From giant UV jellyfish to a prestigious award panel, this week’s destination round-up features the Middle East’s first Destinations Internation accreditation, new climbing and hiking experiences in the Red Sea, Seaworld’s new festival and the Qatar Tourism Awards. It’s all happening at the moment!

AlUla gains Middle East’s first Destinations International Certification

AlUla has made history by becoming the first destination in the Middle East to receive the US Destination Marketing Accreditation from Destinations International. This certification recognises AlUla’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices and excellence in destination management since opening as a tourism site in Saudi Arabia four years ago. The accreditation requires standards across 100 performance areas to be met, including financial management, stakeholder engagement, destination development, and governance.

Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation join forces with Red Sea Global

Red Sea Global has partnered with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation (SCHF) to offer more adventure tourism experiences in the region. Through its adventure sports brand, Akun, Red Sea Global will promote hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities. This collaboration aims to showcase the Red Sea’s natural beauty and provide thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts in a safe way. Events such as climbing competitions and group hikes will be organised, highlighting the region’s unique landscapes and fostering tourism growth.

First-ever Electric Ocean Festival in Abu Dhabi

Taking place at SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the first Electric Ocean Festival is taking place every day 6pm – 8pm until 25 August. This innovative event will feature electrifying entertainment and interactive experiences, including live performances, light shows, and underwater-themed activities. The festival aims to attract both local residents and international tourists, offering a unique blend of music, technology, and marine life. Visitors can enjoy giant installations of LED jellyfish, get neon face paint, and watch UV reactive puppets and drummers. Plus a lot more.

Panel announced for second Qatar Tourism Awards 

The Qatar Tourism Awards are back for the second year after more than 300 entries last year from across the sector. This year’s judging panel has been announced and it’s a prestigious group including Qatari royal and businesswoman, heikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al Thani who was the first woman appointed to the Qatar Financial Centre. The panel also includes: 

• Dr. Rana Sobh – Dean of College of Business & Economics at Qatar University
• Dr. Eng. Abdulla Hassan Al Mehshadi, CEO of Al Wa’ab City
• Ramzan Al Naimi – Founder of Innovation Cafe and Be Creative Agency
• Ali bin Towar Al Kuwari – International Researcher
• Azzam Abdulaziz Al Mannai, CEO of Sport Accelerator at the Aspire Zone Foundation 
• Marcel Leijzer – Deputy Director, Technical Cooperation & Silk Road Department at UN Tourism