The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Wizz Air have revealed the successful launch of the airline’s ‘Let’s Get Lost’ campaign, which created an exciting new way for travellers to experience the diverse tourism offerings of Abu Dhabi. The campaign saw guests boarding a Wizz Air flight without knowing their final destination. The surprise was revealed upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, a city that offers a wide range of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, pristine beaches, leisure facilities and world-class entertainment. DCT Abu Dhabi supported this venture with a packed itinerary, showcasing the city as a premier destination for global travellers. The partnership has demonstrated DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to forging strategic international partnerships to boost visibility and support Abu Dhabi’s tourism strategy. The collaboration with Wizz Air not only highlighted the city’s appeal but also showcased how DCT Abu Dhabi is working with partners to drive sustainable growth in the tourism sector. Abdullah Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Our collaboration with Wizz Air on the ‘Let’s Get Lost’ campaign was a strategic move that underlined our commitment to innovative marketing approaches. By providing an element of surprise and excitement, we not only promoted Abu Dhabi as a premier destination but also enhanced our position as a world-class tourist destination. This partnership aligned perfectly with our broader strategy of fostering international collaborations to drive sustainable growth in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.” The success of this collaboration with Wizz Air underscores DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to promoting the city’s tourism sector and enhancing its global visibility. By leveraging the power of strategic partnerships, DCT Abu Dhabi continues to drive growth in …

Saudi German Hospital (SGH) Makkah received accreditation from TEMOS, marking a significant milestone in global healthcare and reinforcing the group’s status as a premier destination for medical tourism in KSA. The TEMOS accreditation validates SGH Makkah’s excellence in promoting medical tourism and international patient care, driven by its state-of-the-art facilities and patient-centered approach. Located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, SGH Makkah offers world-class medical care. By offering high-quality healthcare services to international patients, the group ensures the highest standards of patient care and strives to meet global benchmarks. The latest accreditation is evidence of SGH’s commitment to expanding the boundaries of quality healthcare in accordance with the group’s ethos of ‘Caring Like Family’. Makarem Sobhi Batterjee, Vice Chairman of Saudi German Health, stated, “This latest milestone strengthens SGH’s position as a reliable healthcare provider in the region and aligns with the company’s broader objective to drive excellence in healthcare. The TEMOS Accreditation demonstrates the group’s focus on delivering superior medical care, upholds our position as a leader in global patient care, and advances the Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a global centre for healthcare. Through this accomplishment, SGH Makkah continues to raise the bar for medical excellence, ensuring that patients across the globe receive the best care possible.” TEMOS is an internationally recognised accreditation that assesses hospitals based on safety, service quality, and international patient management. In keeping with the Saudi Vision 2030, the achievement enhances the Kingdom’s position as an acclaimed international centre for healthcare. Additionally, it lays out the foundation for Saudi Arabia’s national transformation plan, which aims to attract two million medical tourists a year by 2030.

Marriott International, Inc. and Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) announced an agreement to bring a luxury resort and residential development under The Luxury Collection brand to Ras Al Khaimah. Situated within Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s flagship development, the project is anticipated to blend the brand’s authentic take on luxury while providing residents an elevated and exceptional living experience. “Ras Al Khaimah continues its emergence as a world-class destination, and we are excited to further expand our portfolio in the Emirate and support the growth of its tourism sector,” said Satya Anand, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “We are also equally pleased to strengthen our relationship with Abu Dhabi National Hotels by bringing The Luxury Collection brand to the destination. This project within Al Marjan Island will be a great addition to the brand’s ensemble of luxury properties across the globe, offering a distinctive perspective on luxury through unique and authentic experiences.” “We are delighted to be expanding our presence in the UAE with our latest project in Ras Al Khaimah, located on one of three beachfront bays on Marjan Island, and to growing our relationship with Marriott International with our seventh collaboration,” commented Khalid Anib, CEO of Abu Dhabi National Hotels. “This project reflects Abu Dhabi National Hotels’ commitment to innovation and to developing unique, distinctive and exceptional accommodation.” The Luxury Collection Resort in Al Marjan Island is anticipated to comprise 466 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, along with 29 expansive villas. Design plans for the resort include multiple dining venues, a spa, fitness center, kids club, swimming pool, and padel court. The property is also slated to feature more than 3,500sqm of meeting and …

India’s tourism industry is experiencing notable growth, fuelled by rising disposable incomes, a widening middle class and improved global connectivity. Reflecting the country’s growing influence in international travel and hospitality, India’s inbound and outbound offerings will be in focus during the forthcoming edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. According to Future Market Insights, India’s outbound tourism market is projected to reach USD55 billion by 2034, expanding at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.4% over the next decade. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for international travel, particularly among millennials seeking diverse experiences abroad. Furthermore, research from STR suggests that India has increasingly become one of the most targeted source markets globally, with many destinations intensifying their efforts to attract Indian travellers. In 2024, Dubai welcomed 3.14 million overnight visitors from South Asia, with India factoring predominantly, significantly contributing to the overall 18.72 million international visitors who made a trip to the city, representing a nine per cent year-on-year increase. STR’s findings also reveal that hotel supply in India has increased by a CAGR of just over 3% in the past decade, with 114,000 new rooms added since 2014. Developer interest remains high, with hotel occupancy rates increasing in eight of the last ten years, reflecting sustained demand. This will be underscored by the country’s participation at ATM this year, which is expected to grow 41% year on year, driven by a strong presence from exhibitors such as the India Ministry of Tourism, airline carriers Air India and Air India Express, and an expanding representation from the regional tourism boards of Goa, Karnataka, …

Grand Millennium Tabuk won the title of ‘Best Luxury & MICE Hotel, KSA’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “This achievement inspires us to think bigger and aim higher. We will invest more in elevating our guest experiences, embracing sustainable practices, and fostering innovation to ensure our services remain exceptional. Additionally, we will focus on strengthening partnerships within the industry to collectively raise the standard of excellence in the UAE. This award is not just a milestone but a catalyst for continuous growth and improvement.”-Marc Sawaya, Cluster Commercial Director, Millennium Hotels and Resorts

Wego released exclusive insights into Ramadan 2025 travel trends for UAE residents, highlighting surging demand for international destinations, strategic booking patterns, and a resurgence in staycation value. Wego analysis showed that YoY international flight searches from the UAE are up 32.45%, signaling a robust travel appetite during Ramadan. Egypt, India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Philippines, Lebanon, Morocco, and Nepal are the most searched destinations from the UAE through the holy month. The lineup features Ramadan mainstays that suggest homegoing trips, religious travel, and easy getaways continue to fuel UAE travellers’ intent during this time period. All 10 destinations recorded healthy search growth this year, with standouts such as Nepal (+214.76%), and Pakistan (+82.65%) significantly outperforming last year’s numbers. The growth in interest is accompanied by rising airfares this year. YoY flight prices to 9 out of 10 popular Ramadan destinations on Wego saw an increase, with Egypt (+42.29%) and Lebanon (+40.94%) among the steepest hikes. Jordan remains the exception, offering a marginal 1.17% price drop compared to 2024. Wego experts caution that prices may escalate further as Eid al-Fitr approaches. UAE travelers tend to plan ahead for Ramadan trips, with the majority of 2024 Ramadan flights booked over a month in advance – a trend expected to repeat in 2025.  Average Dubai hotel rates during Ramadan have plummeted 54.04% YoY, driving a 3% increase in local staycation searches on Wego. Wego data also showed that 4-star hotels dominate preferences, accounting for 40.15% of bookings, as travellers prioritize quality and value.

As the Eid Al-Fitr holidays approach, Qatar is set to deliver an exceptional experience for visitors from across the GCC with the launch of its latest campaign, “Entertainment on Us”. The campaign offers four complimentary tickets to some of the country’s top entertainment and leisure destinations, making Qatar the ideal getaway for families and individuals seeking unique experiences. Visitors can enjoy an array of world-class attractions covered under the campaign, ensuring a memorable holiday for all. Doha Quest stands out as a must-visit destination, boasting the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster and drop tower. As for the water adventure enthusiasts, Meryal Waterpark on Qetaifan North Island features over 69 exhilarating attractions, including the world’s tallest waterslide tower. Meanwhile, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort offers an expansive water park, a variety of rides catering to all ages, and scenic beachfront areas in the heart of the city. For families seeking a blend of relaxing nature and adventure, Banana Island Resort by Anantara presents an exciting outdoor experience. While thrill-seekers, can enjoy the Angry Birds World, which features over 20 exciting rides suitable for all ages. Qatar in celebration of Eid has an exciting new spectacle. From 3 to 5 April, Lusail Sky Festival will captivate audiences with a drone show featuring 3,000 drones, dazzling fireworks, laser displays, a mesmerising water show, and breathtaking aerial performances, including paramotors and aircraft displays. The festival will also feature an extraordinary musical performance by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Visitors during the Eid holiday can also enjoy a range of musical and artistic performances, featuring both renowned stars and emerging talents. U Venue will host a live concert on 4 …

Emirates is gearing up for a busy travel period for Eid Al Fitr by deploying an additional 17 flights to destinations in the Middle East/GCC from 26 March to 6 April. This year, over 371,000 customers are expected to fly with the airline during the Eid Al Fitr break from around the region, with additional flights planned for Jeddah, Kuwait, Dammam and Amman. The expanded flight schedule offers customers travelling home or interested in exploring new destinations more opportunities to reunite, celebrate with their family and loved ones, or enjoy leisure getaways. Emirates will add six flights to/from Amman and another five flights between Dammam and Dubai. The airline will be layering on an extra four flights from Jeddah and the airline’s flight schedule from Kuwait will extend to another two services. The additional services provide more flexibility to venture to Dubai – a popular Eid destination – and beyond to popular destinations and leisure gateways in Thailand like Bangkok and Phuket, the UK, gateways across the US, South Africa and to visit family and friends in Mumbai, Karachi, and Cairo, among many other cities. Keeping with its heritage and Eid traditions, Emirates will be serving a special Eid menu across all travel classes on select flights to and from Dubai. The menu will be filled with delicacies including favourites like chicken madhbi, prawn matfi, chicken makloubeh, mixed grills like chicken shish taouk and lamb kofta, halwa brownie, and pistachio cake, among an array of other sweet and savoury dishes. Passengers traveling during Eid will also have access to a wide variety of entertainment options on ice, featuring more than 6,500 channels of on-demand content and over 2,000 international movies, including …

Satguru Travel and Tourism won the title of ‘Fastest Growing Travel Management Company – Bahrain’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Fastest Growing Travel Management Company 2024 award is a proud milestone for Satguru Travel. It boosts our credibility, showcases our dedication to excellence, and enhances marketing efforts to attract new clients. The award also opens doors to networking opportunities, fostering collaborations for further growth. As this is our first time receiving this prestigious award, it has greatly enhanced our credibility and visibility in the market. This recognition validates our commitment to excellence and inspires our team to continue setting benchmarks for innovation and customer satisfaction in the travel industry.” – Jacob Mathew, Head of Bahrain Branch, Satguru Travel & Tourism WLL – Bahrain

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced the expansion of its network with the launch of a new service between Zayed International Airport and Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport. Commencing on June 1st, 2025, the new route will operate 6 times a week, offering passengers seamless travel options to explore the rich cultural heritage of Armenia’s capital city. Schedule of flights, effective June 1st, 2025 (all times local), as follows: On Mondays and Wednesdays, flight 3L 441 will depart from Abu Dhabi at 14:05, arriving in Yerevan at 17:25. The return flight, 3L 442, will depart Yerevan at 18:15, landing in Abu Dhabi at 21:25. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, flight 3L 441 will depart Abu Dhabi at 09:00, reaching Yerevan at 12:20. The return flight 3L 442 will depart Yerevan at 13:10, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 16:20. All flights will be operated using the Airbus A320 aircraft. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “The launch of our new service to Yerevan underscores Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting the growth of the UAE capital’s travel and tourism sector. We remain dedicated to expanding our network with key international destinations directly from Abu Dhabi, while providing our customers with affordable and value-driven travel options” The new route to Yerevan marks the 29th destination in Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s growing network from Zayed International Airport, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and convenient travel solutions. The carrier currently serves key destinations directly from the capital Abu Dhabi including Ahmedabad, Alexandria, Amman, Baghdad, Bahrain, Baku, Beirut, Cairo, Chittagong, Chennai, Colombo, Dhaka, Faisalabad, Kathmandu, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Kuwait, Moscow, Multan, Muscat, Salalah, Sabiha, Tashkent, Tbilisi, Thiruvananthapuram, Trabzon …