Mohamed Al Rais Executive Director Al Rais Travel Group speaking with Travel TV Middle East shared that this year with summer and Eid holidays setting in, Al Rais will be promoting Latin America for the travellers from the UAE. Key outbound destinations booked by travelers from the UAE this summer will reflect a blend of cultural exploration, iconic landmarks, and diverse experiences. Paris, London, Barcelona, Rome, and Istanbul consistently rank among favorites, additionally, destinations like Japan and South Korea attract UAE travelers with their unique blend of traditional heritage and modern innovations. Australia and New Zealand emerge as sought-after destinations for UAE travelers seeking outdoor adventures and natural wonders. At this year’s ATM, we’re excited to spotlight the cutting-edge features and capabilities of our travel technology solutions, including booking platforms, mobile apps, analytics tools, and more. By demonstrating how our technology streamlines processes, enhances customer experiences, and fuels business growth, we aim to capture the attention of tech-savvy attendees and decision-makers seeking innovative solutions. In addition, we’ll emphasize the value of our GSA representation services for airlines, highlighting our market expertise, extensive distribution network, sales optimization strategies, and cost efficiencies.

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO), along with 15 co-exhibitors representing cities, airports, and hotels, have successfully concluded another year at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), underscoring Germany’s commitment to the Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition. The annual gathering has proven crucial in reinforcing Germany’s ties with the GCC region, showcasing its diverse tourism offerings and sustainable travel initiatives. The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) serves as a cornerstone for the GNTO’s strategic outreach within the GCC region, connecting with travel professionals and decision-makers across the UAE and broader GCC. It provides a platform to foster valuable partnerships and allowing for engagement with potential Gulf visitors. Additionally, ATM offers invaluable insights into the region’s latest travel trends and preferences, enabling GNTO to tailor its marketing strategies effectively. During the four-day event, the GNTO showcased innovative marketing strategies focused on sustainability in the tourism sector. The GNTO’s engagement with partners and stakeholders underscored its commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with Germany’s rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes to position the country as a prime destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking meaningful experiences. The significance of the GCC market to the German tourism sector was emphasised at the ATM, highlighting its role as one of the top three overseas source markets and its rapid recovery post-pandemic. Early 2024 statistics demonstrate the market’s resilience, with GCC travellers recording 128,745 overnight stays in Germany during the first two months alone. The robust growth trajectory underscores Germany’s enduring appeal as a preferred destination for GCC tourists. Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the Sustainable Tourism Journalist Award, recognising journalists whose work highlights the crucial connections between tourism and sustainability. A panel of …

Al Hamra announced the opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, a notable addition to its distinguished hospitality portfolio. The announcement perfectly aligns with Al Hamra’s 5-year strategy which involves expanding its portfolio, optimizing assets, and upgrading existing services, thereby contributing to Ras Al Khaimah’s transformative growth towards becoming the ultimate liveable destination. The partnership with Accor to introduce Ras Al Khaimah’s first Sofitel resort was initially announced in late 2021. Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort seamlessly blends French elegance with local heritage to offer guests an unmatched experience amid the picturesque landscape of Ras Al Khaimah. The resort features 292 intricately designed lavish guest rooms that embody modern luxury and comfort. Complementing its exquisite accommodations are seven dining venues offering a diverse array of flavors from around the world to satisfy every palate. Furthermore, available are an array of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, beachfront swimming pools and kids and teens’ club. Given its location, guests at the resort can take advantage of the various leisure activities offered in the destination Al Hamra. The championship 18-hole Al Hamra Golf Course is a golfer’s haven, while The Royal Yacht Club of Ras Al Khaimah provides a fully serviced marina with both dry and wet berthing options, along with a variety of water sports and entertainment choices. Benoy Kurien, Group CEO, Al Hamra, said, ” The opening of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort is another step towards bringing the firsts and bests to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The addition of diverse hospitality options aligns perfectly with the Emirate’s goal of enhancing its tourism offerings.” Al Hamra remains committed to fostering innovation and excellence across its varied asset portfolio. …

Minor Hotels announced an enhanced strategic partnership with dnata Travel Group to elevate the booking and in-destination experience for global travellers. The long-term agreement is aimed at advancing the travel experience through flexibility, exclusive packages, and savings for leisure and corporate customers, whilst driving the mutual global growth plans for both companies. Minor Hotels is expanding rapidly, aiming to add more than 200 hotels to its global portfolio by the end of 2026. In partnership, dnata will support Minor Hotels in the launch of new hotel and resort openings, through dual-branded business opportunities. The strategic partnership will cover dynamic distribution for leisure and corporate travellers, wholesale distribution for the travel trade, destination management company (DMC) integration to elevate the travel and in-resort experience, and an aligned sustainability programme and initiatives. Leisure travel Minor Hotels is offering dynamic rates to dnata Travel Group brands in all markets in which the Emirates Group operates. Leisure travellers will have access to all direct rate types from every brand under the Minor Hotels portfolio including Anantara Hotels & Resorts; Tivoli Hotels & Resorts; Avani Hotels & Resorts; NH Hotels & Resorts; NH Collection Hotels & Resorts; nhow Hotels; Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites; and the Elewana Collection. Travel agencies under the dnata portfolio will create preferred travel packages inclusive of Minor Hotels stays for select destinations. Minor Hotels is also integrating with dnata Travel Group DMC businesses – Arabian Adventures and Destination Asia – and its leisure, MICE, cruise, and ancillary sectors. This will increase traveller flexibility in booking dynamic packages, and in-destination experiences, with plans to improve direct access to booking an enhanced range of world-class activities and travel extras in resort. Corporate …

Speaking with Travel TV Middle East, H E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority shared that at the Arabian Travel Market one of the key programmes to be promoted is the special tour guide license which would be awarded to those who complete the course ensuring that all modules are covered. The courses range from beginners to advance and also renewal tour guide programmes during the ATM and it will continue during the year. If the modules are completed at ATM, then the certification can be received within a period of four hours. Chairman, SCTDA reiterated, “As we mark our 24th participation at the Arabian Travel Market alongside 23 public and private entities representing the emirate, SCTDA’s commitment to innovation and sustainability within Sharjah’s tourism sector remains unwavering. The emirate stands out as a pioneer in the travel industry, embracing a comprehensive approach that includes significant progress in infrastructure development, the launch of authentic tourism and leisure destinations, and dedicated efforts to preserve cultural and historical treasures. Sustainability practices lie at the heart of these endeavors, driving forward an eco-friendly emirate. In line with ATM’s theme of ‘Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship,’ we are dedicated to reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of Sharjah in the tourism sector, fostering opportunities for individuals to craft unique travel experiences that are eco-conscious, sustainable, and innovative. The emirate’s entrepreneurial environment fosters groundbreaking initiatives across all sectors, with the tourism industry fully embracing this commitment.”

Expedia launched a web experience to the United Arab Emirates market, with a Gen-AI enabled app coming later this month. Expedia Group made the announcement from the Arabian Travel Market while celebrating a booming $25B+* travel and tourism industry in the region. The UAE is leading in travel and tourism sector growth, with Dubai becoming one of the top global destinations for travelers in recent years**. The global travel brand Expedia, which currently operates in over 30 markets, will offer worldwide flights and access to hundreds and thousands of lodging options globally so citizens and residents of the United Arab Emirates can book the best staycations in the country and most memorable vacations globally. “Visionary leadership, a strategic long-term plan, a business-friendly environment and a vibrant multicultural society are driving the remarkable growth in the UAE, across multiple industries including travel and tourism. Expedia Group is an innovative technology company as much as it is a travel company, and we want to grow with the UAE and with the region. We want to grow together,” explains Rehan A. Asad, vice president of global markets at Expedia Group. “We’re excited and committed to serving UAE citizens and residents and offer them the comfort, convenience and confidence that they have a trusted partner for their family and friends to travel together. We want to provide the best product, all in one place.” Expedia is at the forefront of technology innovation in the global travel industry, and its UAE app-offering, coming later this month, will host features that help travelers overcome barriers to travel. Expedia was the first travel company to integrate ChatGPT into its app, offering a convenient source of travel inspiration. …

Praveen Shetty Chairman and Managing Director Fortune Group of Hotels shared with TravelTV Middle East that the focus for 2024 are Far East which includes China, Asia, Apart from the source markets the next big announcement made at the Arabian Travel Market is the addition of a new 4 star property in the heart of Bur Dubai. Shetty reiterated, “This reflects our commitment to growth and long-term plans, extending even to our food and beverage offerings. Thanks to our dedicated team, Fortune continues to thrive, and we look forward to the journey ahead. Arabian Travel Market is very instrumental for us as a group, helping us to expand our reach, foster partnerships, drive business growth, and stay informed about industry trends and market dynamics. One of the events we look forward to attending, as it showcases a very diverse audience not only from the middle east, but also other emerging markets like North Africa and beyond. The event also offers us with networking opportunities with industry peers, potential partners, and suppliers.”  

Egypt tourism shared that they welcomed record 15 million tourists in 2023. Dr. Ghada Shalaby, Egypt’s Vice Minister of Tourism and Antiquities for Tourism Affairs, said: “Egypt is gearing up to attract a wide range of travelers based on its commitment to diversifying its tourism offerings. The Ministry has worked to unveil a group of new products that meet the evolving preferences of travellers, from health tourism to meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions tourism, all the way to the innovative Umrah Plus product and the attractive Cairo City Break program.” Dr. Ghada noted that cooperation lies at the heart of Egypt’s tourism strategy. By strengthening partnerships between tourism entities in Egypt, the Far East, and GGC countries, among other Arab countries, the Ministry aims to combine efforts in promoting Egyptian destinations and ensuring unparalleled experiences for visitors. Through collaborative endeavours, the tourism sector is ready to flourish and grow. “Egypt’s commitment to infrastructure development remains steadfast. From enhancing transportation networks to enhancing airport facilities and expanding railway systems, significant investments are being made to improve accessibility and connectivity across the country. These initiatives play an essential role in facilitating smooth travel experiences for visitors to Egypt, said Dr Ghada Amr El-Kady, CEO, Egyptian Tourism Authority, mentioned that Egypt is witnessing a qualitative shift in its approach to tourism, as by embracing the dynamism of the private sector, the country is embarking on a journey of liberation and promoting an enabling environment for investment and innovation in the travel sector. From this standpoint, the Arabian Travel Market, held in Dubai, constitutes an essential platform to complete these efforts and raise its status at this level.” Mr. Al-Kady pointed out that the …

In 2024, Malaysia aims to welcome 27.3 million international tourist arrivals and generate RM102.7 billion in tourism receipts. The remarkable rise in visitors from the Gulf region in recent years fuels Tourism Malaysia’s enthusiasm to further cultivate this market. Tourism Malaysia participates in the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, showcasing the country’s latest attractions and destinations to attract more tourists from West Asia. The four-day prestigious event held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 6 to 9 May 2024 marks Malaysia’s 31st year of participation, demonstrating its enduring commitment to this burgeoning market. Led by the Honourable Chairman of Tourism Malaysia Datuk (Dr.) Yasmin Mahmood, and accompanied by Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot, Deputy Secretary General (Management), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Malaysian delegation comprises a good mix of 75 organisations, including hotels and resorts, travel agents, tourism product owners, and representatives from state tourism boards. The Malaysia Pavilion will engage with Middle Eastern buyers, generating interest while highlighting tourism products and services tailored to their specific needs and preferences, thus underscoring the importance placed on West Asia as a key source of tourists, especially during its summer vacation. “With the upcoming launch and celebration of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, we strive to attract more West Asia tourists. We recognise the immense potential of this market, not only in terms of outbound tourism but also trade and investment. “We are confident that Malaysia’s position as a top destination for Muslim travellers, coupled with our intensified promotional efforts, will enable us to achieve our target,” stated Datuk (Dr.) Yasmin Mahmood during the launch of the Malaysia Pavilion today.  

Tourism projected to account for 12% of UAE GDP this year, as GCC policymakers gather to discuss future of regional travel at ATM 2024. H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, noted the tourism sector’s growing contribution to the Emirates’ economy in his opening comments on ATM 2024’s Global Stage. “According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), our tourism sector has been a dynamic force within our economy, contributing an impressive 11.7% to GDP [in 2023], amounting to AED 220 billion,” H.E. Al Marri told attendees. “For 2024, the forecast is set even higher, with an anticipated contribution of 12% to the [UAE’s] GDP, equating to AED 236 billion.” H.E. Al Marri’s speech was followed by a panel discussion between H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; H.E. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority; H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman; and H.E. Sarah Buhijji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. The session was moderated by Dubai Eye presenter, Richard Dean. Gulf-wide collaboration, ease of inter-regional travel and infrastructure development were placed under the microscope at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, which saw a selection of policymakers discuss the streamlining of the GCC’s thriving tourism industry. The 31st edition of ATM is being hosted at Dubai World Travel Centre (DWTC) until Thursday 9 May. During the in-depth discussion, the ministerial panellists explored the importance of inter-regional initiatives in elevating the GCC tourism industry to the next level, while striking the right balance between collaboration and competition between destinations and nations. The planned GCC Unified Tourist …