Oman, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi are ramping up efforts to attract tourists, with Oman targeting Indian corporate events and weddings, Qatar experiencing a surge in outbound travel demand, and Abu Dhabi partnering with Indian influencers to promote its cultural heritage.
βMyDubai Communitiesβ digital platform launched
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched βMyDubai Communitiesβ, a new digital platform designed to connect citizens, residents, and visitors across Dubai. The initiative builds on the successful #MyDubai campaign and aims to create inclusive, vibrant, and interactive communities, allowing users to explore local events, initiatives, and community groups while promoting a shared sense of belonging. The platform also supports volunteer work, community service, and knowledge exchange, encouraging collaborative civic engagement. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that the project aligns with Dubaiβs broader vision of a connected and cohesive society.
Abu Dhabi Art announces 17th edition dates and visual campaign artist
The 17th edition of Abu Dhabi Art will be held from 19 to 23 November 2025 at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism β Abu Dhabi, the event will feature Emirati artist Shaikha Al Mazrou as the Visual Campaign Artist. Her work, known for its sculptural experimentation, will visually represent this yearβs campaign. Abu Dhabi Art continues to play a significant role in the regional and international art landscape, offering a platform for galleries, curators, artists, and collectors. The fair includes exhibitions, talks, and installations, contributing to cultural dialogue. The selection of Al Mazrou reflects the eventβs commitment to supporting and showcasing local talent.
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2025 Festival concludes successfully, setting stage for 2026 ‘Civilizations’ themeβ
The Ras Al Khaimah Art 2025 Festival has concluded, marking a significant achievement in the region’s cultural landscape. The event featured a diverse array of artworks from both local and international artists, attracting art enthusiasts and tourists alike. Organisers have announced that the 2026 festival will centre around the theme ‘Civilizations’, aiming to explore the rich tapestry of global cultures through art. This forthcoming theme seeks to foster cross-cultural dialogue and understanding among attendees. The success of the 2025 festival has set a solid foundation for future editions, enhancing Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation as a burgeoning hub for the arts. Preparations are already underway to ensure the 2026 festival offers an even more enriching experience for participants and visitors.
Visit Qatar concludes second edition of Throwback Food Festival
Visit Qatar’s Throwback Food Festival has successfully completed its second edition at Old Doha Port, attracting over 100,000 visitors who explored Qatar’s culinary heritage. The festival featured more than 20 vendors offering traditional delicacies, alongside interactive activities such as the Kahoot quiz and Treasure Hunt, engaging families in heritage-themed challenges. The Dakkan initiative recreated the atmosphere of old Qatari souks, allowing attendees to enjoy traditional sweets and dishes from the Tayyibin generation. A highlight of the event was the Garangao night, which drew 11,000 attendees, delighting families and children with colourful festivities.
Petra sees surge in visitors during Eid Al Fitr, aided by budget flights
During the first two days of Eid Al Fitr, the ancient city of Petra welcomed 7,777 visitors, comprising 3,453 foreign tourists, 314 Arab visitors, 1,459 foreign residents in Jordan, and 2,551 Jordanian nationals. The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) attributes this increase partly to the resumption of low-cost flights from European countries, enhancing accessibility for international tourists. Local businesses, including souvenir shops and tour guides, reported a boost in activity.
Saudi Arabia’s inbound tourism spending reaches record $41bn
In 2024, Saudi Arabia’s inbound tourism spending reached a record SAR 153.61 billion ($40.95 billion), reflecting a 13.82% increase compared to the previous year, reported Arab News and according to data from the Saudi Central Bank. Notable giga-projects contributing to this surge include Qiddiya, a multibillion-dollar entertainment destination in Riyadh, and Neom, a $500 billion futuristic city with tourism and entertainment offerings. There’s also the Red Sea project which focuses on regenerative tourism, and Diriyah, a cultural and lifestyle destination. In January 2025, the Saudi Press Agency reported that the country welcomed 30 million international visitors in 2024, a 9.5% increase from the previous year.
Tunisia’s tourism sector sees 5% revenue boost
Tunisia’s tourism sector has witnessed a 5% increase in revenues during the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period in 2024. According to data from the Central Bank of Tunisia, revenues totalled over $390 million, up from $371 million in 2024. Having attracted a record 10 million tourists in 2024, Tunisia aims to surpass 11 million visitors in 2025, driven by a major promotional campaign targeting European markets and new markets such as China, Spain, and the Czech Republic.
Earlier this week…
Oman targets Indian market for corporate events and destination weddings
Oman is actively promoting itself as a prime destination for Indian tourists, focusing on corporate events and destination weddings. The country’s diverse regions, including Muscat, Salalah, and Jabal Akhdar, offer unique experiences suitable for such events. With streamlined visa processes and geographical proximity, Oman aims to attract more Indian visitors. In 2023, approximately 600,000 Indian tourists visited Oman, and efforts are underway to increase this number to 700,000.
Qatar experiences surge in outbound travel demand during Eid Al Fitr
Travel agencies in Qatar report a significant increase in outbound travel bookings for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays compared to 2024. London proved to be most popular, followed by Paris, Courchevel, and Cannes. Destinations like Switzerland, Thailand, and Bali are also in high demand, catering to both adventure seekers and leisure travellers. Regional destinations such as Turkey and Egypt remain popular due to their affordability and cultural appeal. Meanwhile, the introduction of online visa applications for Qataris travelling to the USA has led to a rise in bookings for American cities. Other factors influencing this surge include eased visa regulations, advance bookings with exclusive Eid offers, and increased airline capacity.
Abu Dhabi boosts tourism and cultural exchange
Abu Dhabi is stepping up its tourism game by partnering with Indian influencer Prajakta Koli to promote the emirate as a top destination for Indian travellers. Koli has curated a bespoke itinerary showcasing Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage, entertainment venues, and culinary delights. This initiative aims to tap into Koli’s massive following and highlight Abu Dhabi’s diverse offerings, encouraging Indian tourists to explore the emirate.
In another development, the emirate has been selected as the Global Host City for the 2025 International Jazz Day celebrations. The event, organised by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, will feature a series of concerts and educational initiatives promoting jazz as a catalyst for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. The celebrations will culminate in the “All-Star” Global Concert at Etihad Arena, broadcast internationally, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s designation as a UNESCO “City of Music” and its commitment to cultural exchange and diversity.
