President calls for effective use of technology, AI to modernise tourism industry

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for effective use of technology, modernisation of tourism management, and development of the sector to make the country’s tourism more suitable for both domestic and foreign tourists.

In a message marking the World Tourism Day 2026, the President said Bangladesh is blessed with abundant natural beauty and holds immense potential in the tourism sector.

“The long sandy beach of Cox’s Bazar, the vast mangrove forest of the Sundarbans, the tea gardens of Sylhet, Saint Martin’s Island, Nilgiri and Nilachal in Bandarban, Sajek Valley and Kaptai Lake in Rangamati, the waterfalls of Jaflong, historic Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat, the vast expanses of haors, green hills, Buddhist monasteries, countless rivers, green crop fields and the captivating beauty of six distinct seasons together with the warmth and hospitality of our people and our rich culture and heritage turned Bangladesh into a unique destination for travelers,” he said.

He noted that the tourism sector serves as a powerful area for the country’s economic and infrastructural development, employment generation and poverty alleviation.

“The tourism sector is undergoing continuous transformation as the world continues to advance through new innovations and technological developments,” he said.

“Digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence are reshaping the structure, management and delivery of tourism services globally, influencing everything from travel planning and access to information to transportation and accommodation,” he added.

“Against this backdrop, I consider this year’s theme, ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,’ as timely and significant,” the President remarked.

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He also expressed satisfaction over the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism’s observance of the ‘World Tourism Day 2026’ in Bangladesh, as elsewhere across the globe.

He noted that the government is committed to advancing the tourism sector in a long-term, sustainable and well-planned manner.

“To this end, work is underway to formulate an integrated ‘National Tourism Master Plan’, encompassing 1,498 tourist attractions across the country,” he said.

“Initiatives have also been taken to develop tourism facilities in each district based on its tourism potential, local heritage and culture,” he added.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam further noted that alongside updating the National Tourism Policy and establishing a modern tourism training institute, plans are underway to promote eco-tourism and community-based tourism.

“The Government’s ongoing initiatives for the advancement of the information technology sector will further accelerate the digital transformation of tourism,” he said.

He urged all stakeholders in the public and private sectors to work together to modernise the tourism industry and establish Bangladesh as one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations.

“Online booking, digital payment systems and Artificial Intelligence-based information services will make Bangladesh’s tourist destinations more accessible, secure and attractive,” he said.

The President wished every success to the programmes of the day.