From a new captain at NEOM to new events drawing visitors to the region, and a peek into life in the Northern emirates, here are some of the key developments unfolding this week.
Change of power at NEOM
NEOM’s long-service CEO, Nadhmi al-Nasr, has stepped down from his role, with Eng. Aiman al-Mudaifer, a seasoned executive from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), stepping up as the acting CEO. This comes as the Kingdom continues to invest heavily in ambitious projects to diversify its economy away from oil. However, due to rising costs and economic challenges, certain projects have had to scale back, including the futuristic linear city known as The Line. Mudaifer comes from a background in real estate and infrastructure, making him well-suited to lead Neom’s continued development.
Discover Saudi partners with Heavens Portfolio to tap Chinese market
Almosafer’s Discover Saudi has partnered with Heavens Portfolio, an Asia-based representation agency, to boost its promotional efforts in China. The strategic collaboration follows the Kingdom’s receipt of Approved Destination Status from China, which simplifies travel to Saudi; and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 of enhancing inbound tourism. Commenting on the paertnership, Muzzammil Ahussain, Chief Executive Officer of Almosafer, said, βBy collaborating with like-minded partners to elevate our offerings and enable wider access to the services Almosafer provides, we showcase our deep understanding of the Chinese tourism sector even as we play a key role in promoting tourism within the Kingdom.β Saudi plans to wlecomg five million Chinese tourists by 2030.
Jeddah’s Wonder District opens
Jeddah’s newest entertainment destination, the Wonder District, has officially opened its doors to the public. Located off King Abdulaziz Road, this 30-day (11 Nov – 11 Dec 2024) fun-fuelled event offers a range of family-friendly activities and experiences, adventure, and entertainment. With 10 specially designed zones to look forward to, including the Wonder Jungle, Letβs Play, Spooky Circus, Rides and Carnival Games, Wonder Job, Smiley Beach, Blast Off, Wonder Theater, Food and Beverage, and Retail Area, visitors can purchase tickets (SAR35) via webook.com.
Ras Al Khaimah launches “Heart of RAK”
Ras Al Khaimah has launched “Heart of RAK,” a hub dedicated to showcasing the emirate’s livability and tourism landscape. With the aim of enhancing its global appeal, the online platform presents every aspect of life in RAK, as a place to live, work, and visit. Visitors to the platform will discover local events, educational opportunities, all sorts of experiences, as well as a comprehensive guide to RAK’s cultural heritage. Heba Fatani, RAKGMO Director General said, βHeart of RAK embodies the Emirateβs commitment to fostering a strong sense of community. It serves as a comprehensive guide to Ras Al Khaimah for those wishing to live and work, establish or manage businesses here, supporting their success and growth.β
Shaq and Flipperachi creates new anthem for Yas Island
Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal has teamed up with Bahrain’s rapper Flipperachi to create a high-energy rap track promoting Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. In the latest βWhat Canβt We Doβ campaign, the dynamic duo turns Yas Island into the ultimate stage for and all things fun and larger-than-life.The music video highlights the island’s attractions, from Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld to CLYMB and Warner Bros. World.
Dubai to host Future Human 2025
Mindvalley’s Future Human 2025 is set to take place in Dubai from 10 – 12 January 2025. Touted to be a groundbreaking event, which aims to shift the focus from technology-centricity to human potential, the event will emphasise the importance of human connection, creativity, and compassion. The aim of the event is to bring together a global audience of up to 5,000 attendees and fostering a community dedicated to using technology as a tool to enhance human abilities, not replace them. The event promises a diverse lineup of world-renowned speakers exploring topics such as personal growth, resilience, and the ethical use of technology.
MICHELIN Guide goes to Doha
The MICHELIN Guide is set to launch in Doha, Qatar, on 12 December 2024 at the Katara Hall, Raffles Doha. Marking a significant milestone in the culinary world, Doha will become the latest destination to be featured in the prestigious guide. Supported by Qatar Tourism, this launch highlights Qatar’s emergence as a global culinary destination. Having had the Guide’s anonymous inspectors review the city’s top eateries, this inclusion is a testament to the talent and creativity of Doha’s chefs and culinary teams.
Oman’s concludes global incentive tourism summit
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman recently hosted the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Summit to further solidify the Sultanate’s position as a leading destination for incentive travel. Attended by more than 150 tourism industry stakeholders, including hotel representatives, travel companies, and government officials the four day event from 9 – 12 November 2024 provided a platform for attendees to acquire new skills, updates on key industry trends, and network. Founded in 1973 with over 2,500 members from 90 countries, SITE promotes cooperation and knowledge-sharing to advance incentive tourism.
Egypt’s tourism chief predicts 8% revenue growth in Q4 2024
According to Amr El-Kady, CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA), Egypt’s tourism sector is experiencing significant growth in 2024, with projected revenue increases of 7-8% this year. Fuelled by factors including a shift in tourist demographics, increased spending, and higher hotel room demand, El-Kady noted that the Red Sea and Cairo are expected to see particularly strong growth, with visitor numbers projected to reach 15.4 million by the end of 2024. To accommodate the growth, Egypt is working on expanding its hotel capacity by 200,000 to 250,000 new rooms. The country aims to attract 30 million tourists annually by 2028.
