The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has awarded 70 hotels in Dubai with the ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’, a new sustainability initiative that seeks to recognise hotels with the highest level of adherence to DET’s 19 ‘Sustainability Requirements’. With Dubai taking the lead as the first city in the region to mandate sustainability criteria for its hotel classification system, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp (DST) initiative further reinforces its drive to become a leading sustainable destination. The initiative, launched last year in tandem with the UAE Year of Sustainability, which also saw Dubai hosting the milestone COP28 in Expo City Dubai, seeks to support hotels in the city to achieve their sustainability goals as they meet the highest standards of DET’s Sustainability Requirements. The comprehensive set of requirements that hotels need to implement include sustainable management approaches, performance metrics, energy, food and water management plans, guest education, employee training initiatives, creating sustainability committees within hotel establishments, and Corporate Social Responsibility programmes for local communities. The recipients of this certification were honoured at an award ceremony hosted by DET at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, and attended by top hospitality executives as well as DET senior leadership. The awards were presented by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and Mr. Yousuf Lootah, Head of DET Environmental Sustainability & Social Responsibility Committee. The DST Stamp validates the commitment of the 70 hotels to implementing sustainability practices and activities, further meeting the expectations of travel industry partners, and an increasingly environmentally conscious traveller base. The stamp is awarded based on a three-tiered system of gold, silver, and bronze, related to the winner’s level of compliance …

Saudi Arabia’s government revised its combined domestic and international 2030 visitor target upwards from the previous 100 million to 150 million. Amid sustained investment in its tourism, hospitality and leisure segments, as well as a slew of ambitious gigaprojects, the Kingdom aims to increase the economic contribution of its tourism sector to 10% of national GDP by the end of this decade. Representing almost a 50% increase in KSA exhibitor participation, ATM 2024 will host a selection of high-profile exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, including SAUDIA, flynas, NEOM, Dur Hospitality, AMSA Hospitality and the Royal Commission for AlUla. First-time exhibitors will comprise almost 17% of the total Saudi participation, which includes Cruise Saudi, Tabuk Investment and Tourism Co., Al Badiah Transportation, Sixth Gulf and Fairmont Mekka Clock Tower, among others. KSA will represent a key focus for attendees as policymakers, industry leaders and travel professionals from around the world share insights, forge new relationships and showcase cutting-edge innovations with the potential to drive further growth within this burgeoning tourism market. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, said: “We plan to shine a spotlight on this exciting market at ATM 2024 with adedicated Saudi Village, which will be highlighted on the exhibition floor and will consist of a full showcase of Saudi products. With significant interest in this market, there will be a range of panel discussions that will enable attendees to identify and capitalise on new opportunities in the Kingdom.” Saudi Arabia is on course to welcome an estimated 30 million overnight tourists this year, according to research conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of ICAEW. Delegates from around the world are preparing to capitalise on this momentum and explore …

Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight from Doha to Medan touched down at Kualanamu International Airport this week marking Medan the airline’s third destination in the Republic of Indonesia. The new direct service will complement the award-winning airline’s over 40 weekly flights to Jakarta and Bali. His Excellency the Minister of State President of Qatar National Library Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari represented the State of Qatar at the inaugural event, which was organized by the award-winning airline in collaboration with the ‘Years of Culture’ to mark the successful completion of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture. Qatar-Indonesia sought to deepen the understanding of Qatar as a hub for arts and culture, tourism, education, and sports while celebrating the unique aspects of Indonesian culture and building sustainable partnerships through more than 50 programs across both countries. The new route to Medan solidifies the ties between both nations as the The Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture comes to a close. During the inaugural event, passengers were greeted with cupcakes and music at the departure gate of Hamad International Airport (DOH). Onboard the inaugural flight, QR966 carried esteemed officials and were welcomed at Kualanamu International Airport by water cannon salute and high-ranking government officials and dignitaries.The official Gala dinner was also attended by officals and dignitaries from both countries, The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Indonesia, H.E Ms. Fawziya Edrees Salman Al-Sulaiti, Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, H.E Ridwan Hassan, Medan Mayor Mr. Muhammad Bobby Afif, and Secretary General for Years of Culture Steering Committee & Director of Executive committee, Ms. Sara AlMohannadi. The Minister of State, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, said: “The success of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture laid …

Osaka, Japan witnessed 305% search increase from UAE as for Emiratis or UAE nationals it is visa on arrival and Japan introduced the e-visa system for expatriates who live in the UAE making it one of the most sought after destinations over the past few months. Taking the second place in travel searches by UAE travellers Antalya saw an increase of 273% followed by Tokyo Japan with 250%, Rome took the 4th position with 154% and Berlin at 5th position with 96%. In terms of the experiences that were booked by travellers cultural and personal experiences were some of the rising trends seen.

Buyers from 18 international markets are taking part – the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, the USA – the UK’s largest and most valuable inbound visitor market, as well as from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Nordic countries, South Korea and Switzerland. National tourism agency VisitBritain is gearing up to welcome more than 120 international travel buyers for a series of educational visits across Britain, as part of its flagship ‘Showcase Britain 2024’ trade event. The educational visits, underway from 27 January, are a mix of three-to-five-day itineraries to destinations across England, Wales and Scotland, showcasing to buyers and travel media the latest tourism products across Britain and the fresh and exciting experiences for visitors to come and enjoy this year. VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates said: “We are delighted to be showcasing Britain’s outstanding destinations, tourism products and experiences to international buyers and travel press, highlighting the very best of our nations and regions to broaden travel itineraries and drive bookings. From the beauty of our coast and countryside, the vibrancy of our cities and cultural attractions to our world-class dining and accommodation, buyers will experience first-hand the quality of our tourism offer alongside the warmest of British welcomes. I know that the international buyers and media will return home in no doubt about the outstanding quality of tourism products and experiences available right across Britain.” VisitBritain’s in-country teams have worked in partnership with destination management organisations and destination management companies across England, Scotland and Wales to develop tailored itineraries* for each inbound market. The hosted visits are part of the national tourism agency’s ‘Showcase Britain’ trade mission, which gets …

THE RIG. world’s first adventure tourism destination to be built on an offshore platform in the Arabian Gulf which will redefine the sea sports and leisure experience while celebrating the legacy of Saudi Arabia’s rich oil and gas heritage seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences. THE RIG., launches its Masterplan, an ambitious and unprecedented vision for tourism that will redefine adventure tourism in the world. The project is in line with PIF’s strategy and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives of contributing to the growth of the tourism sector, directly and indirectly contributing to employment opportunities, and diversifying the economy. THE RIG. is inspired by the design of offshore oil platforms, to celebrate the legacy and heritage of Saudi Arabia’s long oil and gas history. The unique hospitality and adventure experience will span a gross floor area of over 300,000 square meters, located 40km from the coastline, near Al Juraid Island and Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf. THE RIG. will seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences, including adrenaline seekers, explorers, balanced holiday makers, and relaxation seekers. The range of hospitality, leisure, entertainment and accommodation options provided by THE RIG. include three hotels totaling 800 rooms, along with 11 restaurants, an extreme sports and adventure park, a world-class marina, and helipads. THE RIG. will feature a wide variety of water activities, including a diving center, in addition to an amusement park, splash park, an E-sports center, an immersive theater and multi-purpose arena. THE RIG. will also celebrate the Kingdom’s rich oil and …

Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create new entertainment zone to provide a unique experience with specialized aircraft that perform commercial tasks other than transporting passengers in the air. This brings delight to travelers who enjoy the travel rituals without going too far. These planes are equipped to offer an entertaining experience and serve delicious meals. More information will be available and announced later. H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GeA) has announced the start of construction of the new BLVD Runway, as one of the Riyadh Season zones, in cooperation with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia). The zone offers fresh adventures on five planes. The new zone allows visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines from renowned restaurants. Additionally, the zone features thrilling activities such as a horror themed experience on an airplane. The announcement came after GEA CEO Eng. Faisal Bafarat and Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer Khaled Tash in the presence of H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, signed an MOU. This agreement is a joint effort between Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create the zone.  

72% of UAE travellers would attend concerts in a different country according to the latest research from Skyscanner. 38% of UAE travellers would fly short haul to see their favourite artist live. As the year begins, the travel trends are changing immensely. The terminology used is ‘Gig tripping’ which is one of the new travel vibes revealed. Catching their favourite artist abroad is the way forward in 2024. If international artists will not be playing in Dubai, the UAE travellers will opt to travel to whichever country the artist will perform. With some superstars announcing big international tours, there is more interest now in travelling abroad to catch a show.

Al Faisaliah Hotel has officially rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. This marks Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s debut in the Kingdom, bringing the brand’s prestige and legendary service to a landmark in the heart of Riyadh. To mark this significant milestone, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held in the presence of Al Khozama Company’s Chairman, His Royal Highness Prince Bandar Bin Saud Bin Khaled Al Saud, and Chief Executive Officer, Khalid Saud Abu Haimed, as well as Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s senior leadership including Chief Operating Officer, Christoph Mares, Chief Commercial Officer, Joanna Flint, Area Vice President Operations, Michael Koth, and General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, Richard Johnson. As part of the ceremony, the hotel’s signature fan designed by Her Royal Highness Princess Nourah Al Faisal was unveiled, a stunning creation that draws inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s rich history, dynamic present and compelling future. Khalid Abu Haimed, Chief Executive Officer of Al Khozama Investment, said, “The Al Faisaliah district, a defining presence in Riyadh’s skyline since 2000, forms an indelible part of the community’s collective memory. With the arrival of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to the Kingdom, the iconic property is poised to add even more excitement to the capital and Al Faisaliah district, promising every visitor a uniquely elevated and enriched experience.” The hotel’s General Manager, Richard Johnson, stated, “We are honoured to continue Al Faisaliah Hotel’s legacy as an iconic hotel and lifestyle destination, whilst reaffirming Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to the region. Our mission is to bring the exceptional to life, putting our guests right in the heart of luxury, business, prime dining and exploration, complete with the impeccable service that Mandarin Oriental is known …

The official inauguration of JW Marriott Hotel Muscat was celebrated in a grand celebration concurrent with the Sultanate of Oman’s 53rd National Day and in alignment with the National Tourism Strategy 2040, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) heralds the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East. This event marks the introduction of the globally acclaimed JW Marriott brand to Oman, signifying a momentous stride in positioning Oman as a leading global tourism destination. The inauguration ceremony was graced by His Excellency Salim Mohammed Al Mahruqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, along with esteemed dignitaries, OMRAN Group officials, and key figures in Oman’s tourism industry. JW Marriott Hotel Muscat, a 5-star facility with an investment of approximately 47 million Omani Rials, encompasses 304 rooms and suites. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy international hotel chain, it is the first JW Marriott branded hotel in Oman. Strategically located in the heart of Madinat Al Irfan East and directly linked to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), the hotel is poised to offer exceptional experiences to its guests, significantly contributing to Oman’s tourism sector. His Excellency Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahruqi remarked on the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East, stating that it represents a pivotal stage in the urban development of the city, creating a vibrant tourist destination that celebrates Omani identity. With comprehensive facilities like the OCEC, designed to global architectural and environmental standards, this development aligns meticulously with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives to promote sustainable tourism development, economic diversification, and preservation of natural resources. Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group, remarked, “This project is a direct reflection of our …