Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Hamad International Airport (DOH) stands poised to welcome visitors from around the globe, as Qatar hosts the prestigious 18th edition of AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM. Set to take place from January 12 to February 10, 2024, the tournament will see twenty-four of the continent’s top teams competing in 51 matches across Qatar’s state-of-the-art stadiums. Drawing from the lessons and expertise gained during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 TM, the airport has meticulously planned its operations to ensure a seamless arrival experience for visitors entering the vibrant city of Doha. The comprehensive preparation includes seamless coordination and communication among all stakeholders ensuring optimal service delivery. Extensive collaboration with transport providers guarantees efficient connectivity to and from the airport, the city, and the stadiums, with multiple public transport options, including taxis, bus services, and the metro, available for visitors. Arriving passengers can access necessary amenities like foreign exchange services, food and beverage options, convenient stores, ATMs and purchase local sim cards, which are all conveniently located at the arrival hall. Passengers who have a transit time of more than 8 hours have the option of booking a Doha city tour through Discover Qatar, the destination management company of Qatar Airways, to experience the city during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 TM. Qatar Airways, the country’s national carrier, has partnered with the Asian Football Confederation to transform the fan experience at Asian football competitions in the coming years, including the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM. The home and hub of Qatar Airways, Hamad International Airport is set to bring the tournament experience to the terminal with a dedicated fan zone and exciting activations that will provide an immersive experience to …

It was announced that Oman had exceeded the set target of 2.5million tourists by end of 2023 and went on to receive 2.9million tourists by end of October 2023. According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism Oman has achieved high indicators in the goals of Oman 2040 vision. While the target was to reach 33,000 hotel rooms by the end of 2025, the Ministry’s statistics indicate that the achieved indicator stood at 32,371 by the end of September 2023. This was revealed by Oman News Agency. The target percentage of tourism sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) at constant prices for the year 2025, set at 2.75 percent, was almost accomplished in 2022, when GDP at constant prices for that year stood at about 2.4 percent. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is embarked on utilizing statistical figures in a systematic manner to produce indicators that both support tourism decision-making and realize the sector’s goals in Oman Vision 2040.

H.E Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, said: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to play a major role in investing in the talent required to meet the needs of this thriving sector. This is strategically aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 goals in relation to youth empowerment and women. As an illustration, we have increased female labour force participation by 64% since 2021. Providing insights and data on the sector’s status quo, the report allows countries and regions to set clear goals to empower women and engage youth. ” According to the latest research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC), initiated by the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, reveals that the global Travel & Tourism sector is delivering soaring employment opportunities to women and young people around the world. The report shows that the Travel & Tourism sector directly employed a rapidly rising number of women between 2010 and 2019, increasing from 38.6 million to 47.8 million, an increase of 24%. It also found hospitality to be the leading employer of women within the sector, accounting for more than half of female employment. Young workers are shown as an important component of the sector’s workforce, representing 15% of all jobs in the sector in both 2010 and 2021. By contrast, the share of young workers in overall global employment fell from 16.5% in 2010 to 12.5% in 2021, highlighting the importance of Travel & Tourism to youth employment. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “As part of our Environmental & Social Research, we are incredibly proud to have worked alongside the Sustainable Tourism Global Center and to be releasing this incredibly …

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority (SCTDA) in partnership with Sharjah Sports Council and Professional Footgolf Tour will host the Sharjah International Footgolf Tournament from 12th to 14th January. HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said: “The Sharjah International Footgolf Tournament further emphasises the efforts being made in Sharjah to enhance Sharjah’s position as a premier tourist destination. We are delighted to be welcoming professional footgolf players from all over the world to Sharjah next month, and we look forward to inviting these players to enjoy the Emirate’s rich history, geography, nature, culture, heritage, archaeology, and arts.” The world’s top footgolf players, with both men and women competing for cash purses over a two-day competition, utilising an 18-hole, stroke-play format will be held at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club. Footgolf, a sport combining football and golf. The Professional Footgolf tournament will take place at Sharjah’s world-class country club, with some of the world’s best players traveling to the Emirate from across the globe to participate. The event will bring together over 140 players from more than 20 different nationalities to take on the challenging course. The tournament will consist of four players per group, teeing off every six minutes. Players will compete across two days, vying for more than $40,000 in total prize money. The event is also open to amateur footgolf players based in UAE with a prize fund of $1,500 up for grabs, with these players also eligible for the overall fund. While Footgolf tournaments have taken place all over the world to date, the Sharjah International Footgolf Tournament will be the first of its kind within the GCC. “We’re thrilled to be bringing the region’s first …

The Norwegian Dawn cruise ship arrived at Doha Port with a ceremony by Qatar Tourism, as part of the 2023/24 cruise season that opened in late-October in Qatar. The welcome ceremony featured a traditional Ardah performance, henna, dhow souvenirs, Arabic calligraphy art, sadu weaving, and net making for disembarking passengers. The cruise ship can accommodate up to 2,340 passengers, and has an operating crew of 1, 032 members. It will be anchored for two nights, allowing passengers to explore nearby sites in Doha which include the Mina District, Souq Waqif, National Museum of Qatar, and more. Speaking on the arrival of the cruise ship, His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, stated, “The pioneering arrival of the Norwegian Dawn and its regional debut is a significant milestone for Qatar’s growing cruise tourism sector and marks Qatar’s international appeal as a cruise destination. Qatar Tourism is keen to create new partnerships and agreements with leading cruise lines and extend the opportunity to international passengers to explore Qatar’s abundant events calendar as well as its world-class museums, attractions, and cultural hotspots.” Captain Abdulla Mohamed Al-Khanji, CEO of Mwani Qatar, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Norwegian Cruise Line maiden voyage to the shores of Qatar and the Gulf region. This important event reflects the growing interest of cruise operators to dock at Doha’s Old Port and depart from it to other cruise terminals in the region. Qatar has rapidly evolved within the cruise tourism industry, emerging as a prominent global destination in this expanding sector. Its captivating attractions and ideal geographical location have been strongly recognised and have made Qatar a highly sought-after destination by both …

Begin 2024 with a tropical escape and welcome the year with a commitment to craft unforgettable memories. Envision a trip through stunning landscapes, with thrilling adventures, full of savory cuisine, culture, and captivating encounters. Begin your year with the promise of enriching experiences in the Philippines. As the cool, dry season graces the islands in the initial three months of the year, this period provides an ideal window to explore a country that is filled with warmth, beauty, and the genuine hospitality that the country is renowned for. Here are our top recommendations for planning a trip to the archipelago in 2024. Palawan Start your journey in a sanctuary for nature lovers seeking either tranquility, adventure, or a perfect blend of both. Explore the Underground River in Puerto Princesa – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and navigate through the mesmerizing limestone caves, adorned with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Unwind in the pristine beaches of El Nido surrounded by naturally carved out limestone cliffs and visit the awe-inspiring Big Lagoon or explore the Secret Lagoon. For diving enthusiasts, the crystal-clear waters of Coron houses a vibrant marine life that will leave you captivated. Spend time away from the bustle of tourists in Port Barton, a coastal village embraced by palm-fringed beaches and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, explore nearby waterfalls, and snorkel in the pristine waters teeming with marine life. You can also uncover the rich history of Taytay, home to the 17th-century Fort Santa Isabel. Climb to the fortress’s vantage points for panoramic views and learn about its historical significance. For those seeking the road less traveled, venture to Balabac. Balabac offers a glimpse into the raw and untouched …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) inaugurated the Sir Bani Yas Island Visitor Centre. The centre will serve as a cultural resource for both local and international tourists to learn more about the historic landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island. The new centre features interactive displays that guests can explore after touring the church and monastery site, helping them to visualise the history of Sir Bani Yas. A curated selection of objects from various locations on the island, spanning different time periods, are also showcased in the centre, each accompanied by an interactive tablet with further information. Following DCT Abu Dhabi’s conservation efforts, in 2019 the Sir Bani Yas Church and Monastery site reopened to the public with enhanced facilities and informative panels to guide visitors. Today, with the launch of the visitor centre, the site will provide a definitive account of the island’s natural and cultural history. HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi said, “The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is committed to safeguarding and promoting the UAE’s cultural heritage. The new Sir Bani Yas Visitor Centre will provide residents and international guests with the opportunity to explore the rich and fascinating history of Sir Bani Yas in greater detail and help them view the island through the eyes of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed.” The cultural heritage sites of Sir Bani Yas are not limited to the church and monastery; the island is also home to sites that date back to the Neolithic period (Late Stone Age). Sir Bani Yas has served as an important natural resource and shelter for fishermen and seafarers …

In order to enhance desert trip experience this winter by domestic and international tourists Qatar Tourism has implemented an inspection campaign on four-wheel drive bicycle rental shops in Sealine and Al Ghariya areas, in order to ensure that the owners of these shops comply with the provisions of Law No. (20) of 2018 regarding the regulation of tourism, and the circulars issued thereunder, which specifies the work controls for practicing tourism transport activity, and the requirements and standards for means of transport designated for transporting tourists by road trips. Ali Al Mohannadi, Head of Tourism Control Section, said: “Providing distinctive tourism experiences is one of our priorities at Qatar Tourism, and due to the importance of desert activities, especially during the winter season, we have cooperated with all government and private institutions to enhance security and safety factors during the camping season. We are also working with office owners to regularize their situation and help them comply with licensing requirements with a focus on service discrimination, to preserve their investments and the safety of tenants and campers alike.” Qatar Tourism implements these campaignsevery year at the beginning of each season, in coordination with the South Security Department in Sealine area, the North Security Department in Al Ghariya, the General Directorate of Traffic, and the Protected Areas Department at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, in order to enhance security and safety factors during the winter camping period in these areas, and promote local and international tourism. As the responsible   bodyRegululating, supervising and supervising all entities and activities of the tourism and hospitality sector in the country, including the issuance of tourism licenses for tourism establishments and activities, Qatar Tourism …

As the new year unfolds and the world welcomes fresh beginnings, the Maldives is the perfect destination to go on a journey of self-discovery, relaxation, and serenity. Experiencing the Maldives’ unique charm in January promises not only a rejuvenating retreat but a fulfilling one as well. This month is one of the best times to visit this tropical paradise – expect clear skies, warm temperatures coupled with a gentle breeze – which will serve as the perfect backdrop for a sun-soaked relaxation, outdoor activities and being one with nature. The Maldives is renowned for its wellness offerings. Start your year with rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga on the beach, and meditation sessions that promote physical and mental well-being. With fewer tourists compared to the peak holiday season, you can enjoy the beaches, underwater wonders, luxurious resorts, hotels and guest houses in peaceful solitude.   If you are feeling up for some movement and excitement, January is an excellent time for water sports and marine activities. Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with marine life, and embark on thrilling adventures such as jet skiing and parasailing. You can also connect with the locals by immersing yourself in the Maldivian culture with traditional ceremonies, local cuisine, and encounters with friendly locals. Learn about the rich heritage of these beautiful islands. As the finale to your 2024 kick-off retreat, take the opportunity to discover the Maldives’ dedication to sustainable tourism. Engage in eco-friendly initiatives and partake in activities that actively contribute to the preservation of this natural paradise. Plan Your New Year Retreat Whether you seek a solo journey of self-discovery or if you want to combine it with a friends’ trip, romantic escape or a …

The third edition of the #DubaiDestinations winter campaign was launched to be held from 15th to 31st December 2023. The campaign puts the spotlight on the unique places, activities and attractions that make Dubai one of the world’s most-loved winter getaways. As part of the campaign, Brand Dubai announced that it has partnered with the Supreme Committee Overseeing Hatta Development to launch the inaugural edition of the Hatta Festival, a vibrant celebration of culture, sports and family entertainment in the heart of Dubai’s picturesque mountain region. This launch was conducted under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO). Being held from 15-31 December at the newly-developed Leem Lake in Hatta and the Hatta Wadi Hub, the festival is the centrepiece of the third edition of the #DubaiDestinations winter campaign. Running until February 2024, the latest season of the campaign seeks to tell the story of Dubai’s emergence as one of the world’s best winter destinations. Over the next two months, the campaign will unfold with captivating narratives from diverse sources on the emirate’s unique winter activities and experiences. Marking the launch of the campaign, Brand Dubai hosted a press conference at GDMO to outline the key activations at the Hatta Festival and the prominent attractions that capture the spirit of the larger winter campaign. The launch of the ‘Hatta Festival’ aligns with the leadership’s directives to transform Hatta into a prominent business, investment and tourism destination. It also aims to highlight the historical importance and natural and archaeological wonders …