The Faculty of Tourism at City University participated in the conference “Smart Tourism: Where History Meets Technology,” hosted by the Tripoli Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture at the invitation of the Tripoli Tourism Association. The event was held under the patronage and in the presence of the Minister of Tourism, Laura El Khazen Lahoud, and brought together leading figures from the economic, tourism, cultural, and municipal sectors. The conference also marked the launch of TRIPOLINK, a digital tourism platform designed to promote Tripoli’s rich historical, cultural, and tourism assets.

Representing City University at the conference were University President Dr. Walid Dagher, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism Dr. Iman Baba, and Dr. Rasha Sultan.

In his keynote address, Dr. Dagher emphasized the importance of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, warning of the consequences of failing to embrace innovation. Drawing on the story of the Titanic as a powerful example of the dangers of ignoring major changes, he highlighted the accelerating growth of technology and artificial intelligence. He urged institutions to move beyond traditional approaches and actively engage in digital transformation to ensure future readiness and long-term competitiveness.

As part of the conference program, Dr. Iman Baba and Dr. Rasha Sultan presented a field research study conducted by the Faculty of Tourism entitled “Artificial Intelligence and Enhancing the Attractiveness of Tourist Destinations: Tripoli Citadel as a Case Study.” The research explored how artificial intelligence can enhance the tourism experience and was based on practical findings and actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening the position of the Tripoli Citadel as a smart, sustainable heritage destination.

This participation reflects City University’s ongoing commitment to advancing digital transformation and fostering academic collaboration with the economic and tourism sectors, contributing to the development of sustainable tourism and reinforcing the position of Tripoli and Lebanon on the global map of technological innovation.