tourism flows.
As global attention continues to turn toward Zimbabwe, these strategic engagements in Dubai reflect a clear vision: to connect the country more directly to the world, unlock regional tourism potential, and invite travelers everywhere to experience the wonder, warmth, and world-class attractions that make Zimbabwe truly unforgettable.
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