Tag Archives: UAE

Over 800 properties operating within the OYO network in the UAE are undergoing rigorous rebranding under PRISM. The rebranding will initiate strategic refinement in culture, increase efficiency, and enhance hospitality services at PRISM’s properties to cater to a wider niche of visitors in the UAE. The move has already expanded PRISM’s portfolio to over 22,000 hotels and 123,000 vacation homes across 35+ countries. The rebranding has impacted positively as PRISM’s Palette San Marino Hotel in Dubai recorded 60 percent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in bookings during the recent holiday season, marking a significant performance milestone for the property. The performance analysis is based on a comparative review of the holiday season across two consecutive holiday seasons i.e. December 2024–January 2025 and December 2025–January 2026, underscoring sustained growth momentum rather than a one-time seasonal spike. According to PRISM’s internal data, direct bookings also recorded 381 percent Y-o-Y growth over the same period, reflecting stronger brand visibility and improved customer acquisition efficiency. The hotel was onboarded by PRISM in November 2024 as part of the company’s premium properties expansion programme in Dubai. The upward trajectory began immediately after the hotel was onboarded onto the PRISM (Parent of OYO) network, signaling the impact of structured demand generation, distribution optimization, and operational alignment. PRISM used a dynamic pricing model to accelerate the growth, enabling the hotel to optimise room rates in real time based on demand patterns and booking behaviour. This data-led approach significantly enhanced occupancy levels while maximising revenue across key markets. The sustained booking growth was driven by PRISM’s rapidly expanding global distribution ecosystem, which includes more than 20 Online Travel Agency (OTA) partnerships and has significantly enhanced Palette San Marino’s visibility across key international …

Wego highlights a growing trend of UAE residents choosing staycations across the Emirates for the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr holiday. As overseas travel plans become more selective, many residents are increasingly opting to enjoy premium experiences closer to home. According to Wego data, searches increased with strong demand for five and four-star beachfront resorts, wellness retreats, and luxury city hotels across Dubai and the wider UAE. “We’re seeing a strong rise in domestic hotel searches on Wego as residents look to spend the Eid holiday within the UAE,” said Craig Hewett, Co-Founder and Chief Hotels Officer at Wego. “The country’s safe and well-managed environment continues to give travelers confidence, and this is translating into growing demand for local resorts and staycations.” The surge reflects a broader shift toward shorter, high-quality getaways, as many UAE residents reconsider long-haul travel plans and instead choose to spend the holiday closer to home. Wego data indicates that travelers are increasingly prioritizing convenience, comfort, and privacy, with strong interest in destinations that allow families and small groups to relax without the logistical complexity of international trips. Luxury beachfront resorts in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah are among the most searched options ahead of the Eid break, particularly properties that offer private beach access, spacious suites, family-friendly facilities, and curated dining experiences. Wellness-focused stays are also gaining traction, with travelers seeking resorts that feature full-service spas, lagoon-style pools, and nature-inspired settings that provide a sense of escape while remaining within a short drive. Many travelers are also taking advantage of the promocode WEGOSAVE26, which offers additional savings on selected luxury hotel bookings across the UAE. *Prices are based on March rates and were accurate at the …

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism organized the ‘Ramadan Riyada Majlis’ in Dubai, bringing together leading women entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the UAE. The event aimed to foster dialogue, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and inspire the launch of diverse economic initiatives that support the country’s sustainable development journey. The session was attended by H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism; Sheikha Dr. Alia Al Qassimi, Founder and Chairperson of AHQ Investments; and Arwa Al Falasi, Director of Partnerships and Communication at the UAE Gender Balance Council, in addition to several Emirati businesswomen and women entrepreneurs. Highlighting the pivotal role of women in the global economy, H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor stated: “Today, women entrepreneurs are a key driving force in global economies through their effective and innovative ventures, as well as their leadership in finance, business, and innovation. Under the guidance of its wise leadership, the UAE has made significant strides in empowering women entrepreneurs and SME owners by providing a competitive business environment, expertise, and comprehensive support to ensure their sustainability, reflecting their vital contribution to the national economy.” H.E. added: “The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has been collaborating with local and international partners to develop strategies that support women entrepreneurs, facilitate their access to resources and expertise, and enhance their growth opportunities. Notable initiatives include the ‘The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World’ national campaign, supervised by the Ministry. It contributes to providing Emirati women with unique opportunities to expand their businesses and enter new sectors, alongside the National SME Programme.” Emphasizing the connection between well-being and economic success, Sheikha Dr. Alia Al …

Following the announcement of the UAE’s national passenger rail network, Etihad Rail has revealed new details on what passengers can expect when services start operating later this year. For business travellers, the service will provide a professional, connected environment. Onboard Wi-Fi, power at every seat and spacious modern interiors will allow passengers to work, prepare or unwind while travelling between the UAE’s major economic centres. Families and leisure travellers will benefit from a safe, spacious and stress-free way to explore the country. Passenger rail has been designed to make travelling together simpler and more enjoyable, including a steadfast focus on removing many of the pressures that often come with long car journeys. Family-seating options will allow parents and children to sit together comfortably, while luggage storage will support weekend trips, holidays and visits to relatives. The focus is on allowing families to relax and enjoy the experience without interruption. The passenger experience has been developed with a clear focus on how people live, work and travel across the UAE today, offering a modern, comfortable and reliable alternative to intercity driving, while supporting the country’s wider mobility and sustainability goals. Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility said: “This next phase of our passenger journey is about moving from infrastructure to experience. We are designing a service that people will actively choose because it fits naturally into their daily lives.”  For daily commuters, passenger rail in the UAE will offer predictability and peace of mind. A consistent timetable, guaranteed seating and a calm onboard environment will allow passengers to plan their day with confidence, turning travel time into productive or restorative time. Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility explained “For …

Spanning one million square metres and featuring a lake covering more than a quarter of a million square metres, Al Layan Oasis project aims to showcase the beauty of the desert environment while promoting sustainability and quality of life for residents and visitors alike. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, approved the Al Layan Oasis development project, a new environmental and recreational destination in the emirate. Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that Dubai’s urban development is driven by a commitment to creating a sustainable environment and the highest quality of life for people. He added that this is achieved through an integrated model that places people at the centre of planning by combining high-quality infrastructure, efficient services, and responsible resource management, enabling Dubai to consolidate its position among the world’s leading future-ready cities. Al Layan Oasis forms part of a package of initiatives under the Blue and Green Roadmap 2030, recently launched by Dubai Municipality. The roadmap advances Dubai’s approach to investing in nature to enhance wellbeing, as part of a broader vision to create an urban environment that balances sustainability, liveability, and quality of life, supported by projects valued at more than AED4 billion. The project also complements the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan, which seeks to preserve natural landscapes while providing services and facilities that enhance the lives of residents and create a distinctive tourism experience across the emirate. It further supports the objectives of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin …

Odyssey DMC UAE wins ‘UAE’s Leading DMC’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “It feels great to receive this award, and it is not the first time for us. We have been in the business for 43 years and are proud to be the first DMC established in the UAE. With over 90 products and a strong focus on cultural, historical, and interactive experiences, we continue to innovate. Going forward, we are expanding globally, with seven DMCs already established and many more developments ahead.” Mahareef Mohamed – Manager – Business Development & Signature Experiences – Odyssey UAE

In his opening address, Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events, highlighted a key milestone for AIME 2026 with the United Arab Emirates joining the show for the first time, underlining the UAE’s growing influence as a global business events and meetings hub. Its participation reflects the deepening ties between the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, and the UAE’s ambition to expand its international MiCE footprint. Taking place over three days, AIME 2026 will welcome more than 1,500 vetted buyers, over 5,000 attendees and in excess of 750 exhibitors from across the global business events industry. This builds on strong momentum from recent editions, with more than US$400 million in business generated following AIME 2025, reinforcing the show’s position as the leading meeting place for the international business events community in Asia-Pacific. Across the two-day tradeshow, more than 25,000 pre-scheduled meetings will take place between buyers and exhibitors. Participants from 36 countries and territories will be represented, with the UAE joining South Africa and Uganda on the show floor for the first time, alongside strong contingents from Australia, New Zealand, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the wider Middle East. Exhibitors span convention bureaux, convention centres, hotels and resorts, unique venues, event technology providers, production and AV companies, destination management companies, airlines and cruise operators. The press conference was addressed by Matt Pearce; Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau; and Robin Mack, Managing Director of Tourism Australia. AIME is owned by Melbourne Convention Bureau and managed by Talk2 Media & Events, with the 2026 edition marking the fifth AIME delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and her team.

At a recent press gathering, Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing, German National Tourist Office GCC shared that there had been a further positive uplift in arrivals from the UAE to Germany between January – November 2025 which reached 8.9% arrivals and 16.2% increase in overnight stays. Some of the most significant factors which impacted this was the connections between the two destinations. She further added that Air Arabia starting off operations to Germany see more potential for growth. Also, added that they are in further discussions with other carriers in the region to further enhance connectivity.

On November 27, 2026, the 1260-guest Celestyal Journey will be in Doha, for an eight-night Doha F1 itinerary. Similarly, the ship will stay in port for three nights, allowing guests to watch all practice sessions, qualifying and race day events*. They will then sail from Doha, visiting Dubai, UAE (overnight); Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE; and Khalifa Bin Salman, Bahrain. Prices start from USD$839. On December 4, 2026, the 1360-guest Celestyal Discovery will be in Abu Dhabi, UAE, for a seven-night Abu Dhabi F1 itinerary. The ship will stay in port for three nights, allowing guests to watch all practice sessions, qualifying and race day events*. They will then depart Abu Dhabi on a four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailing, calling at Doha, Qatar; Ras Al Khaimah, UAE; and Khasab, Oman. Prices start from USD$899. All fares include all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities. Race tickets will be available to purchase via Celestyal, with travel agents able to pre-register for tickets via the line’s agency sales team. Celestyal Journey will then continue her Arabian Gulf season, operating a new version of the seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itinerary through to March 2027, sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Dubai (overnight), Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island and Bahrain. Celestyal Discovery, also operating through to March 2027, will sail the line’s three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha, Khasab, Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island and Ras Al Khaimah. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “Returning to the Arabian Gulf for a third consecutive season with both of our ships is a significant milestone for Celestyal, and a clear reflection of the demand …

At a special webinar conducted by YouGov shared that hotel accommodation remains the top choice for UAE travellers embarking on leisure trips lasting more than five days, with 38% expressing a preference for hotels, according to recent insights. The trend highlights continued confidence in hotels for extended stays, driven by factors such as service quality, amenities, and convenience. As travellers increasingly seek comfort and consistency during longer holidays, hotels are benefiting from their ability to offer integrated experiences, including dining, wellness, and leisure facilities. The preference also reflects evolving travel habits in the UAE, where travellers are prioritising hassle-free stays and professionally managed accommodation when planning longer leisure breaks.