Top 3 Headlines
Bahrain set to launch first indoor ski academy
Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) has announced plans to launch Bahrain’s first indoor ski academy in partnership with an international ski academy operator, as interest in winter sports continues to grow across the GCC.
The academy will provide structured ski training within the Kingdom, focusing on developing technical skills, fitness, discipline and confidence among young athletes and enthusiasts. The initiative aims to introduce a new sporting culture in Bahrain, reflecting the increasing popularity of skiing among Gulf travellers visiting Europe and other winter destinations.
Dubai named ‘world’s most instagrammable’ destination for 2026
Dubai has been ranked the world’s most Instagrammable travel destination for 2026 in a new global study by PlayersTime, reflecting the growing influence of social media on tourism trends and traveller decision-making.
The city achieved a perfect “Instagrammability Score” of 100, supported by more than 190 million social media posts and 3.4 million monthly Google searches. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa also topped the global landmark rankings, generating more than 10 million tagged posts and 1.1 million monthly searches, ahead of attractions including the Eiffel Tower and Taj Mahal.
The report found that visually recognisable urban destinations continue to dominate travel engagement online, with social-media-driven exposure increasingly shaping tourism demand alongside traditional destination marketing efforts.
Saudi Arabia and Russia’s visa-free travel agreement has launched
Saudi Arabia and Russia have officially implemented a new mutual visa exemption agreement, allowing citizens of both countries to travel visa-free from 11 May.
The agreement applies to holders of diplomatic, special and ordinary passports, making Russia the first country to secure a mutual visa waiver arrangement with Saudi Arabia for ordinary passport holders. Under the new framework, travellers can visit for tourism, business, or family and friend visits for up to 90 days per visit, or across multiple stays within a calendar year. The exemption does not apply to work, study, residency, or Hajj travel, which will continue to require separate visas.
Noteworthy
- Leo & Loona Kids Park has opened at The Avenues Mall Bahrain, bringing an award-winning indoor ‘edutainment’ concept to the Kingdom. The venue combines themed play zones, role-play areas, workshops, dining and family activities into a full-day destination for children and parents.
- Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has launched a campaign targeting GCC families with concerts, festivals, shopping offers and family attractions. The push aims to position Bahrain as an easy, experience-rich choice for short breaks and weekend getaways.
- Oman’s South Al Batinah is seeing growing investment in mountain tourism, with 18 hospitality projects now operating across A’Rustaq, Nakhal and Al Awabi. Together, the properties offer around 154 rooms across guesthouses, heritage inns, eco-lodges, camps and small hotels.
- Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has warned pilgrims against fake Hajj permits and fraudulent travel ads. The ministry stressed that official channels are the only valid route for securing recognised Hajj permits.
- Visit Oman has joined ICCA, strengthening the country’s position in the global MICE sector. The membership gives Oman access to international meetings intelligence and supports its ambition to attract more high-value conferences and events.
- Art Dubai has opened its 20th edition at Madinat Jumeirah, marking two decades of growth alongside Dubai’s wider arts scene. The 2026 edition features more than 75 gallery, institutional and partner presentations from nearly 20 countries, with free public access across key programmes.
- Qatar Boat Show 2025 has won four international Eventex 2026 awards, including Silver for Middle Eastern Event and Bronze for Trade Show, Consumer Show and Outdoor Event. The recognition follows a strong second edition at Old Doha Port, which welcomed more than 505 brands, 65 vessels and over 27,000 visitors.
