Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost critical decision-making through Artificial Intelligence (AI). The agreement facilitates access for DCT Abu Dhabi to use SCAD’s AI-based Induction and Foresight Platform, which will contribute to supporting research and future planning to achieve strategic objectives. H.E. Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at DCT Abu Dhabi, and H.E. Badriya Abdullah Obaid, Executive Director of the Foresight and Communication Sector at SCAD, signed the agreement during their organisations’ participation at GITEX Global 2022. H.E. Al Fazari said: “This agreement represents an important step towards the use of AI solutions in our strategic planning, which will allow us to achieve our objectives for the culture and tourism sectors in Abu Dhabi. With this, we are showcasing the power of long-term public and private partnerships in the emirate which focus on digital transformation in line with the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025. We appreciate SCAD’s collaboration on this initiative and look forward to witnessing the results of this successful agreement.” As part of the agreement, SCAD will provide DCT Abu Dhabi with access to the platform, allowing training for the Department’s employees in ways to leverage data for the development of future plans and strategies. SCAD’s Induction and Foresight Platform includes interactive panels, analytical modules and simulations based on statistical data that allow decision-makers to study the impact of various policies on the economic and social sectors, as well as continue integrating resources across government agencies. GITEX Global 2022 is taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from …

AVIAREPS successfully relaunched its in-person AVIAREPS Middle East Travel Caravan after a 2-year hiatus following the Covid pandemic. Over 110 key travel industry professionals, media and travel influencers attended the Dubai leg of the event which was held on October 11th, 2022 at the Shangri-la Dubai Hotel. The travel roadshow saw key international travel brands and destinations gather under the one roof to meet with the UAE’s and Saudi Arabia’s key outbound travel agencies and meeting and conferencing professionals, to meet one to one to develop new travel packages, itineraries and events tailored for UAE and Saudi Arabia-based travellers. A total of 27 key international partners joined the 2022 edition of the AVIAREPS Caravan including Qatar Tourism Board, The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, Malta Tourism Authority, The Royal Commission for AlUla, Visit California, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority and a host of international hospitality brands, airlines and destination management companies. In addition to meeting leading travel agencies, partners also had the opportunity to meet with popular travel influencers from the region, as well as join an intimate panel discussion industry thought leaders, that included representatives from Emirates Holidays, ITL World and Al Rostamani Travel, where they were updated on the latest travel trends and consumer travel requirements from the region. Glenn Johnston, Vice President Middle East & Global Public Affairs, AVIAREPS commented: “As we head towards a post pandemic world outbound international travel from the Gulf Countries continues to demonstrate a remarkably strong and quick return compared to all other major travel regions around the globe. Within this context it is extremely important and timely to hold such an event. By bringing the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s travel professionals …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)  unveiled its new, innovative crowdsourcing platform, which serves as a collaborative, agile, and welcoming tool connecting DCT Abu Dhabi with the world. The unveiling took place as part of the Department’s participation in the 42nd edition of GITEX Global, which runs from 10 – 14 October at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The new Platform complements DCT Abu Dhabi’s five additional data-led projects on display throughout the event. The crowdsourcing platform will be used to implement a complete corporate innovation ecosystem and engage the worldwide community in solving challenges concerning DCT Abu Dhabi’s mandate whilst facilitating access for participants to share new ideas with the Department. The global activation will also support DCT Abu Dhabi’s brand and digital transformation, enhancing regional recognition and focusing on the Department’s efforts to encourage new talents, projects, designs, and ideas through one unified digital platform. Further, through this platform, DCT Abu Dhabi will tap into the vast knowledge of participants to create a wealth of knowledge of significant value. As a result, the competitive benefit for DCT Abu Dhabi can be found in the unexpected solutions that these unique insights will deliver. Additionally, the platform will allow for faster problem-solving while involving the community and driving the adoption and analysis of valuable data. H.E. Adnan Mohammed Alawadhi, Support Services Executive Director at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Developing and launching this platform comes in line with the UAE Digital Government’s Strategy 2025, focusing on digital transformation, which is a core priority of DCT Abu Dhabi. We are committed to identifying avenues for faster problem-solving and continually involving the community in projects. In addition …

Malta was one of the prominent partners at the AVIAREPS Middle East Travel Caravan with a contingent of DMCs and hotels which were more suited for the Middle Eastern travellers. The travel roadshow saw key international travel brands and destinations gather under the one roof to meet with the UAE’s and Saudi Arabia’s key outbound travel agencies and meeting and conferencing professionals, to meet one to one to develop new travel packages, itineraries and events tailored for UAE and Saudi Arabia-based travellers. Arthur Grima – Senior Manager Marketing at Malta Tourism Authority shared, “We are in the interesting period of seeing the recovery of tourism from the pandemic, in fact this year we are expecting to have around 2 million passengers from all our markets. Middle East is an emerging market for us and the type of tourists we receive are luxury travellers, interested mainly in more exclusive and boutique, private luxury type of hotels. We shared our diverse culture as various civilisations left their mark on their island, which is a significant attraction for visitors, also ours is the only language which is sematic but written in the Latin alphabet and this is very particular, its not just the language but also the gastronomy which is very varied and one can experience over 7000 years of history. Connectivity to Malta from this region is quite easy with the daily flight on Emirates to Malta. We are trying to make ourselves more known in the region.” Brian Bartolo, Director of Sales and Marketing Radisson Resort and Spa Malta Golden Sands, reiterated, “ We are showcasing one of Malta’s five star properties located on the north side of the island it …

Dubai’s 2022-2023 cruise season will kick off on 29 October when the leading luxury cruise Mein Schiff 6 is set to arrive at the Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal, Mina Rashid. Underscoring Dubai’s status as the region’s leading cruise hub, the emirate is set to welcome 900,000 cruise tourists during the 2022-2023 season, which kicks off with the arrival of the cruise liner TUI Cruises (Mein Schiff 6) at the Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal, Mina Rashid, on 29 October. The 2022-2023 season is scheduled to see 166 ship calls between Mina Rashid and Dubai Harbour, bringing in an estimated 900,000 cruise passengers and crew. Commenting on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Border Security Council, said: “The strong outlook for Dubai’s 2022-2023 cruise season will help accelerate its drive to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai the world’s most visited destination and the best city to live and work in. “The cruise industry is an integral part of Dubai’s tourism sector and plays an important role in reinforcing the emirate’s status as a global tourism hub. Dubai’s robust port infrastructure and state-of-the-art terminal facilities can handle some of the world’s largest cruise ships, underpinning the city’s reputation as one of the world’s most advanced cruise destinations and a key gateway for regional and international cruise itineraries. The scheduled increase in cruise liners and passengers visiting the city’s shores this season is driven by Dubai’s exceptional maritime infrastructure and the availability of some of the world’s most outstanding tourist …

The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) has revealed the country recorded a 318 per cent increase on overnight stays from Gulf nationals in the first six months of 2022 when compared to the same period last year*. GCC nationals were responsible for more than 335,000 stays in H1 2022, compared with a little less than 81,000 in 2021. Such figures confirm the region’s position as representing the biggest growth from an Asian source market. While tourism numbers may not have returned to pre-pandemic levels yet, the promising growth demonstrates the countries strong recovery as it continues to attract tourists. “The GCC is the top Asian source market, therefore it’s unsurprising with our recent campaigns that there has been such a strong increase,” said Yamina Sofo, director of sales and marketing at the German National Tourist Office, the regional office of GNTB. “Pandemic recovery has long been top of mind and it’s encouraging to see that both longstanding and first-time travellers are increasingly keen to explore everything that Germany has to offer.” Overall, the Asian source markets have recorded a 252.3 per cent increase in overnight visitors, a jump from just over 217,000 to just under 800,000 in 6 months. The surging increase demonstrates a dedication and determination to travel internationally, despite some countries continuing to implement travel restrictions during the first half of the year. To further drive interest in travel to Germany in the remainder of 2022, GNTB has announced the launch of its ‘Feel Good’ campaign, which encompasses a plethora of guiding tips highlighting the country’s eco initiatives that provide conscious tourists with adequate tools and information to reduce their carbon footprint during their travels. A recent survey by D/A, …

A recent survey by YouGov* revealed that when planning a holiday, more and more youngsters seek authentic experiences representing local culture and opt for sustainable and eco-friendly travel and accommodation options. Brazil has set its eyes on the GCC market looking at both locals and expatriates as they are living home to the natural landscapes and rich culture, Brazil is the perfect destination for young tourists from the region looking for an ethnically diverse, ‘instagramable’ holiday. From breathtaking beaches and adrenaline-infused activities to bustling nightlife and vibrant local culture, Brazil has so much to offer for those young at heart. Here are four distinct destinations in Brazil that are perfect for young solo travellers or groups of friends seeking adventure and real-life experiences. Reconnect with nature, relax by the tropical beaches or simply dance the night away at Florianópolis. From stunning coastlines and natural scenery to lounges and sporting activities, this serene island checks all the boxes for a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ holiday. During the day, Florianópolis is great for being outdoors with hiking routes, surfing and other adventurous activities and by night, this city transforms to a place to unwind and connect with other free-spirited souls. Florianopolis International Airport (FLN) receives daily flights from São Paulo (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro (GIG). Fernando de Noronha is known as a true paradise on Earth. It features some of the most pristine beaches in Brazil and memorable ecotourism experiences ideal for nature enthusiasts looking for hiking trails, boat tours, snorkelling, surfing, and other outdoor adventures. In addition to having breath-taking vistas and crystal-clear beaches, the island serves as a breeding ground for green sea turtles. Tourists and locals can witness these sea creatures …

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched the inaugural Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, a comprehensive study of the city’s gastronomy scene, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a much sought-after global destination for food tourism. The special report was unveiled at the first gastronomy industry briefing hosted by DET at the W Dubai  Mina Seyahi, and was attended by more than 100 restaurateurs, culinary specialists and key stakeholders from the food and beverage sector, to share seasonal highlights in relation to the ever-expanding gastronomy sector, and reveal industry insights from the city’s inaugural gastronomy report. The event was hosted as part of Dubai’s efforts to build upon the destination’s year-round programme of key foodie events, gourmet showcases and culinary platforms, to further strengthen the city’s dynamic ecosystem of around 13,000 restaurants and cafés. During the briefing, opportunities in the gastronomy sector and forthcoming calendar highlights were shared with partners to get their support to further enhance the city’s reputation as a year-round global gastronomy hub. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) revealed key findings from the newly commissioned annual industry report during the event, showcasing the gastronomy activities and initiatives which continue to be a driving force behind the steady growth in both domestic and international tourists, in line with the visionary leadership’s goal to make Dubai the world’s best city in the world to live in, work and visit.  This insightful research has reaffirmed Dubai’s standing as an international hub for gastronomy, and a beacon for visionary restaurateurs, chefs, discerning foodies, epicurean travellers and culinary aficionados. The inaugural ‘Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report’ highlights that Dubai’s vibrant and stimulating food scene is a direct reflection …

The first day of Tfest Dubai kicked off with Tourism Ireland showcasing their luxury offerings to the most influential buyers across the globe in Dubai. 14 iconic luxury island of Ireland industry partners joined in the event, including Adare Manor, Ashford Castle, Cashel Palace Hotel, Galgorm, Culloden Estate, Hayfield Manor, K Club, The Merrion Hotel, The Shelbourne Hotel, MHL Collection, Trump Hotel & Golf Resort Doonbeg, Irelands Blue Book, By Appointment DMC and Luxurious Ireland. As part of their afternoon Experiences on the Tourism Ireland stand in the Global Village they brought in their concept to life showcasing Ireland through unique experiences under the title – ‘Awakening your senses in Ireland’ and they brought in friends from Ireland who brought this to life. Speaking to Tourism breaking news Olivia Frawley – Executive Pan Market Luxury, Tourism Ireland shared,” we are very excited to be here at Tfest this year as we elevated our partnership with the event, as we felt that  it provided us a great opportunity to highlight the 14 wonderful partners we brought with us to Tfest with our luxury messaging and warm hospitality. We have a mixture of beautiful five star luxury hotels, DMCs, experiences and the most amazing is the fact that we have 14 of them and all situated in the same area, the global village and everyone is busy with their B2B meetings. We are showcasing our products ranging from castles to iconic city center hotels to luxurious hotels and properties in the countryside. What we love about Tfest that they provide us the opportunity for our partners and Tourism Ireland to really create relationships and that one on one time to network with …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), the Kingdom’s national flag carrier, has hosted a special roadshow event in Barcelona, Spain in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Ehab Mohammed AlNajjar, Minister Plenipotentiary of the Saudi Embassy in Spain, on behalf of His Excellency the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Spain, Mr. Azzam Al-Qain, with the goal of promoting the Kingdom as a leading global tourist destination. The roadshow, which comes as part of the global campaign Fly to Your Next and was held in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program, showcased Saudi Arabia’s numerous exciting travel and tourism projects and invited travel agencies to learn more about the world-class attractions visitors can experience in the Kingdom. The special event highlighted the latest marketing campaigns for tourism events and programs, including both current and planned initiatives. The Saudi Tourism Authority and tourism megaprojects including NEOM took center stage during the presentation. Invited guests were also familiarized with the benefits SAUDIA provides through its SAUDIA Holidays platform, which offers full packages including flight tickets and hotel reservations, as well as opportunities to book vehicles, tours, and excursions. The national flag carrier’s campaign comes as part of its ambitious plan to bring the world to Saudi Arabia. As the ‘Wings of Vision 2030’, the airline aims to take the campaign to many countries across Europe, as well as the United States and other key markets. SAUDIA highlighted its continuing collaborations with the Ministry of Tourism, the General Entertainment Authority, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Sport. The airline is a strategic partner in transporting participants and visitors from across the globe to leading events in the Kingdom and operates a …