From new eco-tourism destinations and wedding appeal to upskilling and gastronomy tourism, we look at the different developments and events from around the region.

Bahrain wraps up region’s 1st UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism

The ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism took place in Bahrain from 18-19 November. Held for the first time in the Middle East, the event brought together more than 500 participants from around the world, including renowned chefs, policymakers, and industry experts. Attendees delved into various topics including the role of gastronomy tourism, attended masterclasses and demonstrations, and learned about developing different kinds of culinary tourism experiences.

Sarah Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, also took the opportunity to highlight that the Kingdom’s culinary heritage, shaped by its history as a trading hub, has given birth to a “beautiful fusion of East and West”. She encouraged attendees to join forces and unleash the full potential of gastronomy tourism and added that Bahrain’s rich culinary landscape, combined with the government’s strategic focus on gastronomy tourism, is driving significant growth in the sector, creating jobs and boosting the economy. Catch up on full story and videos here

Oman to develop more eco-tourism destinations

Oman’s Environment Authority has announced three investment opportunities in Al Saleel Natural Park to promote eco-tourism destinations to further boost international tourism in the Sultanate. The plan is to develop a 220 sqkm reserve 57 km from Sur that will not only be home to the Arabian gazelle and wolves, wild cats, and variety of turtles and birds,, but also feature three types of geographical terrains for visitors to enjoy – alluvial plains peppered with acacia and gum trees, verdant valleys and mountains. Guests will also be able to enjoy the campsite, beekeeping facilities, and safari tours.

The South al Sharqiyah Governorate is also working on tourism projects including the expansion of Sur Industrial City, the completion of the Sharqiya Expressway, and the development of Al Falah Hospital in Jalan. With the development of the Mebam Tourism Village, a fishing port in Tiwi, the ancient city of Qalhat, Al Ajhah Beah; as well as the rejuvenation of Al Hira, Al Kamil and Al Wafa, the government is aiming to not only elevate the lifestyle of residents, but also boost the local economy with more jobs, investments and visitations.

RAK to host 14th Exotic Wedding Planning Conference

Ras Al Khaimah is gearing up to host the 14th Exotic Wedding Planning Conference (EWPC) from 26-28 February 2025. This would be the second time the emirate is welcoming the conference, which attracts more than 500 attendees from 80+ countries. Already, more than 35 speakers and 100 exhibitors are confirmed for the event, promising visitors an unparalleled opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Attendees can look forward to meeting top-tier vendors, representives from different destinations along with a host of exhibitors showcasing the latest trends in wedding planning, design, and luxury experiences, while enjoying RAK’s offering as a wedding destination.

EWPC had also shared the many reasons RAK is an ideal destination to tie the knot, including:

• The “plethora of mouth-watering dining options” available
• the city’s “outstanding hospitality towards guests ensuring their comfort and making sure they feel cared for”
• Its “wide array of activities and entertainment for couples”
• The city’s simplified legal processes for civil marriages via its Wedding Certification Program
• Its many luxurious resorts and experiences designed for couples

DCT Abu Dhabi to enhance knowledge exchange with the National Library and Archives

The DCT Abu Dhabi and the National Library and Archives have signed an MoU to enhance cultural collaboration and knowledge exchange. With the aim to enrich the cultural landscape of the UAE through joint activities and events, promote cultural sustainability, and preserve Abu Dhabi’s cultural heritage, both organisations will work together to establish awareness and training workshops, develop community responsibility programs; and enhance Arabic language literacy as well as innovative experiences in the field of culture and museums.

Jordan’s tourism income declines

Jordan‘s tourism revenue for the first 10 months of 2024 was recorded at $6.153 billion, representing a decline of 4.4% compared to the same period in 2023. This decrease is primarily attributed to a 6.6% drop in tourist arrivals, due to flight cancellations amidst regional conflicts. However, there was positive growth with a 6.2% increase in tourism revenue from Jordanian expatriates, and a 11.6% improvement from Arab visitors. To manage the current challanges, Jordan is working on reaching further east with its marketing efforts in East Asia.