WFTGA Membership

The Emirates Tourist Guides Association (ETGA) is proud to be a member of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA), the world’s leading organization for professional tourist guides. As part of this global community, ETGA joins an extensive network dedicated to advancing tourist guides standards, goals, and interests worldwide.

Our membership in WFTGA connects us to the largest international organization representing professional tourist guides and their associations across the globe. This affiliation enables us to collaborate with fellow guides worldwide, amplifying our collective voice to advocate for the profession within the tourism industry. Through the shared vision and unified efforts of WFTGA members, we continue to work toward creating a sustainable, respected and recognized future for tourist guides in the UAE and beyond.

Mission & Vision Statement

Support, encourage, and develop tourist guidance across various sectors through the implementation of specialized programs.

Values:

• We believe in the power of collaboration and mutual support, working together as a unified community.

• We are deeply committed to advocating for and supporting our tour guides, ensuring they have the resources, training, and recognition they deserve.

• We strive to exceed expectations, providing every tourist and visitor with an enriching, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

• We are proud to serve our nation and honor its leadership, upholding the values and traditions of the UAE.

Board of Members

Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum

Chairman

Jassim Mohammad Al Bstaki

Vice Chairman

Hamad Hashem Al Jabri

General Secretary

Salem Mansoor AL Katheeri

Treasurer

Shaikha Mahmoud BinAhmed

Board Member

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The Chairman’s message

The tourism industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, contributing significantly to the strengthening of a country's economic infrastructure and the development of its broader industries. It also plays a key role in enhancing other sectors that are inherently linked to tourism, such as transport, hospitality, travel agencies, and various support services like restaurants, all of which work together to deliver an optimal experience for tourists.

In this context, the role of tourist guides is becoming increasingly important as a vital complement to other sectors. Tourist guides, as direct points of contact with travelers, are among the most visible and communicative elements in the tourism sector. Unlike other tourism-related professionals, guides are crucial in shaping the visitor experience.

A skilled tourist guide is essential to the success of tourism in any country. They serve as ambassadors for their nation, offering visitors an authentic introduction to the country's cultural and historical treasures. A well-qualified guide, with deep knowledge and a passion for their country, can effectively showcase its cultural richness and tourism assets. Their role is pivotal in ensuring the success of the tourism industry, both for domestic and international visitors.

This is the motivation behind the establishment of the Emirates Association of Tourist Guides. Our primary goal is to emphasize the importance of tourist guides, particularly local guides, in representing their homeland. We aim to highlight the nation's civilization, history, and culture, and to encourage citizens to pursue careers in tourism, promoting their country's cultural heritage to tourists from all over the world.