In 2018, the International Trade Commission and the Tourism Office of Djibouti commissioned a team of consultants to design a framework for sustainable tourism. Tourism is a key component of the development strategy of Djibouti, situated between Ethiopia and the Red Sea. David Ward-Perkins had particular responsibility for marketing, including analysis of the demand and evaluation of potential for tourism growth.

The coastal, mountain and desert landscapes of Djibouti provide many interesting opportunities, including for diving, trekking and other forms of Adventure Tourism. The purpose of the framework was to establish guidelines for the coming years, so as to develop these assets sustainably, in the interests of the environment, of the economy and of the well-being of the local population.