Speaking to an audience of government officials and tourism professionals, Dr Aïdi specifically focused his presentation on Risk Management in the hospitality industry, drawing directly on his experience as President of Cham Palaces & Hotels.

He also referred to the work currently being undertaken by IH&RA as part of the UNEP APELL Post-Tsunami Relief project funded by the European Union under the Asia Pro Eco Programme II B. This project is designed to improve the ability of local coastal tourism communities to deal with diaster management by establishing meachnisms and processes for disaster preparedness and reduction. It is currently running in three pilot destinations: Kannyakumari (India), Patong and Phi Phi Island (Thailand).

As Dr Aïdi pointed out, the industry invests heavily in marketing campaigns and customer relationship management to foster customer loyalty. This huge investment can be destroyed in hours if guests are not given the protection and help they expect in a time of need. The company has devised a Disaster Contingency Plan based on three successive threat levels (green, orange and redà which are determined by the local authorities and corporate intelligence.

"By taking proactive safeguards, rather than reactive measures, the hospitality industry can minimize risk efficiently and cost-effectively. The important point is not to wait until a major crisis occurs. The time to assess risks and build security and crisis management systems is before - not after - a crisis", Dr Aïdi concluded.

To view the entire presenation, click on the link below: IH&RA Safety & Security Presentation, Cairo - June 07