From the announcement for next year’s Arabian Travel Market 2025 and the conclusion of LOOP BEYOND BORDERS to the Middle East’s largest wellness retreat, record visitor numbers, and surf club debut, it’s full steam ahead in our destinations round-up this week. Here are the highlights: 

Arabian Travel Market 2025 focus announced

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 scheduled for 28 April – 1 May 2025 is set to focus on the “power of connectivity” as the global travel and tourism sector continues to rebound and expand. The event’s theme: ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’ will highlight innovations in the travel industry driven by enhanced connectivity across air, sea, and land.

This focus is timely as travel demand surges, emphasising the pivotal role of technological advancements in revolutionising how the world experiences travel. ATM 2025 promises to be a cornerstone event, bringing together global leaders to explore how connectivity can further elevate the industry and create more seamless travel experiences.

Visit Qatar invites travellers to ‘Surprise Yourself’

Visit Qatar has launched its global “Surprise Yourself” campaign, aiming to attract six million visitors annually by 2030. The campaign showcases Qatar’s attractions and tourism offerings, and emphasises on diverse experiences for all sorts of interests including the lush charm of Banana Island, the vibrant atmosphere of Souq Waqif, and the thrill of dune bashing.

Qatar is also gearing up for an exciting winter season filled with international sports and cultural festivities. Upcoming events include the return of Formula One, activities at Sealine Desert, concerts featuring regional and international artists, and returning events such as the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition and the Qatar International Food Festival.

120+ brands convened for luxury travel fair, LOOP BEYOND BORDERS

Hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral, the inaugural LOOP Beyond Borders luxury travel fair concluded successfully. This groundbreaking event brought together high-end travel professionals and luxury suppliers from across the globe to Abu Dhabi, showcasing the emirate as a premier luxury destination.

The event provided a platform for industry leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and create new partnerships in the luxury travel segment. LOOP’s debut in the Middle East highlights the region’s growing appeal to affluent travelers and its expanding luxury tourism offerings.

RAKTDA named best workplace for women

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has been recognised as one of the “Best Workplaces for Women™ – GCC 2024” by Great Place to Work, a globally respected workplace certification organization. This title acknowledges RAKTDA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and empowered. The authority’s diverse team comprises 80 members from 27 nationalities, with a nearly balanced gender ratio and women holding key leadership positions.

RAKTDA’s supportive workplace culture is exemplified by its family-friendly policies, including generous maternity and paternity leave. CEO Raki Phillips expressed delight at the recognition, stating that RAKTDA goes beyond advocating for gender equity by creating clear pathways to ensure it. This award adds to RAKTDA’s previous recognitions, including being certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fourth consecutive year and ranking among the Best Workplaces in the Middle East.

Surf Abu Dhabi opens with professional surfing debut

Built in collaboration with Modon and the Kelly Slater Wave Company, the state-of-the-art Surf Abu Dhabi facility is now open, featuring the world’s largest barrel wave and the longest rise. As the largest man-made surf facility in the world, it is poised to bring surfing enthusiasts and professionals to Hudayriyat Island. 

The facility’s opening coincides with the UAE’s first pro surfing event, the Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic drawing international athletes and surf fans to witness history in the making. Surf Abu Dhabi not only introduces a new sporting experience to the region but also bolsters Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a dynamic destination for adventure tourism.

Reflecting on Dubai’s popularity 

Dubai remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations globally, thanks to its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping experiences, and unparalleled hospitality. According to TradeArabia, the city’s success in attracting millions of visitors annually is driven by its blend of world-class attractions and a diverse array of cultural and entertainment experiences. From the Al Shindagha Museum to Hatta City and Dubai’s array of archaeological sites showcasing its history, there is plenty on offer. 

Events also play a key role in drawing crowds, for example, season 29 of the highly anticipated Global Village will launch on 16 October – 11 May. Bringing together cultures from around the world in a vibrant marketplace full of entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences, this year’s offer includes new ‘Mega Packs’, which includes new bundles of last year’s offerings as well as VIP categories. 

Leisure and holiday tourism growth for Saudi Arabia ahead of the upcoming AlUla Festival

Saudi Arabia continues to witness unprecedented growth in its tourism sector, with recent statistics showing 17.5 million international tourists this year between January to July. This reflects a 10% increase compared to 2023, and a 73% increase compared to 2019. Notably, the number of entertainment and holiday tourists has increased by 656%.

The Kingdom’s push to diversify its economy is working, and among the upcoming highlights is the AlUla Wellness Festival, which is set to celebrate the rich history and natural beauty of the region from 17 October – 2 November. As part of the largest wellness festival in the Middle East, attendees will enjoy an all-day music concert, immersive retreats and wellness activities, workshops, and community activities. 

Qatar commemorates World Tourism Day 

In recognition of World Tourism Day (27 Sept), Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to the global tourism sector with a tribute to its continued growth and contribution with the unveiling of the Third National Development Strategy for 2024 – 2030.

The country is emerging as a rising star in international tourism thanks to its world-class infrastructure, rich cultural experiences, and commitment to sustainable tourism development. These latest plans outline the next roadmap to develop and achieve the Qatar National Vision 2030.