Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with (ADNEC Group, owner and operator of the largest exhibition venue in the Middle East, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, in a strategic step towards its future business development strategy. The newly formed ADCEB and ADNEC Group Joint Fund is a continuation of ADCEB’s strategy to harness public-private partnerships to drive increased B2B events and incentive travel in the emirate. The fund will provide additional financial incentives and support to corporate meeting planners and incentive houses, while simultaneously reiterating that Abu Dhabi is a safe destination that is fully open for business tourism. The partnership will combine the joint marketing efforts of ADCEB and ADNEC Group to raise awareness of the emirate’s readiness to host large Meetings, Incentives groups. H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “This partnership with ADNEC Group is a tremendous step in further solidifying our position as a leading global destination for business events of all kinds. With ADCEB’s experience and expertise and ADNEC Group’s impressive portfolio of event, tourism and hospitality assets, together we can create the ultimate destination package that showcases the best of the emirate and attracts ever greater numbers of large-scale and high-profile events to Abu Dhabi.” Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director & Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “We are pleased to partner with the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau to launch the joint fund for organisers of international corporate meetings and events, who are interested in holding their events at the Abu …

Colliers in their latest research paper shared about Ras Al Khaimah 2023 and beyond, where the emirate is on its way to expanding opportunities and game changers. In the report it is revealed that the 2030 vision of Ras Al Khaimah’s Tourism Development Authority’s (RAKTDA) is to attract over 3 million visitors and increase the overall attractiveness of the emirate, making tourism one of the most important sectors and focus for Ras Al Khaimah’s (RAK) GDP growth. This paper looks at the emirate’s growing hospitality market, its resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and the announcement of the Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort. In order to achieve the emirate’s target of attracting over 3 million visitors by 2030, a number of strategies have been implemented including financial stimulators, multimillion investments in Jebel Jais projects and the introduction of the region’s first integrated resort – Wynn Al Marjan Island. Looking ahead, RAK has already announced approximately 5,000 keys to open in the next 5 years, in addition to the 1,200 keys that will be offered by the Wynn resort following its opening in 2026. The introduction of the Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to bring multiple benefits including job creation, increased visitation and global image enhancement. The region’s first integrated resort may act as a gateway to further develop the emirate’s alternative tourist segment, inviting more investment in eco-concepts with themes of sustainability and conservation. During the COVID-19 period, RAK was able to shift its focus to domestic tourism, thus minimising the impact of the pandemic on hospitality performance. In 2022, with the return of inbound tourism and growing competition from other destinations, occupancy was impacted and post-COVID-19 performance has yet …

Doha was officially recognised as the Arab Tourism Capital 2023 by the Arab Tourism Organization for Tourism at a commemoration ceremony. Commenting on the occasion, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “It is an honour to see Doha being named as the Arab Tourism Capital 2023 by the Arab Tourism Organization. One of the industry’s most prestigious accolades, the Arab Tourism Capital award is a testament of our exceptional achievements in leisure and hospitality. I am proud of our city’s tireless efforts that have culminated in this honourable recognition and look forward to further cementing Doha’s position as one of the world’s most sought-after leisure destinations.” The Arab Tourism Organization declared Doha as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2023, in its 25th session at the Arab League General Secretariat Headquarters in Cairo, Egypt. The session was chaired by Jordanian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Nayef Fayez, amongst other prominent Arab leaders. Cities were evaluated based on a selection of criteria including tourism management, infrastructure and resources, safety and security, diversity of tourism activations, and preservation and protection of the environment. By continuing to host internationally renowned events, investing in hospitality offerings and expanding into more specialised areas of tourism, Qatar is in a perfect position to meet its goal of welcoming six million visitors a year by 2030. Held under the patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani at the Katara Cultural Village. The event took place on Arab Tourism Day (February 25), and was attended by tourism ministers, ambassadors and prominent leaders from the nations that are …

Maintaining its momentum from last year’s global tournament, Qatar welcomed a total of 730,000 visitors in January and February 2023, marking an increase of 347% from the previous year. The start of the year saw 340,000 international visitors in January 2023, a 295% increase year on year, and 389,000 visitors in February 2023, a staggering 406% increase from the same period last year. The month of February marked the highest number of international arrivals to Qatar in the past 10 years, with the exception of the months of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, making it the busiest month for tourism in the country. Having firmly established itself as a leading tourism destination with its high safety record, seamless public transport, pristine beaches and cultural sites, tourists from around the world continue to head to Qatar to experience the country’s unique blend of authenticity and modernity. The start of the year will have also seen visitors arriving to the peninsula to enjoy the line-up of festivities offered as part of Qatar Tourism’s “Feel Winter in Qatar” campaign, including performances by celebrated regional and international artists, the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition and other family-friendly events. Doha, the Arab Tourism Capital of the year, also hosted numerous world-class sporting events in the first two months of the year, including the Visit Qatar GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup 2023, Qatar TotalEnergies Open, and Qatar ExxonMobil Open, helping to promote the destination even further. Commenting on the record figures, Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operating Officer at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are excited to see the progress we have made towards achieving our 2030 strategy, which aims to welcome 6-7 million visitors annually, increase employment …

London has long been known for its lavish five-star hotels and GCC travellers always seek for the ultimate luxury experience, and the city is set for a boom of new luxury accommodation openings in 2023. From international brands making their UK debut, to existing brands expanding their portfolio with new properties, there’s definitely no shortage of options for discerning GCC travellers. The latest additions to London’s luxury hotel scene promise to be truly spectacular. Visitors will be in awe of Europe’s art-inspired lifestyle hotel brand, Art’otel, which opened its first UK hotel in December 2022, right next to the revamped Battersea Power Station. Spring 2023 will see the opening of Britain’s first Raffles property in a Grade II listed landmark steeped in history, The OWO Residencies by Raffles. Also opening in spring is the much-anticipated 1 Hotel London Mayfair, which will debut overlooking Green Park as the brand’s flagship British hotel. In addition, Mandarin Oriental’s new Mayfair property and Britain’s first Peninsula Hotel will open in the heart of Belgravia. Later in the year, London will also open its doors to the UK’s first St. Regis hotel in Mayfair. Also adding to its luxury portfolio will be the Park Hyatt London River Thames and Six Senses London, which will mark the UK debut for the iconic wellness hotel brand. Finally, The BoTree Marylebone Lane is opening in summer 2023, within the Preferred Hotels and Resorts Legend Collection. Blending Marylebone flair and Mayfair chic, be immersed in an experience created through 199 bespoke guestrooms and suites, destination restaurants, bars, and nightlife. If you’re planning a visit to London in 2023, be sure to keep an eye out for these exciting new …

Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has successfully concluded its first roadshow in China with 13 partners including DMCs, hoteliers and airline partners in attendance. The roadshow showcased the country’s rich cultural and heritage offerings and why Saudi is the perfect travel destination for Chinese travelers. A series of events, meetings, round table discussions and networking events were hosted, resulting in over twenty strategic partnership announcements. During the multicity roadshow, Saudi Tourism Authority held meetings with over 300 trade partners and travel buyers in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to promote Saudi as a leisure destination, sharing insights into the emerging trends in MICE tourism. Saudi’s inclusion in the ‘Approved Destination Scheme’, alongside China’s inclusion in Saudi’s e-visa program and 96-hour Stopover Visa – where guests flying onwards on SAUDIA can avail a complimentary one-night hotel stay in Saudi – facilitates seamless group travel. Saudi’s presence in China is an indication of how important the Chinese market is for the Kingdom and its commitment to China as a key source market for Saudi. Saudi has witnessed incredible growth since opening to tourism in 2019 as its post-pandemic tourism recovery outpaced G20 countries with a 121% YoY growth according to UNWTO. As part of Saudi’s ambition to achieve 100 million visits annually by 2030, China represents immense potential as it is expected to be Saudi’s 3rd top source market by then. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority said, “Our first roadshow in China has been a tremendous success and a testament to Saudi’s potential to become the region’s tourism hub and a gateway to the cultural and natural riches of Arabia for Chinese travelers. Supporting us in realising …

As GCC travellers get ready for their post Ramadan and summer travel, Great Britain is among the strongest outbound holiday destinations year-after-year. With a 365-day calendar of global festivals and events, 2023 is set for another GREAT year of celebrations. From the coronation of King Charles III, to Liverpool hosting the Eurovision Song Contest, here is VisitBritain’s Top 10 events not to be missed. The Coronation of King Charles III, London – 6 & 8 May 2023 The coronation of Charles III is an extraordinary event that will be steeped in tradition and historical significance. The grandeur of Westminster Abbey will provide the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion, as the Archbishop of Canterbury leads a service that represents the diversity of the United Kingdom’s faiths and communities. This shorter and more inclusive coronation will be a true reflection of the nation’s current economic circumstances and the King’s wishes. Witnessing the crowning of Camilla as Queen Consort will be a unique and unforgettable experience. Come to London and be a part of history in the making, as the city comes alive to celebrate this momentous event with a bank holiday on Monday 8 May. Eurovision Song Contest 2023, Liverpool – 13 May 2023 Liverpool will host the 2023 Eurovision Song Content on behalf of 2022’s winners, Ukraine. The international talent show brings together the best, quirkiest and most colourful acts from around Europe and further afield. And while the Grand Finale is on Saturday 13 May, there are actually nine shows taking place in front of a live audience, meaning more opportunities to slip on your dancing shoes and eyeball the action. RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London – 23 – 27 May 2023 …

Great Britain, one of the GCC’s most popular holiday destinations, invites visitors to experience the royal treatment ahead of the Coronation of King Charles III, taking place on Saturday, May 6th, 2023. From estates owned by members of the royal family; to palaces, castles and hotels with royal connections; Britain has a GREAT collection of regal experiences that are fit for a king. Castles, Palaces & Estates Sandringham Garden House – located in the Norfolk Coast of England, the country retreat is used by the Monarch and the royal family for their holidays. The garden house on the estate, listed by Norfolk Hideaways, was the former home of the queen’s head gardener and is available for rent for your clients. Hampton Court Palace Georgian House – built in 1719 at Hampton Court Palace, the Georgian House has been converted into a five-bedroom accommodation stay.  Most palace visitors are typically required to leave the palace grounds at closing, but those staying at the property can continue to explore the spectacular courtyards and gardens. Fun Fact: King Henry VIII was the most famous resident of Hampton Court Palace, along with each of his six wives. Balmoral Castle & Estate – located north of Edinburgh in Cairngorms National Park, the Scottish castle is privately owned by the Royal Family and has been a popular summer retreat for them through the years.  When the royal family is not staying at the castle, visitors can rent one of six self-catering cottages on the royal grounds. Palace of Holyroodhouse – the King’s official residence in Edinburgh and home of Scottish royal history, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and is …

 The Kingdom of Bahrain has cemented its business-friendly reputation, ranking 1st globally as the ‘Best Destination for Getting Started Abroad’ in 2023, according to the Expat Essentials Index published by InterNations. The milestone ranking of first in the overall index, which places Bahrain firmly ahead of leading countries including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and Canada, is based on a comprehensive survey that analyses the performance of countries across several key indices, resulting in a comparative scale on both regional and international levels. Citing Bahrain as the ‘ideal place for easy beginnings’, the index surveyed foreigners across 52 countries in the world, rating each destination based on vital aspects typically associated with settling into a country. Alongside its global ranking of 1st overall, the Kingdom additionally ranked 1st in MENA and 11th globally for Digital Life, a testament to Bahrain’s advanced financial and digital infrastructure and progressive regulatory framework. The survey scored countries across four key pillars, analyzing aspects including digital readiness, online government services, ease of digital payments, ease of opening a bank account and obtaining a visa, in addition to ease and affordability of housing. Furthermore, the metrics assessed potential language barriers, in terms of ease of living without speaking the local language, for which Bahrain ranked 4th globally, which reaffirms Bahrain’s business friendly environment and talented workforce that combines highly skilled, multi-lingual, hospitable Bahraini nationals alongside a diverse expat talent pool offering a global perspective. Bahrain also ranked 1st in MENA and 3rd globally in ease of opening a bank account. 67% of surveyed expats reported high levels of ease in dealing with local authorities, versus the global average of 40%. Ranking 2nd globally …

Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism joined forces to partner with the highly acclaimed Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress 2023, an exclusive event that brought the largest Business-to-Business platform for weddings to Doha. This collaboration underscores the city’s growing stature as a key figure in the MICE industry, which continues to attract business travellers from around the world. The 9th edition of DWP congress was held from 14-16 March, to bring together leading wedding planner professionals who provided fresh perspectives on the industry through a series of keynote speeches and DWP masterclasses. Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker opened the congress with a speech to spotlight Qatar’s offerings as a versatile and captivating wedding destination. Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Our continuous effort to promote Qatar as a leading destination that caters to the needs of all travellers has been further strengthened by the recent hosting of the Destination Wedding Planners Congress 2023. This event is regarded as the most prestigious B2B gathering in the multi-billion-dollar wedding industry, and we are honoured to have had the best wedding planners and designers in Doha. We eagerly anticipate welcoming them back following an inspiring visit this year, and look forward to seeing their vision for luxurious and elaborate weddings.” The DWP congress has grown rapidly since its inception in 2014, which took place in Greece, and has successfully made its mark in desirable destinations across the globe from Florence, Phuket, Los Cabos, Dubai and Bali. This year the congress highlighted Doha, a city that has undergone remarkable developments in hospitality, aviation, …