South African tourism board conducted a specialised training for 50 top agents in the UAE by Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – MEISEA, South African Tourism. She reiterated that Middle East is an important market for South African tourism as it has many offerings which can be enjoyed by the clientele in the Middle East. This training enabled the agents to find out some of the hidden gems in the nation and the fact that connectivity play a pivotal role with all the major Middle East carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways bringing in the numbers from the region. She reiterated that there are many DMCs in South Africa which offer unique experiences which caters to this market and requested the agents to connect with them so that it is possible to further grow numbers from the region. She further reiterated that there is MICE and incentive travel which is also a new trend coming up in the nation. Agents asked about the various challengers which can be addressed by the tourism board.

In a bid to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier wedding destination, the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) announced an initiative to extend visa support to Indian nationals hosting destination weddings across the Emirate. Unveiled during the ongoing Arabian Travel Market 2024 and taking place from May 2024 onwards, the new visa initiative contributes to Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to boost visitor numbers to 39.3 million by 2030. The Destination Wedding segment is among the newest verticals to join ADCEB as part of an overarching objective to attract domestic and international visitors and increase the sector’s contribution to the GDP to AED 90 billion as per the 2030 strategy. India is recognised as one of the largest markets for destination weddings globally, making it a key target market for Abu Dhabi. By extending visa support to Indian weddings, in the form of absorbing costs, ADCEB’s Destination Wedding segment aims to position Abu Dhabi as a world-leading destination for weddings and celebrations of all kind. It provides an avenue to amplify the Emirate’s unique cultural and entertainment offerings, cultural attractions and natural landscapes for international audiences. Weddings are also a key revenue stream for the hospitality sector, driving venue and hotel room occupancy, and the service industry sectors such as wedding planning, photography, catering, personal services and more. The Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau plays a crucial role in organising business events, destination weddings & celebrations in the Emirate. It brings together experts and stakeholders to secure convention business and coordinate strategies for bid development to promote Abu Dhabi as a leading business tourism & celebrations hub.

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Emirates signed a strategic partnership outlining joint initiatives to intensify international efforts and bolster Dubai’s mindshare as a hub for trade, tourism and investment. Building on both entities’ long-standing partnership and success in tourism promotion, this latest development underlines their respective commitment to achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and to further enhance the city’s status as a leading destination for business and leisure. The agreement was formalised on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), and Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Driven by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, DET is committed to developing and leveraging partnerships that can contribute towards achieving the city’s ambitious D33 goals. DET and Emirates have already built a powerful collaborative relationship in recent years, and this new MoU further enhances our ability to reach, engage with, and attract business audiences around the world. A key driver of Dubai’s tourism and wider economic growth has been the city’s international connectivity, propelled by Emirates’ global network and reputation as a leading airline, and we look forward to continuing to work closely …

Saudia Holidays and Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea have announced a strategic partnership, marking a milestone in immersive travel, promising guests unparalleled adventures in one of the world’s most breathtaking settings. The partnership is set to redefine luxury travel in the region. By combining Six Senses’ world-renowned commitment to sustainable luxury and wellness with Saudia Holidays’ expertise in crafting unforgettable travel experiences, guests can look forward to bespoke packages that cater to discerning tastes and desires. Arved Von Zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer: “Saudia Holidays is excited to partner with Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, to create extraordinary travel experiences filled with discovery, heritage, wellness, and wonder. Together, we are set to offer our clients not just a holiday, but a collection of moments that will leave lasting memories, enhancing Saudia Holiday’s portfolio of world-class destinations.” While the collaboration encompasses various initiatives aimed at enhancing guest experiences, specific details on offerings and rates will remain curated to ensure personalized journeys for every traveler. Sherif Marei, Commercial Director at Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, said: “Joining forces with Saudia Holidays represents a pivotal chapter in our journey to bring the unique Six Senses experience closer to guests from across the globe. This partnership not only aligns with our vision of offering unforgettable and responsible travel experiences but also opens new avenues for guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Red Sea destination.” This partnership heralds a new era of travel where luxury meets wellness in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s majestic Southern Dunes. The alliance is a testament to both brands’ dedication to innovative hospitality, offering a gateway to explore …

More than 46,000 industry professionals from over 160 countries – including 33,500 visitors – attended the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded on 9th May 2024. This represents a 15% year-on-year increase in attendees compared to ATM’s landmark 30th edition, setting a new record for the show and demonstrating the strength, resilience and momentum of the global travel and tourism sector. In line with ATM 2024’s theme, ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, over 2,600 exhibitors gathered at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to explore the drivers behind industry growth and identify future opportunities within the global tourism sector. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues and I are delighted that so many industry professionals from around the world were able to join us in Dubai to explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping a more efficient, profitable and sustainable tourism sector for future generations. We are thrilled to have set a new show record, underscoring our position as the travel and tourism exhibition of choice as we continue to drive global growth within the industry.” ATM 2024 welcomed His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who chaired a meeting of The Executive Council during the show. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan approved a series of major transport and tourism-related projects in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This year’s opening session saw policymakers from across the region explain how Gulf nations are working together to streamline the GCC’s tourism offering. The panel …

Mohamed Al Rais Executive Director Al Rais Travel Group speaking with Travel TV Middle East shared that this year with summer and Eid holidays setting in, Al Rais will be promoting Latin America for the travellers from the UAE. Key outbound destinations booked by travelers from the UAE this summer will reflect a blend of cultural exploration, iconic landmarks, and diverse experiences. Paris, London, Barcelona, Rome, and Istanbul consistently rank among favorites, additionally, destinations like Japan and South Korea attract UAE travelers with their unique blend of traditional heritage and modern innovations. Australia and New Zealand emerge as sought-after destinations for UAE travelers seeking outdoor adventures and natural wonders. At this year’s ATM, we’re excited to spotlight the cutting-edge features and capabilities of our travel technology solutions, including booking platforms, mobile apps, analytics tools, and more. By demonstrating how our technology streamlines processes, enhances customer experiences, and fuels business growth, we aim to capture the attention of tech-savvy attendees and decision-makers seeking innovative solutions. In addition, we’ll emphasize the value of our GSA representation services for airlines, highlighting our market expertise, extensive distribution network, sales optimization strategies, and cost efficiencies.

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO), along with 15 co-exhibitors representing cities, airports, and hotels, have successfully concluded another year at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), underscoring Germany’s commitment to the Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition. The annual gathering has proven crucial in reinforcing Germany’s ties with the GCC region, showcasing its diverse tourism offerings and sustainable travel initiatives. The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) serves as a cornerstone for the GNTO’s strategic outreach within the GCC region, connecting with travel professionals and decision-makers across the UAE and broader GCC. It provides a platform to foster valuable partnerships and allowing for engagement with potential Gulf visitors. Additionally, ATM offers invaluable insights into the region’s latest travel trends and preferences, enabling GNTO to tailor its marketing strategies effectively. During the four-day event, the GNTO showcased innovative marketing strategies focused on sustainability in the tourism sector. The GNTO’s engagement with partners and stakeholders underscored its commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with Germany’s rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes to position the country as a prime destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking meaningful experiences. The significance of the GCC market to the German tourism sector was emphasised at the ATM, highlighting its role as one of the top three overseas source markets and its rapid recovery post-pandemic. Early 2024 statistics demonstrate the market’s resilience, with GCC travellers recording 128,745 overnight stays in Germany during the first two months alone. The robust growth trajectory underscores Germany’s enduring appeal as a preferred destination for GCC tourists. Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the Sustainable Tourism Journalist Award, recognising journalists whose work highlights the crucial connections between tourism and sustainability. A panel of …

Al Hamra announced the opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, a notable addition to its distinguished hospitality portfolio. The announcement perfectly aligns with Al Hamra’s 5-year strategy which involves expanding its portfolio, optimizing assets, and upgrading existing services, thereby contributing to Ras Al Khaimah’s transformative growth towards becoming the ultimate liveable destination. The partnership with Accor to introduce Ras Al Khaimah’s first Sofitel resort was initially announced in late 2021. Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort seamlessly blends French elegance with local heritage to offer guests an unmatched experience amid the picturesque landscape of Ras Al Khaimah. The resort features 292 intricately designed lavish guest rooms that embody modern luxury and comfort. Complementing its exquisite accommodations are seven dining venues offering a diverse array of flavors from around the world to satisfy every palate. Furthermore, available are an array of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, beachfront swimming pools and kids and teens’ club. Given its location, guests at the resort can take advantage of the various leisure activities offered in the destination Al Hamra. The championship 18-hole Al Hamra Golf Course is a golfer’s haven, while The Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah provides a fully serviced marina with both dry and wet berthing options, along with a variety of water sports and entertainment choices. Benoy Kurien, Group CEO, Al Hamra, said, ” The opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort is another step towards bringing the firsts and bests to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The addition of diverse hospitality options aligns perfectly with the Emirate’s goal of enhancing its tourism offerings.” Al Hamra remains committed to fostering innovation and excellence across its varied asset portfolio. …

Minor Hotels announced an enhanced strategic partnership with dnata Travel Group to elevate the booking and in-destination experience for global travellers. The long-term agreement is aimed at advancing the travel experience through flexibility, exclusive packages, and savings for leisure and corporate customers, whilst driving the mutual global growth plans for both companies. Minor Hotels is expanding rapidly, aiming to add more than 200 hotels to its global portfolio by the end of 2026. In partnership, dnata will support Minor Hotels in the launch of new hotel and resort openings, through dual-branded business opportunities. The strategic partnership will cover dynamic distribution for leisure and corporate travellers, wholesale distribution for the travel trade, destination management company (DMC) integration to elevate the travel and in-resort experience, and an aligned sustainability programme and initiatives. Leisure travel Minor Hotels is offering dynamic rates to dnata Travel Group brands in all markets in which the Emirates Group operates. Leisure travellers will have access to all direct rate types from every brand under the Minor Hotels portfolio including Anantara Hotels & Resorts; Tivoli Hotels & Resorts; Avani Hotels & Resorts; NH Hotels & Resorts; NH Collection Hotels & Resorts; nhow Hotels; Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites; and the Elewana Collection. Travel agencies under the dnata portfolio will create preferred travel packages inclusive of Minor Hotels stays for select destinations. Minor Hotels is also integrating with dnata Travel Group DMC businesses – Arabian Adventures and Destination Asia – and its leisure, MICE, cruise, and ancillary sectors. This will increase traveller flexibility in booking dynamic packages, and in-destination experiences, with plans to improve direct access to booking an enhanced range of world-class activities and travel extras in resort. Corporate …

Speaking with Travel TV Middle East, H E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority shared that at the Arabian Travel Market one of the key programmes to be promoted is the special tour guide license which would be awarded to those who complete the course ensuring that all modules are covered. The courses range from beginners to advance and also renewal tour guide programmes during the ATM and it will continue during the year. If the modules are completed at ATM, then the certification can be received within a period of four hours. Chairman, SCTDA reiterated, “As we mark our 24th participation at the Arabian Travel Market alongside 23 public and private entities representing the emirate, SCTDA’s commitment to innovation and sustainability within Sharjah’s tourism sector remains unwavering. The emirate stands out as a pioneer in the travel industry, embracing a comprehensive approach that includes significant progress in infrastructure development, the launch of authentic tourism and leisure destinations, and dedicated efforts to preserve cultural and historical treasures. Sustainability practices lie at the heart of these endeavors, driving forward an eco-friendly emirate. In line with ATM’s theme of ‘Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship,’ we are dedicated to reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of Sharjah in the tourism sector, fostering opportunities for individuals to craft unique travel experiences that are eco-conscious, sustainable, and innovative. The emirate’s entrepreneurial environment fosters groundbreaking initiatives across all sectors, with the tourism industry fully embracing this commitment.”