While Saudi has started the year with inaugurating the world’s longest driverless train system, Qatar and Dubai look at keeping their tourist numbers and momentum up, and Oman ramps up activities to increase the country’s appeal.
Oman targets 6 million tourists ahead of 2030
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism aims to attract 6 million tourists annually by 2030, with aspirations to achieve this target ahead of schedule. In 2023, Oman welcomed over 4 million tourists, indicating a strong recovery post-pandemic. To enhance accessibility, Oman has waived tourist visa requirements for citizens of 103 countries and is developing its 12 ports to accommodate the growing influx of visitors. Additionally, Dhofar is expected to welcome around 500 charter flights this year. The opening of Oman Botanic Garden this year is expected to enhance the sultanateβs reputation as a destination for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts. The sultanate is also participating in discussions on a unified Gulf tourism visa to streamline travel across the region. These initiatives are part of Oman’s broader strategy to boost tourism and economic growth.
Egypt sets new tourism record with 15.7 million visitors in 2024
Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists in 2024, achieving a record despite regional geopolitical challenges. The Ministry of Tourism attributed the growth to collaborative efforts in showcasing the nationβs diverse cultural and historical offerings. Future plans include creating an Investment Opportunities Bank to promote tourism investments and adding 40,000 new hotel rooms. The ministry’s strategy focuses on enhancing marketing, integrating tourism services, and elevating guest experiences to position Egypt as a leading global destination.
Later this month, Cairo will host the three-day Gamergy e-sports festival from 30 January to 1 February, at Alburouj New Heliopolis. Sponsored by Imkan Misr, the event will feature live esports competitions, entertainment shows, and daily concerts. Over EGP 2 million (around USD39.5K) in cash prizes will be awarded, with zones dedicated to gaming formats and international influencers attending. Organisers expect 40,000 participants in this first MENA edition of the global Gamergy series.
Warner Bros. Discovery to spotlight Fujairah in Arabian shores series
Warner Bros. Discovery has partnered with Fujairah Holding to launch Arabian Shores, a new series airing on Discovery and Fatafeat. Hosted by Firas Kazma, the show highlights Fujairah’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and environmental initiatives. The programme aims to offer global audiences an authentic view of the emirate’s coastal landscapes and traditions. Filming includes features on Dibba Bay Oyster farm and the Fujairah Research Centre. The series premieres in early 2025, with the release date to be announced soon.
Jordan targets Chinese tourism market for growth in 2025
Jordanβs Minister of Tourism, Lina Annab, has emphasised the potential of the Chinese market for the countryβs tourism strategy, according to an interview with China’s Global Times newspaper. Recent marketing efforts, including exhibitions tailored to Chinese travellers, have shown promising results. Plans to expand direct flight connections with China are underway to boost accessibility. In 2024, tourism contributed $6.7 billion to the economy, accounting for 12.5% of GDP. The ministry aims to diversify its tourist base, shifting focus from Western markets to strengthen ties with China.
DWTC boosts Dubai’s business tourism with over 100 events in H1 2025
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has unveiled a robust first-half 2025 events calendar, featuring over 100 key exhibitions and conferences. This lineup spans sectors such as healthcare, finance, and tourism, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Major events include Arab Health, Gulfood, and Arabian Travel Market. DWTC aims to double its event portfolio by 2033, enhancing economic contributions. Flagship exhibitions such as Intersec and DUPHAT mark significant milestones. The calendar highlights DWTC’s role in fostering innovation and solidifying Dubaiβs global hub status.
Guinness World Records joins Dubai Marathon 2025 with unique challenges
Guinness World Records has partnered with the Dubai Marathon on 12 January 2025 to offer runners the chance to break records during the event. Categories include running in costumes, completing the race while dribbling a ball, or even running blindfolded. Participants attempting records receive free registration and fast-track verification. The initiative aims to blend sports with creativity, promoting inclusivity and fun. Marathon director Peter Connerton highlighted that charitable record attempts require prior approval in line with UAE laws.
Ajman to host Etihad Ajman Golf Championship to boost sports tourism
Ajman Tourism Development Department will host the Etihad Ajman Golf Championship at Al Zorah Golf Club on 24-25 January 2025. The event, sponsored by Etihad Water and Electricity, will feature 120 players from across the UAE. The initiative aims to promote youth participation in sports and enhance the emirateβs appeal as a key sports tourism destination. The championship aligns with Ajmanβs broader strategy to attract local and international tourists by integrating cultural experiences.
Earlier this week…
Saudi Arabia inaugurates world’s longest driverless train system, boosts tourism efforts
Saudi Arabia has achieved a major milestone with the full operationalisation of the Riyadh Metro, now the world’s longest driverless train system. The final phase saw the Orange Line (Line 3) commence operations, connecting the city’s eastern and western sectors over 41km. With all six lines now in service, the metro covers a total of 176km with 85 stations, operating daily from 6:00 AM to midnight.
Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s domestic tourism sector is thriving, with a 44% increase in domestic bookings in 2024, driven by family and group travel. Emerging destinations like Abha, Al Jubail, and Jizan are gaining popularity, while accommodation preferences are diversifying, with budget-friendly options and alternative accommodations seeing significant growth. The Saudi Tourism Forum, which commenced in Riyadh on 7 January, aims to showcase new tourist destinations, highlight major investment projects, and promote skill development and partnerships to drive tourism growth in line with Vision 2030.
Qatar Tourism achieves record-breaking growth, continues momentum
Qatar Tourism has reported welcoming more than 5 million visitors in 2024, a 25% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to visa-free travel initiatives and a focus on diverse experiences. The hospitality sector achieved a record 10 million room nights, while the culinary scene celebrated the debut of the Michelin Guide, with two restaurants earning one Michelin star and four receiving a Bib Gourmand.
To keep interests up, Visit Qatar has unveiled a vibrant schedule of events for 2025, including concerts, cultural festivals, shopping and sporting events. The Sealine Season, a three-week multi-activity experience from 3-27 January also kicked off at Sealine Beach, offering desert safaris, ATV buggy rides, and other activities. The upcoming 2024/2025 cruise season is also poised to be the biggest ever, boasting 95 scheduled port calls with an expected 430,000 passengers. Looking ahead, the World Travel and Tourism Council forecasts that travel and tourism could account for 13% of Qatar’s GDP by 2034, underscoring the sector’s potential as a significant driver of economic growth.
Dubai welcomed 16.79 million international tourists in 11 months
Dubai received 16.79 million international tourists between January and November 2024, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism reported that November alone saw 1.83 million visitors, contributing to this growth. Monthly arrivals throughout the year ranged from 1.19 million in June to 1.9 million in February. This consistent influx underscores Dubai’s appeal as a global tourist destination. The emirate’s diverse attractions and strategic initiatives continue to draw visitors worldwide.
Oman sets sights on global tourism with ambitious strategy
Oman is rolling out an ambitious tourism strategy, investing $5.9 billion in more 360 projects to attract 11 million tourists annually by 2040. This initiative is part of the National Tourism Strategy 2040, focusing on economic diversification, sustainable growth, and showcasing Oman’s rich cultural heritage. The strategy includes developing infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, as well as promoting the country’s offerings through roadshows in key markets, including Egypt, India, the Nordic countries, the UK, Japan, Germany, the GCC countries, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, from February to November 2025.
Oman is also emphasising adventure and eco-tourism, with plans for seven new resorts and over 40 projects to develop the adventure tourism sector. The completion of the Shinas Marine Park project and the development of Shinas Port as a key logistics hub are expected to boost local tourism and attract foreign investments. To promote Oman’s cultural heritage, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Tourism Committee organized a successful tourist walk in Nizwa, with plans for a second event in November 2025
Jordan’s tourism saw slight decline in 2024
Jordan welcomed 6.1 million tourists in 2024, a 3% decrease from the 6.3 million visitors in 2023. Overnight tourists numbered 5.2 million, down from 5.3 million the previous year. Day visitors also declined to 891,000 from one million in 2023. Despite the slight downturn, Jordan remains a key destination in the region, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites. The Ministry of Tourism continues efforts to attract visitors and boost the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
