Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of Sharjah Executive Council, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced the 10th edition of the Sharjah International Travel & Tourism Forum (SITTF) scheduled to take place on November 22nd at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Held under the theme “Sustainable Tourism: The Way to Improvement”, the forum will gather experts from the travel and tourism industry, emphasising environmentally and socially responsible travel practices through a series of panel discussions and engaging workshops to further delve into the challenges and opportunities within the travel and tourism sector. The anticipated forum is set to feature notable keynote speakers, welcoming the likes of HE Abdalla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, SCTDA Chairman, HE Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and representatives from the “Global Sustainable Tourism Council” (GSTC). Aligned with the UAE’s commitment to environmental conservation in the “Year of Sustainability,” SITTF aims to play a key role in implementing this vision, which is underscored by the nation’s hosting “COP28” event later in the year. The forum will delve into the essence of sustainable tourism, through creating a platform for experts to explore key topics, including sustainable and eco-tourism practices, strategies to mitigate and minimise negative impacts on the ecosystem, and the exploration of benefits for local communities both economically and socially. Additionally, the event will cover trends and innovations in sustainable tourism, economic benefits, and technology’s role. It will emphasise collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve sustainability goals …

Spain Tourism emerged winner as the ‘Most dynamic international tourism board’ at the 6th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards. “ATA is a very well organized & meticulously planned awards event with engaging hosts, amazing performances, and well-deserved winners. It is always a pleasure to attend this prestigious event. Being an Arabian Travel Award Winner is immensely gratifying as it recognizes dedication and excellence in the travel industry, opening new horizons for success and recognition. This award fuels our determination for 2024, inspiring us to exceed our achievements, set higher standards, and make a lasting impact in this region.” Daniel Rosado – Director – Spain Tourism

Saudi Tourism Authority announced its two year partnership with RX Global – following a formal signing after WTM London – which will see STA become the first-ever ‘Global Travel Partner’ of the World Travel Market (WTM) tradeshow events. The two-year partnership, which is scheduled to run from November 2023 – September 2025 and is designed to cover the global remit of the WTM brand (including  WTM London, WTM Africa, WTM Latin America and Arabian Travel Market), was announced on 8th November 2023, at the closing day of World Travel Market London. The agreement to partner was reached on the Saudi stand between the STA and RX Global on the final day at this year’s WTM, where the STA has led the largest-ever Saudi tourism delegation, with over 75 stakeholders in attendance – a 48% increase from last year. The STA stand this year brings to life the diverse and dynamic offering of what visitors can experience in the authentic home of Arabia, and the scale of progress of the most ambitious transformation in the world. The STA level of attendance and participation truly demonstrates the significance of WTM 2023 in charting the future of the global tourism sector’s growth. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority said: “Saudi is the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination, outperforming every expectation and setting the pace globally. Thanks to Saudi’s tourism leadership, each year our presence at WTM London continues to grow, and we are welcoming more visitors than ever, well on track to reach our targets for 2030. “This partnership will highlight Saudi’s progress at WTM London and inspire more visits to Saudi through a series of engaging promotional …

The Department of Tourism Development in Ajman (DTC) concluded its prominent participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, which took place from 6 to 8 November 2023. Ajman’s participation witnessed a great turnout by visitors and participants, as the emirate presented a special presentation about its tourist attractions and investment opportunities in the tourism sector. Ajman starred at the exhibition by presenting a variety of tourism experiences, underscoring its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and improving the emirate’s well-being. H.E. Mahmoud Khalil Al Hashimy, Director General of DTD, said: “It was a great opportunity for us to connect with many partners and investors in the tourism industry. We strive to enhance Ajman’s image as an exceptional tourism destination and will continue to work to strengthen international cooperation and attract more investment to support the growth of the emirate’s tourism sector.” In terms of partnerships, the Department of Tourism Development in Ajman has signed strategic memorandums of understanding with several international entities, enhancing cooperation in the fields of hospitality and the development of tourism projects. Among the notable partnerships, the Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Charisma Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in hotel and resort management. It also announced strategic partnerships with Hotel Beads and EM&RS Holding, with the aim of boosting tourism trade and improving services to visitors. “These MoUs are an expression of Ajman’s commitment to diversity and innovation in the tourism industry, and open new horizons for the development of pioneering investment projects that enhance Ajman’s position on the global stage,” Al Hashemi added. Al Hashemi stressed the importance of cooperation with international companies, noting that these partnerships will contribute to strengthening …

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with AM & RS Holdings. The primary objective of this partnership is to bolster tourism and cultural promotion in the Emirate of Ajman, thereby attracting more visitors to this unique destination. The momentous agreement was officially inked during WTM. This collaborative effort aims to elevate Ajman’s tourism and cultural appeal in the United Kingdom by exchanging knowledge and modern technologies. Both parties are committed to providing advisory services and mutual support to ensure the successful realization of the MoU’s objectives. A key facet of this agreement entails the establishment of a visually striking office in St. Anne’s Square, a prominent location in the city of Manchester, known for its high footfall. This strategic move will help orient visitors towards Ajman. Under the terms of the agreement, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development will engage in discussions with hotels and relevant stakeholders in Ajman in partnership with AM & RS Holdings to offer exclusive rates to visitors, enhancing their overall tourism experience. Close collaboration between the two entities will extend to mutual media and advertising promotions of upcoming activities and events, to showcase the beauty of Ajman and introduce the UK public to the rich culture and history of the emirate. His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, expressed his interest in this collaboration, emphasizing its significant positive impact on Ajman’s tourism efforts. He stated, “The signing of this memorandum underscores our commitment to bolstering Ajman’s reputation as a distinctive tourist destination. This partnership will play a pivotal role in achieving our goal by leveraging AM & RS Holding Company’s experience …

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) officially sealed a significant partnership with Karisma Hotels and Resorts at the World Travel Market in London 2023. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is a testament to their joint commitment to attracting investment opportunities that will boost tourism not only in Ajman but also in the broader United Arab Emirates. The agreement reflects their mutual desire to support, develop, and strengthen their collaborative efforts within a defined institutional framework, respecting the unique roles and responsibilities of each party and aligned with their shared goals. Both parties are determined to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences to harmonize their visions for the future. Under the terms of this MoU, the two entities will collaborate on the assessment of tourism and hotel projects in the Emirate of Ajman. Their primary focus will be on the development of comprehensive five-star resorts and hotels in Ajman, along with entertainment ventures and similar initiatives. His Excellency H.E. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, expressed his optimism about this pivotal partnership, stating, “This strategic alliance with Karisma Hotels and Resorts marks a significant milestone in our journey to promote tourism in Ajman. Through this agreement, we aim to foster investment opportunities and emphasize the establishment of top-notch integrated resorts, ultimately enhancing Ajman’s reputation as a premier tourist destination. We firmly believe that this collaboration will lay the foundation for sustained growth and success in Ajman’s tourism sector.” Mr. Nemanja Kostic, CEO of Karisma Hotels and Resorts, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “We are excited to embark on this journey alongside the Ajman Department of Tourism Development. Karisma Hotels and Resorts have a proven …

Tourism Malaysia showcased its remarkable achievements in leveraging data to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and redefine the tourism landscape at the ForwardKeys event during the World Travel Market 2023. Speaking at the event, Mr. Iskandar Mirza Mohd Yusof, Senior Director of AERO at Tourism Malaysia, emphasised the pivotal role of data in charting the course for Malaysia’s tourism revival. “Data has been our guiding light during these challenging times,” he said. “It has been instrumental in not only assessing the readiness for the reopening of tourism but also in shaping our marketing strategies in response to evolving traveller preferences.” Key Messages: Pandemic Recovery through Data: Mr. Yusof highlighted how data-driven insights were crucial in determining the readiness to reopen tourism activities after the Movement Control Order (MCO). Surveys involving the domestic population provided valuable information that shaped guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The surveys revealed a high demand for domestic travel, leading to the staged reopening of tourism activities. For international markets, surveys with overseas tourism stakeholders informed the establishment of travel bubbles and the eventual reopening of international borders on April 1, 2022.   Data-Driven Marketing: The data collected during the pandemic became the cornerstone of Tourism Malaysia’s marketing efforts. It played a pivotal role in developing new marketing narratives for both domestic and international markets. This data was also instrumental in redefining services and product offerings within the tourism sector.   Identifying New Markets: Mr. Yusof underscored the importance of data partnerships with various government agencies and organisations, such as the Department of Statistics, Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM), Immigration, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Economics (KE), academic institutions, and international bodies. This collaboration …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion and marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The agreement was signed in London at WTM, between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group during a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market, one of the most influential annual global exhibitions on travel and tourism. The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading global tourism destinations in the Middle East. The agreement will see leaders of both organisations work together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in a single trip. The partnership between the destinations is a natural fit, with just a 90-minute drive between them and a shared mountain range, the majestic Hajar mountains, among a wealth of other shared natural landscapes. Furthermore, their intertwined cultural heritage and historical connections only serve to enrich and strengthen this unique collaboration. To this end, the MoU sets forth a framework for greater collaboration and dialogue on marketing initiatives to promote cross-destination tourism. This includes facilitating ease of access in transportation between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah, developing favourable visa arrangements for international travellers to visit both destinations and initiating tourism packages, adventure offerings and partnership opportunities. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism …

“Visit Saint Petersburg!” conducted a special roadshow showcasing its many offerings to the travel trade in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The two days included B2B meetings, presentation, classical music and Anna Pavlova dessert masterclass – all that was in the roadshow organized by the Committee for Tourism Development of St. Petersburg and the City Tourist Information Bureau in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, bringing 12 representatives of the travel sector – Pulkovo Airport, DMCs, hotels, Vodokhod river cruise company and Faberge museum – to present their programs and establish direct contacts with the local colleagues. In UAE’s capital city of Abu Dhabi, more than 65 representatives of local travel sector took part in the presentation of the first day of the road show and over 120 participants attended from Dubai from the region’s tourism industry, covering a wide variety of issues from the Russian recent e-visa program to the presentations of St. Petersburg major travel players. The representatives of the tourist business of the region got acquainted with the novelties of St. Petersburg, classic programs, the new tourist geography of the city on the Neva river. Road show visitors learned about the historical sights of St. Petersburg, architectural masterpieces, the event calendar, educational and religious routes, and much more. Particular attention was paid to the organization of direct flights to the northern capital. The presentation attracted the attention of representatives of tour operators and professional associations, airlines, organizers of MICE events and specialized media from the Middle East. The road show has become part of a holistic information campaign of the city’s Tourism authorities, which also included presence at travel exhibitions, running a Visit Petersburg representative office in Dubai and other …

Diriyah Season is set to open in December, with a captivating array of events and experiences designed to bring to life the living heritage of Diriyah – ’The City of Earth’, and the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Spread across several areas of Diriyah including the parks, wadis, iconic sites of UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace, the fine dining destination, the 2023/24 Season will offer visitors an unrivalled authentic experience that combines arts and culture, live performance, and experiential experiences to showcase nearly six hundred years of history and heritage in a compelling and entertaining way. The Season aims to entertain visitors’ cultural curiosity by curating a unique three-month calendar of events offering something for everyone. These include live musical and theatrical performances, the highly anticipated Diriyah E-Prix championship organized by the Ministry of Sport, an expanded and engaging return of ‘Layali Diriyah’, immersive art installations and exhibitions, stellar culinary experiences, and outdoor activities such as horseback riding, camping, and stargazing. This year’s theme honors Diriyah’s origin story and celebrates Al Awja, indicative of the people of the bend (Wadi Hanifah) and a rallying call for all Saudis to come together and celebrate their shared culture and identity. While Diriyah is a vital source of Saudi cultural identity and national pride, it also stands at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s plans for its future as a unique cultural capital. Centered around the birthplace of The First Saudi State, it is a city built with people at its heart; a place where people from all walks of life come together and experience the unique Saudi way of life. As such, this Season will offer a unique …