Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development, has launched the second edition of the “GIFTED” program—one of its flagship social investment initiatives. The program forms part of the Group’s #IAmTourism strategy, which aims to empower national talent and strengthen its presence in the tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman. This edition builds on the success of the first phase, which was implemented at dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Al Jabal Al Akhdar and achieved positive outcomes in both training and integration. The current edition includes 13 participants with disabilities who are undertaking a six-month intensive program designed to provide them with the practical skills and knowledge required to work in the tourism and hospitality industry. The program represents a practical step toward inclusive employment, offering promising opportunities for participants to join a number of OMRAN Group’s leading hospitality assets in Muscat Governorate, including W Muscat, InterContinental Muscat, JW Marriott, Crowne Plaza at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Barceló Mussanah Resort. Hilal bin Rashid Al Mukhaini, Assistant Director at the Department of Specialized Rehabilitation Centers at the Ministry of Social Development, affirmed: “The Ministry of Social Development is committed to developing a comprehensive framework that enables persons with disabilities to fully integrate into the labour market, in line with its developmental vision to promote independence and self-reliance. The ‘GIFTED’ program, launched in partnership with OMRAN Group, stands as an important practical model of this approach, by providing tailored training and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in the tourism sector, in line with their abilities and potential.” He added: “Partnerships between the public and private sectors are a cornerstone in the rehabilitation and …

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism announced that it will host the UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit on 27 October 2025 in Dubai, as part of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World 2025). The Summit aims to enhance economic and tourism partnerships between the UAE and African nations, boosting mutual investments across key priority sectors, particularly tourism, hospitality, and related services. As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Bench – the organizers of FHS World – in the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. The MoU was signed by H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector at the Ministry, and Daria Smith, Portfolio Director at The Bench. The two parties will collaborate on organizing the event and coordinating its promotional efforts, in line with the Summit’s objective of highlighting investment opportunities in tourism-related activities and projects across the African continent. The event will bring together over 250 high-level participants, including senior government officials, decision-makers, and investors from 53 African countries, including tourism ministers and representatives of investment promotion agencies from across the continent. This reinforces the UAE’s role as a reliable investment partner for Africa and opens new avenues for strategic collaboration in vital sectors that contribute to building a more integrated and sustainable economic future. H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor said: “The UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit will serve as a strategic platform for exchanging insights and expertise between the UAE and African nations, supporting sustainable development efforts through the establishment of projects and partnerships that serve mutual interests. This aligns with the objectives of ‘We the …

In a move to boost the MICE industry in the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau to host M&I Expo from 14- 16 April 2026. The three-day programme incorporates one-to-one pre-scheduled meetings, hosted lunches, and evening socials, bringing the buyers and exhibitors maximum opportunities to connect and foster valuable partnerships. “Hosting the M&I Expo in Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate’s strength and sustained growth as a premier destination for business events and incentive travel. Our latest achievement reflects our strategic commitment to building a world-class MICE ecosystem offering cutting-edge event venues and exceptional hospitality rooted in our core cultural values. With iconic venues such as Qasr Al Watan and Yas Marina Circuit, complemented by Abu Dhabi’s diverse leisure attractions such as the newly opened teamLab Phenomena, we are confident this event will showcase the very best of what our destination has to offer.” Mubarak Al Shamsi – Director of Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau

The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will host the 68th Annual Convention & Exhibition of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) from 17 to 19 September 2025, further deepening its strategic partnership with one of the emirate’s most important source markets. Held under the theme “Business with Goodness,” the convention will bring together a wide cross-section of India’s travel trade industry, including travel agents, tour operators, airlines, hospitality leaders, and tourism boards, to explore new growth avenues and reinforce bilateral ties. As one of the year’s most significant industry events, the convention highlights Abu Dhabi’s rising profile as a global hub for tourism, trade, and business events. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “India continues to be a key priority market for us, not only in terms of visitor volume but also in long-term strategic collaboration. We are honoured to welcome TAAI’s esteemed members to Abu Dhabi and look forward to showcasing our destination’s remarkable evolution across world-class cultural icons, family attractions, luxury, adventure, and business travel offerings. This convention is an opportunity to build shared value and lasting partnerships across both our markets.” Sunil Kumar, President, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), said: “It is a proud moment for TAAI to bring the 68th Annual Convention to the dynamic city of Abu Dhabi in collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi. Our theme, “Business with Goodness,” reflects our shared vision of building meaningful partnerships rooted in trust, purpose, and progress. This convention will not only provide an enriching platform for knowledge-sharing and networking but also offer our members an immersive experience into Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural, leisure, and business landscape. We …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has extended its successful partnership with Palms Sports, organiser of UAE Warriors, which will see the emirate host the Middle East’s premier mixed martial arts promotion for an additional three years. Established in 2012, UAE Warriors has cultivated an international reputation amongst industry leaders and fans alike through the consistent delivery of action-packed match ups and top-tier production. This renewed agreement not only solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for combat sports, but also marks a historic expansion, bringing the thrilling action of mixed martial arts to the emirate’s Al Ain Region for the first time. Al Ain Region will host two UAE Warriors events during the 2025 season, with an additional two events per annum planned for the 2026-2028 period. Expansion outside of Abu Dhabi City underscores DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to diversifying its tourism offerings and showcasing Al Ain Region as a destination for sports entertainment and cultural experiences. The move is set to attract a new wave of visitors and further bolster Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation on the global martial arts stage. His Excellency Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi is growing in prominence as a global sports hub through the continuous expansion of our network of international and regional partnerships, resulting in an array of top-tier sporting events being hosted in the emirate. This extension of our partnership with Palms Sports marks a new chapter for UAE Warriors, bringing an exciting programme of mixed martial arts to Al Ain Region for the first time. New audiences will discover Al Ain Region’s unique destination offering …

Diriyah Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Helicopter Company (THC), the Kingdom’s premier commercial helicopter operator, to explore potential opportunities and the integration of advanced air mobility solutions for the Diriyah project. This strategic collaboration supports Diriyah’s vision to become the world’s premier cultural and tourism destination, targeting 50 million annual visitors by 2030. The MoU was signed by  Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, and Capt. Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC. The MoU aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, supporting national efforts to diversify the economy and enhance key sectors including tourism, mobility and infrastructure through the adoption of advanced technologies and sustainable development practices. The MoU covers a wide scope of collaboration, including strategic planning and integration, to explore the potential of incorporating Urban Air Mobility (UAM) services within Diriyah’s urban framework. It also emphasizes regulatory alignment and leveraging THC’s expertise in guiding Diriyah Company as its partner in the establishment of operational, technical, and infrastructural foundations to ensure efficient and compliant implementation of air mobility solutions within the birthplace of the Kingdom. The MoU highlights the importance of engagement with the air mobility ecosystem, including air transport operators, technology providers, and infrastructure developers, with an emphasis on environmental and social sustainability. To initiate this collaboration, Diriyah Company and THC will form a joint working group to assess opportunities and evaluate the potential impact of introducing innovative urban air transport services within the Diriyah project. If implemented, these services are expected to play a transformative role in the Kingdom’s urban air mobility and tourism sectors, further elevating Diriyah’s position as a premier global destination in support of Saudi Vision 2030. Commenting on …

According to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2025 – a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Dubai’s evolving destination offering, driven by impactful public-private partnerships and amplified through a robust global marketing strategy, resulted in the city welcoming these visitors.  His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to make the city a major global business and tourism destination. This milestone reflects Dubai’s steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world’s most connected city. Dubai’s ability to create compelling experiences that meet the evolving needs of visitors has strengthened its status as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. From exceptional infrastructure to unique attractions, Dubai offers a model of excellence in the tourism and hospitality sectors grounded in innovation.” “As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, tourism will remain key to driving GDP growth and cross-sector value creation in the emirate’s economy. By continually anticipating the needs of travellers and exceeding their expectations, we are strengthening Dubai’s position as the world’s best city to visit, live, and work in. Partnerships, global campaigns, events, and a series of new openings showcased the city to both new and returning international visitors, while DET’s …

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) has launched the Germany Halal Travel Guide, a dedicated resource designed to support Muslim travellers in planning seamless, culturally respectful journeys throughout Germany. Available in both English and Arabic, the guide can be downloaded free of charge from a dedicated microsite hosted on the official Germany Travel website. Created with the expectations of GCC visitors in mind, the guide features practical information and curated recommendations. It highlights halal dining, prayer spaces, and culturally considerate stays that help visitors from the region feel comfortable and confident while exploring Germany. Germany continues to grow as a preferred destination for travellers from the GCC, supported by a well-developed infrastructure, strong hospitality standards, and an inclusive approach to tourism. In cities such as Berlin, Dresden, Dusseldorf and Munich, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of halal restaurants, Arabic-speaking staff, and accessible prayer spaces, all contributing to a sense of ease and belonging. The Germany Halal Travel Guide offers valuable insights for Muslim travellers seeking experiences aligned with their lifestyle and travel preferences. Whether visiting for leisure, medical care, education, or retail tourism, the guide introduces options that support spiritual needs and cultural expectations. It also showcases Germany’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and world-class wellness facilities in a format that makes trip planning both efficient and rewarding. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing and Sales Office, GNTO GCC, said: “The launch of our Halal Travel Guide reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring Muslim travellers feel informed and welcomed in Germany. The guide presents clear, accessible information to support planning and create a worry-free travel experience. We are committed to showing guests from the GCC that Germany is a destination …

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Integrated Tourism Complex project in Salalah, Oman, with a total investment of AED764.5 million, underscoring its ongoing commitment to enabling key development projects in the tourism sector. The project aligns with the Fund’s broader strategy to foster sustainable growth in partner nations through high-impact projects that promote economic diversification and strengthen tourism infrastructure. Spanning across a total area of 2.5 million square meters in Jinawf, Oman, the development aims to significantly enhance the city’s tourism infrastructure and capacity through the construction of world-class hospitality facilities. Additionally, the project promotes the national goal of economic diversification and reinforces Oman’s position as a leading tourism hub regionally and globally. Attending the investment’s groundbreaking ceremony ceremony was attended on the Omani side by His Excellency Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, and the Manager of Dhofar Municipality. Representing Abu Dhabi Fund for Development were Eng. Rashid Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Investment Sector, and Eng. Mohammed Al Hamedi, Technical and Admin Support Manager. Reinforcing the project’s role as one of the most significant UAE investments in Oman’s tourism sector. The first phase of the project spans approximately 604,000 square meters, including the construction of a luxury resort which comprises over 120 rooms and chalets, as well as the developments of the marina, the rehabilitation of coastal and beachfront areas, and the implementation of essential infrastructure works, including roads and public utilities. These integrated components aim to deliver a seamless visitor experience, enhancing Salalah’s tourism profile and contributing significantly to the sector’s sustainable development. H.E. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi …

As part of its ambitious strategy to enhance its position on the global tourism map, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Schauinsland-Reisen, one of the leading travel and tourism companies in Germany and Europe. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Ajman’s tourism promotion efforts in the European market through integrated marketing and promotional campaigns, including digital advertising, event organisation, and tailored media programs. The collaboration will also involve the development of innovative travel packages that meet the preferences of European tourists. The initiative is expected to attract more European visitors to Ajman and introduce them to the Emirate’s diverse tourism offerings, which combine rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a modern hospitality infrastructure. Commenting on the agreement, His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi said: “This step reflects our unwavering commitment to implementing a comprehensive strategy that enhances Ajman’s competitiveness on the global tourism stage and targets new, high-potential markets. Partnering with a reputable company like Schauinsland is a real asset, given their extensive experience and wide-reaching network in the European market, which will help us reach targeted tourism segments.” Mr. Eken also praised Ajman’s tourism potential, stating: “We are delighted to be part of this valuable cooperation. We believe this partnership will open new doors for German and European tourists to discover a unique destination like Ajman, which blends authenticity with modernity and offers warm Arabian hospitality.” This agreement comes as part of a series of initiatives launched by the Ajman Department of Tourism Development this year, including the establishment of a new representative office in the Federal Republic of Germany. This office was unveiled during the department’s participation in ITB Berlin 2025, one of …