Tag Archives: Sports & Tourism

The Board of Directors of NEOM has announced Gidori – an exclusive private golf community which hosts luxury hospitality, premium residences, and a range of sports and leisure amenities that offer an unmatched living experience. Located along the enchanting Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Gidori effortlessly combines world-class golf and active leisure, encapsulated in an ultra-modern community for guests and residents. The progressive architectural centerpiece is a beach-front complex with a spectacular cantilevered structure. Rising from the coastal landscape, it will house 190 luxury sea-view apartments alongside a range of dining experiences, signature retail stores and garden spaces. Gidori’s 18-hole championship golf course sweeps inland through low hills and rocky outcrops, challenging golfers at all levels and featuring innovative design, exquisite coastal views and advanced technology. The elegant clubhouse will provide sophisticated hospitality for players, while the golf academy will offer expert advice and coaching and will service the traditional game as well as the next generation of e-sports. Placed along the golf course is a limited series of 200 individually designed and highly desirable private villas and homes. Visitors to Gidori can also stay in the 80-room boutique luxury hotel, which provides a variety of uniquely designed rooms and distinctive contemporary suites. The hotel includes restaurants and lounges, a well-being spa, a gym, multiple swimming pools and an exclusive theatre for curated entertainment. Gidori’s surroundings are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, on and off-road cycling, and scenic walks. The beach club will offer relaxed hospitality and entertainment, with an extensive selection of water sports for all ages and experiences. Come nightfall, observation platforms will provide unrivaled viewing opportunities of the night skies Aligned with NEOM’s commitment to conservation and …

PIF and ATP announce multi-year strategic partnership to accelerate the growth of global tennis. This new partnership focuses on enhancing global tennis and its long-term future, elevating youth and unlocking opportunities for tennis’ next generation. PIF to serve as the official naming partner of the ATP Rankings. Partnership incorporates PIF’s four sponsorship pillars: inclusivity, sustainability, youth and technology. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) and ATP today unveiled a new multi-year strategic partnership, marking a significant shared commitment to enhancing global tennis for players, fans, tournament organizers and stakeholders at all levels of the sport. The major partnership will see PIF become the official naming partner of the ATP Rankings, celebrating players’ journeys and progress across the season and championing excellence as the Year-End No. 1, presented by PIF, is crowned at the Nitto ATP Finals which will take place in Turin, Italy until 2025. PIF will partner with ATP Tour events in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing and the Nitto ATP Finals, in addition to the Next Gen ATP Finals, hosted in Jeddah until 2027. Following the launch of ATP’s Baseline program earlier this year, PIF has further committed to develop and unlock new opportunities for young players and player pathway initiatives, providing a significant boost to the game’s next generation of stars. The ATP partnership forms part of PIF’s broader sponsorship platform, investing in people, projects and partnerships with an emphasis on the brand’s four pillars: inclusivity, sustainability, youth and technology. Together, PIF and ATP will also collaborate to elevate the long-term future of tennis. PIF will actively contribute to ATP’s OneVision Strategic Plan which focuses on driving unity, enhancing fan experiences and leveraging scalable growth opportunities across the …

In order to strengthen its position as an emirate dedicated to promote sports tourism, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) announced that it will be hosting the 57th International Fitness and Bodybuilding – IFBB ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS in 2026, a move aimed at fortifying its standing as a premier sports tourism destination. The announcement was made today at a press conference held at the Ajman Police Sports and Shooting Club. His Highness Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD), presided over the press conference alongside key figures such as His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Saif al-Sharqi, President of the UAE Federation for Body Building and Physical Strength, Dr. Rafael Santoga, President of the International Federation of Bodybuilding, and Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim, President of the Arab and African Bodybuilding Federation, among others. The Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship, organized and sponsored by the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, will serve as a unique opportunity for Ajman to showcase its diversity and appeal as a sports tourism hub. The tournament is scheduled to take place in May 2026, further solidifying Ajman’s reputation as a host of prominent international sporting events. In addition to the main competition, the event will feature side activities that offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and heritage of Ajman. These include folk arts, traditional cuisine, and artistic performances, enriching the overall visitor experience. Ajman also plans to enhance its tourism services in preparation for the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship. A range of offerings, from accommodation facilities to shopping and entertainment experiences, will be tailored to meet the expectations of guests. Through these …

As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 enters the semi-finals stage, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Qatar has welcomed around 2.5 million football fans and visitors from around the world, with more than 41,000 visitors using the tram, and an average of 14,000 visitors making their way to Msheireb Galleria daily. Dr Hafiz Ali Abdullah, Senior Director of Corporate Communications said: “We are excited to be the go-to destination for visitors and residents during the AFC Asian Cup 2023. Msheireb Downtown Doha continues to proudly showcase Qatari culture with thrilling activations and unique design features.” Throughout the first half of the tournament, Msheireb Downtown Doha was filled with exhilarating activities like the Asian Sikka featuring booths from all 24 participating countries, Football Bowling, Football Golf Target, and Subsoccer games, match screenings at Baraha Msheireb, and finally the open-air ‘Baraha Musical Concert’ in collaboration with the renowned Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Msheireb Downtown Doha housed the Media Centre for the entire tournament with over 2,000 media representatives. Msheireb Downtown Doha, located in close proximity to the buzzing Souq Waqif, also offers visitors a unique cultural experience through the city’s interactive Msheireb Museums, various choices of fine dining and international cuisines, as well as stores and children’s edutainment at the four-story Msheireb Galleria.

Over 200 renowned international athletes, including 23 celebrated football legends, are participating in the inaugural ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’, which kicked off on Wednesday, 10th January and will last till Saturday, 13th January, 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 Organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), the groundbreaking event, which features elite international retired football stars and legends from 23 countries, aims to elevate the emirate’s tourism landscape and boost its global tourism status by showcasing its attractions and cultural landmarks to a worldwide audience. The detailed program of ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’ was unveiled during a press conference organised by the SCTDA on Wednesday, in the presence of HE Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, Nabil Ashour, Director of the Support Services Department at Sharjah Sports Council, and Steve Crane, Executive Director of Pro FootGolf Tours Joining the press conference also were Ali Abdullah Arif, CEO of World Padel Academy; Abdelrahman Bin Taliah, Director of Executive Affairs at Air Arabia; Massimiliano Suglia, Director General of the International Football Development Association (IFDA); Ukrainian football star Andriy Shevchenko; and Ziad Al Sharabi, General Manager of Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club. The inaugural ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’ will commence this evening with the ‘Legends Padel Tour’ featuring 16 international football stars and legends who will compete for the tournament held at the World Padel Academy in Sharjah. The premier event will continue on Thursday with an exclusive tour of Sharjah’s landmarks to offer football stars insights into the emirate’s dynamic development landscape, with a …

Sharjah tourism and development authority shared that the emirate of Sharjah has witnessed growth in terms of visitors due to its great developments, infrastructure and most importantly sports tourism. Speaking at the press conference Chairman Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa shared that this week of starts in Sharjah will be an opportunity to showcase its rich offerings not only as a family tourisistic destination but also as a sporting and adventure tourism hub. This week will feature friendly football matches to paddle tennis matches to develop sports tourism. 24 football legends will be a key highlight during this week as they will expose the rich heritage and sporting tourism infrastructure of Sharjah to both local and international travellers. There will be 3 different events – paddle tennis, football and footgolf and stars week until the end of this week. Last year there were over 120 players from 20 countries giving Sharjah exposure at the first footgolf tournament.

Al Rostamani Travel announced a strategic partnership with Cutting Edge FZ LLC to reshape the landscape of global sports travel. This partnership aims to redefine regional sports travel by providing sports enthusiasts with immersive and unforgettable experiences at premier global events. The collaboration is set to offer sports enthusiasts an all-encompassing sports travel solution, including hospitality tickets, full travel support, and coveted access to premier global events. The initial offerings have already garnered attention with exclusive travel packages for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, setting the stage for a series of exceptional sports travel experiences. By managing all travel arrangements, including tickets and access to VIP areas, customers can enjoy the events without the hassles of administration. It is about delivering unforgettable experiences that exceed expectations. Bimal Jain, General Manager at Al Rostamani Travel, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Our primary objective is to establish ourselves as leaders in sports travel services within the UAE. Collaborating with Cutting Edge FZ LLC, the official partner of sporting events ensures our customers an authentic and genuine experience, working directly with governing bodies. It creates a one-stop-shop for fans seeking the ultimate sports travel adventure.” Echoing this sentiment, Raj Khandwala, CEO at Cutting Edge FZ LLC, affirmed: “Our collaboration with Al Rostamani Travel is a natural fit for us. We are confident that this partnership will lead us to become one of the Global Leaders in Sports Tourism, setting new benchmarks of excellence and innovation.” Looking ahead, Al Rostamani Travel and Cutting Edge FZ LLC are dedicated to expanding their portfolio of sporting events. Their sporting events calendar already includes iconic events such as the Formula One Grand Prix and …

The luxury five-star hotel in Fujairah, Rotana Resort and Spa opened a mini golf course amidst the magnificent Hajar mountains and the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean in time for the upcoming season. Located near the kids’ club, kids and parents can play at the 300 sqm course every day from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. The child can learn self-control and perseverance to achieve great results and can burn around 300 calories per hour at the 6-hole course in a fun environment and friendly atmosphere. All ages are welcome to the new mini golf course where the cost of one hour is AED 50 including two putters and two balls, the cost of 30 minutes is AED 35 including two putters and two balls, and the cost of any additional hour is AED 15 including one putter and one ball. Guests can also enjoy their time at the large swimming pool that is now open until midnight till the end of September 2023 along with Sharkeys and pool bars serving tropical cocktails and fresh juices to the guests. The 1073 m2 swimming pool is 1.3m deep and features kids, babies, and adults parts with a slider for kids for a day full of fun and excitement. Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa includes impressive collection of diverse dining options comprising Waves Beach Restaurant, a trendy venue offering a dining experience to suit every occasion with a delicious à la carte dinner menu, and Mozaique which offers an expansive buffet with a vast range of international dishes. Bar Muda lounge bar and terrace is one of Fujairah’s most popular lounge bars where guests can have a good time with friends …

Emirates announced a renewal of its longstanding partnership with reigning America’s Cup champions Emirates Team New Zealand for the 37th America’s Cup, and all preliminary regattas. The 19-year partnership has been highly successful for both parties, including memorable victories in the 35th America’s Cup as well as its cup defence in front of a home Auckland crowd in the 36th America’s Cup event. Emirates will continue to be the Lead Sponsor of Emirates Team New Zealand, with naming rights for the team, as well as the designation of Official Airline and Carrier of Emirates Team New Zealand. Emirates joined the team as naming sponsor in 2004 when the team began its quest to bring the America’s Cup back to New Zealand. The airline remained a stoic supporter through two close Challenges in 2007 in Valencia and 2013 in San Francisco before Emirates Team New Zealand proudly lifted the ‘Auld Mug’ again in Bermuda in 2017. A victorious defence in the 36th edition of the America’s Cup in Auckland 2021 saw Emirates Team New Zealand achieve a sensational victory on its home turf. Emirates is proud to sponsor a further defence of the 37th edition of the America’s Cup, this time in Barcelona, Spain in 2024. The renewal of sponsorship signals a continued commitment to New Zealand sailing and reflects the deep-rooted connection Emirates has built with New Zealand, having recently celebrated its 20th anniversary of operations in the country. Emirates operates daily A380 services direct out of Auckland as well as Christchurch via Sydney, offering passengers the only opportunity to travel across the Trans-Tasman on the iconic double decker aircraft. Boutros Boutros, Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing & Brand …

One of rugby’s greatest rivalries, between South Africa and New Zealand, will be reignited at Twickenham Stadium later this month with the two nations playing for a brand-new trophy, the Qatar Airways Cup on Friday, 25 August at 7.30pm. With Qatar Airways as Title Sponsor of this fixture, rugby fans from South Africa, New Zealand, the UK and around the world have the perfect means to attend this compelling match-up. The seven-time winner of the “World’s Best Airline” as voted by Skytrax, will take centre stage as the match Naming Rights Partner, and also be the broadcast partner for the Sky Sports coverage in the UK. Qatar Airways facilitates the movement of rugby fans all over the world to watch their favourite teams compete. The airline flies to more than 160 destinations, including Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg in South Africa. It will also resume direct flights to Auckland, New Zealand on 1 September this year. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways is honoured to be the Title Sponsor and Naming Rights Partner for this match at Twickenham Stadium, hosting one the greatest rivalries in competitive sports history. The South Africa and New Zealand teams are giants in the world of rugby and we are excited to be part of this journey, while uniting the fans before the start of world cup. Qatar Airways has a long history of supporting global sports, including rugby, Formula 1 and football. We believe in bringing people from all over the world closer together through travel and sport and are proud to continue the expansion of our sports partnership’s portfolio.” TEG Rugby Live Managing Director, Stephen …