AI-powered tourism takes centre stage as BTTF 2026 opens in Dhaka

Three-day international fair brings 220-plus exhibitors from around 20 countries, with focus on sustainable tourism and global business opportunitiesSpecial Correspondent: Bangladesh's tourism industry is looking to artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable travel and stronger international partnerships to unlock new growth opportunities as the country's largest international tourism fair, the Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair (BTTF) 2026, opened in the capital on Thursday.Organised by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), the three-day 14th edition of the fair was inaugurated at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in Agargaon under the theme, “AI Powered Tourism, Sustainable Destination.”The event brings together tourism representatives, airlines, hotels, tour operators and international buyers, providing a platform to promote Bangladesh's tourist attractions, attract investment and expand business connections with overseas markets.Dr Nurun Nahar Chowdhury, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, inaugurated the fair at 11am as the chief guest. Representatives from the government, tourism organisations and diplomatic missions also attended the opening ceremony.Speaking at the event, Chowdhury said the integration of modern technology and artificial intelligence was opening a new chapter for Bangladesh's tourism industry.She said BTTF played an important role in promoting the country's tourism sector internationally while encouraging environmentally responsible tourism. Collective efforts from government agencies, businesses and other stakeholders would be essential to move the sector forward, she added.TOAB President Mohammed Hanif said the fair had developed into one of South Asia's leading tourism platforms after 13 consecutive successful editions.He said BTTF would help showcase Bangladesh's domestic tourism potential to international audiences, strengthen commercial relationships with overseas stakeholders and create new business opportunities.The fair has drawn participants from around 20 countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Singapore, the Maldives, the Philippines, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, China, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and Azerbaijan.Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines and Nepal are the partner countries for this year's edition, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in tourism development.With more than 200 booths and stalls, over 220 exhibitors, more than 250 qualified buyers and an expected 2,500-plus trade visitors, the event is positioning itself as a major meeting point for tourism businesses. Organisers expect more than 60,000 visitors during the three-day exhibition.More than 200 airlines, hotels and tour operators are participating across four themed exhibition halls, offering opportunities for industry professionals to explore partnerships, exchange ideas and develop commercial links.US-Bangla Airlines is the title sponsor of the fair. Other partners include Biman Bangladesh Airlines as airline partner, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Airport as platinum hospitality partner and Sabre as global distribution system (GDS) partner.The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the National Skills Development Authority, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Bangladesh Tourism Board, Bangladesh Tourist Police and the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry are extending support to the event.The participation of senior officials and diplomats also reflects the potential of tourism to strengthen international relations and people-to-people exchanges. Among those attending the inauguration were Dr Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury, executive chairman of the National Skills Development Authority; Md Shamimuzzaman, chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation; Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqui, chief executive officer of Bangladesh Tourism Board; and G M Azizur Rahman, additional inspector general of the Bangladesh Tourist Police.Diplomatic representatives included Philippine Ambassador Nina P. Coinolet, Pakistan High Commissioner Imran Haider and Nepalese Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari.The focus on AI comes as tourism businesses increasingly explore digital tools to improve travel planning, personalise visitor services, streamline bookings and reach international customers. For Bangladesh, the effective use of such technology could help make tourism services more accessible and competitive.At the same time, the fair's emphasis on sustainable destinations highlights the need to protect natural landscapes, cultural heritage and local communities while expanding tourism activities.Bangladesh has a diverse range of attractions, from the world's longest natural sea beach at Cox's Bazar and the Sundarbans mangrove forest to the tea gardens of Sylhet, the hill districts and the country's archaeological and cultural heritage. Promoting these destinations through improved services, responsible tourism practices and international marketing could help generate employment and support local businesses.However, translating the country's tourism potential into sustainable economic gains will require coordinated investment, better visitor facilities, skilled workers, reliable transport and stronger destination management.BTTF 2026 will remain open to visitors from 11am to 8pm daily until October 31 at the BCFCC. Organisers hope the event will strengthen domestic tourism promotion, attract international interest and establish new commercial partnerships across the sector.As the fair brings together businesses and tourism stakeholders from different countries, its broader challenge will be to turn the interest generated at the exhibition into lasting investment, better services and a more sustainable tourism industry for Bangladesh.