Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Korea Tourism Organization wins ‘Most Loved Travel Destination by Millennials & Gen Z’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. The Korea Tourism Middle East Office is driving a new phase of inbound growth through the convergence of K-culture and strategic market engagement. By expanding roadshows, strengthening targeted marketing, and positioning the region as a global hub, Korea aims to attract 30 million international visitors by 2027. Collaborative ecosystems spanning e-sports, medical, wellness, and consultative partnerships will ensure sustainable growth and long-term market impact.

At a special interview with TravTalkME, at the Week of the Stars in Sharjah, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority shared the importance of the endorsement of FIFA as the platform reaches millions worldwide and the event also boosts the hotel occupation in the emirate of Sharjah, thereby boosting the economy. HE Midfa reiterated, “It is very important that we witness the fourth edition of Week of the Stars in Sharjah under the kind patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler and Crown Prince of Sharjah. This year, we have some significant new additions. Firstly, the International Football Federation, FIFA, has endorsed our event and the matches played by 36 international football legends who are with us in Sharjah for the coming days. Additionally, the main match on 11 January will be broadcast on the FIFA Plus platform, which reaches hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide. This is another major highlight of our fourth edition. We also have the paddle tennis tournaments, which continue to grow with bigger names, more competition, and higher prize money. The football competition is also expanding. Overall, it is a full week of exciting competitions. Some matches are friendly, while others are scheduled rounds. Our priority is always to provide the best experience for our visitors, whether through sports, festivals, cultural events, or activities. Sports tourism, in particular, attracts a strong audience from both the UAE and abroad. Developing sports tourism—from the Grand Prix held a few weeks ago to this event—is a key focus for the Emirate of Sharjah and the SCTDA. Regarding stakeholders, the economic impact of hosting such events is significant. We see …

Tourism Malaysia clenched the title of  ‘Best destination Marketing Initiatives’ 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 organising team for once again delivering this prestigious event.” Mohd Faharuddin Hatmin, Director – Tourism Malaysia

Aseer region was recognised as the ‘Fastest growing GCC tourism destination’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “Winning the Fastest Growing GCC Tourism Destination award is a proud milestone for Aseer, and a clear reflection of the long-term vision driving the region’s transformation under Saudi Arabia’s national tourism agenda. This recognition highlights the strength of our natural and cultural assets, the maturity of our tourism governance, and the impact of the partnerships that enable sustained growth across the ecosystem.” Hatem Al-Harbi, Chief of Tourism – Aseer Region – Aseer Development Authority.

The committee responsible for the GCC Tourism Capital has officially announced Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026, within the framework of strengthening joint tourism cooperation among GCC member states. This decision has been approved by Their Excellencies the Ministers responsible for tourism across the Gulf Cooperation Council. The selection follows a comprehensive strategic bid submitted by Qatar Tourism, which outlined the State of Qatar’s long-term vision for tourism and showcased Doha’s strengths as a destination that balances cultural authenticity, urban innovation, sustainability and quality of life. The bid aligns closely with national priorities focused on economic diversification and positions tourism as a key driver of sustainable growth. Commenting on the announcement, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, said: “The selection of Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026 marks an important milestone that underscores the success of our leadership’s strategic vision in establishing tourism as a central pillar of the National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030. This recognition reflects the qualitative progress achieved in building an integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem that is competitive at both regional and global levels, supported by world-class infrastructure, strong connectivity, and an exceptional visitor experience.” He added: “Looking ahead to 2026, this title provides a strategic platform to further strengthen Gulf tourism cooperation, stimulate investment, create new economic opportunities and deliver a lasting legacy that reinforces Doha’s position as a leading regional tourism hub; particularly in business events, major festivals, large-scale activations and family-friendly destination.” Doha’s selection was underpinned by a set of strategic pillars, including its advanced transport and mobility infrastructure. This encompasses …

Jamaica’ Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett in a special message to GCC in line with the new year shared, “As we look toward 2026, luxury travel for GCC travellers is evolving toward deeper connection and purpose. Discerning guests from the Middle East value privacy, personalisation, cultural authenticity, and seamless service. They seek destinations that offer exclusive experiences, immersive culture, and refined lifestyle moments. Jamaica’s luxury is rooted in our warmth, music, heritage, and natural beauty. In the years ahead, true luxury will be defined not by extravagance, but by relevance, storytelling, and memorable experiences that resonate long after the journey ends.”

His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayaf bin Abdulaziz, Emir of the Eastern Region, officially inaugurated Global City Dammam, and will open its doors to everyone soon to explore the exclusive experience. Brought to life by Vega International Co. (KSA), the official developer of Global City Dammam, this landmark destination draws on over 20 years of experience in creating memorable cultural, commercial, and tourism projects across the Kingdom. Located between the Arabian Gulf and Saihat Lake, Global City Dammam offers a world of culture, shopping, dining, and entertainment where families and friends can gather, discover, and enjoy new experiences together. According to SPA, Prince Saud emphasized that the Global City project reflects a modern investment approach and highlights Eastern Region’s strong economic and tourism potential. He noted that such initiatives diversify economic activity, enhance cities’ appeal, create new investment and employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors. He further highlighted the region’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and extensive investment opportunities, making it an attractive destination for major projects and capable of drawing local, regional, and international investors. The project aligns with urban development initiatives to strengthen private-sector participation in high-quality projects and attract domestic, Gulf, and international investment. These efforts are expected to enhance the region’s competitiveness and improve the efficiency of tourism and entertainment services, leveraging its strategic geographic position and the significant progress in quality-of-life indicators. The Global City project features a distinctive cultural and entertainment concept, bringing together civilizations from around the world in a single destination. International pavilions showcase participating countries’ identities through architecture, cuisine, and heritage products, offering visitors a comprehensive cultural experience for all ages. The project spans more …

The third edition of the Abu Dhabi Wedding Show took place bringing together leading wedding consultants, planners, designers, creative partners and luxury vendors for a full day of dialogue, discovery and collaboration. Abu Dhabi Wedding Show is an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors and contribute AED 90 billion to the GDP by 2030.This year’s programme featured keynote sessions and panel discussions led by influential voices from the international wedding industry. Attendees explored Abu Dhabi’s diverse offering for destination weddings, including its rich cultural identity, exceptional venues, luxurious hospitality, and extensive connectivity. Haitham Ali Khamis, Acting Director of Tourism Products Development at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi Wedding Show has become an important meeting point for the global weddings and celebrations community. The conversations and partnerships formed here help move the industry forward and strengthen our ecosystem, in line with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, as we continue to foster innovation, support local talent, and create unforgettable experiences for couples from around the world.” Delegates explored the full range of Abu Dhabi’s wedding offering, from iconic hotels and resorts to intimate cultural venues and spectacular outdoor settings. The emirate’s track record of safety and security, seamless travel access and the convenience of 24-hour express civil wedding ceremonies were highlighted as major advantages for couples planning a destination celebration. This year’s edition also spotlighted the role of education and talent development in shaping the sector’s future. In collaboration with the Les Roches school of hospitality management, DCT Abu Dhabi is supporting emerging Emirati talent by providing internship pathways and hands-on learning opportunities through the event, …

Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with Mwani Qatar, welcomed two ships arriving at Doha Port for the first time this week during a special welcome ceremony for the two ships, marking an important milestone in the 2025/2026 cruise season. The Bahamas-flagged vessel Seven Seas Navigator, operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has arrived on its first visit of the season. The vessel was carrying about 373 passengers and 365 crew members and docked for two nights before departing on December 15. An official reception was held at the cruise terminal during which commemorative shields were exchanged. Doha Port welcomed the Celestial Discovery, operated by Celestial Cruises, marking its first visit to the Port of Doha. The ship was carrying about 1,322 passengers and 476 crew members, during which an official reception was held during which commemorative shields were exchanged. The two visits included a variety of cultural events that highlighted Qatari heritage, including handicraft shows, pearl exhibitions, tawash shows, traditional bearing making, Arabic calligraphy, and traditional Arda shows. Arabic coffee and dates were also served to guests as part of the authentic Qatari hospitality. These visits reflect the continued growth of Qatar’s cruise industry and underscore the pivotal role that Doha Port plays as a key gateway to international visitors during the 2025/2026 season. Qatar Tourism continues to work closely with global cruise lines and partners to expand and strengthen the cruise industry, contributing to the sustainable growth of the tourism industry and supporting Qatar’s economic diversification goals. The cruise season plays a vital role in achieving the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030, by enriching tourism offerings and increasing the number of international visitors, thereby strengthening Qatar’s position as …

The champions of the “Grand Prix of Sharjah” have been crowned marking the conclusion of the 2025 UIM World Championship Racing season. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council, the 24th edition of the event came to an end on Sunday 21st December 2025 at Khalid Lagoon. Organized by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), the race brought together 20 elite drivers from 10 international teams to compete for the season’s final title. Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Marine Sports Federation, alongside H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, and Nicolo di San Germano, founder of H2O Racing, awarded the winners of the season’s final round, Road to Sharjah – Grand Prix of Sharjah. Stefan Arand, driving boat #18 for Team Sharjah, part of the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, claimed first place. Grant Trask, driving boat #2 for Team Sweden, finished in second place, while Rusty Wyatt, driver of boat #17 for Team Sharjah, secured third place. Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, joined by H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa and Nicolo di San Germano, presented the Drivers’ World Championship trophies to the top three drivers of the season. Shaun Torrente, driving boat #4 for Team Victory of the Dubai International Marine Club, was crowned the 2025 World Champion. Jonas Andersson, driving boat #1 for Team Sweden, followed in second place, while Rusty Wyatt, driving boat #17 for Team Sharjah, came in third. Stefan Arand showcased an outstanding performance, dominating the second half of the …