Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Experience Abu Dhabi has announced its first ‘Ramadan Festival’, taking place throughout the Holy Month, welcoming everyone to discover the spirit of community during Ramadan. Tickets are now available to access all three locations in Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, beginning 20 February and open daily from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM.With purpose-built Ramadan neighborhoods within each location, Ramadan Festival 2026 will encourage discovery and connection, bringing together authentic Emirati heritage, community-focused gatherings, and a range of family-friendly activities. From live performances and entertainment to vibrant markets and diverse dining options, there’s something for every visitor. Ramadan Festival 2026 will bring together selection of Emirati, regional and international culinary experiences, alongside markets featuring distinctive retailers and unique products, enhancing the overall shopping and leisure experience in an authentic Ramadan ambiance. Ramadan Festival highlights: ● Cultural and heritage performances: Children’s traditional storytelling, poetry evenings, musical and traditional performances, “Al Ayala” and “Al Harbiyah” folk dances, Arabic calligraphy, and other cultural activities celebrating Emirati heritage and identity. ● Ramadan “Souq” Market: Souq-inspired walkways adorned with traditional Ramadan lanterns, featuring local handicrafts, distinctive handmade products, and gifts inspired by the spirit of the holy month. ● Foodie experiences: A diverse range of food and beverage trucks offering a wide selection of quick bites, suhoor dishes, and traditional beverages. ● Kids’ and family activities: Theatrical performances, puppet shows, interactive games, creative workshops, and a variety of artistic and entertainment activities tailored specifically for children. Ramadan Festival dates: Al Ain Region 20 February – 1 March | ADNEC Al Ain, Outdoor Area Al Dhafra Region 20 February – 1 March | Madinat Zayed Park Abu Dhabi City 27 February – …

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board clenches ‘Best NTO – South East Asia’ title at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “Tourism Malaysia is honoured to be the Platinum Partner of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. We are delighted to stand alongside industry leaders in celebrating excellence across the region’s vibrant travel landscape. Our heartfelt congratulations to Durga Das Publications and the entire organizing team for once again delivering this prestigious event. As we look ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026, we warmly invite the world to experience the beauty of our nature, the richness of our culture and the warmth of our hospitality. MALAYSIA TRULY ASIA.”Mohd Faharuddin Hatmin, Director, Tourism Malaysia

With travellers from the GCC continuing to seek meaningful, flexible and experience-led journeys, both organisations are aligning their strategies to engage a new generation of explorers, particularly Gen Z, while continuing to appeal to families, couples and multi-generational travellers from the region. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) and visitBerlin outlined a forward-looking vision for 2026, setting the direction for a year that celebrates Germany’s vibrant urban culture, rich culinary landscape and a growing emphasis on wellbeing. For 2026, GNTO will focus on two core campaigns designed to showcase Germany’s diversity and contemporary appeal, reflecting how the country continues to evolve as a destination that blends culture, creativity and quality of life. The City Life campaign places Germany’s cities, from major metropolises to smaller cultural hubs, at the heart of the travel experience. With their cosmopolitan atmosphere, rich heritage, shopping, dining and creative scenes, German cities offer a dynamic mix of tradition and modern living. The initiative combines inspiration with a strong call to action, encouraging travel planning while supporting hotels, restaurants and retail sectors across the country, with a clear objective of driving inbound revenue. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, said: “Our vision for 2026 is rooted in showcasing Germany as a destination that feels relevant, inspiring and welcoming to today’s travellers. Through City Life and Culinary, we are highlighting experiences that resonate strongly with Gen Z while still appealing to families and seasoned travellers from the GCC. Germany’s cities, food culture and focus on wellbeing offer endless opportunities for discovery.” Burkhard Kieker, CEO of visitBerlin, said:“Berlin represents the energy and diversity of urban life in Germany. In 2026, we will continue …

At a recent press gathering, Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing, German National Tourist Office GCC shared that there had been a further positive uplift in arrivals from the UAE to Germany between January – November 2025 which reached 8.9% arrivals and 16.2% increase in overnight stays. Some of the most significant factors which impacted this was the connections between the two destinations. She further added that Air Arabia starting off operations to Germany see more potential for growth. Also, added that they are in further discussions with other carriers in the region to further enhance connectivity.

Sharjah Light Festival continues to captivate residents and visitors alike celebrating its 15th edition this year, the festival has evolved into one of the region’s most anticipated visual spectacles, transforming Sharjah’s iconic landmarks into vibrant canvases of light, art and storytelling. Organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), the festival reflects the emirate’s commitment to creativity, heritage and community engagement, while reinforcing Sharjah’s growing appeal as a family-friendly cultural destination. Sharjah Light Festival (SLF) will take place from 3 to 15 February 2026 whilst the Sharjah Light Village (SLV) from 29 January to 22 February 2026. H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, “The annual Sharjah Light Festival has grown to become one of the most anticipated cultural events in the emirate. Each year, the festival celebrates Sharjah’s architectural brilliance, cultural heritage, and artistic expression by illuminating iconic landmarks across the emirate. This year, the festival will feature light installations on prominent buildings and landmarks across the emirate, offering visitors a visual spectacle combined with storytelling elements that reflect Sharjah’s historical, cultural, and social journeys. The exceptional displays, complemented by immersive installations and interactive zones, promise to create unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. What sets Sharjah Light Festival apart is the incorporation of new technologies and creative concepts that bring a fresh perspective to the experience, showcasing cutting-edge light designs while continuing the festival’s legacy of blending tradition with innovation. The festival every year expands its outreach by including new locations, ensuring more people from across the emirate can participate. Additionally, we are incorporating more family-friendly activities and programs that will enhance the overall visitor experience, further reinforcing Sharjah’s …

The Emirate of Sharjah is preparing to welcome the 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival 2026, the annual flagship event that brings together art and creativity in celebration of Emirati culture and heritage. The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced the early launch of Light Village, running from 29 January until 22 February 2026, ahead of the festival’s official opening ceremony on 3 February 2026. During this period, the emirate will be illuminated by artistic and light displays that transform its landmarks into living canvases, continuing until 15 February 2026. Light Village will open early starting tonight 29 January 2026, and will run until 22 February 2026. A popular seasonal destination under the umbrella of the Sharjah Light Festival, the village will this year present a rich and interactive programme that, for the first time, extends into the first few days of the holy month of Ramadan, bringing the total duration to 25 days. The village features a collection of light artworks and illuminated installations by international artists, a dedicated children’s play area, and a variety of interactive activities and programmes designed for visitors of all ages. Commenting on this, His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said “Light Village complements the vision of the Sharjah Light Festival through the creative experiences and activities it offers, adding a vibrant artistic dimension to the emirate’s landmarks and reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a dynamic cultural, tourism and arts destination. Through this initiative, we present a fully integrated family entertainment destination that meets the expectations of residents and visitors to Sharjah from within the UAE and abroad, while also supporting youth initiatives and national projects. This contributes …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will exhibit at ITB Berlin from 3-5 March 2026, continuing its annual presence at one of the world’s most influential travel trade events and reinforcing Abu Dhabi as a leading global destination for culture-led travel. At ITB Berlin, DCT Abu Dhabi and its stakeholders will engage with international travel trade partners to explore new opportunities for collaboration built on the emirate’s evolving tourism proposition. Meaningful visitor experiences will take centre stage, with the museums and institutions of Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi inviting the world to engage with the stories of the UAE and the wider world, and discover the connections that have shaped creativity and innovation throughout history. Zayed National Museum, one of the district’s newest additions, presents the history of the UAE from ancient times to the present and honours the legacy of the country’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his commitment to cultural heritage, education, identity, and belonging. The recently opened Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi offers a 13.8-billion-year journey of the universe, from meteorites and ancient fossils to environmental futures, framed through an Arabian lens. This cultural momentum extends beyond Saadiyat Island, with institutions such as newly reopened Al Ain Museum further reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s commitment to protecting and sharing its heritage. This year’s ITB coincides with Ramadan, and with rising interest in culturally immersive travel experiences, the delegation will educate visitors about this important annual religious event. The Holy Month is one of the most atmospheric times to visit Abu Dhabi, offering travellers opportunities to engage with local traditions, daily life, heritage and architecture through spiritual and …

Czech Tourism clenches the title ‘Best wellness destination’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “Winning the Best Wellness Destination award at the Arabian Travel Awards is a proud milestone for Czech Tourism and a testament to our country’s rich spa heritage, natural healing traditions, and world-class wellness experiences. This recognition strengthens our commitment to welcoming more travellers from the region by enhancing partnerships, promoting signature spa towns, and introducing curated wellness itineraries.” Prasad Shirke, Key Account Manager Czech Tourism

Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar delivered a strong performance and sustained strategic momentum in 2025, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a year-round tourism destination. Total visitor arrivals grew 3.7 percent to 5.1 million, with the country welcoming 674,000 visitors in December, a near 16 percent increase on the same month a year earlier, driven by major international events, including the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. The hospitality sector delivered solid growth across all key indicators. 10.8 million room nights were sold, up 8.6 percent compared to 2024, while total accommodation revenue reached QAR 8.3 billion, representing a 12 percent year-on-year increase. 2025 was defined by strong integrated delivery across marketing, partnerships and events. More than 35 global strategic partnerships were activated, supported by over 95 integrated marketing campaigns across 19 international markets. Qatar Calendar delivered more than 600 events, while the MICE sector welcomed over one million international business visitors and secured 14 international bids for events scheduled across 2026 and 2027. The designation of Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026 further affirmed Qatar’s regional leadership. Service excellence remained a central priority, marked by the launch of Taste of Qatar, with up to 800 restaurants inspected nationwide and approximately 150 awarded 3-Star certification, alongside continued growth of the MICHELIN Guide Doha. Workforce development advanced at scale, with more than 55,600 Qatar Host and 13,000 Qatar Specialist programme completions delivered since 2022. Digital enablement and operational readiness were also strengthened – through Hayya, which processed nearly one million e-visa applications and supported major events with over 1.1 million ticket scans during the FIFA Arab Cup, with zero critical disruptions. Cruise tourism also advanced, with 72 cruise calls scheduled for the …

In a special interview with TravTalk ME, Abdulla Yousuf, Director – International Markets at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), highlighted Spain as one of the emirate’s key source markets under its long-term Vision 2030 tourism strategy. Yousuf explained that Spain has been identified as a high-potential European market, prompting DCT Abu Dhabi to roll out targeted initiatives aimed at strengthening trade engagement and destination awareness. These include hosting familiarisation trips for Spanish travel partners, launching dedicated e-learning programmes, and maintaining regular communication through market-specific newsletters. “Being present at FITUR brings us closer to achieving our vision,” Yousuf said, emphasising the importance of direct engagement with partners. During the event, DCT Abu Dhabi conducted multiple training sessions for Spanish tour operators to enhance product knowledge and improve destination sellability. Further reinforcing these efforts, DCT Abu Dhabi was invited by the Confederation of Spanish Travel Agencies to participate in a special networking event with Spanish agents, offering an additional platform to showcase Abu Dhabi’s diverse tourism offering. Supporting this market development is strong air connectivity growth. Yousuf noted that year-on-year capacity between Abu Dhabi and Spain has increased by over 29% through the emirate’s national carriers, significantly improving access and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position in the Spanish outbound travel market.