Exciting developments are transforming some of the most popular destinations in the Middle East, promising new experiences and enhanced accessibility. From innovative certifications to cultural festivals and major expansions, here are the updates set to make a global impact.

Second Sphere to call Abu Dhabi home

The world’s second Sphere is coming to Abu Dhabi, thanks to Sphere Entertainment and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. This entertainment venue is expected to be a landmark addition to the city, offering residents and visitors a unique experience that combines advanced technology with captivating storytelling. The Sphere in Abu Dhabi will be similar in scale to the 20,000-capacity Sphere in Las Vegas, which opened to worldwide acclaim just over a year ago in September 2023.

Sphere Entertainment’s expansion into Abu Dhabi is expected to provide significant growth potential and drive new revenue streams. While DCT Abu Dhabi will fund the construction, Sphere Entertainment will provide expertise and proprietary technology and maintain ongoing arrangements with DCT Abu Dhabi, including annual fees for content, brand use, and operational services.

Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025 in Abu Dhabi  

The popular Sheikh Zayed Festival, is set to return in Abu Dhabi on 1 November to 28 February 2025, offering an array of cultural experiences, live performances, and traditional Emirati entertainment. The festival, held in tribute to the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed, features various activities such as arts and crafts exhibitions, musical performances, and fireworks displays, designed to promote Emirati heritage and global culture. The event serves as a platform for families and visitors from around the world to enjoy the richness of the UAE’s traditions, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.

Yas Waterworld expansion update

Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi has announced that its ongoing expansion project is now 55% complete. This 16,900sqm development is part of a broader effort to enhance the park’s offerings, adding new attractions and entertainment facilities to elevate the visitor experience. Once completed, the project will increase the park’s capacity by 20%, and increasing attractions and experiences to more than 70. The expansion is expected to attract more tourists and residents, providing them with innovative water rides including a new 15m amusement ride able to accommodate 20 guests at once.

Meanwhile, Miral, developer and asset manager of Yas Island, has reported that hotels on Yas Island recorded an 83% occupancy rate throughout the 2024 summer season with a 29% increase in international hotel guests, and a 90% hotel occupancy rate in August alone.

Dubai’s ‘autism-friendly’ beaches

Dubai has set a global benchmark by becoming the first city in the world to have its public beaches certified as autism-friendly by the International Board of Certification and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This recognition, announced at the AccessAbilities Expo 2024, underscores the city’s dedication to inclusivity.

The certification means that Dubai’s beaches now offer autism-friendly facilities, enhancing accessibility for individuals with autism. Visitors can also use the Accessibility App to review the accommodations available at each beach. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision of being a leading, inclusive city, offering recreational spaces that cater to the needs of all residents and visitors.

Saudi Arabia focuses on Indian and Chinese tourists

Saudi Arabia is shifting its tourism focus towards attracting high-spending visitors from India and China, as part of its Vision 2030 goal to diversify the economy. Having already surpassed its initial target of 100m visitors by 2023, the Kingdom is now aiming for 150m by 2030. Saudi officials have highlighted the potential of India’s growing middle class, and the country plans to expand its e-visa program to attract more luxury travellers. Saudi Arabia is also preparing for the resurgence of Chinese tourism. These initiatives are supported by major projects like Neom and the Red Sea development.

Red Sea report kicks off wellness program as it eyes 19m tourists by 2030

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Global is launching a new wellness program at Six Senses Southern Dunes from 23-26 October led by Letizia Silvestri. Featuring sound healing and therapeutic hypnosis, this unique retreat includes hypno-sound baths, meditation, and sessions promoting mind-body balance. The retreat package includes wellness screenings, yoga, biohacking sessions, and access to spa facilities, focusing on personal growth and well-being.  

The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) plans to attract 19m tourists to the Red Sea coast by 2030 as part of Vision 2030. This initiative will contribute SAR 85 billion to the GDP, create 210,000 jobs, and focus on eco-friendly tourism infrastructure. The aim is to emphasise sustainability, protecting marine ecosystems, and promote luxury resorts and cultural attractions, positioning the Red Sea as a premier global destination.

Hot Wheels e-karting is coming to Saudi Arabia 

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven) is partnering with Mattel to bring Hot Wheels-themed electric karting tracks to six Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Makkah, and Jazan. The Hot Wheels attractions will feature exciting rides, retail spaces, and immersive experiences centered around the iconic toy brand. This partnership aims to boost Saudi Arabia’s entertainment offerings, nurturing young drivers and fostering a karting community. Seven is investing over SAR50 billion to develop 21 entertainment destinations across 14 cities. 

Arab visitors drive Jordan’s tourism growth

Despite nearby conflict, Jordan welcomed 2.25 million Arab nationals during the first eight months of 2024, a 5.7% increase from the same period last year. Arab visitors accounted for 53.5% of Jordan’s total 4.7 million visitors, with expatriates and Europeans making up 28.9% and 10.9%, respectively. However, overall arrivals declined 7% year-on-year, largely due to a 59.8% drop in American visitors. Jordan’s tourism revenue still reached $4.95 billion from 4.021 million overnight tourists and 680,723 one-day visitors. To help boost visitor numbers, Jordan is promoting its Jordan Pass, offering access to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 40 attractions, and waiving tourist visa fees.

Grand Egyptian museum opens new galleries

Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has partially opened to the public on Tuesday, unveiling over a dozen galleries after more than 20 years of construction, Reuters reported. Located next to the pyramids of Giza, the museum’s trial opening is a significant step towards showcasing the country’s incredibly vast antiquities collection. However, the most anticipated exhibits, including the King Tutankhamun collection and solar boats, remain under wraps pending the grand inauguration – date still pending.

The museum’s opening is expected to boost tourism, and with its modern facilities and exhibits, GEM is poised to surpass the Egyptian Museum in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, which has remained largely unchanged since 1902. The trial operation demonstrates Egypt’s ability to exhibit its antiquities, including items that have been returned by Western states and museums. Egyptian officials have shared that several world leaders have expressed interest in attending the official opening.

Dhofar announces winter tourism season

Oman’s Dhofar region has launched its winter tourism season with new direct and indirect international flights to Salalah Airport from Italy, France, Germany, and Hungary. Aiming to showcase its diverse range of attractions, including nature reserves, pristine beaches, and historical landmarks to Europe, Dhofar’s winter tourism push will run until April 2025. Dhofar also aims to start promoting its destination year-round in the near future to increase its international appeal.