The Emirates Tourism Council held its fourth meeting of 2025, chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. The Council discussed the completion of the “Tourism Data Update” project in collaboration with the relevant federal and local entities. The project aims to establish a comprehensive national platform for tourism data, ensuring accuracy and transparency in measuring performance indicators. The platform will facilitate seamless sharing of data among all relevant entities. Participants reviewed a range of new tourism projects scheduled for implementation in 2026 as part of efforts to enhance the sector’s growth and competitiveness. Participants also followed up on the progress of recommendations and outcomes from the previous meeting. H.E. Bin Touq affirmed that the UAE has placed significant focus on developing the tourism sector as a key pillar of national economic growth. The country has implemented sustainable policies, strategies and projects in this vital sector, offering outstanding and unique tourism experiences for visitors from around the world and achieving major milestones that have reinforced the UAE’s leadership among regional and global destinations. The meeting was attended by the heads and directors general of the country’s local tourism entities, alongside representatives from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre. H.E. said: “The Council’s new tourism projects and initiatives represent a significant milestone in enhancing the growth and competitiveness of the tourism sector. They support our national efforts to highlight the diversity of tourism, develop comprehensive tourism offerings, and establish a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure for tourism data in the UAE, in line with international best practices. They also contribute to strengthening the UAE’s position as the world’s best tourism destination and building a sustainable tourism sector, in …

Visit Qatar and Experience Oman announced a new strategic partnership aimed at strengthening regional tourism cooperation and promoting multi-destination travel between the State of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman. The announcement was made during Visit Qatar’s participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025, one of the world’s leading trade and tourism exhibitions. Under this new strategic partnership, Visit Qatar and Experience Oman will develop integrated tourism packages and joint promotional initiatives aimed at encouraging visitors from key international markets, particularly from Asia and Europe, to explore both destinations in a single trip. Italy, Spain and China will prepare pilot markets for the implementation of the concept of joint cooperation. The announcement was made in the presence of Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, and Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism. Experience Oman was represented by H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, and  Shabib Al Maamari, CEO of Visit Oman. The partnership will also include joint promotional tours, unified participation in major international tourism events and exhibitions, as well as cooperation with major travel and tourism companies to develop and market joint packages for the two destinations that combine the cultural, heritage and luxury experiences of Qatar and Oman. The partnership reflects the two municipalities’ shared commitment to strengthening regional tourism links, increasing visitor numbers, and highlighting the Gulf region as a unified and world-class destination. By enhancing co-marketing opportunities and improving tourism connectivity, Visit Qatar and Experience Oman are positioning the region as a destination of choice for global travellers seeking unique experiences.

Almosafer has expanded its strategic partnership with VisitBritain to further promote Britain as a top destination for Saudi travellers. The partnership, formalized during the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, reinforces the ongoing collaboration between the two entities, aligning with growing demand and stronger travel links between Saudi Arabia and Britain. VisitBritain’s research shows strong interest among GCC travellers in exploring destinations beyond London, from Britain’s idyllic coast and countryside to its vibrant cities, cultural and sporting events, royal heritage, film and TV locations, and luxury experiences. This partnership with Almosafer is set to showcase the nations and regions of Britain and to develop a new portfolio of high-value packages featuring signature experiences found only in Great Britain. Oxford Economics data shows that Britain remains one of the top 10 destinations for Saudi travellers and continues to see robust year-round demand. Through this partnership, Almosafer will highlight the most exciting and trending destinations across Britain with bespoke offers, targeted campaigns, and travel experiences designed to showcase the country’s culture, heritage, and modern appeal to Saudi audiences. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said: “Our continued collaboration with VisitBritain underscores our shared commitment to enriching travel experiences for Saudi travellers. The United Kingdom remains a timeless favourite, offering a unique blend of heritage, diversity, and contemporary experiences. Together with VisitBritain, we look forward to deepening engagement with Saudi travellers and showcasing the best of Britain through our platforms and tailored offerings.” Gary Robson, VisitBritain Director for Europe, Middle East & India, said: “We’re delighted to strengthen our partnership with Almosafer to inspire more visitors from Saudi Arabia to choose Britain. Saudi travellers are among our highest-spending international visitors, and this collaboration is a …

Marriott International, Inc. announced that it has signed an agreement with Invest İnşaat to debut Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy® in Türkiye. Situated at Vadistanbul area, one of Istanbul’s most prominent business and lifestyle destinations, the project further expands Marriott’s growing portfolio of extended stay and premium apartment-style accommodations across the region. Construction of Invista, Istanbul, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy has commenced, with an anticipated opening in 2026. Access Hospitality will collaborate with Marriott International and Invest İnşaat as the third-party operator for the franchised property. “Marriott International continues to see rising demand for premium apartment-style accommodations in major primary and secondary cities,” said Begüm Kaya, Senior Director, Development – Türkiye, Marriott International. “We look forward to working with Invest İnşaat to introduce Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy® in the country. This milestone highlights our commitment to expanding innovative lodging options in the market that meet the evolving preferences of today’s travellers.” Bahattin Uçar, Chairman of Invest İnşaat added, “We are proud to once again collaborate with Marriott International on this landmark project. Vadistanbul represents the future of urban living in Istanbul, and bringing Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy to this vibrant development reflects our shared vision to deliver world-class hospitality and lifestyle experiences in Türkiye.” Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy offers a truly independent stay with sizable living spaces and sophisticated locally inspired design, making each stay refreshingly unique. Located within the Maslak Koru phase of Vadistanbul, the property will feature a curated selection of 130 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments designed for travellers seeking space, comfort, and flexibility. Plans for each unit include a separate living area, full kitchen, and in-unit laundry amenities. The property is also slated to include a fitness …

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence in the region with the signing of Wyndham Hotels & Residences Cairo West, marking the debut of its namesake Wyndham brand in Egypt. Located in Cairo West’s vibrant district, this 5-star property will feature 532 elegantly designed accommodations, including 150 hotel rooms and 382 branded residences, all adhering to Wyndham’s latest design and service standards. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including well-appointed standard rooms and a variety of suites. The branded residences will offer a mix of stylish studios, spacious one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, catering to both short and extended stays. Egypt’s tourism industry reached a record high in 2024, welcoming over 15.7 million visitors despite regional challenges1. With this upward trajectory expected to continue, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is committed to expanding its footprint in this key market. The Wyndham Hotels & Residences Cairo West will offer over 1,500 square meters of versatile event space, including a grand 900-square-meter ballroom, meeting rooms, and a pre-function area making it a prime destination for conferences, weddings, and large-scale events. The property will also feature three dining venues, a state-of-the-art fitness center with spa facilities, an outdoor pool, a business center, and a dedicated children’s play area. Construction is set to begin in early 2026, with an anticipated completion date of December 2029. Once open, the hotel will create over 600 jobs, supporting Cairo’s growing tourism sector. Conveniently located in close proximity to the Grand Egyptian Museum and the iconic Giza Pyramids, the property will provide both business and leisure travelers with a prime location to explore the city’s rich heritage. “Egypt’s booming tourism industry and growing demand for …

The Royal Commission for Makkah City & Holy Sites (RCMC) has signed a strategic agreement with Almosafer, part of Seera Group, to strengthen the tourism ecosystem in Makkah and enhance the overall pilgrim and visitor journey. Through this collaboration, Almosafer will work closely with RCMC to showcase Makkah’s unique cultural and spiritual heritage while introducing innovative, technology-enabled services designed to deliver a seamless, world-class experience for visitors from within Saudi Arabia and around the world. The partnership leverages Almosafer’s integrated travel services platform and diverse portfolio of brands to curate enriching experiences for Makkah’s millions of annual visitors. This includes: ● Mawasim, Almosafer’s Hajj & Umrah tour operator, which will enhance religious travel services and pilgrim facilitation. ● Discover Saudi, its destination management company, which will design and promote Umrah+ itineraries that combine spiritual rituals with cultural, historical, and leisure experiences in Makkah. By integrating Almosafer’s market expertise, digital technologies, and global marketing capabilities with RCMC’s vision for destination development, the agreement aims to introduce authentic yet elevated experiences that align with international standards while respecting the sanctity of Makkah. Khalid Kurdi, GM-DMO said: “This agreement with Almosafer reflects our commitment to developing Makkah’s tourism offering in a way that protects its sacred identity while embracing excellence in visitor experience. Together, we will deliver services that are authentic, innovative, and deeply respectful of the city’s spiritual significance.” Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer (Part of Seera Group), added: “We are honoured to partner with the Royal Commission for Makkah City & Holy Sites. Makkah holds global spiritual significance, and through this collaboration, we aim to design integrated solutions and signature experiences that meet the highest international tourism standards while honouring the …

Ministers gathered at WTM London 2025 shared their views on how smarter, more inclusive investment models can help destinations to share more widely the benefits of travel and tourism. The 19th edition of WTM London’s Ministers’ Summit, in association with UN Tourism and WTTC, offered examples of how the public and private sectors are working together to fund the opportunities and mediate the challenges of growing travel and tourism markets. Many destinations are using tax breaks and other incentives to drive tourism development. Christina Frasco from the Philippines talked about how it was offering fiscal incentives and opening new economic zones for tourism that champion sustainability, green innovation and job creation. She also talked about accelerating the role of the private sector, which includes the government’s plans to privatise many of its airports. Similarly, Kenya is using tax incentives and economic zones to encourage private investors to build up tourism along its 500km of coastline. Rebecca Miano added that the government was working on air connectivity and finding ways to encourage airlines to add Kenya to their network. Increasing air capacity is also a priority for Costa Rica as it looks to address a drop in visitor from the United States. It is marketing strongly in Europe and looking to add more direct flights from the continent. Tax breaks are also being used by Ecuador as part of its strategy to promote the mainland to visitors to the Galapagos Islands. It has recently allowed the private sector to help manage conservation zones and offers incentives to tourism investors which show a commitment to rural tourism and to working with indigenous people. Elsewhere, airports emerged as an immediate way to engage …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with WebBeds, the agreement underscores a shared commitment to driving tourism growth and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s global reach. As part of this growing strategic alliance, the two entities will collaborate to significantly enhance Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape. This will involve empowering travel trade professionals within WebBeds’ network with enhanced knowledge and resources, enabling them to offer more informed and expertly guided travel experiences. Additionally, DCT Abu Dhabi will develop and disseminate compelling content showcasing Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural and touristic offerings, including Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, to raise awareness and drive bookings across WebBeds’ extensive global distribution and travel agency networks. , a global leader in travel trade, for a fourth consecutive year. Signed by HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi and Amr Ezzeldin, President of WebBeds MEA at World Travel Market (WTM) 2025. HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Our collaboration with WebBeds over the past three years has proven highly effective in expanding Abu Dhabi’s global tourism footprint. This partnership has been instrumental in delivering successful campaigns, from local activations to globally recognised initiatives, that showcase our unique cultural heritage and diverse attractions. The fourth renewal underscores our strong, shared commitment to driving sustained visitor growth and building a lasting tourism legacy for Abu Dhabi.” Amr Ezzeldin, President of WebBeds MEA commented: “As we proudly enter this next chapter of our partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, WebBeds remains committed to supporting Abu Dhabi’s bold vision with renewed energy, regional insight, and creative excellence. …

Hilton announced the signing of an agreement with Wirgan Hospitality to rebrand two of their trading hotels in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Makkah and a DoubleTree by Hilton. Both hotels are set to open before the end of the year, further strengthening Hilton’s presence in the Kingdom and the Holy City. The signings will almost double Hilton’s trading presence in Makkah – by rooms – to more than 4,100 keys. Carlos Khneisser, Chief Development Officer, Hilton, MEA, said, “We recently surpassed the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia – and we are thrilled to build on this momentum with the signing of these two properties. As we continue to expand our footprint in the Kingdom, we remain committed to diversifying our portfolio to meet the needs of every traveller. Our partnership with Wirgan Hospitality is testament to this as we introduce our Tapestry Collection brand to the Holy City and bolster our presence with the introduction of DoubleTree by Hilton to the Aziziyah district of Makkah – enhancing Hilton’s hospitality offering in a key global destination.” Omar Al Harbi, CEO, Wirgan Hospitality, said, “We are proud to partner with Hilton to support the future growth of the two exceptional properties we have developed in Makkah. As one of the most significant destinations in the Kingdom, Makkah holds deep religious, cultural and spiritual importance. These openings reflect our ongoing commitment to elevate the hospitality offering in Makkah and the Kingdom in line with Vision 2030, and to leverage Hilton’s global reach and commercial engine.” Located near Jabal Al Noor, one of Islam’s most sacred sites, the 1,386-guestroom …

The Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) announced a focused strategy to deepen its engagement with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) B2B tourism sector. This initiative is aimed at positioning Georgia as a premier, high-value partner for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) operators, travel agencies, and investors, capitalizing on the nation’s rapid tourism growth and strategic development plans to create significant new partnership opportunities. “We are building a foundation for long-term growth by forging strategic alliances with the GCC travel trade and investors to jointly develop high-quality, innovative tourism products that cater to the evolving demand for authentic and immersive experiences. Georgia’s dynamic tourism landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for partnerships and collaborations as we continue to nurture the country’s growing reputation as a preferred international travel destination,” said Mrs. Maia Omiadze, Head of Administration at the GNTA. The GCC outbound travel market, projected to more than double to USD 158.8 billion by 2034, represents a pivotal growth segment. Georgia has successfully captured this demand, with arrivals from key GCC markets experiencing triple-digit growth in recent years. This aligns with the country’s broader tourism success, which saw over 2.9 million international visitors in H1 2025 and a record USD 826 million in Q1 revenue, contributing 7.2% to the national GDP. This proven demand presents lucrative opportunities for B2B collaboration in high-yield sectors. As a core component of this strategy, GNTA is launching a targeted promotional and educational campaign across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait throughout Q4 2025. The program includes destination webinars and in-person events, offering GCC tour operators, OTAs, and MICE agencies exclusive access to Georgian suppliers, in-depth market knowledge, and co-marketing frameworks.