The 44th edition of the International Tourism Fair concludes its three days exclusively dedicated to professionals, surpassing its forecast of 150,000 attendees with a total of 153,000 visitors. This is reflected in the initial attendance data at the IFEMA MADRID Exhibition Center, indicating the complete recovery of the tourism sector. These figures represent a 12% increase compared to 2022. It is estimated that this influx of visitors to FITUR will generate approximately 430 million euros in revenue for the Madrid economy. FITUR receives institutional support with official visits from all five continents. As in every edition, in addition to the support of the tourism sector, FITUR has received strong institutional backing. After the official inauguration presided over by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain on the first day, the Fair has had significant presences such as Daniel Noboa, President of Ecuador, which is this year’s Partner Country of the International Tourism Fair. Additionally, it has received the official visit of the Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, representatives from the World Tourism Organization, the Ibero-American General Secretary, and more than ten regional presidents of Spain. In total, the 44th edition of FITUR has recorded the attendance of nearly 400 authorities, including State Secretaries, Tourism Ministers, ambassadors, business envoys, mayors from different regions, and other political and institutional representatives. Media coverage and social media impact of FITUR 2024 The fair’s growth and impact have been reflected in the extensive media coverage, with nearly 23,000 articles published in national and international media. In total, FITUR has accredited about 6,800 journalists (10% international from 53 countries). Moreover, in the social media sphere, during the first two …

Saudi’s national tourism brand ‘Saudi Welcome To Arabia’ has kicked off another global marketing campaign featuring football legend and Saudi Tourism Ambassador, Lionel Messi. Launching across key target markets in Europe, India and China, the “Go Beyond What You Think” campaign is anchored on consumer insights, which revealed there are still common misconceptions about the destination, and invites audiences to experience the incredible and vibrant cultural transformation taking place across Saudi. Those that know Saudi are encouraged to share positive experiences and memories on TikTok and social channels using the bi-lingual hashtags #ShareYourSaudi and in Arabic #السعودية_بعيونك,. The latest ‘Saudi Welcome to Arabia’ brand campaign is a combination of TV, Social, Digital, and OTA tactics activated over a three-month period. It is the latest in a series of initiatives by Saudi Tourism to foster broadening of perspectives, and bridging cultures through tourism. The campaign brings to life the UN Tourism, ‘Tourism Opens Minds’ Initiative that launched on World Tourism Day in Riyadh in September 2023, which extends a compelling invitation for travelers to broaden horizons and explore uncharted corners of the world. Governments and industry were presented with a special pledge, calling on them to promote new and under-appreciated destinations while consumers pledged to ‘be open-minded to new cultures and destinations, holding an open heart while travelling’ Lionel Messi is one of many leading international figures who took that pledge. Messi has a fond connection with Saudi being a frequent visitor to the country, including most recently with his wife, Antonella and their two children last Spring. Both Messi and his family have expressed delight in their Saudi experiences and a desire to continue visiting the country. Boldly addressing these …

Azizi Developments launched the construction of the second tallest tower, worth USD 1.5bn, located on prime plot of land on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road. Scheduled to be completed within 4 years, the tower will feature a vertical mall, luxury residences and opulent penthouses, a 7-star hotel, a one-of-its-kind observation deck, and numerous high-end F&B options, among other unique and exciting features and amenities. The date of the official ground-breaking ceremony will be announced later. Commenting on this milestone announcement, Mr. Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, said: “Today is a special day as we finally break ground on one of my dream projects in Dubai. While the formal ceremony will be held later, I am delighted to be marking this occasion with our own team at Azizi – a team that will be building this iconic tower.” “This tower will be our legacy. With Dubai having given my family and I so much – safety and abundance of opportunities – this tower, which will be the second tallest, is our way of giving back to this emirate and its remarkably hospitable and welcoming people.”, he continued.

Rotana announced plans to launch 8 new properties, double key count surpassing 4400 in Saudi Arabia across 16 properties in total. Saudi Arabia presents one of the fastest-growing markets in the region, and Rotana is on track to meet its ambitious goal to double the number of rooms it currently runs in the Kingdom over the upcoming years. Commenting on the expansion plans and participation in the Saudi Tourism Forum 2024, Rotana’s Chief Operating Officer, Eddy Tannous, said: “Participating in the second edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum was a truly enriching experience. With ambitious developments and plans at hand, Rotana’s continuous engagement showcases our commitment to shaping the future of tourism in the vibrant Saudi Arabia market.” The eight new properties include four “Edge by Rotana” and one “Rayhaan by Rotana” in Riyadh, “Dar Rayhaan by Rotana” in Al Khobar, “Al Manakha Rotana” in Madinah, and an “Edge by Rotana” in Al Baha. The forum is a key hub for stakeholders to discuss and showcase tourism advancements, emphasising Saudi Arabia’s rich history and unique hospitality. Rotana has made a commitment to participate in the forum since its inception in efforts to be in line with the tourism initiatives set in the Kingdom’s vision for 2030 and to take part in shaping the Saudi tourism sector. Across the wider GCC, Rotana’s strong regional pipeline for 2024 also includes Onyx Arjaan by Rotana in Manama, Bahrain, Bomonti Arjaan by Rotana in Istanbul, Türkiye, Riviera Rayhaan by Rotana in Doha, Qatar and Luxor Rotana Resort in Luxor, Egypt. Additionally, Rotana is also expected to make its debut into the Algerian market with the launch of Azure Rotana Resort & Spa in the …

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) announced a new partnership with Formula E to build the world’s first Formula E branded indoor karting attraction across multiple SEVEN entertainment destinations across the Kingdom. The announcement was made from the site of the Diriyah E-Prix where the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship double-header of races will take place on the spectacular illuminated race track this Friday and Saturday. Formula E was created to disrupt elite motorsport with a bold vision of using electric racing to accelerate sustainable human progress. What followed was the development of never-seen-before electric racing technology and pioneering race formats to create a sport unrestrained by tradition or expectation. Abdulla Nasser AlDawood, Chairman of SEVEN, commented: “Our strategic partnership with Formula E to bring never seen before Formula E branded racing tracks within our Entertainment destinations, strategically complements our mission of creating a Multiverse of entertainment offerings that cater to the different needs of our future guests that build and nurture their skills and evokes growth. We aspire to have the 1st Saudi car racing champion coming from our Formula E attraction. Alberto Longo, Co-Founder & Chief Championship Officer, said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside SEVEN, the entertainment champion in KSA. Our objectives and goals align in bringing the excitement of Formula E to the kingdom and taking fans closer to real racing action through the Formula E Karting experience across the SEVEN destinations. I am confident this incredible initiative will accelerate the potential of Saudi Arabia’s promising young drivers and create a future world champion.” The license agreement was signed by Eng. Essam Othman Al Jubair, Chief Operating Officer at SEVEN and Alberto Longo, Co-Founder & Chief …

Zardun in NEOM will comprise three distinct and luxurious boutique hotels, offering in total 100 rooms and suites, all of which are informed by a vision of a more sustainable future within this newly restored environment. Each hotel will have a different theme so that guests can enjoy an array of experiences that take in amazing views down a stunning valley and out over the sea. Zardun will offer trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing and a variety of other sports and leisure pursuits, including stargazing, meditation and yoga. In addition, guests will be invited to join in educational and field programs on nature protection, conservation and re-wilding. Luxury ecotourism in Saudi Arabia has taken a major step forward with the announcement of Zardun, an exclusive sanctuary resort developed by NEOM, the sustainable region taking shape in the northwest of the Kingdom. Announced by the NEOM Board of Directors, Zardun has been designed to seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with nature. The unique destination is the latest in a series of coastal assets that form part of the ongoing development taking place across the NEOM region. Overlooking the crystalline waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, Zardun is a nature-based resort that will host four ultra-luxury signature buildings, all of which will merge harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Intended to redefine luxury within an environmental context, Zardun aims to offer the ultimate premium ecotourism experience for discerning guests. Covering an impressive four square kilometers, Zardun will be a carefully restored haven filled with native plants and animals. Stretching down from the mountains to the seashore, its breathtaking beauty will be experienced on arrival by visitors at its state-of-the-art experience center, which includes a …

Emirates announced it will ramp up its operations in Australia by upgrading its second daily flight EK430/431 between Dubai and Brisbane to an A380 starting from 1 October, along with adding a second daily service between Dubai and Perth operated by a Boeing 777-300ER starting from 1 December.  From 1 October, Emirates’ second A380 flight EK430 to Brisbane will depart Dubai at 0230hrs, arriving in Brisbane at 2220hrs. Emirates’ return flight EK431 will depart Brisbane at 0155hrs, arriving in Dubai at 1005hrs. All times are local. The additional flight to Perth will be operated by an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER. Starting from 1 December, Emirates flight EK424 will depart from Dubai at 0915hrs and arrives in Perth at 0005hrs the following day. Emirates’ return flight EK425 will depart from Perth at 0600hrs and arrives in Dubai at 1310hrs. All times are local. Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia at Emirates, commented: “We’re pleased to offer more choice and opportunities for Australians traveling from Brisbane and Perth through the ramp up of our operations. It’s a demonstration of the importance of both gateways for tourism and trade, and Emirates’ commitment to ensure convenient schedules and comfortable connections to and through Dubai. Whether it’s the advantage of seamless afternoon connections from Dubai to a wealth of destinations across Europe on the second Perth flight, or a full A380 experience to and from Brisbane to close to 50 cities served by our flagship, we’re creating access to diverse opportunities for business, leisure, culture, and more. “The ramp up is also a testament to our commitment in enhancing global connectivity to our Australian gateways and supporting tourism and trade growth opportunities.”  Gert-Jan de Graaff, Brisbane …

Almosafer signed a partnership agreement with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) to enhance travel across the Haramain High Speed Railway network and expand offerings to Almosafer travellers. Under the agreement, which serves as a first distribution partnership for Haramain High Speed Railway, Almosafer will promote the train’s offerings as a truly convenient means of transport for travellers exploring the Kingdom, as well as for pilgrims, tourists and other travellers visiting the two holy cities. The high-speed luxury train provides a safe and fast method of travelling, linking the two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah through Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Abdullah Economic City, along a 450 km route. The agreement will offer the option of high-speed railway travel via platforms across Almosafer’s portfolio of businesses including the consumer segment; Discover Saudi, the destination management company; and Mawasim, the Hajj and Umrah tour operator. Muzzammil Ahussain, Chief Executive Officer of Almosafer, said: “Rail travel is a truly great way to explore the Kingdom in comfort and Haramain High Speed Railway facilitates seamless travel between the Holy sites and major cities in KSA. This partnership is an exciting opportunity that enables more of our customers to experience high-end rail travel and underlines our commitment to creating opportunities for sustainable ways of travel, in support of Saudi Vision 2030.” Rayan Alharbi, VP of Haramain High Speed Railway, said: “This partnership affirms our commitment to establishing strategic partnerships with leading national entities that contribute directly to making the Haramain High Speed Railway services a safe, fast and convenient transport option for a larger base of customers. As the volume of people travelling to the holy cities continues to rise, this partnership will …

Saudia, the official airline partner of the all-electric Formula E series, will bring car racing fans from around the globe to the Diriyah E-Prix on 26 and 27 January, in the nation’s capital of Riyadh. The race was first held as part of the 2018–19 season and was the first Formula E race to be held in the Middle East. Diriyah plays host to a pair of night races as Formula E illuminates the historic desert surroundings of the UNESCO World Heritage site on the 26th and 27th of January. Season ten of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship gets into gear with 21 twists and turns across the 2.495km Diriyah Circuit. Visitors to the race weekend will be treated to a fusion of the old and new, as the extraordinary destination acts as the backdrop against which cutting-edge all-electric racing cars will compete for victory – including the DS Penske DS E-Tense FE23 driven by former Formula E World Champion, Stoffel Vandoorne, whose position as Global Ambassador for Saudia has been continued for 2024. During the race weekend, fans will have access to an expansive E-Village, wherein Saudia will have a dedicated, newly developed Discover-E Zone. The E-Zone features a variety of interactive experiences designed to educate and excite fans in new and innovative ways including the revamped ‘Evolution in Your Hands’ virtual quiz and the enhanced ‘ReGen3rate’ game that allows fans to experience the exhilaration of racing on the Diriyah racetrack whilst controlling the battery levels in their car as they steer to pole position. For the first time ever, fans unable to attend the Diriyah E-Prix will be able to visit Saudia’s Discover-E Zone in an …

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) enters a new era today with a new name and brand: UN Tourism. With this new brand, the Organization reaffirms its status as the United Nations specialized agency for tourism and the global leader of tourism for development, driving social and economic change to ensure that “people and planet” are always center stage. UN Tourism: Transforming tourism for a better world – To achieve this goal, UN Tourism engaged the services of Interbrand, the leading global branding agency. Interbrand successfully translated the Organization’s renewed vision for tourism into a new visual identity and brand narrative. This involved renaming the Organization, transitioning from UNWTO to UN Tourism. At the same time, a new brand narrative was meticulously crafted, one that seamlessly aligns with UN Tourism’s central mission and priorities. This narrative pivots around three main messages: the UN as a global altruistic organization, the notion of connecting humans around the world, and the concept of proactivity and movement. Enhancing the well-being of individuals, safeguarding the natural environment, stimulating economic advancement, and fostering international harmony are key goals that are the fundamental essence of UN Tourism By moving away from acronyms, UN Tourism adopts a more approachable stance and capitalizes on its strengths: the “UN”, signifying authority, and tourism, a simple and relatable concept for all. This change has been endorsed by the Organization’s membership, highlighting its united support for the profound transformation and reinvention of UN Tourism in recent years, as it has become more agile, visible, and ever closer to its Member States, partners and the sector as a whole. With 160 Member States and hundreds of private sector affiliates, UN Tourism has its headquarters …