Tag Archives: accommodation

The Ministry of Tourism reported that Inbound tourists spent over SAR 141 billion in the Kingdom in 2023. According to the Ministry’s annual tourism statistics report for 2023, the largest portion of spending was on accommodation, surpassing SAR 45 billion. The report also highlighted that shopping spend exceeded SAR 25.5 billion, with Local Transport amounting to approximately SAR 21.5 billion. Food and beverage spending approached SAR 19.4 billion, while other expenses surpassed SAR 25.5 billion. Additionally, entertainment spending topped SAR 4.0 billion. In 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 27 million international tourists, with spend exceeding SAR 141 billion. Furthermore, the combined total of domestic and international tourists for that year surpassed 109 million.

Accommodation and food services activities sector posted a growth of 3.8%, with a value of AED 4.7 billion. Its contribution to the GDP reached 4.1%, driving economic growth by 0.2 percentage points. According to data from the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai’s hotels maintained high occupancy levels, with an average hotel occupancy rate of 83%. Dubai welcomed 5.2 million international visitors during the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 11% compared to the same period in 2023. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, reiterated that the emirate’s economy continues to grow steadily and showcase robust economic indicators that exemplify the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The strength of Dubai’s economy is amply demonstrated in the 3.2% economic growth it achieved in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year, by adding more than AED 115 billion in GDP terms, Sheikh Hamdan said. His Highness said it is especially commendable that the emirate’s successes in this regard highlight the combined efforts and teamwork of various stakeholders to realise the objectives of the emirate’s comprehensive development plans for 2033, specially the Dubai economic Agenda (D33) and Dubai Social Agenda 2033, which serve to enhance overall standards of wellbeing and quality of life while consolidating Dubai’s standing as a global economic capital and its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investments. Sheikh Hamdan said: “Dubai is progressing in accordance with a clear vision whose …

If you find yourself vacationing in the Philippines during December, you’ll discover a nation transformed into a festive wonderland. Embrace the warmth of Filipino hospitality amidst a backdrop of vibrant traditions and have an unforgettable journey filled with festive cheer. Christmas and New Year’s Eve hold profound cultural and religious significance in the Philippines. Deeply rooted in the country’s predominantly Catholic faith, its celebration is marked by a unique blend of traditional Filipino customs, family gatherings, lively public celebrations and global holiday practices. Here are some travel tips during the most awaited and cherished occasions throughout the country:   Pack light and comfortable clothing: December is part of the dry season in the Philippines, so pack light and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical climate.   Prepare for festive crowds: Christmas is widely celebrated in the Philippines, and popular tourist spots and markets can be crowded. Plan your itinerary accordingly and be patient in bustling areas.     Book your flights and accommodations in advance: December is a peak travel season due to the holidays. Secure your accommodations in advance to ensure availability and potentially take advantage of festive promotions.   Check Festival Schedules: Research local festivals and events happening in December. Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga, for example, is a must-see for its dazzling display of intricate lanterns.   Learn Basic Local Phrases: English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Filipino phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and enrich your travel experience.   Experience Simbang Gabi: Attend Simbang Gabi, the traditional series of dawn Masses leading up to Christmas. It’s a cultural and spiritual experience that offers a unique insight into Filipino traditions.   …

As the countdown starts for the greatest football event of the year in the region, FIFA 2022 to be held from November to December this year, the accommodation in Qatar has already been reserved. The last quarter of the year will definitely see an increase of bookings in the GCC region alone. It was stated by professionals in the travel fraternity that Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi will be looking at some increased bookings and revenue in terms of accommodation. Shantanu S. Mehta, General Manager, Orient Tours CWT M&E, UAE, Sultanate of Oman and State of Qatar reiterated, “Our partners in Doha have informed us that 80% of the accommodation inventory has been blocked by the FIFA supreme committee and the remaining 20% can be released to the general public only after every individual booking receives their approval. In order to get this approval, local travel entities need to submit the complete itinerary for every applicant including a copy of the match ticket and arrival/departure flight information. After receiving approval from the FIFA supreme committee, visitors need to apply online for a special permit called the Hayya Card which will be granted to visitors who have a confirmed match ticket and accommodation. Apparently, during the FIFA World Cup tournament only visitors with a Hayya card can enter Qatar. Both Fly Dubai/Emirates and Etihad have announced multiple daily flights between their respective hubs and Doha. Whereas Fly Dubai launched a ‘AED 975 onwards’ promotion recently, Etihad is believed to be selling at AED 3,500 plus. Etihad senior members have verbally advised that a 45-minute quick departure process from check-in to boarding is being planned for passengers without check-in luggage. Many luxury hotels in …