Digital transformation in destination branding to promote sustainable cultural and tourism development in Dong Nai

The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism (DoCST), in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology and relevant agencies, held a seminar titled “Digital transformation in destination branding linked to cultural development and sustainable tourism in Dong Nai” on the afternoon of November 1. The event was part of a series of thematic seminars at DIGIFEST Dong Nai 2026.

Deputy Director of the DoCST Nguyen Khac Vinh speaks at the seminar. Photo: Hai Quan

The seminar brought together leaders of the National Digital Transformation Authority under the Ministry of Science and Technology, representatives of municipal departments and local authorities, as well as experts, researchers and university representatives from across the city.

Speaking at the seminar, Nguyen Khac Vinh, Deputy Director of the DoCST, said that amid rapid advances in science, technology and innovation, digital transformation is now a necessity and a key driver of innovation in management practices, operations and socio-economic development. In the cultural and tourism sectors, the application of technology not only enhances competitiveness and helps build destination brands but also opens up new ways to preserve and promote heritage values and optimise the visitor experience in the digital environment.

Delegates attend the seminar. Photo: Hai Quan

The seminar provided an opportunity for relevant departments, agencies and organisations to recognise and properly assess the role of digital transformation, exchange experiences and identify challenges, with a view to proposing feasible solutions to develop Dong Nai's tourism sector in a more professional, modern and sustainable manner.

At the seminar, experts and speakers presented papers outlining strategic directions to develop Dong Nai into a smart tourism destination, in line with the city's strategies for the digital economy, digital tourism and the development of cultural industries. Discussions also focused on ways to bring together creative and technological resources and apply artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and digital twin technology to enhance visitors' experiences and promote Dong Nai as a destination.

Experts and speakers deliver presentations at the seminar. Photo: Hai Quan

Experts also shared international lessons and discussed policy recommendations and solutions for developing a highly skilled workforce to support tourism and the creative economy. Other discussions focused on building an ecosystem that connects local communities with digital platforms to develop cultural and tourism products, attract investment and foster public-private partnerships. The seminar also examined practical mechanisms and models to position Dong Nai and build a stronger destination brand with wider reach as artificial intelligence continues to advance.

By H. Quan – Translated by M.Nguyet, Minho