Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

At the press conference along with its partners, Miral and DCT Abu Dhabi announced a stellar calendar of events running from July 2022 until February 2023 on Yas Island. Promising memorable moments at each event for every guest, the unmissable line-up features everything from global sports championships and family-friendly excitement to top-artist concerts and exhilarating adventures. An extensive line-up of events awaits with the return of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week featuring Ultimate Fighting Championship event UFC 281, National Basketball Association (NBA) pre-season games at Etihad Arena, and a stellar performance by Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman as part of Diwali celebrations. Also coming to Etihad Arena is the awe-inspiring on-stage adaptation of Disney’s The Lion King in November, adding another level of entertainment for Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix guests! Returning to Abu Dhabi, Disney On Ice will surprise fans from all ages with new show ‘Mickey and Friends’ in October at Etihad Arena. In addition, Andrea Bocelli, the world’s most-loved tenor, is set to perform in November at Etihad Park. 2023 will also see the return of the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) in February, the biggest celebration of the Indian film industry. Welcoming the new year with a bang, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship weekend will see comedian Kevin Bridges take the stage in January for the highly anticipated DP World Tour golf tournament. More exciting sports events will also be taking place in November and December which include the World Triathlon Championship Finals and the FIBA 3×3 World Tour final. His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “Whilst announcing the calendar of events on Yas Island …

Wego and German National Tourist Office for the GCC sign new partnership to inspire travellers to visit the country post COVID-19. The German.Local.Culture. campaign promotes Germany focusing on four themes: ‘Flair, Craft, Taste and Green’. The campaign will be marketed to Wego’s wide user base to bring more travellers from the MENA region. Wego’s data shows that Germany is in the top 10 destinations for MENA travellers looking to travel to Europe in 2022. The campaign will be launched digitally through social media networks for a broader reach to establish an authentic image of Germany as a sustainable travel destination. The country attracts tourists for its historic architecture, picturesque Old Towns, urban city vitality, impressive industrial monuments, castles and palaces and unspoiled nature. The ‘Flair’ theme showcases the architectural styles of the German cities and places of cultural interest to the tourists. The theme highlights the regional roots of small towns with fascinating historical stories. GNTB, through the campaign, aims to reignite the love of architecture among foreign tourists. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, Middle East, North Africa (MENA) and India of Wego, said: “Following the successful campaigns, we’re partnering with the German National Tourist Board for the third year running. We are looking forward to inviting even more travellers to this preferred European destination through this campaign.” The campaign also focuses on enjoyable travel experiences even under covid-19 circumstances. These experiences include Germany’s classical and world-famous opera houses attracting about one-third of worldwide operatic performances. The famous opera houses have historic concert halls, ornate stucco, and plush furniture. Yamina Sofo, director of sales and marketing at the German National Tourist Office (GNTO GCC), said: “The GCC …

As part of its mandate to promote tourism as a rewarding career option for Emiratis and UAE-based professionals, and to develop those already working in the private sector, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled a revamped calendar of training programmes and Emiratisation initiatives for the second half of 2022. The new programme calendar aims to increase the growth and development of the Emirati and UAE-based workforce, encourage enrolment in training and job opportunities, and develop the knowledge and skills of existing tourism and hospitality workers in the private sector. Created by DCT Abu Dhabi’s Emiratisation and Capability Development Section, the initiatives will generate greater Emirati and general participation in Abu Dhabi’s tourism activities. It will highlight employment opportunities in the sector by detailing a clear qualifications and skills development pathway for participants. His Excellency Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We have an outstanding Emirati and international talent pool in Abu Dhabi, with the necessary skills and aptitudes to succeed in the emirate’s exciting and rapidly growing tourism sector. Through this revamped Emiratisation and sector-wide training programme, we can maximise the potential of our UAE workforce, fulfil our strategic goal to create a thriving and diverse tourism eco-system, while also building bridges between cultures by allowing visitors to meet and interact with both Emiratis and a range of other nationalities across our tourism assets.” Fatima Al Melhi, Section Head of Emiratisation and Human Capital Development at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are proud to announce the new calendar, which includes training programmes and initiatives to support the highly talented Emirati and expat workforce we have …

Dubai’s successful tourism rebound continues to inspire global tourism recovery with the city welcoming 6.17 million international overnight visitors from January to May 2022, a 197 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase from the same five-month period in 2021, which saw the destination attracting just over two million international travellers. The latest tourism data was revealed by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) at its first ‘City Briefing’ for 2022, a bi-annual event that provides an in-depth industry outlook to stakeholders and partners, and discusses future strategies to further reinforce the city’s position as a global hub for business, investment, talent and tourism. The event was attended by more than 1,200 key executives from across the tourism ecosystem including aviation, travel, hospitality and retail sectors. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) commented: “The remarkable vision and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, have always been an inspiration to us all, and this is reflected in the city’s continued success, as we focus on enhancing its position as a global hub for economy and tourism. We are building on the massive momentum generated by the hugely successful Expo 2020 to drive growth across all our tourism pillars from cultural to culinary experiences, while working towards achieving the ambitious goal of making Dubai the most visited destination and the city of the future that will be the best place in the world to live and work. “As we look ahead to the remainder of 2022 and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have ensured the industry’s …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), in partnership with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) – Center for Executive & Professional Education, has certified 19 successful graduates from the Tour Guide Training Program 2022, the first course post-pandemic. Amongst the new tour guides are five UAE Nationals from across Ras Al Khaimah who will use their skills to share the destination’s rich tribal history and take visitors on a unique historical and cultural journey into the Emirate’s fascinating heritage and traditions. Established for those seeking careers as Tour Guides, the program is designed to give candidates the skills and knowledge necessary to maximize professional opportunities in the tourism industry and meet industry standards. The classes are conducted by lecturers and trainers who have years of experience in the fields of cultural heritage and use global standards to impart their knowledge, resulting in world-class tourism professionals. Throughout May and June, the participants took part in practical overland training and mastered the art of effective commentary, active listening, managing difficult situations, and conducting effective small and large tours, alongside a variety of additional skills to help advance their career. During a graduation ceremony held at AURAK on 21st of June 2022, candidates who had successfully completed the course and passed both theoretical and practical exams received an official certificate and tour guide card issued by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. The newly certified tour guides are now eligible to join tourism focused organizations and companies that operate cultural experiences for visitors, including city tours, heritage site tours and wider sightseeing within the Emirate. Prof. Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, President of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah said …

With admissions open for the September 2022 intake at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), students seeking to pursue higher education are encouraged to explore vocational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom in order to develop successful careers within the tourism and hospitality industry. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, global travel and tourism employment is expected to grow in 2022 by 3.5%, comprising 9.1% of the total global job market, a figure which is set to increase further in 2023 and beyond.  As the tourism industry rebounds, now marks a crucial time for high school students who are carefully considering their prospects and planning a roadmap for a successful career. DCT runs the first-of-its-kind multi-disciplinary educational platform in the region with an aim to create a dynamic and forward thinking workforce of exceptional talent who will be at the forefront of the future tourism workforce in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Providing students with vocational training in tourism, retail business, culinary arts, hospitality, and events, DCT helps to foster the talent pool within the emirate and encourage young Emiratis and expatriates to take up suitable careers within the tourism industry.   In order to leverage opportunities within the growing tourism and hospitality sector, DCT is urging young people at this significant point in their lives to explore vocational education and training to be able to successfully position themselves for gainful employment in the tourism ecosystem. Essa bin Hadher, General Manager of DCT, commented: “In a few months’ time, high school leavers across Dubai will be focused on taking the next steps towards their future careers …

Following the launch of Abu Dhabi’s ‘Summer Like You Mean It’ campaign at Arabian Travel Market this year, the innovative Abu Dhabi Summer Pass is now live on summerpass.visitabudhabi.ae. Developed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the pass rounds up the top sights and experiences of the UAE capital in an exclusive all-access bundle, and is valid until 31 August 2022. Offering world-class hospitality, family fun, and entertainment to residents and visitors, Abu Dhabi is making the destination even more accessible with the new Abu Dhabi Summer Pass, which is priced at AED 599 for adults and AED 499 for children between 4 and 17 years of age. The pass is complimentary for children aged 3 and below. Holders of the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass can ride the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, meet their favourite DC Superheroes at Warner Bros. WorldTM Abu Dhabi, and enjoy more than 40 rides and slides at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. The pass also includes a one-day visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi, as well as discounted access to 13 cultural landmarks and institutions across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans, Qasr Al Watan, Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Jahili Fort, and Qasr Al Muwaiji. The Abu Dhabi Summer Pass also covers complimentary transportation within the city on the Visit Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus network and within Yas Island on the Yas Express. Visitors can also obtain the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass, saving up to 50 percent, when booking their stay from a selection of 40 world-class hotels on summer.visitabudhabi.ae, that includes W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, …

Continuing to enhance Oman’s position on the global tourism map, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) recently successfully inked two strategic agreements with renowned international hotel operators – Nikki Beach to operate a 5-star resort in Yiti, and Four Seasons to develop and operate another resort in Muscat. OMRAN Group, an active participant in global events, displaying its progress and the critical role it plays in developing Oman’s tourism sector by developing and managing tourism sites in accordance with Oman Vision 2040 and the National Tourism Strategy. The Group also shed light on major investment prospects and partnership horizons with investors and partners, resulting in the development of Oman’s tourism sector. Dr. Hashil Bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, shared “the OMRAN Group was successful in showcasing the Sultanate’s numerous investment projects and opportunities, in addition to sharing details about the Sultanate’s efforts and initiatives to boost tourism. The Group’s objective is to develop unique and long-term tourism destinations that will assist the country in achieving economic growth and strengthening its position as a leading tourist destination. In fact, as a result of the agreements inked with “Niki Beach” and “Four Seasons,” the Sultanate will be able to attract these worldwide hospitality operators for the first time to Oman.” According to the stated agreement, OMRAN Group will partner with Nikki Beach Hotels and Resorts to run a 5-star resort within Yiti Integrated Tourism Development, which will have 140 hotel rooms and 30 villas, as well as meeting and event venues and a variety of recreational amenities. The resort also earned the award for ‘Best New Hotel Construction and Design Arabia’ in its regional category. As per the agreement …

Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the #DubaiDestinations initiative is continuing its campaign with a focus on highlighting the city’s exceptional experiences, and exciting events and activities during the summer. The campaign encourages Dubai’s diverse community to discover the city’s unique destinations in the summer and enjoy its distinctive offerings ranging from beach activities, dining and family-friendly activities at hotels, to waterparks, water sports adventures and indoor entertainment that capture the essence of Dubai’s summer experience. The initiative aims to create and disseminate to local, regional and global audiences engaging content that highlights Dubai’s unique character and identity as well as its emergence as the world’s best place to live and visit. The current season of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, running until the end of August, brings together a wide range of public and private sector stakeholders to showcase the emirate’s various exciting experiences. Key partners in the campaign include: the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai; Dubai Municipality; the Roads and Transport Authority; the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; Dubai Sports Council; Dubai Ladies Club; Emaar; Dubai Holding; Nakheel Properties; Majid Al Futtaim Group; and Merex Investment Office. Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), said: “Since its launch, the #DubaiDestinations campaign has focused on highlighting the quintessential Dubai experience and its uniqueness as a destination that offers a range of experiences that meet the tastes and interests of people across ages and nationalities. With the focus now on Dubai’s various summer destinations, the campaign will …

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism and Saudi Toursim Authority has announced the creation of  NFT (non-fungible token) souvenirs, in a move that reflects the Kingdom’s advancement in digital tourism. His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minster of Tourism of Saudi Arabia BoD Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority presented the personalized digital mementos in a first of its kind initiative to the heads of delegations participating in the 116th session of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Jeddah, as a token of appreciation for their visit to the Kingdom.​ ​Through NFTs, creators can tokenize real-world objects such as art, music, audio recordings, and an endless list of collectibles. With their ownership stored on the blockchain, this innovative technology allows some of the world’s most exciting new artworks to have a unique digital existence. The Ministry’s groundbreaking souvenirs blend the physical world and the metaverse, which is an immersive virtual reality world with a simulated digital environment that uses augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), blockchain, as well as digital media elements for social interactions. On the sidelines of the event, a virtual reality art show was held where an artist painted a collection of stunning 3D landscapes inspired by Saudi landmarks that exist within the virtual world. These paintings were then converted into NFTs and gifted to the guests along with a ledger wallet that provides an address on the blockchain to access their exclusively owned artworks. His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, said the NFT souvenirs embody the leadership’s vision for the future of the Kingdom. “As technology advances, it is important that we remain at the forefront of …