The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Mubadala Foundation signed a partnership agreement, where the latter will contribute AED 50 million to the emirate’s cultural industry over the next five years in a first-of-its-kind agreement. The partnership marks a significant step forward in their shared mission to transform and elevate the emirate’s vast cultural landscape, with Mubadala Foundation also being appointed as an ‘Education & Community Partner’ of DCT Abu Dhabi’s across the culture sector, including the Saadiyat Cultural District and other similar sites. The close cooperation between DCT Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Foundation presents an important commitment to fostering cultural programmes and initiatives, including projects with the renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi and the highly anticipated Zayed National Museum. His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “At DCT Abu Dhabi, we have cultivated compelling partnerships that are central to community development and fuel economic progress that aid Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. Our commitment to this is reinforced by the signing of this partnership with Mubadala Foundation, underscoring our promise to transform the emirate into a global centre for culture and creativity. Through this stakeholder collaboration, we are poised to deliver unparalleled experiences to visitors from around the globe and enable the creation of a dynamic cultural ecosystem that invites exploration and engagement.”  

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have signed a pioneering agreement that opens a new chapter for cultural collaboration, chartering the course for a new phase in AlUla’s long history as a nexus for cultural exchange and development. The agreement was announced at the 45th UNESCO World Heritage Committee, chaired by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh this month. It launches Phase 2 of the five-year umbrella accord that RCU and UNESCO signed in November 2021 encompassing heritage conservation and interpretation, safeguarding intangible and tangible cultural heritage, engagement, capacity-building, and creative arts. Phase 2 of the partnership focuses on two main projects: an Integrated Cultural Programme for the development of AlUla, and the advancement of the UNESCO/Kingdoms Institute Fellowship Programme focusing on heritage and archaeology. The RCU-UNESCO Integrated Cultural Programme, which is the centrepiece of the new agreement, will over the next two years provide technical assistance and capacity building, support in the development of international networks, and enhance visibility and recognition of cultural heritage and creativity as a driver of AlUla’s sustainable development. It will also address the role heritage and creativity can play in building sustainable cities and regions, building social capital through a culture-engaged, people-centred development model for AlUla.  

Rotana announced at the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS), its growing pipeline as it looks to expand its operations with 30 planned openings in the next three years. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remains a key focus for the hospitality brand as it signed four “Edge by Rotana” and one “Rayhaan by Rotana” properties in Riyadh earlier this year. The new hotels will add an impressive 618 keys to Rotana’s expansive portfolio in the Kingdom. In line with Rotana’s ambitious goal to triple the number of rooms it currently runs in the Kingdom to 6,000 over the next four years, the group added an “Edge by Rotana” property in Al Baha to its portfolio in 2023. Across the region, Rotana is gearing up to open several new properties during the last quarter of 2023, leveraging the buoyant hospitality trade. For the remainder of 2023, Rotana will see the opening of Riviera Rayhaan by Rotana in Doha, Qatar and Bomonti Arjaan by Rotana in Istanbul Türkiye. Commenting on the announcement, Makram El Zyr, Corporate Vice President of Development at Rotana, said: “We are excited to be participating in the Future Hospitality Summit again this year, offering a fantastic opportunity for Rotana to showcase its latest developments and connect with industry peers. Leveraging our keen understanding of the market, we look forward to further developing our brand presence across the region as well as entering new markets globally, always delivering on our brand promise of ‘Treasured Time’ to guests across the world.”

Cruise Saudi’s AROYA Cruises promises a design- led, luxurious environment from which to explore the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, and Cruise Saudi has announced that it will be collaborating with leading brands in cruise ship design, SMC and PARTNER SHIP DESIGN (PSD) to support in this vision. SMC, the original designer of AROYA Cruises first ship, has been chosen as the lead designer for the refurbishment project. As lead designer, SMC will provide interior and architectural design, branding and art consultancy to Cruise Saudi for its visionary new cruise line. Based in London, SMC are an established design firm and a pioneer within the maritime interior design arena. Hamburg-based firm PSD has been assigned by Cruise Saudi as a partner designer. PSD provides ship design and building services, with expertise in new ship builds, refurbishments and conversions of cruise ships, river cruises, yachts and ferries. As a design partner for AROYA Cruises, PSD will perform the interior design, design details and documentations, follow-ups, and engineering support. Commenting on the announcement, Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, said: “We are delighted to be working with some of the best visionary innovators in cruise ship design for our premium cruise offering, AROYA Cruises. Working with sector-leading experts such as SMC and PSD will play a crucial role in ensuring that AROYA Cruises offers a comfortable, luxurious and inspiring environment from which passengers can enjoy the highest standard of service and facilities.” AROYA Cruises is Saudi’s first cruise line, designed for nationals, expatriates and regional guests. Announced in June 2023, AROYA Cruises will offer a premium travel experience from booking to boarding and beyond.

The Philippines is a nation that knows how to celebrate life, culture, and tradition in grand style. Across its 7,641 islands, a dazzling array of festivals showcases the heart and soul of this vibrant archipelago. From colourful parades to religious processions, these festivals offer a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Filipino culture. Let’s uncover some of the most captivating and culturally significant Philippine Festivals that define the country. Sinulog Festival (Cebu): Held on the third Sunday of January, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City honours the conversion of locals to Christianity. It features a grand parade with thousands of participants in vibrant costumes dancing to the rhythmic beat of drums, all while chanting “Pit Senyor!” (Hail, Lord!). The Sinulog Festival is a testament to the deep Catholic faith of Cebuanos, and it’s a dynamic fusion of religious devotion and exuberant festivity. Ati-Atihan Festival (Kalibo, Aklan): The Ati-Atihan Festival in January honours the Santo Niño (Child Jesus). This lively event commemorates the arrival of Malay settlers in Panay Island and involves participants painting their faces with black soot, donning tribal attire, and dancing in the streets to the beat of drums. Rooted in both spirituality and tradition, the Ati-Atihan Festival radiates a genuine sense of camaraderie and community, making it a unique and spirited celebration that immerses visitors in the rich history and warm hospitality of Kalibo. Dinagyang Festival (Iloilo, City): This festival is a thrilling showcase of faith and festivity as it commemorates the arrival of Christianity to the island. Expect intense drumming, captivating street dancing, and participants in elaborate warrior costumes. It’s a dazzling spectacle that engulfs visitors in the infectious energy and rich traditions of Iloilo, …

RAK Properties announced its partnership with Nikki Beach Global luxury lifestyle resort, branded residences and beach club operator, to develop Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah, a new branded resort at Mina Al Arab in Ras al Khaimah. The resort, developed in partnership with RAK Properties, will bring Nikki Beach’s Celebration of Life atmosphere to Mina Al Arab, a luxury lifestyle destination that offers the tranquillity of island life with beach access and panoramic views of the Gulf. Guests will have a vast array of rooms and villas to choose from in the 155-hotel key resort, as well as access to the brand’s signature Nikki Spa, Tone Gym, and restaurant concepts. While Nikki Beach is renowned for its lively luxury beach club and resorts destinations around the world, the brand has recently announced several new resorts worldwide where visitors can experience a more relaxed barefoot luxury environment. Further details of the hotel development and opening date will be announced in due course. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Ras Al Khaimah will be designed by Gensler, a unique global architecture, design, and planning firm that creates authentic and memorable experiences by integrating community, health, and lifestyle into their creations. Gensler, as industry leaders in driving sustainable change and net-zero buildings, align with RAK Properties’ own vision to integrate the resort with the beautiful natural environment of Mina Al Arab, while ensuring the new concept fits seamlessly into the Nikki Beach worldwide portfolio of barefoot luxury properties. Gensler will follow the Barjeel guidelines set by the RAK Municipality, integrating local products and natural materials in all aspects of the building and its interiors, connecting with local artists to highlight the …

As Future Hospitality Summit 2023 kicks off, Hilton has announced plans to increase its presence in the Middle East by more than 125% in the years ahead. Openings across the region continue, bringing Hilton’s ambitious expansion plans to life. In Qatar, LXR Hotels & Resorts welcomed The Plaza Doha to its portfolio earlier this year, further strengthening Hilton’s luxury presence in the country. In addition, Hilton celebrated the debut of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts on the African continent with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis in September. More openings are expected in the months ahead across a range of brands and countries, including: Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour Hilton Riyadh Olaya Hilton Cairo Nile Maadi Embassy Suites by Hilton Dubai Business Bay Hampton by Hilton Kuwait Salmiya   In Saudi Arabia, a key development market, multiple new properties were signed in August, including a Conrad Hotels & Resorts property in Riyadh’s Laysen Valley, two hotels in Abha, and a Canopy by Hilton at the Porta Jeddah Development. With these signings, Saudi Arabia has become Hilton’s largest pipeline market in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and fourth largest globally. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said, “Our multi-brand growth strategy continues to show results, with close to 100 hotels – totalling almost 25,000 rooms – set to open in the Middle East in the near future. We are also proud to be managing an active pipeline, with approximately 70 percent of our Middle East projects currently under construction. We look forward to seeing these hotels come to fruition in the years ahead, while continuing to agree new properties.” Hilton will …

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) has launched a global initiative to train and support professionals from the travel industry, enabling them to become “Israeli Specialists” through a self-learning module program in collaboration with Travel Agent Academy. The e-learning program consists of five interactive and engaging sessions, each followed by a quiz. Its goal is to make Israel as the preferred Mediterranean destination among travel professionals. The introductory module provides a comprehensive overview of the main sights, cities, hotels, and distinctive experiences in the country, along with captivating information about its multicultural population. The four advance modules are designed to empower learners to fully grasp the destination’s experiences and offerings: Christian Travel through Israel – General and Faith-Based Multigenerational and Heritage Travel in Israel Food, Wine, and Culture Outdoor Adventure in Israel’s- Diverse Landscapes Travel industry professionals from the United Arab Emirates can register for the Israel Destination Specialist e-learning portal free of charge and commence their educational journey. A onetime self-registration is required on the Israel Destination Specialist portal, which can be completed promptly to accommodate work and learning schedules. The first 40 learners who successfully complete the modules and submit the electronic certificate from the portal to tourism@vfsglobal.com before September 30,2023, will receive incentive vouchers as a token of appreciation from the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Qualified learners will be notified via email by October 10, 2023. Her Excellency Ms. Liron Zaslansky – Consul General of the State of Israel in Dubai emphasized the significance of strengthening ties between Israel and the UAE through tourism stakeholders. “The Israel Destination Specialist serves as a platform for UAE travel professionals to explore and showcase Israel’s diverse tourism offerings, ultimately inspiring …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi kicked off Abu Dhabi Travel & Tourism Week (25-30 September), a platform which brings together the emirate’s travel and tourism industry to foster growth and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s status as a global tourism hub. The initiative aligns with the emirate’s broader vision to welcome over 24 million visitors this year and further enhance the business and leisure tourism industries, driving economic impact to the UAE capital and beyond. The week starts with the first City Tourism Briefing event and supports the roll-out of Abu Dhabi Business Events Forum, Abu Dhabi Wedding Show and the Future Hospitality Summit, leveraging the collective power of many tourism stakeholders from diverse industries all contributing their expertise and insights to drive progress. HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 drives our ambitions to build a strong foundation of strategic partnerships that facilitate the establishment of the emirate as a thriving global hub for business, investment, and leisure travel.  The Abu Dhabi Travel & Tourism Week is set to unlock new opportunities that reaffirm our commitment to positioning Abu Dhabi as a dynamic and sustainable hub for tourism.  We look forward to fostering growth in the sector by accelerating high-potential industries such as gastronomy, aviation, and business events and welcome all of our partners and future collaborators to join us in our journey.” Abu Dhabi Travel & Tourism Week will advance the emirate’s tourism industry across a range of sectors, such as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) events, hospitality, destination marketing, weddings, tourism strategy, and more.

Rove Hotels is poised to make its way across the GCC and beyond with its ambitious expansion plan as it targets the milestone of 10,000 rooms in operation or under development  over the next five years. Homegrown in the UAE, Rove Hotels currently boasts over 3,400 operational hotel rooms across its various properties. It has garnered a reputation for seamlessly blending sustainability, innovation, and local art to curate spaces that resonate with modern explorers. From co-working areas to eco-friendly operations, world-class service scores and many innovative offerings, such as the region’s only hotel rooms designed for gamers, Rove Hotels constantly pushes the boundaries of what a lifestyle hospitality brand can offer. Rove has already proven its ability to manage a varied portfolio of properties with distinctive propositions, such as city hotels, event-led hotels, beach properties and even a theme-park hotel located at the Middle East’s largest amusement park destination, Dubai Parks and Resorts. With this expansion strategy, the Rove brand is prepared to weave its narrative of community-centred travel and off-the-beaten-track exploration into the fabric of even more regional urban destinations. This strategic decision to establish a strong Middle East presence comes after Rove’s record commercial performance numbers in 2022, the brand’s best-ever year. Paul Bridger, Chief Operating Officer of Rove Hotels, said recently of the expansion plans, “In this exciting new phase of Rove’s journey, we’re looking forward to taking our unique lifestyle hospitality concept to new destinations. As a homegrown brand, we are thrilled to see the tremendous growth in tourism that the region is experiencing, and we believe that Rove Hotels can play an important role in providing accessible quality accommodation options for travellers.”