From new strategies to tourism spending record highs and a multitude of events to look forward to, the Q4 calendar in the Middle East is filling up fast! Here’s a snapshot of what you might’ve missed.
Qatar unveils tourism roadmap
Qatar Tourism recently showcased its tourism roadmap, emphasising the sector’s crucial role in achieving Qatar National Vision 2030. Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Chief of Tourism Development Sector, highlighted the importance of continuously developing and enhancing the tourism sector, which is considered one of the key elements contributing to strengthening the national economy and achieving sustainable development. Qatar Tourism aims to provide exceptional experiences for visitors at every stage of their journey from arrival to departure, and is committed to enhancing services and adopting excellence in service.
Qatar has already made significant strides in tourism, welcoming nationalities from 102 countries with visa-free or e-visa options through the Hayya platform. The tourism board has also recently launched their latest ‘Surprise Yourself’ campaign. The country boasts a vibrant and diverse calendar of events, with more than 600 events recorded to date, including summer festivals, cultural celebrations, and seasonal events. To further promote tourism, Qatar Tourism is preparing to launch the Michelin Guide 2025 and the second edition of the Qatar Tourism Award, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization.
Saudi records $24B in visitor spending in H1
Saudi Arabia‘s tourism sector is booming, with inbound visitor spending reaching SR92.6 billion in the first half of 2024, representing an 8.2% growth rate compared to the same period in 2023, the Saudi Gazette reported. This impressive growth has resulted in a surplus of SR41.6B (US$24B) in the travel account and reflects the significant advancements made in the tourism sector and positioning. According to UN Tourism, Saudi Arabia is outperforming other G20 countries in international tourist arrivals and growth rate of international tourism receipts from January to July 2024, surpassing its numbers from the same period in 2019.
Protecting Egypt’s Red Sea coast
Egypt’s Environment Minister, Yasmine Fouad, has announced plans to declare the entire Red Sea coast a marine reserve. This move aims to boost environmental tourism investments and attract more visitors, while also protecting the area’s coral reefs and natural resources. Entrance fees to the reserves will aid tourism development and support environmental protection. As ecotourism grows globally, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, balancing economic benefits with environmental conservation.
Abu Dhabi Boat Show returns bigger than ever
The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show is set to return for its sixth edition from 21-24 November 2024, at the Adnec Centre Marina Hall, promising to be its largest edition yet. With more than 34,000 visitors expected, the show will showcase a vast range of luxury yachts, sailing boats, houseboats, and fishing gear, alongside family activities and exceptional marine experiences. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a growing global maritime hub, highlighting the emirate’s unique marine lifestyle and culture.
Abu Dhabi Michelin Guide Ceremony to celebrate culinary excellence
The Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi‘s third edition ceremony will take place on 31 October at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, honouring the city’s exceptional culinary talent. In partnership with Experience Abu Dhabi, the event celebrates Abu Dhabi’s vibrant food scene, blending tradition with global influences. Following the success of the 2023 guide, which recognised 46 top restaurants, including four Michelin-starred establishments, this year’s ceremony promises to highlight the emirate’s growing reputation as a dynamic gastronomic destination. This culinary showcase will feature five guest chefs, including four from the 2024 Abu Dhabi edition, who will present their innovative gastronomic creations:
99 Sushi Bar – One Michelin Star, Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2024
ERTH – One Michelin Star, Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2024
Dai Pai Dong – Michelin Selected, Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2024
Ray’s Grill – Michelin Selected, Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2024
Tate –Two Michelin Stars, Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2024
Walk on the world’s largest Ferrari logo
The ‘Roof Walk’ experience at Ferrari World Yas Island is back! Offering spectacular panoramic views of Yas Island and Abu Dhabi, the walk is suitable for all ages. The guided adventure accommodates up to eight guests and is available daily from 3 pm-8 pm. Prices start from AED 125 with park entry or AED 195 standalone. Visitors can also enjoy discounts with annual passes and explore the award-winning theme park’s 43 rides and attractions, including the new Ferrari-themed Esports arena.
Dubai Shopping Festival launches with entertainment galore
The 30th Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) will take place from 6 December – 12 January 2025, with a spectacular live entertainment lineup at the Coca-Cola Arena from 6-8 December. The opening weekend will feature the return of the 321 Festival, with concerts by Arabic music legends Georges Wassouf and Kadim Al Sahir on 6 December followed by performances by South East Asian and Western superstars.
In addition to the Coca-Cola Arena shows, City Walk will host free-to-attend outdoor entertainment and activities as part of the 321 Festival. Visitors can enjoy special offers at City Walk’s top dining venues throughout the opening weekend. The full DSF calendar will be released soon, so watch this space for exclusive experiences across Dubai’s. This year’s DSF is supported by strategic partners including Al Futtaim Malls, AW Rostamani Group, Emirates Airlines, ENOC, e&, and talabat.
