Category Archives: Govt

The Emirates Tourism Council – which met under the chairmanship of H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprises – reviewed the national plans to develop a tourism data system in accordance with global best practices and promote tourism in foreign markets to increase the footfall of visitors in the UAE. The first Council meeting in 2022 – which was attended by the membership of heads, directors of all local tourism departments and entities in the UAE – also reviewed the performance of the tourism sector and hotel establishments in the country in 2021 and the growth rates achieved in several tourism indicators. Al Falasi asserted that the tourism sector in the UAE continues to achieve outstanding results due to the vision and directives of the wise leadership and the concerted national efforts to develop the country’s tourism environment by providing integrated tourism products and services that enhance UAE’s position as a preferred and sustainable tourist destination for tourists from within the country and around the world. According to the data, hotel establishments in the country hosted 19 million guests in 2021, with a growth of more than 29 per cent compared to the number of guests in 2020. Domestic tourism accounted for 58 per cent of the total number of guests last year in the UAE. Hotel establishments last year generated revenues of AED 28 billion, witnessing a growth of up to 70 per cent compared to 2020. Over the past year, more than 75 million hotel nights have been booked, up 42 per cent compared to 2020, while the hotel occupancy rate reached 67 per cent, which is the highest …

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), under the umbrella of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), has announced its fifteenth consecutive participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 9 – 12. The authority will also be present at their online event, ATM Virtual, from May 17 – 18. Furthering its mission to continue boosting the UAE’s and the region’s business and investment potential in the authentic, eco-inspired travel sector, Shurooq will unveil  new hospitality projects at the 29th edition of ATM, along with showcasing its diverse and world-class portfolio of existing eco-destinations that champion the spirit of conservation and the preservation of local culture and heritage, and in doing so, are redefining the leisure and travel landscape of Sharjah and the region. With a physical presence at ATM 2022 at Stand No. ME 2150 in Hall 2, Shurooq will also be turning the spotlight on its latest projects, which will be making their ATM debut. These include Lux* Al Jabal Resort – a luxurious beach resort in Khorfakkan overlooking the pristine waters of the Soueifa Beach; the Lux* Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid set adjacent to the Sharjah Safari, the largest wildlife safari in the world outside of Africa, where Shurooq and EPAA will collaborate to curate unique guest interactions with the wild; and Nomad which explores the emirate’s nature through beach trailer experience in Al Hamriya. . Through its presence at the leading travel and tourism event in the region, Shurooq aims to update industry stakeholders as well as regional and international investors on their latest contributions to the emirate’s travel and leisure sector, particularly …

Medyaf, the industry nationalisation initiative at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, has launched the ‘Explore the Tourism Industry in Dubai’ initiative, designed to empower Emirati talent seeking to join the tourism workforce with the fundamental knowledge and skills through an immersive programme of interactive workshops, field trips, vocational experiences and hands-on training. The goal of the Medyaf initiative is to provide students with a better understanding of opportunities within the tourism and hospitality sectors, attracting new talent and supporting their continued professional development, in addition to contributing towards further enhancing the visitor experience. Mariam Al Maeeni, Director of Industry Nationalisation at Dubai College of Tourism, said: “We are delighted to launch the Medyaf ‘Explore the Tourism Industry in Dubai’ initiative, inspired by the constant efforts of our visionary leadership to boost the economy by providing opportunities for Emirati talent to excel across sectors. The initiative is also in line with the important role played by Medyaf in supporting the UAE’s industry nationalisation strategy, which aims to support and bolster Emirati talent and increase the number of UAE nationals entering the tourism sector. Medyaf is a comprehensive public-private collaboration which includes a plethora of immersive workshops, training events, and industry activities contributing to the growth of the tourism sector, in addition to supporting the diversification of the national economy.” As part of the initiative, two workshops were hosted by Medyaf last month; the first was conducted in Al Seef Heritage Hotel and attended by 10 participants, whilst the second was held in Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, and welcomed 11 participants. Both workshops contained theoretical and practical activities in an engaging, interactive environment, and provided …

The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in China held a webinar on District 2020, the dynamic Dubai development that has evolved from Expo 2020, as part of efforts to showcase the huge potential it offers international entrepreneurs and investors, while reaffirming Dubai’s position as a destination of choice for global travellers. The webinar titled ‘District 2020: A lasting legacy after Expo 2020 Dubai’ was held in collaboration with District 2020, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.  Among the participants at the virtual forum were diplomats, senior officials and representatives from the media and businesses community. Among those who addressed participants at the webinar were His Excellency Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, Ambassador of the UAE to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency E. Zhang Shenfeng, Vice Chairman of the China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and Commissioner General of the China Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai,  Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM) and Sanjive Khosla Senior Vice President of Transition Unit – District 2020. They shared the successful results of Expo 2020 Dubai and the China Pavilion, as well as providing information on the tourism and business sectors of District 2020 to Chinese audiences. The speakers at the event stressed that Dubai will continue to attract global visitors in the post-Expo era. China is a key market for Dubai’s tourism industry, which continues to be at the forefront of global tourism recovery. After 182 days of memorable experiences, Expo 2020 Dubai successfully drew to a close on 31 March, having attracted over 24 million visits by residents …

Dubai Next, the digital crowdfunding platform that has attracted many young innovators and start-up ideas, is anticipating an increase in fund-seekers and contributors following the country approving a federal system for such platforms recently. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the new federal framework that will allow operators from the government and private sectors to back crowdfunded projects. Dubai Next was launched in May 2021 by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, The platform, which is managed by Dubai SME, an agency of the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai, is attracting  innovators and has already enabled eight start-up concepts raise the required funds. “Crowdfunding has had a significant impact in ushering in a new generation of entrepreneurs in the UAE. It provides an alternate financing option, and an ideal opportunity to turn start-up ideas into viable projects. Students aged 12 and above can create campaigns on Dubai Next and the campaigns seen so far are diverse and innovative” said Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO of Dubai SME. Crowdfunding involves small amounts sourced towards financing of a single commercial venture. Anyone with an innovative idea or project can create a campaign on Dubai Next and seek funds from contributors. The not-for-profit platform is open to people of all nationalities. “The Dubai Next experience confirms that crowdfunding can motivate our growing youth population to pursue entrepreneurship, thus ushering in a new generation of entrepreneurs and eventually positioning Dubai as the global hub of innovative enterprise,” Al Janahi said. Currently, Dubai Next …

The doors to Dubai Sports World, the UAE’s largest indoor sporting venue, are officially open. The annual multi-sports initiative, in its 12th edition, returns bigger and better this year: 42 courts and pitches spread across 20,000sqm and running for almost six months. His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, in the presence of Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President – Venue Services Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, declared the venue open and explained the reasoning behind the extended period of operations. “Running for 23 weeks through the summer, the 12th edition of Dubai Sports World offers a broad range of sports and physical activities in line with the UAE leadership’s vision to cultivate a healthier, fitness-oriented lifestyle,” he said. “This unique sporting facility encourages all ages and standards to continue practising sport and socialising as part of an active lifestyle, aligned to our vision of promoting the health, happiness, and vitality of our Dubai community. “This year’s edition is the longest yet, which reflects the increased interest and engagement in sporting activities we have seen throughout the emirate, in line with the UAE leadership’s emphasis on promoting sports and physical activity for all members of society.” To make the 23-week initiative a reality, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has transformed Za’abeel Halls 3-6 into the UAE’s largest indoor sports destination, spread across 20,000 square-metres and set up for an array of sports and academic coaching. Running from 8am until 1am every day during Ramadan and 8am to midnight every day thereafter until September 21, the venue offers facilities to play badminton, basketball, cricket, football, padel, tennis, table tennis, and volleyball. The interconnecting halls serve as a self-contained and …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has become one of the first UAE government entities to create its own Non-Fungible Token (NFT). During a series of innovative workshops, more than 220 employees collaborated to create the unique NFT digital art, which aimed to reflect DCT Abu Dhabi’s corporate values of being welcoming, pioneering, agile, and collaborative. Jasim Al Hebsi, Acting Director of the People and Performance Department at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “In creating our NFT collage, we have proven that the spirit of innovation is thriving within our organisation. At DCT Abu Dhabi, our vision is to cultivate knowledge and understanding for our cultural heritage, while also initiating creativity to embrace the future of technology. So, as well as highlighting our corporate values and encouraging teamwork, this project has enabled us to gain a firm understanding of how art and culture are evolving in the digital age.” NFTs are digital assets that represent real-world objects, such as artwork, music, video game, or film clip. The created arts can be purchased or sold online using cryptocurrencies only, and are often encoded and stored on the same cryptocurrency blockchain software. The two-day workshop event consisted of eight sessions where 20 teams worked on creating their designs using a photo library containing more than 1,000 images. The unique designs were fused to create a collage which was later transferred into DCT Abu Dhabi’s exclusive NFT. Since DCT Abu Dhabi’s NFT workshop, other UAE government entities have shown interest in recreating the sessions to make their own unique digital assets. NFTs were first invented in 2014, but they have recently gained recognition as an increasingly popular means …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) concluded its first-ever Visit Abu Dhabi Roadshow event in Tel Aviv, Israel, with the successful two-day event hosted in partnership with Etihad Airways and Experience Hub. The roadshow saw key stakeholders join DCT Abu Dhabi representatives to showcase the UAE capital as the leading tourism destination for families and couples in the Middle East region. Paving the way for long-term partnerships in the sector, members of DCT Abu Dhabi met with tour operators and key stakeholders to promote and discuss the unique and diverse experiences the destination offers Israeli travellers. Nabeel Al Zarouni, Travel Trade & Market Development Regional Section Head – Domestic & Middle East Region at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Over the last 50 years of the UAE’s growth, Abu Dhabi has played an integral role in shaping the tourism offering of the region and we’re delighted to have been able to showcase this, and upcoming announcements, to our valued travel trade partners in Israel. Abu Dhabi is a destination that offers the world in one place – culture, entertainment, relaxation and amazing natural landscapes from deserts to beaches. There is something for everyone to enjoy at your own pace, whether it’s the tranquillity of Al Ain to the thrills of Yas Island. We look forward to welcoming more Israeli travellers this year, particularly with the exciting calendar of events we have in 2022 and beyond.” The official visit started on 23 March when the roadshow welcomed industry leaders, Israeli senior management, diplomats, and Abu Dhabi tourism stakeholders at an exclusive networking dinner held at the Hilton Tel Aviv hotel. This was followed by a DCT …

Armani Hotels & Resorts and Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) announced plans for a signature Armani Hotel to be built in the city of Diriyah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, an area set to become an extraordinary international cultural and lifestyle destination inspired by the rich heritage of the country. With resemblance to Armani Hotels & Resorts’ current hotels in Dubai and Milan, the property will be managed by Emaar Hospitality Group. The 300 year-old site located just 15 minutes from Riyadh is the birthplace of the Kingdom and the capital of the First Saudi State. The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif, the valley and lush palm groves of Wadi Hanifah, and will soon include the Diriyah development, an acclaimed pedestrian-centric project that preserves the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia. Upon completion, Diriyah will comprise 13 unique districts inclusive of museums, cultural institutions, fine dining, residences, hospitality offerings, office space, retail, and outdoor attractions. The development is a key driver of the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030. Giorgio Armani said, “This is a pioneering project that was born from rediscovering Saudi Arabia’s roots: a dialogue between history and the present that I find very fascinating. Armani Hotel Diriyah allows me to interpret my idea of lifestyle and hospitality in a particularly subtle and embracing way. After celebrating the tenth anniversary of the opening of the Armani Hotels in Milan and Dubai, I am ready to take on this exciting new challenge. I am inspired by this initiative and delighted to be part of a project of such wide geographical and cultural scope.” Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority commented, “It is an …

Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), the government of Uganda’s destination marketing organization, launched its new destination brand Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, as part of a tourism and media event held at the Sheraton Jumeriah Beach Resort in Dubai. The launch was conducted in the presence of the Honorable Tom Butime, Uganda’s Cabinet Minister for Tourism, and resulted in the United Arab Emirates becoming the first international market to experience the launch of Uganda’s new and improved brand. The extravagant open air evening event saw an impressive turnout with more than 90 key industry stakeholders, professionals, media and travel bloggers flocking from around the Emirates and GCC countries, to learn more about the intriguing destination that is Uganda. Speaking at the launch and heading a delegation of tourism officials and key professionals from the Ugandan tourism industry, the Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Honorable Tom R Butime said: “Uganda is extremely excited to launch our revitalized brand and travel offering to the world, and we are thrilled to do that here in Dubai, where the UAE and surrounding Gulf States are a priority tourism market for Uganda. Through our continuous promotional efforts in the region and participation in Expo 2020 Dubai over the last six months, we have developed the necessary networks and offerings to ensure Uganda is positioned as a top holiday destination for travelers from the UAE and GCC seeking meaningful and unique once in a life time experiences.” Ms. Lilly Ajarova, Chief Executive Office, Uganda Tourism Board added: “The new brand promise seeks to re-emphasize Uganda’s rare and precious range of tourism attractions that can all be found in one destination and based on pillars …