Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) unveiled a new and innovative suite of digital services, projects and initiatives during its participation in GITEX Global 2025 through the Ajman Government pavilion at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The move comes in line with the Department’s commitment to foster smart and digital transformation in the tourism sector and its continuous efforts to reinforce the industry’s position in the emirate. The Department’s participation in a globally renowned event signifies its dedication to leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to create a smart and sustainable tourism sector. The initiatives and technologies include interactive tools for generating images, videos, and 3D models, converting written ideas into visual or audio content. ADTD has also introduced an intelligent system for evaluating and categorising ideas and a comprehensive digital registry to track future initiatives. In addition, the Department is promoting collaborative innovation through a secure digital platform for submitting and assessing entries for the Tourism Innovator Award. This cutting-edge platform enables the community to express their ideas in different ways, and it fosters creative engagement and contributes to shaping a future tourism innovation pathway that supports the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability. It also contributes to the goals of Ajman Vision 2030 to position the emirate as a smart and attractive global tourism hub. Commenting on ADTD’s active participation in GITEX Global 2025, His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the ADTD, highlighted the Department’s commitment to fostering digital transformation in the tourism sector and boosting the adoption of advanced technological solutions that support sustainable development goals and strengthen Ajman’s tourism economy. H.E. Alhashmi said: “At the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, we are committed …

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) showcased the Saudi Red Sea’s luxury experiences, yachting readiness, and investment opportunities as the next frontier in superyachting at the Monaco Yacht Show. With state-of-the-art marinas, luxury yacht clubs, and a world-class, growing coastal infrastructure, the Saudi Red Sea is emerging as the next must-visit destination for superyachts and luxury maritime experiences. Commenting at the Monaco Yacht Show, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “With $22.4 billion already committed, the Saudi Red Sea is backed by unprecedented investment and a clear ambition to set new standards in luxury and hospitality. Boasting over 1,800 KM of pristine coastline, we are ready to welcome the global yachting community with world-class infrastructure, pristine cruising grounds, and ultra-luxury experiences. The Monaco Yacht Show has been an excellent platform to highlight the Saudi Red Sea as the next frontier for superyachting – from the Med to the Red – and we look forward to welcoming more captains, crews, and visitors to our shores.” By 2030, the Saudi Red Sea will offer 80 hotels across The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations, alongside the exclusive Thuwal Private Retreat. This year, new openings on Shura Island include the SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental resorts, all set to welcome guests in the coming weeks and mark a new era of luxury. Additionally, Shura Links, an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that hugs the coastline, recently opening this September, underscoring the Saudi Red Sea’s emergence as a premier destination for luxury experiences. At its 300 sqm pavilion, STA demonstrated Saudi’s advanced yachting infrastructure, including purpose-built facilities and fully serviced marinas designed for smooth operations and effortless arrivals. With streamlined entry, flexible routing, and luxury …

Oman’s tourism activity offerings highlight the country’s strongest assets: a rich local cultural heritage and an extraordinary variety of landscapes, as shown by an analysis carried out by Mabrian, the global travel intelligence and tourism advisory partner. The study indicates that cultural experiences remain a central pillar of the offer, yet nature and active lifestyle activities together now surpass culture as the main source of discovery and enjoyment for travellers exploring the Sultanate. Mabrian, part of The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, examined supply and demand trends for experiences marketed through major online activity platforms across Oman’s 8 regions, using data from August and September 2025. “Our data intelligence shows clear opportunities to broaden Oman’s tourism offer around experiences beyond its cultural core, a particular yet relevant element of its tourism value proposition. Strengthening nature and active experiences in underrepresented regions, and making more family-oriented products available online, can help the country reach new segments and extend visitor stays,” says Sonia Huerta, Director of Insights & Tourism Advisory at Mabrian, and supervisor for this in-depth analysis. Mabrian’s data reveals that 37% of all activities and experiences available in Oman are concentrated in cultural tourism, linked to local heritage and monuments. This is followed by nature (28%) and active tourism (17%), which combined account for 45% of total activities offerings in the Sultanate. In terms of sub-products, the top three categories are local heritage, natural landscapes, and active tourism by the sea. Family-oriented activities still hold a limited share of the total portfolio, suggesting an opportunity to expand and reinforce segmented offerings specialised in this segment ,or better highlight existing options suitable for families with children of different ages. In terms …

The workshop discussed the concepts and methodological frameworks for measuring tourism in line with international standards, along with mechanisms for linking statistical data and administrative records related to visitors and tourism expenditure. It also highlighted the importance of integrating national data sources to assess both the direct and indirect impact of tourism on GDP and employment. The event brought together experts and specialists from national statistical offices and tourism authorities across GCC member states, in addition to representatives from regional and international organisations. The regional workshop on ‘Measuring the Contribution of Tourism to the Economy’, hosted by the Gulf Cooperation Council Statistical Centre (GCC-Stat) concluded under the patronage of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Omani Minister of Heritage and Tourism, underscored the importance of adopting comprehensive methodologies to measure tourism’s total contribution to the economy. Such an approach provides a more accurate and holistic picture of the sector’s true role in supporting GCC economies and assists in formulating effective, evidence-based policies founded on reliable statistical data. Al Mahrouqi stated that the workshop comes at a particularly significant time, as the tourism sector in the region is witnessing rapid growth and qualitative transformation in infrastructure, services, and investment. He noted that Oman and other GCC countries attach great importance to tourism as a central pillar of economic diversification, recognising its role in job creation, stimulating productive and service sectors, and enhancing sustainable development. However, he stressed that achieving this potential requires accurate and reliable statistical systems capable of measuring the true value of tourism’s contribution to GDP and to the national economy as a whole. He added that this workshop, organised by GCC-Stat, serves as a platform for experience sharing, capacity building, …

These projects form part of a comprehensive strategic portfolio of 52 developments spanning 60 million sq. ft. across Sharjah, with total investments and partnerships exceeding AED 7.2 billion. The five projects that anchor Shurooq’s achievements in this sector are the Heart of Sharjah, House of Wisdom, Al Noor Island, Maraya Art Centre and 1971 Design Space, and Mleiha National Park. Collectively, they reflect Shurooq’s commitment to fostering a thriving cultural economy rooted in heritage, creativity, and sustainability. Over the past 15 years, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has advanced beyond traditional urban development to firmly establish Sharjah as a global centre for culture and the arts, a sustainable platform for knowledge, and a dynamic destination for the creative economy in the region. According to Shurooq’s recently issued 15-year progress report, the authority has delivered five major projects in the Arts & Culture sector, with total investments and partnerships amounting to AED 447 million. These are part of a comprehensive strategic portfolio that includes 52 projects across various sectors, spanning a total area of 60 million square feet throughout the emirate, with total investments and partnerships exceeding AED 7.2 billion. These efforts align with UNESCO reports, which emphasise that cultural and creative projects are a significant economic and social driver, contributing meaningfully to GDP, creating job opportunities, and strengthening social cohesion, while also having a positive impact on sustainable development. This underscores the sector’s strategic importance as a key element in supporting sustainable growth and economic diversification, particularly in cities that adopt cultural identity as a central part of their urban fabric. These investments also support the UAE’s drive to position the creative economy as a cornerstone of its …

In line with its mandate as the executive arm of the Sultanate of Oman for tourism development OMRAN Group participated in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning’s Urban October event from 6–9 October 2025. During the event, the Group presented a portfolio of current and future projects that aim to support efforts in advancing Oman’s tourism and urban development landscape. Port Sultan Qaboos Waterfront, a landmark redevelopment project that will transform Muscat’s historic port into an integrated, mixed-use tourism destination. The project seeks to preserve the site’s cultural and architectural heritage, while opening new horizons for tourism and modern lifestyles, and strengthening investment opportunities within a framework of balanced and sustainable development. Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences, Muscat a luxury beachfront resort on the Al Bustan coast featuring 200 hotel rooms, 100 hotel apartments, five restaurants, and premium leisure and sports facilities. This project marks the first entry of the Four Seasons brand into Oman, reflecting a promising, attractive, and distinctive investment environment. Club Med Musandam Resort, a 215,000 sqm beachfront development in Khasab with 300 rooms and extensive leisure amenities, blending authentic Arabian hospitality with world-class family and leisure tourism experiences , while representing the first Club Med resort in the Middle East. This participation underscores OMRAN Group’s pivotal role as a catalyst for tourism infrastructure and Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs), creating destinations that seamlessly combine hospitality, lifestyle, and sustainability. It also reinforces the Group’s contribution to Oman Vision 2040 and the National Tourism Strategy, while enhancing the Sultanate’s competitiveness on both regional and global levels.

The Arabian Travel Awards is delighted to announce Malaysia Tourism as the Platinum Partner for its highly anticipated 8th edition, set to take place on 25th November 2025. An invite-only, red-carpet affair, the Arabian Travel Awards brings together the most influential names in travel, tourism, and hospitality—a distinguished gathering that celebrates excellence, innovation, and leadership across the industry. As Malaysia prepares to unveil its grand Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, this partnership presents an ideal platform to showcase the country’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and luxurious travel experiences. The collaboration is poised to inspire high-value travellers from the Middle East to explore Malaysia’s islands, rainforests, and cosmopolitan cities. “Partnering with the Arabian Travel Awards as Platinum Partner marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the Middle East. As we look ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026, this collaboration allows us to highlight Malaysia’s timeless appeal and our readiness to welcome discerning travellers seeking authentic, world-class experiences.,” said Mohd Faharuddin Hatmin, Director Tourism Malaysia in Dubai. San Jeet, Convener of the Arabian Travel Awards, added, “We are thrilled to have Malaysia Tourism join us as our Platinum Partner. Their participation reflects our shared vision to elevate global tourism and spotlight destinations that blend tradition, innovation, and luxury with a sustainable outlook.” Now in its 8th year, the Arabian Travel Awards continues to honour outstanding contributions that define the future of global tourism, setting new benchmarks of quality and inspiration for the industry’s finest.  

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly from 7 to 11 November. The session will take place under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future” and will mark the 50th anniversary of the United Nations’ specialized agency for tourism. Represented by its Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia will welcome more than 160 member states, international organizations, and global industry players to commemorate five decades of cooperation under UN Tourism and engage in dialogue aimed at securing a brighter, more sustainable future for the industry. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, invited the world to Riyadh to take part in a momentous milestone for global tourism diplomacy: “We look forward to hosting the world’s leading organization for tourism in a session that will redefine global action in this increasingly vital sector and beyond.” On being the first GCC country to host a UN agency’s general assembly, Minister Al Khateeb said: “This adds to the significance of this session and underscores the global vote of confidence given to Saudi Arabia as a convener and a trusted platform for international dialogue on tourism. Our mission—as hosts—is to bring the world together, unite views, and foster international cooperation that capitalizes on the growing tourism industry to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.” “The Kingdom firmly believes in the transformative power of tourism and its potential to enable comprehensive, sustainable development across economies and communities. This impact is evidenced by our own journey of unlocking the full potential of tourism and transforming the sector into a key driver of economic growth and diversification and an enabler of Saudi Vision 2030,” H.E. Al Khateeb added. …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group)joined the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) as its official Sustainability Data. This strategic partnership was designed to strengthen global collaboration on sustainable tourism, leveraging data to shape policies, foster accountability, and accelerate positive impact across the sector. The partnership reinforced OMRAN Group’s commitment to advancing sustainability and driving data-driven decision-making within the global tourism industry. As part of this collaboration, OMRAN Group supported the launch of the Environmental & Social Impact Data Index at the WTTC Global Summit, which took place recently in Rome. The Global Summit, which gathered CEOs and decision-makers from the world’s leading travel and tourism organizations, served as the stage for the unveiling of this groundbreaking index — designed to measure, benchmark, and advance the sector’s impact on people and planet. In a highlight moment of the Summit, the CEO of OMRAN Group delivered a keynote speech entitled “Examples of Excellence,” showcasing the Group’s comprehensive human capital development strategy — #IAmTourism — ” as a pioneering model for empowering and developing human capital, aligning with the national objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and translating the pillars of the National Tourism Strategy into tangible outcomes. The CEO also reaffirmed that this partnership with WTTC represents a pivotal milestone in the Group’s journey to embed sustainability, ESG principles, and In-Country Value at the core of tourism development. By harnessing data-driven insights and fostering global collaboration, OMRAN Group has advanced the creation of destinations that empower communities, celebrate culture, and safeguard the environment. The launch of the Environmental & Social Impact Data Index marks a significant step toward greater transparency and accountability, ensuring that the tourism sector delivers meaningful and measurable economic, …

Oman Air has signed an agreement with H.E. Sayyid Ibrahim bin Saeed Al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam, to support the Musandam Winter Season 2025/26. The agreement was formalized yesterday by the company’s Deputy CEO, Hamood Al Alawi. The carrier will play a key role in promoting the season, aimed at highlighting Musandam’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourism potential. The collaboration underscores the company’s commitment to supporting Oman’s domestic tourism strategy and strengthening its global visibility as a destination of choice. The Musandam Winter Season 2025/26 is expected to draw both domestic and international visitors, showcasing the region’s unique attractions, from fjords and mountain landscapes to cultural experiences and adventure activities. Through this partnership, Oman Air seeks to reinforce its role in advancing Oman’s tourism ambitions and contributing to the success of one of the country’s most anticipated seasonal events.