Weekend tourism to be launched

A cooperation agreement was struck today, to organize ‘weekend tourism’, a project that will provide cost-efficient short stays in Lebanon.

The project will be launched as soon as the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) and the Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (ATTAL) reach a final agreement and receive clearance from Middle East Airlines (MEA) and the Board of Airline Representatives in Lebanon (BARLEB).

According to Jean Abboud, President of ATTAL, “MEA would have to provide air tickets at a 40 percent discount.” The package will include a stay for four days and three nights, including airfare, for $500.

Nada Sardouk, Director General of the MOT said that the organizers will find the right mechanism to launch this package in line with the ministry’s rural tourism strategy. “The weekend tourism project will boost tourism activity in various regions, especially in three- and four-star hotels.”

“Our challenge with MEA is to guarantee it will be able to keep around ten places on board, during their weekend flights, as it is known for its full bookings,” said Abboud. Eventually, the aim would be to reach fixed flights, which are not affected by market demand, he said.

The MOT is also working on launching another tourism model, called ‘Family Tourism’, which will promote family trips to the country.