Top 3 Headlines

Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya supercity to feature F1 track and 43 sports venues

Saudi Arabia is building Qiddiya, a futuristic supercity near Riyadh. The $8 billion megaproject has recently announced it will include 43 sports venues, a 22,000-seat convertible stadium, a 4D esports arena, and a $480 million Formula 1 racetrack. Qiddiya aims to be a global hub for entertainment, tourism, and elite sports, featuring theme parks, luxury districts, and high-tech infrastructure. Designed to attract both citizens and international visitors, the project reflects Saudi Arabia’s drive to diversify its economy and redefine urban experiences in the region.

Armenia grants visa-free entry to GCC travellers from July

From 1 July, 2025, Armenia will offer visa-free entry to all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals and residents, allowing 90-day stays within any 180-day period. The policy applies to passport holders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, as well as GCC residents with permits valid for at least six months. Aimed at boosting tourism and economic ties, the move builds on earlier visa waivers for select GCC countries. Armenia hopes to attract more Gulf travellers with its rich heritage, landscapes, and culture, supported by improved air connectivity and infrastructure.

‘Scoop by the Sea’ brings summer fun to West Bay North Beach

Visit Qatar has launched Scoop by the Sea, an ice cream-themed summer activation at West Bay North Beach, running daily from 18 June to 13 August, 2025. The family-friendly event features activities like kite surfing, wingfoil shows, foam parties, VR F1 car experiences, and eco-powered bike races. Entertainment includes carnival games, live music, sandcastle contests, and stilt walkers. Food and drinks are available on-site and the activation will be open 10am – 6pm on weekdays, and 8am – 6pm on weekends. Free entry for children under 12 and seniors over 60.

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Noteworthy:

1. The Bahrain Grand Prix has been confirmed for 10-12 April 2026 at Bahrain International Circuit, remaining the fourth round of Formula 1’s 2026 calendar.
2. Fanatics and Visit Qatar have partnered to launch a premium lounge experience at Fanatics Fest NYC in June 2025, showcasing Qatar’s culture to US sports fans.
3. Dubai Safari Park recorded over 52,700 visitors in its sixth season, underlining sustained growth in local eco‑tourism offerings.
4. Egypt has set a target to attract 30 million tourists by 2031 under a new investment plan promoting infrastructure and marketing initiatives. 
5. Louvre Abu Dhabi will host a Filipino food pop‑up by Kooya Eatery at its museum café, celebrating cultural exchange through cuisine in June 2025.
6. DHL will invest over €500 million in its operations across Saudi Arabia and the UAE through 2030, strengthening logistics infrastructure and expanding services across its four business divisions (Express, Forwarding, Supply Chain, eCommerce).
7. Oman has begun work on a 3 km tourist walkway in Nakhal, connecting the historic Nakhal Fort with Ain Al Thawarah hot springs to boost eco‑heritage tourism. This comes as Oman has announced it has attracted $6.7billion in investments since 2021 reflecting a strong commitment to expanding eco‑heritage and infrastructure development.
8. Dubai Police and the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation signed an MoU on 11/06/2025 to enhance data-sharing and co‑operation, boosting security across Dubai’s trade and travel customs systems.
9. Saudi Arabia has added the MEDEX shipping line at Jeddah Islamic Port, linking it to 12 global hubs and marking its 19th maritime connection so far in 2025.
10. Seychelles is collaborating with Bahraini tourism stakeholders to strengthen connectivity and premium travel.