Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) and Alizz Islamic Bank  announced the signing of a collaboration agreement to establish a strategic financial partnership with a synergetic objective to reinforce Oman’s tourism and economic sectors through this strategic endeavour.  Development for Commercial Building No. 1 in the Business Park at Madinat Al Irfan (East). OMRAN Group, the master developer of the project, reiterated its commitment to developing the Business Park to become a vibrant destination for business and innovation, hosting the headquarters of various institutions. Dr. Hashil Al Mahrouqi, the CEO of OMRAN Group, and Ali Al Mani the CEO of Alizz Islamic Bank, delivered speeches, highlighting the synergetic objectives to reinforce Oman’s tourism and economic sectors through this strategic endeavour. Dr. Al Mahrouqi articulated, “This collaboration with Alizz Islamic Bank is a stride towards realising our vision at OMRAN Group – to transform landscapes into vibrant, sustainable environments contributing significantly to Oman’s social, economic, and environmental prosperity. The Group has a rich record of leading tourism projects and assets, and is working to stimulate investment by building strategic partnerships with investors to contribute to the creation of sustainable social and economic benefits.” Emphasising the impact of the partnership, the CEO of Alizz Islamic Bank, Ali Al Mani, remarked, “Aligning with our dedication to support projects of substantial national value, this alliance with OMRAN Group represents a crucial milestone in our journey towards contributing to Oman’s flourishing future, rooted in innovation and sustainability.”   The event, attended by industry leaders, investors, and media representatives, underscored the partnership’s shared objectives: to highlight the development’s uniqueness, elevate awareness around the Business Park, and attract investors for the enhancement of the master plan of …

dnata has partnered with Mauritius Tourism as it aims to attract more travellers from the UAE in 2024. Mauritius Tourism has appointed dnata Representation Services as its sales, marketing, and PR representative in the UAE, to provide localised booking support and share top rates, latest news, itineraries and more from the destination with travellers across the country. The collaboration will focus on showcasing trending experiences for 2024, including the island’s diverse proposition beyond its famous shorelines. In recent years, Mauritius has become an increasingly popular destination among UAE-based travellers. With an impressive 62% increase in travellers from the UAE to the country recorded by Mauritius Tourism between 2015 and 2023, passenger arrivals continue to show steady growth in 2024. Rakhi Purohit, Head of Representation Services at dnata, commented: “Mauritius is a location known for its world-class beaches, but it offers much more for travellers seeking extraordinary adventures. From hiking in National Parks to enjoying diverse culinary experiences, some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes and picture-perfect golf courses – there’s something for everyone. We look forward to bringing the island’s host of authentic and meaningful experiences closer to the UAE’s avid traveller base in 2024.” Popular locations across the island for UAE travellers include the beaches of Flic en Flac, Tamarin and Le Morne on its West and South West Coast, where the country witnesses its most sunshine, and offers some of its most impressive natural landscapes, luxury resorts, dining and entertainment options. Donald Payen, Chairman of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, added: “Mauritius may be best known for its stunning, tropical landscapes including its exceptional beaches and azure waters, but a key element we want to showcase to …

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has approved the new Tourism Strategy 2030 for the emirate. The Strategy seeks to boost visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030 (overnight and same-day), with a 7% year-on-year growth. Moreover, it plans to significantly elevate the tourism and travel sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP, raising it from approximately AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 billion annually by 2030. Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the ambitious blueprint signals a new era of expansion and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector. The Strategy will generate an estimated 178,000 new jobs by 2030 as the entire tourism infrastructure develops to meet this demand. It intends to almost double international overnight visitors from 3.8 million in 2023 approximately to 7.2 million in 2030, expand hotel room availability from 34,000 in 2023 to 52,000 by 2030, and further enhance the holiday home segment to diversify accommodation options. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The Tourism Strategy 2030 marks a pivotal moment in Abu Dhabi’s transformative journey, representing a vital lever in our ongoing evolution. Delivered alongside our key partners, the Strategy underscores our steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable growth and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector. Through carefully crafted initiatives that will unlock economic opportunities, amplify our distinctive culture and enhance the emirate’s value proposition, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant and prosperous future that transcends generations.” Fostering sustainable growth across four strategic pillars …

In an update to mark World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, it has been announced that Dubai is on record pace towards becoming a Certified Autism Destination. Just over one year into the process, driven by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city is firmly on track to becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. As part of the accreditation process, DET, in collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), renowned leaders in autism and sensory training and certification, has initiated comprehensive autism and sensory awareness training for its tourist-facing workforce. Offered via ‘Dubai Way’, a world-class online training platform developed by Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), this training is tailored to enrich staff knowledge, deepen understanding, and refine communication strategies, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and accommodating experience for People of Determination. In addition to its Autism and Sensory Awareness course, DCT offers Inclusive Service training on the Dubai Way platform which is a self-paced online programme that teaches applicants how best to cater and communicate with People of Determination. The programme is delivered through a series of experiential training sessions, including real-life stories, interactions and videos. In just over a year, the city has achieved the following milestones: ● More than 13,000 individuals have received autism and sensory awareness training via Dubai Way. ● More than 350 hotels commenced the training and certification process, ensuring comfortable and inclusive stays for guests with autism and sensory sensitivities. ● More than 30 locations have earned IBCCES certifications. The significant progress made so far in the accreditation process underscores Dubai’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all …

Celebrate Eid Al Fitr surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones by the azure waters and pristine beaches of the Maldives. As the spring blooms and joy fills the air, make every moment during this Eid truly special, infused with the spirit of celebration and tranquility. Private celebrations with the whole family Experience the essence of togetherness with exclusive family celebrations in private villas and overwater bungalows. Have a retreat and bask in the serenity of your own secluded haven where you can gather with loved ones to mark the end of Ramadan in style and comfort. Several luxury resorts provide the perfect Ramadan offers that are valid until Eid-ul-Fitr holidays. If you are planning to stay in the north of Male, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, just 20 minutes away from Velana International Airport, offers a Ramadan Escape for two that includes speedboat transfers, daily buffet breakfast and dinners, a massage treatment, and guided house reef snorkeling. In the southern part of Male, Baros Maldives’ Entrancing Eid offer provides book direct benefits that will surely enhance your stay. Get pampered and escape to Anantara Veli Maldives Resort for a few days of wellness with a friend or a loved one and enjoy daily breakfast and dinners, a signature massage, wellness assessment and consultation, a 45-minute jetlag reviver foot massage, oxygen therapy, a personal training session, and 3 group wellness activity per day. Sun, Sand, Sea and Adventure Surrender to the soothing rhythms of island living. Fall in love with the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface. Expect crystal-clear waters that offer unparalleled visibility, ranging from 20 to 40 meters, providing an unobstructed view of the marine ecosystem.   …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) made its inaugural appearance at the 30th International Travel & Hospitality Show (MITT) in Moscow. Marking the destination’s inaugural participation at the annual travel and hospitality event, the Abu Dhabi stand aimed to cultivate and strengthen ties within the Russian and CIS markets, while enhancing awareness and appreciation for its offerings across culture, heritage, entertainment, nature, hospitality and beyond. Winning the ‘Outstanding Debut Award’, the Abu Dhabi stand took centre stage in the main hall, with the DCT Abu Dhabi International Operations Department and a delegation of 10 stakeholders spotlighting the emirate’s wide array of attractions and offerings. Further to promoting, protecting and progressing the emirate’s rich cultural and historic heritage, DCT Abu Dhabi’s presence also catered to sun and beach enthusiasts through sophisticated relaxation and rejuvenating escapes. Abu Dhabi’s participation bolstered connections, fostered new business collaborations and explored avenues for joint marketing endeavours. The 10 participating stakeholders included Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana, Saadiyat Rotana, Beach Rotana, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Rixos Hotels, Saadiyat Island & Yas Island, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Yas Plaza Hotels and Bab Al Qasr Abu Dhabi. Representatives from these stakeholders actively engaged with guests, supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision to share its immersive cultural and heritage experiences, relaxing beach retreats, gastronomic delights, premier shopping outlets, and unparalleled hospitality offerings.

Saudi Arabia has made unprecedented strides in its tourism sector, setting a remarkable milestone with total spending by inbound visitors reaching 135 billion riyals in 2023. Inbound visitors spending in 2023 reached 135 billion SAR, marking the Kingdom’s highest ever spending by inbound visitors with a growth of 42.8% compared to inbound visitors spending in 2022. Furthermore, data from SAMA showed that in 2023, the Kingdom achieved a surplus of 48 billion riyals in travel account, reflecting a growth rate of nearly 38% compared to the surplus recorded in 2022. The notable surge in spending by inbound visitors is part of the successive achievements in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. Particularly noteworthy is Saudi Arabia’s leadership position on the UN Tourism’s list of large tourist destinations, showcasing significant growth in the number of international visitors in 2023 compared to 2019. As highlighted in the UN Tourism Barometer report released in January 2024, the Kingdom witnessed a remarkable 56% increase in inbound visitors in 2023 compared to 2019. Furthermore, there was a noteworthy recovery of 156% in the number of inbound visitors in 2023 compared to 2019, indicating a robust resurgence in the Kingdom’s tourism industry. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has garnered widespread international recognition from the UN Tourism and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for surpassing 100 million inbound and domestic tourists in 2023. Both organizations have praised the significant efforts undertaken in the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has extended the waiver of fees for issuing, distributing, and marketing event tickets in the emirate, to further encourage growth for the tourism sector. Event organisers will be exempt from paying the tourism fee of 10 per cent on tickets sold until 31 December 2024. His Excellency Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi’s year-round line-up of events consistently attracts visitors from around the globe. The extension of the tourism fee waiver until the end of the year is part of our efforts to accelerate our growth and provide continued support to our event partners and organisers, who are integral to the tourism and entertainment ecosystem of the emirate.” Event organisers must continue to obtain event licences through the Abu Dhabi Events Licensing System following specified regulations. Organisers are required to declare revenues generated from their events, submit supporting financial statements, and cooperate with revenue auditors or individuals designated by DCT Abu Dhabi to verify the accuracy of their declarations. The tourism tax waiver is among several recent measures aimed at fostering the expansion of the tourism and events industry in Abu Dhabi. Other incentives include the reduction of tourism and municipality fees for hotels in Abu Dhabi, as well as updates to the holiday homes policy. Within this policy, farmhouse owners can now acquire licences to convert their properties into holiday homes. Landlords and residential unit owners can obtain more than one holiday home license for multiple units.

Discover and savor the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, where every dish tells a story of cultural heritage and innovation. Expect fresh seafood delights to bountiful tropical flavors, the Filipino cuisine offers an array of dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. The culinary landscape of the Philippines reflects diverse influences, shaped by its vibrant history. At the heart of Filipino cuisine is its ability to blend diverse flavors into harmonious culinary masterpieces. Think of contrasting tastes and textures served on a plate. Generations have passed down culinary traditions, resulting in the unique flavors found in authentic Filipino dishes that we enjoy today such as the hearty comfort of sinigang, the zesty tang of adobo, or the aromatic richness of the kare-kare. With over 7,000 islands, each region of the Philippines boasts its own culinary specialties, reflecting the unique ingredients and cultural influences of the area. In the northern region of Ilocos, diners indulge in the tangy flavors of pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew). In the Visayas, seafood takes center stage, with dishes like kinilaw (ceviche) and lechon (roast pig) drawing crowds of eager food enthusiasts. Meanwhile, in Mindanao, dishes like piyanggang (grilled chicken in coconut milk) and tiyula itum (black soup – braised beef or goat) showcase the region’s rich Muslim heritage. The country’s coastline treasures should not be missed. Delight in the freshness of grilled fish, succulent prawns, and mouthwatering squid dishes, each prepared with local herbs and spices to enhance their natural flavors. With the country’s numerous fishing communities and coastal towns, seafood is often caught and served on the same day, ensuring optimal flavor and quality. In Batangas, feast on tawilis, a type of freshwater sardine found only in Taal Lake, while in Cebu, savor the smoky flavors of …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral announced 65% completion of the overall development of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. Located within Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum is set to be the largest of its kind in the region, once construction is completed by the end of 2025. Upon completion, the museum will take visitors on a 13.8-billion-year journey through time and space – from the earliest origins of our universe, exploring the abundance of life on Earth today, and looking into the future. Structural works of the 35,000 sqm museum is largely complete with a current focus on the installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), building fit-out, and exhibition works. The museum was topped out by H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi and Miral, H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi and Mohamed Abdallah Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, which was followed by a visit of the development to check construction progress. H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will play a key role in advancing science and inspiring environmental stewardship in our children while furthering Abu Dhabi as a global centre for research and collaboration. By cultivating a generation passionate about the natural sciences, we seek to enrich lives through education and scientific discovery, in turn encouraging people to actively care for the planet’s future. Set to inspire visitors of all ages by unlocking billions of years of knowledge about our planet, this progress update is an indication of concrete steps towards curating a thought-provoking …