At The Mediterranean aha Forum, in Partnership with VisitMalta Incentives & Meetings, the conversation progressed beyond recognition into a clearer sense of shared direction across government, industry, and finance.
Addressing those gathered, Ian Borg, Deputy Prime Minister of Malta and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, highlighted the growing importance of accessibility within Malta’s wider economic and tourism landscape.
“Accessible tourism is increasingly recognised globally as a game-changer for tourism destinations everywhere,” Borg said. “Apart from being a social responsibility, improving accessibility in tourism is an opportunity for both the destination and the businesses.”
Accessibility is no longer a peripheral consideration. It is increasingly understood as part of how destinations compete, how industries evolve, and how economies grow.
For Ms Alaine Ciantar, Director, Visit Malta Incentives & Meetings the significance of the forum lies in driving business tourism towards open accessible doors.
“At Visit Malta Incentives and Meetings, we are proud to have partnered with the Accessible Hospitality Alliance for this important forum in Malta. This collaboration highlights our shared commitment to ensuring that travel and events are inclusive for all, regardless of ability.
“Hosting this forum here reinforces Malta’s position as a forward-thinking destination that values accessibility, diversity, and genuine hospitality. For us at VMIM, it’s not only about driving business tourism but also about shaping an industry that opens its doors wider to everyone.”
This convergence was reinforced by David Delicata, Hospitality Leader at Deloitte Malta.
“The Mediterranean aha Forum exceeded our expectations. It brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and accessibility advocates in a way that rarely happens, creating genuine momentum for change.
“At Deloitte Malta, we have spent over two decades supporting Malta’s hospitality sector, and this forum represents exactly the kind of collaborative platform the industry needs to navigate the profound shifts ahead.
“We’re committed to translating the insights and partnerships forged here into concrete action that makes Malta’s tourism offering truly inclusive and competitive on the global stage.”
Accessibility is no longer being considered in isolation. It is understood alongside investment, workforce, guest experience, and destination positioning.
What has been established is not a defined set of actions, but a shared direction, one that reflects growing alignment across those with the ability to influence policy, investment, and practice.
Accessibility Recognised as a Strategic Priority at The Mediterranean aha Forum
