Top 3
Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO geopark recognition as it launches promotional push
Two of Saudi Arabia’s geoparks, North Riyadh, home of 150 million-year-old coral reefs, and Salma, home to unique geological formations, have been recognised under the UNESCO umbrella. Their inclusion brings Saudi Arabia into a select group of just 50 countries with UNESCO-recognised geoparks. The announcement coincides with the launch of its new promotional push including the immersive ‘Saudi Land’ pavilion and strategic MoU’s with the likes of Accor.
UAE lifts Lebanon travel ban for citizens starting 7 May
The UAE has lifted its travel ban on Lebanon for Emirati nationals, effective 7 May. The move follows a meeting between UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Emiratis must register with MoFA’s Twajudi service before travel and notify the ministry upon return. Registration is mandatory, and failure to comply or update travel details may result in legal consequences. The decision marks a step forward in easing movement between the two nations.
Abu Dhabi secures Comic Con until 2027 as Harry Potter Film Concert series returns
The Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) will continue to call Abu Dhabi home through 2027, following a renewed partnership between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Informa. MEFCC has become the region’s leading pop culture event, drawing over 38,000 visitors including many celebrities.
Meanwhile, fans of the wizarding world can look forward to the return of the Harry Potter Film Concert Series at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The Armenian State Symphony Orchestra will perform live scores of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (6 September) and The Chamber of Secrets (7 September).
Noteworthy
- The Porsche Centre Bahrain hosted an exclusive electric drive experience, allowing clients to test the Macan BEV and Taycan on a scenic coastal route.
- Russian influencer couple Nataly and Murad Osmann promoted Jordan as they chose to celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary in Petra accompanied by fellow social media personalities.
- Qatar welcomed over 1.5 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, 36% came from GCC countries.
- Visit Qatar and flynas signed an MoU to enhance travel between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
- Expo City Dubai and Yango Group have launched a pilot program for autonomous robot-powered food delivery.
- Red Sea Global has partnered with the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee to promote inclusive, high-quality sports and recreation across its destinations.
- Kuwait expanded its e-visa access for expats in the GCC, prioritising individuals in skilled roles including; doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, pilots, and media personnel.
- The Gate of Sudan Festival at Expo City Dubai celebrated UAE-Sudan cultural ties with traditional heritage displays and performances by Sudanese artists.
- Visit Oman and TBO Holidays announced a strategic partnership to boost Oman’s presence in the B2B travel trade sector across the Middle East and India.
- New B2B engagement platform, MEET (Meetings, Expense, Events, and Travel) was unveiled to connect corporate travel buyers and suppliers through regional roadshows across the GCC.
- House of Travel (Bahrain) partnered with QuadLabs to launch HOTBizz, a next-generation corporate travel platform aimed at enhancing travel management efficiency
- Dubai Safari Park announces free ticket competition ahead of its summer closure on 1 June.
