Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) reports 2024 as its strongest year ever, welcoming a record-high 1.28 million overnight arrivals, with 12 per cent growth in tourism revenues and a notable 15 per cent rise in MICE visitors. The success is a testament to the Emirate’s strategic and sustainable …
Read More »KSA’s domestic bookings rise 44%
Family and group bookings have emerged as an important driver of domestic tourism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with over 70 per cent growth registered across the segments. Almosafer’s latest travel trend report reveals a robust 44 per cent growth in domestic bookings in 2024. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer …
Read More »Festivals & events boost UAE tourism
The UAE has strengthened its position as a global hub for cultural, entertainment, and business events. From extravagant festivals like the Dubai Shopping Festival to world-renowned events like Expo 2020, the region has strategically leveraged its position to attract millions of visitors annually. Emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have …
Read More »Sharjah fest: celebration of artistic brilliance
Sharjah Light Festival, celebrating its 14th edition, is one of the key culturally-rich events which draw visitors from across the GCC. Year-on-year the festival’s offerings have grown to include new elements which never cease to amaze the travellers and residents. Dr Shehara Fernando The 14th Sharjah Light Festival returns under …
Read More »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 …
Read More »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 …
Read More »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 …
Read More »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, …
Read More »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 …
Read More »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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