In today’s era of conscious consumerism and environmental responsibility, the hospitality industry stands at a crucial juncture. Zoé Gotti, founder of Complementation.ae, explores the symbiotic connection between responsible travel, purpose-driven initiatives and sustainable profitability. By studying successful sustainable businesses, such as desert safaris in Dubai, Gotti illustrates how this approach can catalyze global change.

Responsible travel

Today, responsible travel is not just a trend but rather a transformative development that offers the hospitality industry unprecedented opportunities. Take, for instance, a luxury desert resort. Through sustainable practices, such as reducing plastic waste and supporting local artisans, chefs and conservation guides, the resort attracts eco-conscious guests. The private sector responds by providing various sustainable alternatives. Furthermore, the public sector demonstrates increased investment in sustainable tourism and development. In addition, it aligns with global initiatives like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, and the UNFCCC’s Climate Neutral Now initiative. Additionally, efforts addressing diversity, inclusion, and illegal wildlife trade contribute to a collective push for a sustainable future.
Moreover, 84 percent of travelers aim to reduce waste and engage in plastic recycling when visiting destinations. Research by Trip.com Group shows strong support for this, with over 80 percent of Ctrip customers favoring hotels that avoid disposable products to combat single-use waste and secondary pollution.
Globally, 70 percent of consumers prioritize sustainability over convenience, creating an opportunity for a new and profitable business model, as per Skift Report 2022.

Safaris

Responsible travel practices in safaris encompass minimizing the ecological footprint, supporting local communities and conserving wildlife habitats. These practices ensure that the fragile ecosystems and unique biodiversity of safaris. By choosing responsible travel on safari, travelers contribute to the sustainability of these iconic destinations and foster a deeper connection with nature. This approach not only enriches the safari experience but also plays a vital role in the broader global effort to promote eco-conscious tourism.
According to the 2020-2021 report by the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, eco-sustainable tour operators attracted over 217,000 tourists annually. In 2020-21, 60,537 visitors came to the DDCR, resulting in a substantial profit increase.
The hospitality industry’s future hinges on its ability to prioritize sustainability in an ever-evolving world.