Speaking at the special press conference at ASEAN Tourism Forum, Mohd Amirul Rizal Bin Abdul Rahim, Head of Visit Malaysia 2026 Secretariat shared that Middle East is a very important source market and they will be focusing on two key aspects family and GenZ or millennials. He further stated that the new campaign will be announced in a number of road shows in the Middle East over the next few months to share more details on the extensive programme that they have prepared to welcome visitors to Malaysia. He reiterated that Visit Malaysia 2026 will be unique as they target high yield tourists as well as tourists who seek sustainability when they travel. However, the theme for the year will be ‘Malaysia: a sustainable destination and rich in culture”.
Read More »Saudi Domestic Tourism grows by 44% in 2024 – fuelled by Rise in family & group leisure travel
Almosafer’s latest travel trend report reveals a robust 44% growth in domestic bookings in 2024, marking a significant contribution (over 40%) to the overall travel landscape in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s rapidly growing and evolving tourism offerings continue to shape domestic travel behavior, and with an expanding range of destinations, unique accommodations, and diverse experiences, travellers are motivated to explore their country for leisure. Family and group bookings have emerged as a key growth driver of domestic tourism, with over 70% growth across these traveller segments. Travel groups are increasingly choosing destinations that offer event-based and experience-rich travel opportunities. While iconic cities such as Makkah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Madinah remain central to travel plans, emerging destinations are becoming increasingly popular. Abha’s cool climate and mountain views, Al Jubail’s pristine beaches, Jizan’s coastal charm, Tabuk’s dramatic natural landscapes, and Hail’s adventurous desert terrain are rapidly gaining traction. These rising hotspots reflect the Kingdom’s ongoing investment in tourism infrastructure, opening up exciting opportunities for leisure travellers. The report further highlights a significant shift in traveller preferences regarding accommodation. While luxury stays dominate, with 36% of room nights booked in 5-star accommodations. Simultaneously, budget-friendly stays in 3-star and below properties have significantly increased, representing 35% of all booked room nights. Notably, this segment has witnessed a remarkable 100% growth in volume for families and groups, reflecting a rising trend of value-conscious group travel. Alternative accommodations such as vacation rentals and hotel apartments have also gained popularity, offering flexibility and affordability. Family bookings in these accommodations surged by 90% and group bookings grew by 60%, as alternative accommodations have become more widely available throughout the Kingdom and travellers opt for convenient stays, …
Read More »Deep Dive Dubai’s “Beat the Heat” and “Kids go Free” Eid packages are valid from July until September 2023
Inflight Dubai and Deep Dive Dubai, two unforgettable indoor adventure destinations in the region, promise residents and visitors to the UAE a truly extraordinary experience in a temperature-controlled environment. From July until September, guests can enjoy exclusive packages from Deep Dive Dubai where they can save a lot! Inflight Dubai is an exhilarating experience that simulates the feeling of freefall in a controlled indoor environment. Suitable for all experience levels from five years old and above, guests can experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at Inflight Dubai. The wind tunnel allows you to defy gravity in a safe and secure environment. It is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 3:00 pm to 12:00 am. The feeling of ‘flying’ is incredible as participants control their movement by adjustments made to their body position. It offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure, allowing individuals the chance to experience the thrill of freefall. Experienced divers and intrepid beginners are welcome to explore an underwater wonderland at Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s deepest swimming pool. With a 60-meter depth, the pool boasts a ‘sunken city’ with its abandoned urban streetscape, allowing divers to explore this modern Atlantis-like immersive zone and discover intricate details guaranteed to make every dive feel unique. Certified instructors offer introductory courses, scuba diving lessons, and certification opportunities. Open daily from 9:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Seize the opportunity this Eid Al-Adha to try something new, push your limits, and create cherished memories with your loved ones. Inflight Dubai and Deep Dive Dubai eagerly await families, friends and couples to provide them with the ultimate indoor summer experience to beat the heat. Deep Dive Dubai packages Package 1: “Beat the Heat” Introducing the “Beat the …
Read More »New destination to open in the East Coast, Khorfakkan Hotel & Water Park
One of the latest projects coming up in the Eastern coast is the new Khorfakkan Hotel and Waterpark which is located on a reclaimed land opposite to the Khorfakkan Port. The development features a hotel, waterpark and retail area that will maximize connectivity to the beach. These functions are located on the front edge and create a direct link to the sea. A marina front will be developed, allowing the fully take advantage of the plot, and will include a yacht bay along with branded residences facing the marina port. The 75 key hotel will feature all facilities including a gym, spa etc and the main attraction will be the water park and the mall which will bring in more visitors both international and domestic. More details on the project are yet to be released.
Read More »Swiss region of Graubunden attracts GCC for summer
The Swiss region of Graubunden, is aiming to attract record numbers of GCC visitors this summer, with a focus on luxury and value-based offers, aimed at family outdoor fun, health and wellness. Graubunden’s summer campaign highlights a range of hotels and serviced apartments, Michelin starred restaurants and immersive cultural experiences, making it the perfect destination for GCC families this summer. “Quite apart from enticing promotional offers this summer, the fresh air, outstanding natural beauty, mild climate and healthy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sailing make Graubunden, an ideal location for families wanting to get away from it all,” said Head of Business Development at Visit Graubunden, Tamara Loeffel. For example, The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, is offering a seven-night detox and health cleansing package, which holistically detoxifies your body under medical supervision. Their treatments support the gentle removal of toxins while simultaneously boosting your metabolism and immune system. Relaxation and healthy nutrition play an important role in this process and includes wellness rituals and detox full board. The Valbella Resort in the Grison Mountains is offering a mountain summer package. Accommodation covers a wide range of rooms located in three buildings on the Lenzerheide, with an extensive culinary offer, wellness facilities, mountain railway tickets and a forest kindergarten. The Pradas resort in Brigels, has a ‘stay seven nights, pay for six nights’ offer, which is geared towards families, staying in holiday apartments. The offer includes free use of the Brigelser hiking bus, and a summer guest card which allows free use of mountain railways, minigolf and various museums. Nature awaits at The rocksresort Design Hotel™ in Laax, with adventure for all the family with their new family summer …
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