Saudi Arabia’s tourism minister is set to lead global tourism discussions at Davos, and the Kingdom is gaining popularity among Indian travelers. The UAE introduces a new multi-entry visit visa, while the Kayan Wellness Festival comes to Abu Dhabi. Plus, Egypt attracts record-breaking Chinese tourists, and the Grand Egyptian Museum announces new soft opening hours.
Saudi Arabia on track to welcome 70 million foreign tourists by 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, announced that the kingdom is on course to attract 70 million international tourists annually by 2030, aiming to position itself among the world’s top seven tourist destinations. In 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed nearly 30 million international visitors, a record number attributed to initiatives such as the introduction of e-visas and the development of new airports in major tourist hubs. The kingdom is also investing in large-scale projects like King Salman International Airport, projected to accommodate over 120 million travellers, and has launched Riyadh Air to further support its tourism objectives.
Global Village hosts Shah Rukh Khan marking his 29 years in cinema
Dubai’s Global Village is set to host Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan on 26 January 2025, celebrating his 29-year career in cinema. The event will feature highlights from Khan’s most beloved movies, live dance performances, and interactive activities, offering fans a unique opportunity to engage with the actor. This occasion underscores Global Village’s commitment to hosting international stars and providing world-class entertainment experiences that cater to diverse cultures and tastes.
Jeddah’s new developments unveiled
The Jeddah Historic District Program has launched phase two of the Al-Arbaeen Lagoon Waterfront Development Project, aiming to restore the lagoon’s original shape by excavating previously filled areas. Future phases will include water purification, marina development, and creation of green spaces and pedestrian pathways, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to promote tourism and preserve cultural heritage.
Additionally, Al-Falah School, Jeddah’s oldest educational institution, established in 1905, is set to be transformed into a museum. The conversion will create an immersive experience showcasing the school’s historical significance and its role in Jeddah’s educational development, highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Earlier this week…
Saudi Arabia’s tourism minister to lead global tourism discussion at Davos
His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, is set to lead discussions on global tourism at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos. This engagement underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing international tourism collaboration. Under Al-Khateeb’s leadership, the Kingdom has launched initiatives to position itself among the world’s top tourist destinations. The Ministry of Tourism, established in February 2020, aims to welcome 100 million tourism visits by 2030, increasing the sectorβs GDP contribution from 3% to 10%. Saudi Arabia has also become the fastest-growing tourism destination in the G20, with visitor numbers up by 121% compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sector employed 925,000 people last year, 45% of whom were women.
Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 to open in Jeddah, showcasing a unique fusion of art and faith, while JAX Diriyah hosts manga exhibition
The 2nd edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale is set to take place in Jeddah from 25 January to 25 May 2025 at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport. Organised by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the event themed “And all that is in between,” explores how faith is experienced and expressed through perception, thought, and artistic production. The exhibition will feature over 500 contemporary artworks and historical objects, including items from the sacred sites of Mecca and Medina.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in JAX Diriyah is scheduled to host a manga exhibition, highlighting the growing cultural exchange between the Kingdom and Japan. The event aims to showcase the art of manga, attracting enthusiasts and promoting cultural appreciation. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its cultural offerings and engage with global artistic communities. The exhibition is expected to open to the public in the coming months.
AlUla emerges as top destination as Saudi tourism gains appeal in India
Saudi Arabia, particularly AlUla, is gaining popularity among Indian Gen Z travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. The Kingdom’s efforts to promote its heritage sites have resonated with Indian tourists, with collaborations with Bollywood celebrities and targeted marketing campaigns enhancing its appeal.
Meanwhile, the AlUla Arts Festival 2025 has also begun, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage and contemporary art, and is expected to attract artists and visitors worldwide. Attendees can explore installations that highlight the rich history of AlUla, alongside modern artistic interpretations.
UAE introduces new multi-entry visit visa allowing up to 90-day stays without local sponsorship
The UAE has introduced a new multi-entry visit visa, allowing foreign nationals to stay for 30, 60, or 90 days without a local sponsor. Visa fees range from AED 300 for 30 days to AED 700 for 90 days, plus a refundable AED 2,000 deposit and mandatory medical insurance (AED 40-90). Applications can be submitted online through the GDRFA website or mobile app, or in-person at UAE service centers.
Kayan Wellness Festival to commence on January 31 in Abu Dhabi
The Kayan Wellness Festival, taking place on Fahid Island from January 31 to February 2, will feature keynote speaker Sadhguru and other renowned experts, including Marisa Peer and Mo Gawdat. The festival offers a range of activities, including yoga, breathwork, ice baths, and chakra frequency clearing. Attendees can also explore the Biohacking Pavilion, attend talks on self-authenticity and longevity, and enjoy musical performances by Bakharosami, Anas AlHalabi & Handpan Orchestra, and the Niki Mukhi Quintet. A Feel-Good Market with nourishing food and retail options will also be available.
Egypt attracts record-breaking Chinese tourists in 2024, targets 18 million visitors by 2025
Egypt’s tourism sector experienced significant growth in 2024, welcoming approximately 300,000 Chinese tourists, a 63% increase from the previous year. This surge contributed to a total of 15.7 million international visitors, surpassing the 2023 record of 14.9 million. The Egyptian government aims to attract 18 million tourists by the end of 2025, with the burgeoning Chinese market playing a pivotal role in achieving this target. Initiatives to appeal to Chinese travelers include adding Chinese-language signage at popular tourist destinations, offering Chinese cuisine at hotels, and increasing the number of Chinese-speaking tour guides. The official tourism website now features a Chinese version, providing detailed information about attractions and events.
Grand Egyptian Museum announces new soft opening hours starting February 2025
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza has announced updated soft opening hours effective from February 2025. Visitors can now access the museum daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The GEM, partially opened since late 2024, features 12 main galleries, the Grand Staircase, and the Children’s Museum, showcasing approximately 15,000 artifacts spanning from 700,000 BCE to the 4th century AD. Highlights include a 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II and a recreation of the Tomb Chapel of Khnumhotep II. While the full Tutankhamun collection and two King Khufu solar boats remain under wraps until the official opening, visitors can book admission tickets or 90-minute guided tours in English and Arabic. A complete visit is recommended to take three to four hours.
Msheireb Museums to present ‘Memory of the Land’ exhibition celebrating Palestinian heritage
Msheireb Museums in Doha is launching “Memory of the Land,” a collective art exhibition celebrating Palestinian identity through artworks donated by regional artists. The exhibition, organized in collaboration with Bachir Mohammed, Al Markhiya Gallery, and Qatar Charity, will be open to visitors from 22 January during regular museum hours. The showcase features 12 artists from Palestine, Jordan, Tunisia, Algeria, and Syria, each depicting a month of the year to narrate traditional Palestinian life through folk songs, embroidery, market scenes, and historic architecture. A special calendar edition featuring the artworks will be available for purchase, with proceeds going to charitable causes via Qatar Charity.
