Top 3 Headlines
Ultra by Private Luxury Events unveils its 2026 programme for MENA luxury travel
Ultra by Private Luxury Events has revealed its highly anticipated 2026 programme, showcasing a curated calendar of ultra-premium travel experiences and bespoke journeys across the Middle East and North Africa. Taking place from 25-29 January 2026 at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, this invite-only corporate event will be welcoming 300 luxury leaders and advisors, including their UHNW clients. The event is designed for affluent travellers seeking bespoke, culturally immersive and high-touch travel offerings, the lineup reflects sustained growth in the luxury segment and bolsters the region’s credentials as a playground for high-end experiential tourism.
MALT 2026 to convene 250 senior travel decision makers in Abu Dhabi
The Middle East and Africa Luxury Travel (MALT) Summit 2026 is set to bring together some 250 senior travel decision makers in Abu Dhabi, emphasising the region’s strategic role as a convening platform for luxury travel leadership. Taking place from 11-12 February and with a focus on networking, insight exchange and partnerships, MALT 2026 promises to accelerate collaboration between global operators, regional destinations and luxury travel advisors seeking to capitalise on evolving traveller preferences.
Saudi Arabia updates beach regulations to enhance coastal tourism appeal
Saudi Arabia has rolled out updated beach access and leisure regulations designed to elevate its coastal tourism offer, streamline visitor experiences and support investment in seafront tourism infrastructure. The regulatory enhancements align with the Kingdom’s broader tourism diversification strategy, seeking to unlock greater visitation to Red Sea and Gulf Coast destinations while facilitating sustainable and family-friendly beach tourism growth.
Noteworthy:
- Qatar Tourism has relocated its headquarters to Msheireb Downtown Doha, signalling a refreshed strategic focus on urban tourism and experiential city-centre offerings.
- AlUla’s dramatic landscape has been adorned with works by 11 top artists, further strengthening its profile as a global cultural and arts destination.
- Dubai Art Season 2026 is confirmed to run from 21 January to 26 April, uniting world-class art fairs, public installations and gallery showcases across the city.
- Abu Dhabi has been named ‘World’s Best Cruise Destination’ and ‘Middle East’s Best Cruise Destination’ for 2025 at the World Cruise Awards, boosting its positioning in the global cruise market.
- Arabian Adventures has unveiled a new desert dining experience in Dubai, expanding experiential tourism offerings that blend local cuisine with immersive desert settings.
