NTO 

Transforming retail into travel experiences

Retail tourism is reshaping the global travel landscape, with the Middle East emerging as a key player in this dynamic sector. Industry experts share their views with TRAVTALK on the trends. TT Bureau Home to iconic shopping destinations, cultural markets, and luxury retail experiences, the Middle region is leveraging transformative …

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2025: Year of greater sustainability

The tourism and hospitality sectors are gearing up for a transformative 2025, driven by optimism and a renewed focus on sustainability. The industry is now prioritising climate action as an important agenda to future-proof its growth. Experts predict a dynamic year ahead, marked by shifting travel patterns and a wave …

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DCT Abu Dhabi begins Retrofit Summit

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural Retrofit Summit, bringing together key stakeholders from the hospitality industry, financial institutions and government agencies, alongside industry experts. The event enabled industry leaders to exchange best practices, explore new retrofitting technologies, and discuss the growing role of sustainability …

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KSA’s foray into business and MICE

The inaugural International MICE Summit took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, last month, bringing together business leaders and MICE management professionals from around the globe. TRAVTALK engaged in an exclusive discussion with Kai Hattendorf, former Chief Executive Officer, UFI, to explore the state of the industry and its future prospects, …

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Dubai’s new tourism concept

As Dubai celebrates its 30th anniversary of its shopping festival, the organisers take a different approach to the event by introducing local partners and their work to the tourists and residents in the UAE. TRAVTALK spoke with Mahra Al Khaja, Senior Associate, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, to know about …

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Curating experiences beyond London

With a sharp focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Middle East markets, VisitBritain aims to promote the UK’s cultural richness, regional beauty, and unique experiences. The recently held Destination Britain Middle East and Asia (DBMEA) event in Bengaluru, India, proved to be a landmark occasion for fostering deeper …

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ME records 29% visitor growth over 2019

In spite of several economic, geopolitical and climate challenges, Middle East has emerged as one of the strongest regions in terms of increase in visitor numbers during the first nine months of 2024, recording 29 per cent growth vis-à-vis the 2019 numbers. Some key initiatives, including ease of visa and …

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KSA to build 250k hotel rooms

Driven by Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is redefining global tourism with its rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and forward-thinking strategies, establishing itself as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking diverse and unforgettable experiences. At a recent event, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, shared …

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Sharjah, a premier global destination @WTM

The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority will be promoting the emirate as a premier global destination when the world meets once again at the World Travel Market London from 5-7 November. The authority has taken a step further by adding its offerings for the winter season when visitors can …

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SCTDA unveils ‘sustainability’ tool

Furthering its commitment to sustainable tourism, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has unveiled the Sustainable Tourism AI Assistant, an innovative virtual assistant designed to empower travellers, businesses, and institutions to make informed eco-friendly decisions. The forward-thinking tool was launched at GITEX Global, one of the world’s largest …

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