Top 3 Headlines
Abu Dhabi sees tourist surge led by growing Chinese market
Abu Dhabi recorded 1.4 million overnight visitors in Q1 2025, with Chinese travellers a standout segment. Nearly 200,000 Chinese visitors came between January and September 2024, up 85% YoY contributing significantly to hotel growth. Revenues reached AED 2.3 billion, with RevPAR rising 25% to AED 484 and occupancy steady at 79%.
Top attractions include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World. To build on this momentum, Abu Dhabi signed partnerships with 17 Chinese travel firms during ITB China 2025, supporting its goal of reaching 39 million visitors and AED 90 billion in tourism revenue by 2030.
Indian travellers drive MENA demand for premium, experiential holidays
A new survey by Thomas Cook India and SOTC reveals that 85% of Indian travellers plan to holiday more frequently in 2025, with over 80% intending to boost their travel budgets by up to 50%. Driven by rising incomes and social media influence, Indians are prioritising longer trips, premium stays, and unique experiences like safaris, gastronomy, cruises, and phenomenon-based travel such as Northern Lights or Cherry Blossoms.
The Middle East remains a key destination for this demographic, with rising demand for luxury event-led travel, including Indian weddings. Strategic interest in immersive, value-rich travel is reshaping the region’s tourism offerings.
Virat and Anushka front Dubai’s latest travel surprise
Dubai Tourism has launched a new campaign starring Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, showcasing the city’s ever-evolving appeal through a personalised lens. In Dubai, Ready For a Surprise, the couple explore everything from the world’s highest infinity pool to desert adventures, uncovering hidden gems and fresh experiences in a city they already love.
The campaign highlights Dubai’s versatility while tapping into the Indian travel market with two of its most influential icons. For Indian travellers, it’s a reminder that even familiar favourites can still surprise you.
____________________
Noteworthy …
- Abu Dhabi is set to host the inaugural Games of the Future in December 2025, as well as the M&I Expo from 14 to 16 April 2026. The expo will welcome 1,000 global MICE industry leaders at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
- Exhibition World Bahrain is embracing geo-cloning strategies to replicate successful global events to position Bahrain as a dynamic hub for business tourism.
- A Spanish media delegation visited Aqaba on 31 May 2025 to explore Jordan’s investment climate and tourism offerings.
- Dubai’s RTA announced on 30 May 2025 the readiness of 893 air-conditioned bus shelters across 22 locations, enhancing commuter comfort during the summer.
- Sharjah will host the 29th World Investment Conference in 2025, in partnership with WAIPA and the UAE Ministry of Investment, attracting global investors.
- Cairo hosted the inaugural Cruise Egypt Forum on 31 May 2025, focusing on enhancing Egypt’s maritime tourism sector and cruise industry.
- NEOM‘s green hydrogen project has reached 80% completion, marking a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s sustainable energy initiatives.
- During Eid Al Adha 2025, Dubai Expo City is offering free entry for children, encouraging family visits to the cultural hub.
- A Saudi tea enthusiast has opened a unique museum in Al Khobar, showcasing a collection of 7,000 rare tea-related items.
- Six Flags Qiddiya City released a teaser video showcasing its upcoming record-breaking rides, including the world’s tallest roller coaster, Falcon’s Flight.
