Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

RAK recorded 300% increase in revenue from weddings

In H1 2023, Ras Al Khaimah saw a 300% increase in revenue from weddings which is expected to continue to grow into H2 with the launch of the programme in September. Ras Al Khaimah focused on the fast-growing MICE market in H1 as part of its diversification strategy. Indicating a successful push to attract international markets for incentive groups with longer stays versus local corporate groups that tend to only stay for a couple of nights, the destination saw a 26% increase in MICE rooms nights compared to the same period in 2022. It also hosted several major events between January and June 2023, including the RAK Half Marathon, Arab Aviation Summit, DP World Tour and Exotic Wedding Planning Conference (EWPC). Further establishing the Emirate as a unique and attractive wedding destination, the Authority chose EWPC as its platform to introduce an all-new Wedding Certification Programme that will enable seamless, quick, and easy wedding planning in Ras Al Khaimah. Those certified through the new Wedding Certification Programme will benefit from added ease and flexibility in obtaining necessary licenses, organising events, and gaining valuable business support from certified hotels via an e-portal. Planners will also gain a deeper understanding of the UAE’s civil marriage process, receive fast-tracked permits, and have access to a network of resources to help them confidently navigate through local regulations, including a curated portfolio of unique venues. Never before has a tourism destination introduced such ease and flexibility for wedding planners and couples. In parallel, the Authority also announced a series of comprehensive incentive packages for couples, wedding planners, and certified venues.

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PIF establishes Kayanee – an integrated fitness and well-being company in Saudi Arabia

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced the establishment of the Kayanee Company (“Kayanee” or “the Company”), a unique lifestyle integrated concept designed to inspire and enhance women’s well-being in Saudi Arabia. Kayanee will focus on women’s health and lifestyle of future generations through six offerings, including fitness, apparel, personal care & treatments, nutrition & diagnostics, healthy eating and learning. Chaired by HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar, Kayanee will adopt a female-focused approach to all its services, prioritizing mental, physical and social health. In line with the Vision 2030 ambition to create a vibrant society, the company aims to reach over one million consumers. The establishment of Kayanee is part of PIF’s strategy to unlock the capabilities of promising sectors, localize technology, enable the private sector, drive the diversification of the local economy, and contribute to enhancing the quality of life, in line with Vision 2030. In an effort to ensure mass participation, a world-class digital platform will become the main gateway for Kayanee’s customers, providing seamless connection between in-person and online services.  The company will act as a catalyst for the rapid growth of health, well-being and fitness in Saudi Arabia, supporting the development of the industry through collaboration with the private sector and across the value chain. Raid Ismail, Head of MENA Direct Investments at PIF said: “Kayanee will serve to expand Saudi Arabia’s SAR 16 billion fitness and well-being industry. It is a very exciting time for PIF to venture into women’s fitness, wellness and well-being, and Kayanee is well positioned to enable the industry through its integrated offering, which will see the company partner with the growing private sector to create a vibrant society.”

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Abu Dhabi recognised as Middle East’s leading destination for MICE events

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has released its 2022 ranking, revealing Abu Dhabi as the number one destination in the Middle East for association meetings. As a globally recognised hub for the meetings industry, this ranking raises international awareness of Abu Dhabi as a leading business events destination and testament to the work that Abu Dhabi MICE sector has done to attract business events. With its diverse portfolio of world-leading infrastructure, hotels, state-of-the-art event venues and cultural offerings, Abu Dhabi is a thriving and dynamic business and events hub. There is something for everyone to experience at their own pace, from its world-class business venues and meeting facilities to attractions such as Al Ain, Saadiyat Cultural District and Yas Island – making it an ideal choice for those looking to host meetings, conferences and incentive trips. This year, Abu Dhabi has hosted a number of association conventions such as the 34th International Nursing Research Congress and is set to host the UNCTAD World Investment Forum, the International Conference on Advanced Robotics, the 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC13), the 12th World Environment Education Congress in 2024 and the IUCN World Conservation Congress in 2025. His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi topping the ICCA 2022 ranking is an accolade which is the result of collective effort and collaboration amongst the UAE government entities, academia, Al Nukbha Ambassadors, Emirates Medical Association, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and the MICE industry. Renowned for a diverse portfolio of unique attractions, world-leading infrastructure, iconic hotels, state-of-the-art event venues and an unrivalled leisure offering, Abu …

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Red Sea Global partners with Zain KSA to launch the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network

Red Sea Global and Zain KSA have unveiled the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network at the Six Senses Southern Dunes resort at The Red Sea. The zero-carbon 5G network, designed exclusively for The Red Sea, is the latest technological innovation at the resort. Designed with both people and planet in mind, the revolutionary 5G network will bring guests the highest speeds for 5G connectivity in the region and be powered by 100% renewable energy from over 760,000 solar panels that Red Sea Global has built to power the entire 28,000km2 destination. “We aspire to be global pioneers of regenerative tourism development, adopting 100% renewable energy at our flagship destination, The Red Sea, and working towards the achievement of a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. These ambitious goals demand ambitious partners, and our collaboration with Zain KSA transcends telecommunications, extending into sustainability and environmental protection,” said John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global. ” “Zain KSA has demonstrated a deep understanding of our requirements and provided us with the services and solutions necessary to achieve our strategic objectives. Together, we are determined to make a meaningful impact that sets new standards in sustainable development,” Mr. Pagano added. Designed using innovative 3D printing technology, the project will achieve three primary goals: preserving the environment, reducing emissions by utilizing renewable energy, and mitigating visual distortion. The towers have been built to blend harmoniously with The Red Sea’s unique and vibrant landscape. Inspired by the surrounding rock formations, the exterior aesthetic of the towers seamlessly interweaves into the resort’s natural habitat, ensuring minimal visual impact and safeguarding the project’s environmental integrity. Eng. Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al-Deghaither, CEO of Zain KSA, said: ” …

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DCT Abu Dhabi signs MoU with Air France-KLM to expand connectivity between Europe and Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Franco-Dutch airline Group Air France-KLM, forging a strategic partnership that will enhance connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Europe further positioning the emirate as a preferred tourist destination. The signing ceremony, held at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, was attended by HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi; Angus Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer of Air France-KLM; Olivier Piette, Senior Vice President – Network of Air France; and Maureen Bannerman, Chief Commercial Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. The partnership expands Abu Dhabi’s global connectivity through daily flights to Paris, whose flagship carrier Air France is a Skytrax Top 10 airline. Furthermore, the MoU reinforces Abu Dhabi’s goal to attract more than 24 million visitors by the end of 2023 and its commitment to build on its destination awareness. Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Geziry, the Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi said: “This partnership signifies DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to promote, protect and progress the tourism sector of Abu Dhabi and elevate the emirate’s status as a global destination. By fostering long-term partnerships with trusted international carriers, we are enabling visitors from around the world to visit and witness our rich heritage and diverse culture. This increased connectivity not only enriches the experience for travellers but also positions Abu Dhabi as an additional access point to the East”. Angus Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer, Air France-KLM, added: “We are proud and privileged to be working with DCT Abu Dhabi on this new venture. Abu Dhabi is emerging as a truly global aviation centre, catering to millions of passengers …

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Saudi Arabia expands visitor e-visa to eight additional countries

Saudi Arabia will grant visitor e-visas to travellers from eight newly-eligible countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, South Africa, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan 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 visitsaudi.com/en/travel-regulations Saudi is reimaging 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. And Visit Saudi offers an online trip planner for visitors to create custom itineraries with ease. From visiting Saudi’s six 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 launching the e-visa program in 2019, Saudi welcomed 93.5 million visits in 2022, a 93% increase compared to 2021, resulting in a tourism spend of SAR185 billion (USD49 billion). This rapid tourism growth is due to expanding visa initiatives, which now include 57 nations and two special administrative regions, compared to the initial 49 countries at the program’s launch. In 2022, Saudi extended regulations to provide a visitor e-visa to holders of valid Schengen, United Kingdom and United States of America visas that have been used to enter those countries before arriving in Saudi …

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RAKTDA records 600k visitors, highest number in first half of 2023

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority announces a record-breaking first six months, with the Emirate reporting its highest ever half-year arrival numbers, welcoming 600K visitors between January and June 2023, a total increase of 14.8%versus H1 2022 and the highest ever tourism-related revenue achieved for a half-year period.  Reinforcing its position as a destination of the future, the results follow a series of strategic investments, partnerships and initiatives to boost tourism, setting a path for continued growth in 2023 and beyond.

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GCC fuels strong recovery of inbound tourism to Japan; over 13k visitors in first half

Japan National Tourism Organization announced the remarkable resurgence of inbound tourism to Japan from GCC. The first half of this year saw 13,537 GCC nationals visiting Japan. Remarkably close to the 2019 figure of 13,582, this signifies a strong revival of interest in Japan among GCC travelers. Moreover, countries such as Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain have outperformed their 2019 visitor numbers, showcasing the robust recovery of inbound tourism from these markets.* June 2023 witnessed a significant milestone, with Japan welcoming 2,073,300 international visitors, equivalent to 72.0% of the June 2019 figure. This marked the first time since January 2020 that Japan surpassed two million visitors in a single month, signaling a promising rebound for the country’s tourism industry. The cumulative number of international visitors to Japan during the first half of 2023 reached an impressive 10,712,000, surpassing ten million visitors. This accomplishment reflects the resilient revival of Japan’s tourism sector, highlighting the country’s enduring allure for global travelers. Mr. KOBAYASHI Daisuke, Executive Director of Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Dubai office, expressed his satisfaction with the recovery of tourism from the GCC countries. He attributes the rebound to the recent introduction of visa waiver arrangements and online visa applications in some GCC countries, coupled with the total lifting of COVID-related border control measures in April. Furthermore, close collaboration with airlines and travel agencies in the region has further promoted Japan as a preferred leisure destination. KOBAYASHI Daisuke, Executive Director of JNTO Dubai Office, “As summer unfolds, Mr. KOBAYASHI Daisuke invites all visitors to Japan to partake in the exciting festivals and outdoor events that await them. For an unforgettable summer festival experience, he recommends visiting the Tohoku region in …

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Morocco National Tourist office partners with Wego

Wego has teamed up with Moroccan National Tourist Office. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego said: “We are excited to embark our partnership with Moroccan National Tourist Office. This partnership is set to inspire and captivate travelers worldwide, igniting a sense of wanderlust. We recorded over 39% increase in the number of searches to the country in 2023 in comparison to the same period last year, with over 2 million searches so far. We are looking forward to forging a long-lasting relationship with the board.” Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers during the summer. For history and culture enthusiasts, exploring the ancient medinas of cities like Marrakech and Fes is a must. Immerse yourself in the bustling souks, admire stunning architectural masterpieces like the Koutoubia Mosque, and visit historical sites such as the iconic Jardin Majorelle. Nature lovers can embark on an adventure to the Sahara Desert, where they can experience the magic of camel trekking, spend a night under the starry desert sky, and witness mesmerizing sunsets over the golden dunes. Beachgoers can head to coastal towns like Essaouira or Agadir, where they can relax on pristine sandy beaches, try water sports like surfing, or savor delicious seafood. Food enthusiasts can indulge in the aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine, sampling tagines, couscous, and traditional mint tea in local restaurants or joining cooking classes to learn the secrets of Moroccan culinary delights. With its vibrant markets, captivating landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Morocco offers an unforgettable summer experience for travelers of all interests.  

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Hamad International Airport announces the relaunch of premium valet parking services with value added benefits

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has announced it has relaunched its convenient premium valet parking services, now offering even greater value-added benefits to its ever-growing number of passengers. The service, available at the departure curbside near gate 1, is limited to those staying for a minimum of one day. In addition to securely parking vehicles in the premium car park within the short-term parking area, passengers can now avail the following unique benefits: Drop-off at the Departures curbside near gate 1 at the dedicated valet parking slot. Passengers will be welcomed by valet staff who will provide instant assistance. Complimentary porterage service available for departing passengers with luggage. Complimentary exterior vehicle wash. Continuous communication with valet staff for the duration of the service. Vehicles will be ready for pick-up at the departures curbside upon arrival. To ensure the utmost convenience for passengers, the premium valet service is a ticketless and cashless process. Passengers will receive an e-ticket via WhatsApp or SMS to retrieve their vehicles. Since its inauguration in 2014, Hamad International Airport has been committed to providing exceptional experiences for all its visitors and passengers. As the gateway to the State of Qatar and the Middle East, the airport continues to solidify its position as the airport of choice for global travelers.

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