With new attractions, festivals, milestones, and awards, it’s a positive outlook for destinations as we near the end of the year. Here is a look at the latest.

ICYMI: Saudi Arabia to host 2034 FIFA World Cup

Saudi Arabia has officially been chosen to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034, marking a major milestone in its sporting and tourism ambitions. The Kingdom plans to utilise the event as a platform to showcase its advanced infrastructure, deep culture, and famed hospitality to a global audience.

Preparations are already underway as this will be the first time a 48-team tournament will be hosted in one country across Saudi’s cities; Riyadh, Diriyah, Jedda, Al Khobar, Abha, and NOEM. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all visitors, the Saudi Tourism Authority is working closely with partners across the tourism ecosystem. Enjoy enhanced flight connectivity, streamlined visa processes, and a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

RAK sets 3.5 million tourism goals for 2030, plans to host record-breaking NYE fireworks

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has unveiled an ambitious plan to attract 3.5 million tourists annually and double hotel capacity by 2030, signalling its determination to become a leading travel destination in the region. The emirate will focus on sustainable tourism, introducing eco-friendly resorts, adventure tourism, and cultural experiences that highlight its unique heritage.

Key developments include partnerships with international travel brands, increased investment in transport connectivity, and expansion of its accommodation offerings, including the UAE’s first gaming resort. These efforts aim to position RAK as a destination for both leisure and business travellers, ensuring a balanced and sustainable growth trajectory.

Meanwhile, the city is gearing up to host an unprecedented display for New Year’s Eve featuring drones, laser technology, fireworks, synchronised pyrotechnics, and an attempt to set a new world record. The 15-minute display, themed “Our Story in the Sky,” is expected to attract large crowds from across the UAE and will be the longest New Year’s Eve show in the emirate so far. 

Qatar launches Ras Abrouq desert activation

Qatar has launched an innovative tourism project at Ras Abrouq, designed to bring its desert landscapes to life. This new activation will offer luxury desert camping, interactive cultural experiences, and activities such as stargazing and dune exploration, catering to adventure and luxury travellers alike. 

Installations, workshops, and camel parades are incorporated to blend heritage and fun as well as a coffee shop, gift shop, and exhibition in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. 

Oman offers virtual tours, eyes Southeast Asia expansion

Oman has introduced immersive virtual tours to highlight its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, aiming to inspire travel interest among global audiences. The virtual tours feature key attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khor Rori, allowing prospective travellers to explore the destination from home.

This comes at a time when Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism plans to establish a representative office in Singapore to better connect with Southeast Asian markets. This expansion strategy aims to attract more visitors from countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, emphasising Oman’s appeal as a destination and educating potential travellers on the destination’s adventure experiences, culture, and natural beauty.

Miral empowers students through tourism program

Miral, a leading tourism developer in Abu Dhabi, has launched a program aimed at empowering students by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in tourism and hospitality. The initiative includes practical training, internships, and mentorship opportunities across a variety of topics, including AI, marketing, health and safety, to prepare students for roles in the UAE’s growing tourism economy.

As part of the initiative, 25 students from Repton Private School participated in a marine life rescue session at Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, learning about sustainability and wildlife conservation. This partnership supports experiential learning, future-ready skills, and Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, inspiring youth to embrace environmental stewardship and explore careers in the travel industry.

Earlier this week…

Morocco recognised as one of the safest MENA destinations

Morocco has been listed in the “moderate risk” category in the latest Global Risk Map thanks to its strong safety measures and traveller-friendly environment. The recognition highlights Morocco’s political stability, robust security infrastructure, and proactive management of potential risks. This puts the region as one of the safest for travellers in the MENA region. 

Morocco’s inclusion on the safe list is expected to boost international arrivals because of its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks. The country has consistently invested in improving tourism infrastructure and enhancing visitor experiences, cementing its position as one of North Africa’s premier travel destinations.

Celestyal launches maiden voyage in Dubai with new ‘Desert Days’ itinerary

Celestyal made its first call in Dubai on Monday 9 December with its ship, Celestyal Journey, marking the start of its three-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The ship’s inaugural “Desert Days” itinerary includes a week-long cruise roundtrip from Dubai, calling in to Bahrain, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi. Next winter, Celestyal will also launch the Celestyal Discovery from Abu Dhabi. Celestyal Journey, following a multi-million euro refurbishment in September 2023, offers luxury amenities, including 630 suites, restaurants, pools, and wellness areas.

Bahrain launches first Azure Beach Club

Bahrain has opened its first luxury beach club, marking a new chapter in its tourism offerings. Located in Bahrain Bay, the club features pristine beaches, upscale dining options, water sports, and wellness amenities, creating a destination for relaxation and recreation.

This project is part of Bahrain’s Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to diversify the economy and attract high-end tourists. Azure Beach, part of Bahrain Real Estate Investment Group, already has locations in Doha, Beirut, Marbella, and Dubai. By offering the latest addition in Bahrain, the region aims to position itself as a leading luxury destination, catering to both residents and international travellers seeking unique beach experiences.

As Egypt’s tourism recovers, the Grand Egyptian Museum gains recognition 

Egypt’s tourism sector has fully rebounded, exceeding pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2024. It has ranked as the leading African country in tourism numbers, generating around $14 billion in revenue in 2023, according to the latest data from UNWTO.

The recovery has been bolstered by the appeal of iconic attractions like the pyramids and modern projects such as the Grand Egyptian Museum, which UNESCO recently awarded the Prix Versailles award and named one of the world’s most beautiful. Located near the Giza pyramids, the museum showcases Egypt’s history through innovative displays. 

Doha Metro hits 200 million passenger milestone

The Doha Metro has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 200 million riders since its inception in 2019. This modern, state-of-the-art transit system has transformed urban mobility in Qatar, connecting key destinations with efficiency and reliability.

Known for its punctual service, sustainable design, and impressive 99.75% customer satisfaction rate, the Metro supports Qatar’s environmental goals and serves both residents and tourists. Major events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2022, contributed to its rapid ridership growth. As Qatar continues to enhance public transport, the Metro remains a cornerstone of its infrastructure development.

Saudi Arabia’s 800 mile Dream of the Desert train line

Saudi Arabia is set to unveil the “Dream of the Desert” train line, a luxury railway traversing 800 miles of the Kingdom’s desert. This project, which is estimated to cost £50 million, offers high-speed connectivity between key cities while delivering a unique travel experience featuring luxurious amenities and panoramic views.

By combining state-of-the-art technology with eco-friendly operations across its 40 custom cabins and lounge bar, the train line promises to redefine rail travel in the region, attracting domestic and international travellers seeking adventure and convenience.

Jeddah welcomes AROYA Cruises

Jeddah has officially welcomed AROYA, marking the beginning of its Jeddah operations for the luxury cruise ship. The ship is set to embark on its maiden voyage along the Red Sea, featuring world-class amenities, entertainment, and curated itineraries.

After undergoing a refit to 95% of its spaces to reflect Arabian heritage and appeal to Middle Eastern travellers, AROYA will embark on its first voyage on 16 December on a three-night journey across the Red Sea. 

Red Sea Film Festival returns

The Red Sea International Film Festival has returned, showcasing an impressive lineup of films, premieres, and industry workshops. Held in Jeddah, the event celebrates cinematic excellence and serves as a platform for emerging filmmakers, particularly from the Arab world.

Red carpet events, panel discussions, and networking opportunities attract global stars and industry professionals like Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo, and Devil Wear’s Prada alum, Emily Blunt. This festival is not only a cultural highlight but also reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in the arts, fostering dialogue and collaboration within the international film community.

Abu Dhabi’s MOTN festival is back

Abu Dhabi’s Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival is back, bringing a dynamic blend of cultural, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences to the Corniche. The festival features live performances, immersive installations, culinary delights, and unique attractions that cater to all age groups. This year’s theme is “Out of This World” and includes a museum, bounce area, swirling Time Vortex, and Cosmic Lab. 

By celebrating cultural diversity and creativity, MOTN, which runs until 31 December, has become a signature event in the UAE’s annual calendar. Its inclusive approach and vibrant offerings continue to draw both residents and tourists, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for world-class events.

Legoland Dubai certified autism-friendly

Legoland Dubai has been officially certified as autism-friendly, a first in the region. The park now offers sensory guides, quiet zones, and staff trained to assist visitors with autism. These features ensure an inclusive environment where families can enjoy attractions without concerns about overstimulation.

This certification reflects Legoland’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, setting a benchmark for other regional attractions. By providing tailored experiences, the park aims to create memorable moments for all visitors, cementing its position as a leader in family entertainment.

Dubai to reintroduce 30% alcohol tax

Starting January 2025, Dubai is reinstating its 30% alcohol tax, ending over a year-long tax-free period. This decision is expected to impact alcohol pricing in restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets, potentially affecting tourism dynamics.

The tax reintroduction aligns with broader fiscal policy adjustments in the emirate. While Dubai remains a favoured destination for nightlife and luxury, the move may prompt businesses to innovate in maintaining competitive pricing and value-added offerings to attract tourists and residents amid the new tax increase.

DFS celebrates 30th anniversary

The 30th Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) kicked off on 6 December 2024, with a 38-day celebration across the city, offering world-class entertainment, shopping, and adventure. Highlights include the 321 Festival with Arab and South Asian performances, free daily fireworks, drone shows twice a day, and light displays.

The festival’s opening features concerts by Georges Wassouf, Kadim Al Sahir, and Coke Studio Live. Families can enjoy carnivals at City Walk, while DSF x Hatta combines nature and adventure with festive activities. Retail promotions include major raffles and giveaways like million-dirham prizes. For visitors, the new DSF digital map aids will help navigate the packed schedule.

Exo Planet City comes to Global Village

Dubai’s Global Village has unveiled Exo Planet City, a cutting-edge attraction offering space-themed adventures, virtual reality experiences, and interactive exhibits. Designed to captivate tech enthusiasts and families alike, the futuristic addition enhances the already vibrant lineup of attractions at Global Village. Debuting during this year’s Season 29, the latest additions will shortly be followed by the highly anticipated Neo Flight Flying Theatre, an adrenaline-fuelled experience for guests. 

Kazakh tourists favour MENA destinations

MENA countries, including Turkey, Egypt, UAE, and Qatar, rank as the top destinations for Kazakh travellers, with over a million international trips recorded in 2024. These destinations appeal due to their cultural richness, accessibility, and luxury experiences.

Egypt and Turkey stand out for their historical landmarks, while the UAE and Qatar attract visitors with modern attractions and high-end hospitality. The growing numbers reflect the region’s popularity among Kazakh tourists seeking diverse travel experiences.

Saudi Arabia tests first hydrogen-powered bus

Saudi Arabia has begun trial runs for its first hydrogen-powered bus in Al-Ahsa, marking a step forward in sustainable transport innovation. The bus will connect Dammam with Al-Ahsa, covering a daily distance of 359km with its capacity for 45 passengers and the ability to travel up to 635km per charge. 

This eco-friendly initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to reduce carbon emissions and lead in renewable energy adoption. The bus is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to revolutionise public transport, offering an environmentally friendly alternative that supports its green agenda and commitment to global sustainability.