Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCB) have reached a historic agreement aimed at boosting tourism in Saudi among JCB cardmembers globally. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signifies a significant milestone in collaboration between the two entities. Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of Asia Pacific Markets at Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), said: “We are thrilled to partner with JCB International, a global leader in payment and technology. This is a great opportunity for our tourism industry, as it will offer more convenience, familiarity, and security for Japanese travelers and other Asian tourists who prefer to use cashless payment methods. We believe this collaboration will enhance the appeal of Saudi as a destination for international visitors and support our vision of becoming a leading global tourism hub.” The partnership with JCB is anticipated to unlock various opportunities for cooperation between Saudi and Japan. Notably, Japan is one of the 57 countries eligible for Saudi’s e-visa and visa on arrival, with special benefits such as a free one-night hotel stay for tourists flying onwards on SAUDIA as part of Saudi’s 96-hour Stopover Visa program. Other key initiatives include VisitSaudi.ja portal in Japanese and joint marketing campaigns with leading travel trade partners to create excitement all year round. Japanese holidaymakers can also take advantage of special hotel offers from local Destination Management Companies (DMC), with attractive deals inviting them to discover the true home of Arabia on their terms. Mr. Yoshiki Kaneko, President and CEO of JCB International Co., Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “This is a great chance for us to promote exciting travel experiences to Saudi for our cardmembers. Like Japan, Saudi is a truly unique destination, with …

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) is taking center stage at GITEX 2023 showcasing dynamic initiatives which include Digital Mapping of Hotels and Tourist Facilities and Holiday Homes Initiatives, designed to stay in tune with the evolving landscape of the tourism industry, foster dialogue with fellow participants at the exhibition, and share experiences and insights with innovators and experts. In reference to this momentous occasion, Sheikh AbdulAziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Department of Tourism Development, stated: “Under the visionary leadership of the United Arab Emirates, Ajman Tourism has embarked on a journey of transformation and innovation. These groundbreaking initiatives reflect our dedication to enhancing the visitor experience and elevating government services in the Emirate of Ajman. Innovative initiatives like these underscore Ajman’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence in tourism. Our aim is to create a seamless and immersive experience for visitors while upholding the highest standards of government service delivery.” These pioneering initiatives were unveiled within the Ajman government pavilion at the exhibition, with the presence of His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development and several directors and heads of government departments of the Emirate of Ajman. His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi underscored the significance of these services and their potential impact on the tourism sector in the Emirate of Ajman, emphasizing the emirate’s unwavering commitment to participating in this groundbreaking event and its pivotal role in elevating government services through the integration of cutting-edge technologies, best practices, and international standards. Furthermore, Alhashmi highlighted that these initiatives represent a commendable endeavor to augment the tourism sector in Ajman, exemplifying the emirate’s dedication to realizing a smart transformation …

In a bid to make it easier than ever before to experience the authentic home of Arabia, Saudi Arabia will grant visitor visas to travelers from six newly-eligible countries – Türkiye, Thailand, Panama, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Seychelles, and Mauritius – for leisure, business, and religious (Umrah only) travel. Nationals of these countries can apply for a Saudi visitor visa ahead of their journey via the official e-visa portal at visa.visitsaudi.com. Saudi is reimagining the tourism experience, with the famously warm and generous Saudi welcome –known as Hafawah– at the heart of its plans. The visitor e-visa is valid for an entire year, grants multiple entries, and permits a stay of up to 90 days. Moreover, Visit Saudi offers an online trip planner for visitors to create custom itineraries easily. From visiting Saudi’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, snorkeling and diving in Saudi’s Red Sea –one of the world’s most spectacular undiscovered diving spots– wandering Taif’s world-famous Rose Gardens, shopping like a local in Riyadh’s Deira Souq, chartering the unknown on land in the lush, green Asir region and tasting Saudi’s diverse and delicious culinary scene from fragrant Arabic dishes to internationally-renowned fine dining restaurants, there is something for everyone. Since the launch of Saudi’s visitor e-visa in 2019, Saudi has eased access for millions and accelerated tourism growth on an unmatched scale. The strength of the ever-increasing demand to visit Saudi Arabia has been led by a range of visa initiatives. On September 27, 2019, the Ministry of Tourism launched the visitor visa program, targeting 49 countries, which has now increased to 63 after the addition of further six countries and special administrative regions. In 2022, Saudi extended its …

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority launched a new service at the opening day of Gitex 2023 with a special platform titled, “sustain Sharjah”. In a special interview with HE Khalid Jassim Al Midfa Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority shared, “we carried out a soft launch of our “sustain Sharjah” platform which encourages and helps our partners and stakeholders from the public and private sectors to use and to benefit, to calculate, monitor and assess their carbon footprint of their businesses and learn about the resources available to help them make and save money at the same time save the environment.”

Red Sea Global (RSG) revealed the first project in its expanded portfolio, with the developer entrusted refurbishment works at Al Wajh Airport (EJH). The development is focused on modernizing the airport to bring it in line with international standards, as well as upgrading the existing terminal and infrastructure, RSG is building a new international terminal, the designs of which will be revealed soon. This will see EJH ready to offer more direct flights leading to greater connectivity and job opportunities for local people. EJH will also be able to better service key developments taking place in the area, including becoming a gateway for the Amaala destination, also developed by RSG. The airport will also become a new base of operations for Fly Red Sea, the Kingdom’s first seaplane company. “Last year, Red Sea Global announced a growing portfolio of projects stretching along the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. Today I can reveal the first of those projects is to refurbish Al Wajh Airport, making it a modern airport for the people of Tabuk. It’s an honor to be the developer of choice for this important work, ensuring Al Wajh is ready and equipped to support the needs of the growing local community,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. The development joins a growing list of aviation projects under the Group. Last month, the developer’s Red Sea International Airport (RSI) welcomed its first domestic flight with a regular schedule now in place. RSG is also developing a second, private airport close to The Red Sea and Amaala destinations. As part of the modernizing work taking place at EJH, four flights operated by SAUDIA will be transferred from …

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is set to announce a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at solidifying Bahrain’s position as a premier global tourist destination. The declaration follows Bahrain’s remarkable achievement in Manama being chosen as the capital of Gulf tourism for the year 2024 during the 7th meeting of the ministers responsible for tourism in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The prestigious designation of “Manama” as the capital of Gulf tourism for 2024 is a testament to Bahrain’s exceptional contributions to the growth of Gulf tourism sector. The Kingdom of Bahrain’s foresight in recognizing tourism’s potential as a vital sector capable of driving economic growth and ensuring sustainable development played a pivotal role in securing this honour. Bahrain is committed to nurturing a thriving and dynamically expanding tourism sector, with the aim of not only enhancing its reputation as a prominent hub for regional and international tourists but also fostering stronger tourism cooperation within the GCC region. Dr. Nasser Ali Qaedi, CEO, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) said, “We take immense pride in this achievement in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, which stands as a testament to a series of successful tourism endeavors at local, regional, and international levels. The Kingdom has positioned the tourism sector at the forefront of its developmental agenda. This strategic position acknowledges the sector’s pivotal role in driving sustainable development. Under this vision, substantial investments have been channeled into expanding tourism infrastructure, refining tourism services, and establishing high-quality facilities. These endeavors are aimed at attracting a greater influx of tourists worldwide.” Dr. Qaedi added, “Collaborating closely with its public and private sector partners, BTEA persistently crafts success stories, aiming to fulfill …

As part of its ongoing endeavours to empower national competencies and enhance their skills and experiences in the tourism sector, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced the launch of the first of a kind “Leadership Development Academy” and introduced its programmes (SHIFT & LIFT). The academy launch ceremony was held under the patronage of Al Mutasim Said Al Sariri, OMRAN Group’s Vice Chairman, and witnessed the presence of a number of members of the Board of Directors, CEO and officials from OMRAN Group, subsidiaries, and owned hospitality assets at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). The Leadership Development Academy serves as a platform to enhance the leadership skills of the local competencies and foster a motivating professional environment. In addition to providing the tourism sector with qualified leaders who actively contribute to achieving this promising sector’s growth and development. Commenting on this occasion, Dr.Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, said: “OMRAN Group is devoted to providing various programmes and initiatives that aim to harness national competencies, equip them with the knowledge, insights, and strategies needed to drive the growth and sustainability of our nation’s tourism sector.” He further added, “We affirm our commitment to investing in our human capital and their development in alignment with the national tourism strategy and our corporate objectives.” The ‘SHIFT’ programme will provide training courses in different management and leadership roles within the sector. Its first phase includes 40 participants from management levels at OMRAN Group and its subsidiaries. On the other hand, the ‘LIFT’ programme involves 20 candidates from hospitality assets, concentrating on developing leadership skills specifically for the hospitality industry. To ensure the high quality of the training …

The world’s first premium leisure airline Beond will debut its operations in  Riyadh and the first inaugural flight will commence from 9th November 2023. Speaking with TravelTV Middle East, Tero Taskila CEO and Founder Beond reiterated that they selected Riyadh as the first destination mainly due to the fact that the luxury market is underserved, hence they wanted to cater to the luxury travellers who seek special experiences onboard. The Munich inaugural departing will be 15th November and the Zurich inaugural departing 17th November 2023. Between today and the scheduled service launch, early bird customers have chartered the aircraft to experience the Maldives. In addition, the airline announced new routes from Dubai and Milan, beginning in late March 2024. With events in Malé, Maldives attended by dignitaries, investors, supporters and employees, and at a global media event broadcast online and in-person in Dubai, the airline showcased its first aircraft, an Airbus A319 seating 44 passengers in a luxurious all lay-flat configuration. “Welcome to Beond. Our aim is simple: to fly our customers to the most unique and unspoiled destinations where they can release their inner explorer on the most memorable vacation of their lives,” said Tero Taskila, CEO of Beond, and a founder. “Today is but the beginning of our vision for our customers, embodied by this beautiful aircraft — inside and out. We could not be more pleased to showcase it in Maldives, our home,d and Dubai. We wish especially to thank the government of Maldives and our supporters there, the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority, and SIMDI Group — each of whom believed in our vision for a new airline in Maldives. Our team will do its best to …

Ras Al Khaimah was awarded Silver Certification under EarthCheck’s Sustainable Destinations program – the world’s leading scientific benchmarking and certification program for tourism destinations. The emirate is the first destination in the Middle East to earn this level of recognition for sustainability. The certification process is underpinned by EarthCheck’s in-depth scientific criteria and also involves meticulous monitoring, benchmarking, and auditing across 10 sustainability indicators – from energy and water consumption to waste management, carbon footprint analysis and community engagement. Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainability certification is all the more significant considering the challenges posed by the region’s climate, calling for a more robust approach to managing energy and water consumption than most in order to meet EarthCheck’s stringent requirements. The Silver Certification comes just weeks out from the United Nations’ climate change conference COP28, being held in the UAE in late November. The conference agenda this year will focus on achieving the global emissions reduction target of 43% by 2030. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) Chief Executive Officer, Raki Phillips, said that achieving EarthCheck’s Silver Certification reinforced Ras Al Khaimah’s ambition to become the UAE’s and the region’s sustainable tourism leader by 2025. “This landmark achievement amplifies our commitment to sustainable, balanced, and purpose-driven tourism industry growth,” Phillips said. “My gratitude goes out to our tourism community for their relentless dedication to achieving EarthCheck’s Silver Certification, which not only substantiates Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to sustainable tourism but also aligns with our ambitious goal of welcoming over three million visitors by 2030.” EarthCheck founder and Chief Executive Officer, Stewart Moore, said Ras Al Khaimah’s Silver status would bolster and enhance its tourism industry and its business operators locally. “Congratulations …

As part of its successful ‘Hospitality Qatar’ programme, the country’s first national tourism training programme, Qatar Tourism has launched a new ‘Beach Expert’ training course, which aims to provide beachfarers who come directly to visitors with the expertise needed to visit Qatar’s growing beaches, desert camps, hotels and resorts with beach views and open beaches that are frequented by many in Doha and beyond. The course, which allows applicants to choose the times that suit them, is available in Arabic and English and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from Qatar Tourism stating that they have acquired the necessary knowledge and experience regarding the latest information about Qatar’s pristine beaches. Commenting on the new Beach Expert course, Ms. Moza Al Maadadi from Qatar Tourism said : “Qatar has beautiful coastlines and crystal clear waters that are admired by residents and many of our international visitors. The Beach Expert course is an opportunity to highlight the refreshing atmosphere that Qatar offers to its visitors, such as the bright sun, clear sea water and soft sand, especially as new beaches are being developed and included in Qatar’s growing hospitality offerings. We are delighted with the success and growth of the Moyadaf Qatar programme, and invite beach staff who interact directly with the public to explore the latest training courses and be provided with the latest relevant information.” The flagship program, Medyaf Qatar, is part of Qatar Tourism’s Academy of Service Excellence and has accredited more than 35,000 customer and visitor professionals, including hotel concierge staff, shopping mall security staff, restaurant staff, taxi drivers and service workers. The recent expansion of the Modyaf Qatar programme reflects Qatar …