Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Qatar Tourism (QT) represented the State of Qatar in the 16th edition of the Tehran International Tourism Exhibition (TITE) 2023. As the first participation, QT’s booth included trade partners Qatar Airways, as well as The Torch Doha, Travel Designer WLL, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, and Banana Island Doha Resort. The tourism exhibition, which concluded at the Tehran International Permanent Fairground, presented the ideal opportunity for Qatar to highlight the latest developments in its tourism industry and showcase its newest tourism and hospitality offerings. In addition, it provided a platform for Qatar to network with prominent travel operators, agencies, and airlines in Iran, to increase business-to-business and business-to-consumer awareness on Qatar and provide an update on the destination’s offering. Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “Iran is one of 15 target markets identified by Qatar Tourism as a primary source for visitors looking to relax, rejuvenate and take in Qatar’s vibrant culture. Participating in TITE allows us to share with sellers in Iran the information they need to expand and promote tourism opportunities to Qatar for their local, resident population. Initiatives such as these are important to help Qatar Tourism achieve its 2030 strategy, which aims to increase the number of visitors to Qatar by threefold, increase spending by 3 to 4 times, and grow the GDP contribution of the tourism sector to 12% by 2030.” Visitors to the Qatar pavilion (Hall 41 – Booth 18) were invited to learn about Qatar’s unique culture, beautiful outdoor spaces, and warm hospitality, all while exploring some of the newest attractions and favourable travel regulations that are set to boost the visitor experience.

The landmark 10th edition of the Arab Aviation Summit will be hosted in collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority from March 14 – 16 at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre under the theme ‘Impactful sustainability in modern-day travel and tourism’ in the presence of leading regional and global players in the aviation and travel industry from across the public and private sectors. The growing demand for decarbonising aviation and travel will be in focus at the region’s leading aviation industry event that brings together more than 600 aviation experts and hundreds of attendees across multiple sectors at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre. Featuring a line-up of interactive panel discussions and inspiring keynote addresses in addition to various workshops and exhibitions which will take place during the three days summit enabling industry experts to share expertise and knowledge and explore the trends, insights and opportunities driving the continuous growth and development of the Arab aviation and tourism industry. Hosted in collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the summit will analyse the importance of impactful sustainability and disruptive technologies in a rapidly changing travel market. Stalwarts in the industry including Original Equipment Manufacturers, Destination Management Companies, tourism boards and start-ups, will include best practices and offer valuable perspectives on sustainable business models. Strategic sector discussions will also highlight curated and innovative products, services and initiatives that are currently changing the way people travel. The 10th Arab Aviation Summit will cement its status as the ‘voice of the industry’ with a series of workshops and partner networking events that open doors for discussions on opportunities and challenges in the sector. Endorsed by Arab governments, …

Wego and Japan National Tourism Organization bring the best of Japan to travelers. Through this partnership, Wego will work closely with Japan National Tourism Organization and develop a comprehensive and enticing campaign that will highlight the different aspects of Japan and showcase the best winter experiences. This will be promoted through all Wego’s marketing channels. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, Middle East, North Africa (MENA) and India of Wego, said: “We are excited to announce our partnership with the Japan National Tourism Organization to promote a new campaign to showcase the best of Japan to the world. Japan has a wealth of cultural and natural treasures that are sure to inspire visitors. This partnership allows us to give people an authentic experience and help travelers discover the unique beauty of the country.” Winter in Japan is one of the best seasons to visit the country, with a wide range of activities and experiences to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, relax in a hot spring, or experience the country’s rich culture and history, there’s something for every type of traveler. Mr. Daisuke Kobayashi, Executive Director of JNTO Dubai office, commented: “When it comes to traveling to Japan, many people think of the cherry blossom season in spring, but it is not the only attraction. Cherry blossoms in spring, green nature in summer, colored leaves in autumn, and snow in winter. The greatest feature of Japan is the diversity that allows you to enjoy the natural scenery of each season and unique experiences throughout the year. Especially in winter, you can try skiing on the powder snow, which is said to be one of the best …

Abu Dhabi convention and exhibition bureau (ADCEB) will educate corporates, associations, event organisers, MICE agencies, and other industry stakeholders in South Korea about Abu Dhabi’s strong MICE proposition, highlighting it as a dynamic global destination for business events. Mubarak Al Shamisi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are excited to open our first representative office in South Korea to further establish Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for meetings, incentive travel, conferences, and exhibitions. As we remain focused on progressing the emirate, growing our network of international offices will help us expand Abu Dhabi’s reach in newer markets. With the recent easing of travel restrictions in South Korea, we anticipate great demand for outbound MICE travel, making it the best time for us to establish our presence in this market.” In recent years, ADCEB has accelerated its financial and non-financial support towards strategic business events, which includes the launch of Advantage Abu Dhabi 2.0, an enhanced subvention programme that offers event organisers an array of support throughout the event planning cycle, comprising financial assistance and destination-driven value-adds. ADCEB continues to build strategic partnerships that ensures event objectives are met with world-class experiences for both planners and attendees. Earlier this year, ADCEB formed a strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, to further bolster support for MICE travel groups travelling to Abu Dhabi. Through this collaboration, ADCEB can offer eligible Advantage Abu Dhabi applicants additional flight benefits and perks such as group booking discounts, complimentary flights for large MICE travel group bookings on direct flights, and special flight rates for site/destination inspection trips to Abu Dhabi for clients who host their business events and incentive …

For the first time, the two most visited countries by the GCC, France and Spain have collaborated to bring out a special event titled, “Marhaba France, Spain 2023” which will take place in the Sultanate of Oman from 6th to 9th March 2023. The on-site event will bring in 70 suppliers from the two countries to meet 100 buyers from nine countries in GCC and ME region and expects to conduct over 2000 meetings. Karim Mekachera, Regional Director, Middle East, and Turkey, Atout France, “We will be organising Marhaba in collaboration with Spain and will be named as “Marhaba France, Spain 2023”. We have an array of 70 suppliers that will come over to meet with the travel trade from the region coming from nine different countries and of course this year we wanted to make something new and something different and as we work in the tourism industry, we thought to organise this event in another great destination and very popular in France, the Sultanate of Oman. Over three days we will have more than 2000 meetings, along with a special entertainment program, a special press corner for journalists to meet with all the different stake holders and promote both destinations. France and Spain remain as the two first destinations in terms of tourist arrivals in the world, so with this collaboration we also intend to introduce our travel trade to make the most of this event and partnership as they will be able to design new itineraries which can cover both countries France and Spain as they plan for their clients. We want the travel trade to think out of the box and give their Middle East clientele …

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 12th Sharjah Light Festival, organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), kicked off on Wednesday, 8 February 2023 and is set to continue until 18 February, covering 13 locations across the Emirate of Sharjah. The festival launched with an opening ceremony the Authority organised at University City Hall in Sharjah, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the SCTDA, along with a number of officials from the emirate, representatives of various media outlets in the UAE, and visitors to the event from the UAE and abroad. The opening ceremony included a dazzling light show titled Chasing the Light, a story of finding that flicker of light in the shadows, the silver lining and the efforts we take to keep the flame of curiosity high. This year’s edition of the Sharjah Light Festival presents performances and events in a new format, highlighting the emirate’s unique urban and architectural character, as well as its cultural identity, which have positioned it as an attractive destination for tourists and visitors from around the world. Mesmerising light shows and art displays will adorn buildings and destinations across the Emirate of Sharjah, with seven international artists taking part alongside a group of emerging creative artists. Speaking at the launch event, H.E. Al Midfa asserted that: “Sharjah Light Festival continues on its journey of excellence and innovation, continuously updating its visions and ideas, developing the technologies it relies on, and adapting to new …

Continuing its efforts to boost local tourism, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed an agreement with the Office of the Al Buraimi Governor to develop several tourism projects at prominent destinations across the governorate. The agreement was signed by Sayyid Dr Hamad bin Ahmed Al Busaidi, the Governor of Al Buraimi, and Eng Mohammed bin Salim Al Busaidi, Chairman of OMRAN Group Board of Directors, with senior officials from both parties in attendance. The agreement is part of OMRAN Group’s efforts to enhance partnerships with various stakeholders and achieve its tourism development objectives in the Sultanate. Under the agreement, OMRAN Group will provide technical support and oversee operations for the Al Buraimi Gate and Al Abila Park. The first project, Al Buraimi Gate, will serve as a platform for interaction between visitors and sub-activities through interactive digital panels and a display screen. The screen will display unique material and showcase the cultural history of the Governorate of Buraimi.Al Ubila Park will cover an area of over 181,000 square meters. The project aims to fulfil the desires of tourists, visitors, and residents of the Sultanate, showcasing the region’s rich beauty and creating a fun and relaxing recreational area for the community. Speaking on the agreement, Sayyid Dr Hamad bin Ahmed Al Busaidi said: “We are pleased to partner with OMRAN Group and establish significant projects that stimulate tourism growth in the governorate. These projects will enrich the tourism facilities and services for visitors. Recently, the Governorate of Buraimi implemented several development projects designed to attract visitors from across the Sultanate and advance economic growth in both the governorate and the Sultanate. These efforts will create many business opportunities for local …

Jazeera Airways partnered with the Georgian National Tourism Administration and Convention Bureau of Georgia to organize a roadshow promoting travel and tourism to Georgia. The event was attended by His Excellency Konstantin Zhgenti, Ambassador of Georgia to Kuwait, local travel agents and Jazeera Airways business partners from Kuwait. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Zhgenti said: “We welcome further development of all kinds of friendly relations between Kuwait and Georgia. Mostly important are people to people relations and economic and business cooperation. Direct flights between Kuwait and Georgia helped to develop our relations in this. Jazeera is the leader in this sphere. Tourism is also very important field in our cooperation and this event shows how aviation and tourism can cooperate successfully in this. I am pleased that Georgia is very popular touristic destination in Kuwait and hope that more and more Kuwaitis with support of Georgian tourist authorities visit Georgia in future.” A visa free destination for Kuwaiti citizens, Georgia offers a rich culture, dense history and diverse landscapes making it an ideal for both history and culture lovers. It also offers adventure sports for thrill seekers and green valleys for those that enjoy relaxing scenic views making it the perfect place for individuals and families, both in summer as well as winter. Jazeera Airways operates direct flights from Kuwait to Tiblisi, Georgia. While Tiblisi boasts great culture and food, there are also several other cities in Georgia that are a must visit such as Kakheti, Kudaisi and Gadauri. The flight duration is just under two and half hours, making it a convenient destination to plan a quick getaway from Kuwait. Bharathan Ravindran, VP – Sales for Jazeera Airways added: …

Kicking off the year ensuring the agents keep Switzerland at the top of their mind, as they recorded a surplus of tourists from the region last year, Switzerland Tourism Board in the GCC conducted its Race to Switzerland where 80 of the leading travel trade agents learn and specialise about the latest offerings and new destinations in Switzerland for a period of 24 hours. The event kicked off this year in Abu Dhabi’s Yas island, Matthias Albrecht Director Switzerland Tourism GCC shared the importance of the event to learn about the many new areas, attractions, hotels and the Swisstainable approach that they have been promoting with their efficient Swiss travel system. Last year Switzerland recorded a surplus of visitors from the GCC and this is yet another important initiative to ensure that the GCC will continue to explore the many new offerings in the destination. Speaking with TravelTV Matthias Albrecht Director Switzerland Tourism GCC reiterated, “It’s a fantastic event and we are very happy to be back as it’s the Race to Switzerland. It’s where the best travel agents from the UAE compete with each other in groups and they are somehow in a virtual trip through Switzerland and this year on the grand train tour of Switzerland where they visit different destinations, and then they participate in games and quizzes and get some points and at the end of their journey through Switzerland they have the chance to win a trip to Switzerland. We have 19 partners from Switzerland and Swiss International Airlines, they all have different break out sessions and they brought together some wonderful games, it’s a corporation between not just the Swiss partners but also the …

Dubai received 14.36 million international overnight visitors in 2022, growing 97 per cent YoY from the 7.28 million tourist arrivals in 2021, according to the latest data published by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The growth, which enabled the emirate to surpass global and regional tourism recovery levels, contributes to the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s top three cities for travel and business. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai said: “Dubai’s ability to rapidly accelerate tourism growth, which has marked it out as a clear frontrunner in the international industry,  demonstrates the far-reaching vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to transform the emirate into an important global player in shaping the future of vital sectors. The remarkable rise in international visitation in 2022 supports the ambitious goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033. The tourism and travel sector contributes significantly to the leadership’s aim of making the emirate a model for excellence in the global economy. “The exceptional growth in the inflow of visitors reflects Dubai’s continued rise as one of the world’s most connected cities and its determination to lead the world in hospitality infrastructure and service levels. The high growth shows the world that we never rest on our achievements and constantly work to raise our benchmarks. I am confident that Dubai will …