Tag Archives: GNTO

With travellers from the GCC continuing to seek meaningful, flexible and experience-led journeys, both organisations are aligning their strategies to engage a new generation of explorers, particularly Gen Z, while continuing to appeal to families, couples and multi-generational travellers from the region. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) and visitBerlin outlined a forward-looking vision for 2026, setting the direction for a year that celebrates Germany’s vibrant urban culture, rich culinary landscape and a growing emphasis on wellbeing. For 2026, GNTO will focus on two core campaigns designed to showcase Germany’s diversity and contemporary appeal, reflecting how the country continues to evolve as a destination that blends culture, creativity and quality of life. The City Life campaign places Germany’s cities, from major metropolises to smaller cultural hubs, at the heart of the travel experience. With their cosmopolitan atmosphere, rich heritage, shopping, dining and creative scenes, German cities offer a dynamic mix of tradition and modern living. The initiative combines inspiration with a strong call to action, encouraging travel planning while supporting hotels, restaurants and retail sectors across the country, with a clear objective of driving inbound revenue. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, said: “Our vision for 2026 is rooted in showcasing Germany as a destination that feels relevant, inspiring and welcoming to today’s travellers. Through City Life and Culinary, we are highlighting experiences that resonate strongly with Gen Z while still appealing to families and seasoned travellers from the GCC. Germany’s cities, food culture and focus on wellbeing offer endless opportunities for discovery.” Burkhard Kieker, CEO of visitBerlin, said:“Berlin represents the energy and diversity of urban life in Germany. In 2026, we will continue …

At a recent press gathering, Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing, German National Tourist Office GCC shared that there had been a further positive uplift in arrivals from the UAE to Germany between January – November 2025 which reached 8.9% arrivals and 16.2% increase in overnight stays. Some of the most significant factors which impacted this was the connections between the two destinations. She further added that Air Arabia starting off operations to Germany see more potential for growth. Also, added that they are in further discussions with other carriers in the region to further enhance connectivity.

German National Tourist Office – Gulf Countries retained its title of ‘Most Active in Promoting Sustainable and Accessible Travel’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2025. “Winning the Arabian Travel Awards recognition as “Most Active in Promoting Sustainable and Accessible Travel” is more than a trophy for GNTO in the GCC — it’s a strong signal that the market values responsibility and inclusivity, and that our work with German partners is resonating. It motivates us to keep raising the standard: making sustainable choices easier to understand, easier to book, and more relevant to GCC travellers — from Gen Z explorers to families and multi-generational groups. Going forward, we will deepen cooperation with destinations and industry to spotlight eco-certified and low-impact experiences, promote rail-first itineraries, and continuously improve accessible, practical travel information. Our goal is simple: help visitors experience Germany in a way that feels memorable, comfortable, and genuinely future-minded. – Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing German National Tourist Office Gulf Countries.” Yamina Sofo, Director – Marketing, German National Tourist Office – Gulf Countries.