Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

A Qatari delegation that includes representatives from the Qatar for Tourism, the Permanent Committee for the Management of Sea Ports and Qatar Ports and the General Authority of Customs, paid an official field visit to the tourist port of Barcelona in the Kingdom of Spain recently, where members of the Qatari delegation met with officials of the administration at the Spanish port and were briefed on the best practices, workflow mechanisms and services provided to visitors arriving on board cruises and the port’s security and safety systems.. The three-day visit is part of efforts to support the cruise tourism sector in Qatar, exchange expertise and experience, and enhance the operations and logistics required by the Qatar’s growing cruise tourism sector. During the visit, the delegation discovered the terminal for ships and cruise ships, where the members of the delegation met with Spanish port officials and were briefed on the regulations in force, the volume of work and the levels of tourism activity witnessed by the port, while part of the visit program was devoted to reviewing the modern security and control measures and systems applied and coordination mechanisms between the various authorities operating in the port such as passports, customs, administration and security, and the procedures followed for ship reservations and how to set priorities. The visit also included a joint workshop held at the port, which brought together members of the Qatari delegation and officials of the Port of Barcelona, during which they were closely acquainted with the entry and exit systems of passengers, as well as the integrated and innovative solutions that are used to overcome the problems that may face tourist flows in the port, which is …

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan, the Hashemite Commission for Disabled Soldiers, Amideast/Jordan, and Boeing have launched the “Disabled Soldiers Empowering Tourism” program. Training sessions have begun in Amman and Irbid, marking a significant step in preparing wounded, injured, and sick servicemembers and veterans for careers in Jordan’s tourism and aviation industries. His Royal Highness Prince Mired Bin Ra’ad, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hashemite Commission for Disabled Soldiers, reaffirmed his commitment to empowering wounded and injured soldiers: “Under the directive of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, and to act on His Majesty’s vision of achieving equality, social justice, and economic empowerment, this program is launched as a step towards progressing vital development goals. These goals include the rehabilitation, support, and integration of disabled soldiers to enable them to obtain job opportunities and economic prospects in the tourism sector. This aligns with our ongoing efforts at the Hashemite Commission for Disabled Soldiers to unify and consolidate efforts to build economic empowerment programs that meet the needs of various sectors and provide inclusive job opportunities.” Over the next months, 50 participants aged 20-45 will continue to engage in a comprehensive upskilling program, investing 220 hours in training. The injured servicemembers and veterans will not only enhance their English language proficiency but also cultivate essential soft and technical skills vital for success in tourism and aviation. With tailored training sessions addressing industry-specific demands, courtesy of active participation from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, participants will be well-equipped for transitioning into civilian careers. The program with Jordan’s Hashemite Commission for Disabled Soldiers builds upon Boeing’s ongoing partnership with the Invictus Games Foundation, supporting the recovery and …

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development has announced the launch of its summer training program “Self-Exploration through Tourism,” which will run throughout July 2024. This ambitious program aims to provide exceptional learning opportunities for young people and to activate initiatives that contribute to acquiring the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary for various disciplines. The “Self-Exploration through Tourism” program offers a unique opportunity for participants to train in a diverse range of important disciplines, including marketing and promotion, where they will learn effective marketing strategies and promotional techniques to attract more visitors and tourists to Ajman. In tourism and hospitality, trainees will acquire the skills necessary to deliver the best tourism and hospitality services, focusing on enhancing the visitor experience. Participants will also be trained in the latest graphic design techniques and how to use them in promotional and marketing campaigns. In human resources management, they will gain an understanding of the fundamentals, including recruitment, training, and performance development. Additionally, training will be provided on the legal foundations governing business and tourism, helping participants understand applicable laws and regulations, and in accounting, participants will learn the basics and how to manage accounts and budgets in the tourism sector. His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, emphasized the importance of this program, stating: “We are committed to providing outstanding learning opportunities for our youth through innovative training programs. ‘Self-Exploration through Tourism’ is not just a training program; it is a journey of discovering abilities and developing skills that will contribute to building a better future for our community and local economy. Through this program, we aim to equip participants with the necessary tools for success …

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed a 22.9% increase in visitor spending in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023, with total expenditures surpassing SAR 45 billion. Additionally, the “travel” item reports that the Kingdom earned SAR 24 billion, reflecting a growth of over 46% compared to the same period in 2023. Preliminary data from the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) on the balance of payments’ “travel” item indicates that travelers from the Kingdom spent approximately SAR 21 billion during the same timeframe. The increase in inbound visitors’ spending in the Kingdom marks another milestone in the ongoing success of its tourism sector. In 2023, the Kingdom topped the UN Tourism list for the highest growth rate in both international tourist numbers and tourism receipts among the world’s leading destinations, compared to 2019. This achievement highlights the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism and other components of the Saudi Tourism Ecosystem in promoting the tourism sector and contributing to the national economy’s growth. It is a key aspect of the National Tourism Development Strategy. The released documents have confirmed the effectiveness of the efforts by the Tourism Ecosystem to position the sector as a global leader. This has been achieved through the implementation of best practices in tourism development, the enhancement of tourism services and products, and ongoing collaboration with all government entities to support the development of the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) launched the “Oman Downwinder” initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve tourism diversification and its commitment to enhancing the adventure and experiences sector. This year’s races will start from the beaches of Duqm in Al Wusta Governorate, pass along the Omani coasts to the north, and conclude at Ras Al Jinz Reserve in South Sharqiyah Governorate. The races featured the participation of twelve professional athletes from both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. The launch ceremony was held at the W Muscat Hotel, and attended by Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, Dr. Khamis Salem Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, and several officials from various entities. In this context, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, stated: “The Sultanate of Oman is endowed with abundant and diverse natural assets, making it a leading destination for offering unique tourism products and experiences. Organizing these races reflects our belief in the pivotal role that various sports events play in promoting and highlighting our tourism potential to the world, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and establishing Oman’s position on the international tourism map.” Dr. Hashil highlighted that organizing these races aligns with the Group’s strategic directions aimed at achieving tourism diversification and enhancing the adventure and experiences sector by leveraging unique and diverse natural potentials. It also embodies the Group’s commitment to creating sustainable and eco-friendly experiences for adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, this event represents a significant opportunity to enhance Oman’s position as a prominent global destination for hosting sports events and adventure activities. Marcelo Antunes Ferreira, CEO of Sea and Beach …

In a move to increase domestic tourism SAUDIA has launched special promotional offer in partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority. This offer covers round-trip flights in guest class, with prices ranging from SAR 224 to SAR 400. This initiative builds on Saudia’s commitment to providing competitive prices to its guests throughout the year. Guests can book their tickets through Saudia’s digital channels, including the website and smartphone application. The offer is valid for bookings made between July 1 and July 4, 2024, for the travel period of July 10 to August 10, 2024. In the coming years, Saudia has ambitious plans to double its network that consists of 144 aircraft connecting 26 domestic destinations. Additionally, the national flag carrier offers distinguished air services that enhance the travel experience for guests, including warm Saudi hospitality and a variety of in-flight entertainment options on multilingual screens, catering to diverse guests’ preferences.

In line with the summer season, Visit Qatar has launched its Qatar calendar of events and ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, including a host of offers, events and fun activations targetting the GCC visitors. Curated for people of all ages, the ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign showcases what the country has to offer from outdoor acitivities to exclusive offers in iconic locations. The campaign video shows Bahraini influencer and film-maker Omar Farooq head to Doha for a 24-hour visit where his friend, renowned Qatari athlete, Mutaz Barshim meets him. Together, both Barshim and Farooq experience Qatar’s curated summer offerings. Following its success last year, the Qatar Toy Festival returns to Qatar this summer in its second edition from July 15 to August 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The Qatar Toy Festival will be an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. Qatar is also home to several indoor parks including Doha Quest, Virtuocity, Angry Birds World and Trocadero. With world-class private beaches, Qatar is set to welcome GCC visitors to its shores. West Bay Beach, 974 Beach, Doha Sands Beach, Banana Island Resort, Doha Beach Club, Katara Beach and many others will be operating throughout the summer with special events and offers. GCC visitors can benefit from Visit Qatar’s promotions, including up to 40% in multiple locations by Katara Hospitality. Some of these promotions include a festive brunch, lunch or dinner, hotel stays among other exciting offers. Additionally, families with children can visit Inflata City at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) until July 13 for fun activities on inflatables. Msheireb Downtown Doha is hosting ‘Summer Nights’ until August 31 with immersive festivities catered to all …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to facilitate the sharing of expertise and to promote and boost visitation to their respective museums, aiming to increase tourism and drive economic growth in both emirates. Signed by HE Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, and Saeed Al Samahi, General Director of Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department, the strategic partnership will allow the entities to exchange knowledge and expertise, develop joint training programmes and engage local and global tourists through joint marketing and promotional activities. In addition to enhancing tourism growth, this collaboration underscores a shared commitment to promoting the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi and Fujairah through the exchange of artefacts and artworks. By collaborating on resources and expertise, DCT Abu Dhabi and the Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department will amplify the impact of their museum offerings and attract greater numbers of visitors and will deepen public appreciation and understanding of their respective histories. HE Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The partnership with Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department enables collaboration between our museums across joint programmes and promotions. Highlighting the rich artistic and cultural heritage of both emirates will foster pride in our national identity and promote cross-cultural understanding between the UAE and visitors from the region and around the world. The partnership will enhance the museums’ visitor experience, deepening appreciation of Emirati heritage and values and increasing tourism numbers and economic impact.” For his part, His Excellency Saeed Al Samahi, General Director of the Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department, added: “The agreement constitutes a …

Philippines welcomed over 600 global delegates of the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific as it formally opened on Wednesday (June 26) at The Marquee of Shangri-La Mactan. Philippines successfully hosts first UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific Courtesy of the Department of Tourism – Office of Public Affairs and Advocacy. Co-organized by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), the UN Tourism, and the Basque Culinary Center, the event gathered participants from UN member-states, affiliate members, and tourism stakeholders from national and international organizations. A first of its kind in Asia and the Pacific the forum seeks to become a platform to celebrate the power of gastronomy tourism by bringing together destinations and international experts in an exchange of knowledge and best practices, in order to fully harness the transformative power of gastronomy tourism, especially its benefits to local communities and the environment. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, BCC Director of Masters and Courses Idoia Calleja, Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King Chan, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan, UN Tourism Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism Chef Vicky Cheng of VEA Restaurant in Hong Kong, and foreign dignitaries led the ceremonial pouring of rice into a giant pusô, a rice cake made by boiling rice in a woven pouch of palm leaves that serves as a major culinary pride of Cebuanos, one of the diverse gastronomic offerings that can be found in the Philippines. The Philippines holds the honor of hosting this inaugural UN Tourism forum, after its election as Chair of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific during …

The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) revealed that the sector’s contribution to Egypt’s GDP grew almost 24% last year to reach a record E£953BN – nearly 21% ahead of the previous peak. The data also shows that across sector jobs, international and domestic visitor spending, the sector fully recovered last year to reach record-breaking levels. Domestic visitor spending grew almost 9% year-on-year to reach more than E£328.5BN, while spending by international visitors saw a strong 38.5% year-on-year growth last year, to reach E£470.4BN. Jobs supported by the sector grew almost 10% to reach more than 2.5MN, representing one in 12 jobs across Egypt. Although this is strong recovery, it continues to lag previous record job numbers for the sector, set 15 years ago in 2008, when job numbers reached 3.7MN. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “Egypt’s Travel & Tourism sector has made an extraordinary recovery, surging past previous records, highlighting the sector’s resilience and its vital role in Egypt’s economy. “The Egyptian Government recognises the value of Travel & Tourism to the Egyptian economy and jobs, placing it at the forefront of the agenda, with a real focus on investment.” This year, the sector’s GDP contribution is forecast to reach almost E£988BN, accounting for 8.1% of Egypt’s economy. International visitor spending is anticipated to grow 6.2% to reach just under E£500BN this year, with domestic visitor spending expected to reach over E£340BN. Sector jobs are projected to grow 5.7% to reach 2.67MN, to account for almost one in 11 jobs in Egypt, although still below the previous peak.With the right government support, WTTC is forecasting that the sector could grow its annual GDP contribution to E£1.57TN by 2034, representing …