Wednesday, March 26, 2025
At the invitation of ABTA, the UK’s largest travel association, Mayor Mato Franković of Dubrovnik participated in a prominent sustainable travel conference held in central London. The event brought together key experts from the UK travel sector, alongside representatives from global organizations like the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), easyJet Holidays, and various national tourism organizations.
Dubrovnik’s successful implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives earned Mayor Franković the opportunity to deliver a keynote presentation, where he outlined the city’s responsible tourism management strategy. He emphasized how Dubrovnik balances sustainability, destination enhancement, and competitiveness, particularly in the face of growing global tourism challenges.
Focus on the “Respect the City” Project
A key highlight of the presentation was Dubrovnik’s “Respect the City” project, which serves as a model for eco-conscious, long-term solutions to controlled tourism growth. This initiative ensures the preservation of Dubrovnik’s authenticity and rich cultural heritage while managing the impact of tourism. The audience at the conference was given an in-depth look at the strategies employed by Dubrovnik to maintain a sustainable future for tourism, while simultaneously addressing the needs of both residents and visitors.
Sustainability and Overtourism in Focus
With sustainability and overtourism being prominent concerns in the UK travel sector, the conference facilitated a global exchange of ideas, challenges, and opportunities in tourism. The ongoing media interest in these topics underscores the critical importance of finding sustainable solutions. Mayor Franković’s interview with the British Mirror, in which he discussed the future of tourism in Dubrovnik, further highlighted the city’s commitment to responsible tourism.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans for Dubrovnik
As part of its ongoing sustainable tourism policies, Dubrovnik plans to regulate visitor flows more effectively, invest in municipal infrastructure, and expand its housing project, which has already been a significant success. The city is the first in Croatia to implement its own housing model, providing homes for 91 families through affordable rental schemes and financial assistance for home purchases.
Setting Global Standards for Sustainable Tourism
Through these efforts, Dubrovnik is setting a high standard for sustainable tourism. The city’s model has been globally recognized as a leading example of effective destination management. Dubrovnik’s commitment to balancing environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and tourism growth continues to serve as an inspiration to other cities and countries around the world.
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