Abu Dhabi sees 26% more visitors, while other cities put on new festivals, luxury exhibitions, and world-class sporting events.

Dubai’s top restaurants celebrate Lunar New Year with exclusive menus and festive experiences

Dubai’s top restaurants are serving up authentic flavours and festive dining experiences to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the celebrations offer foodies an opportunity to indulge in specially curated menus and authentic flavours at Michelin-starred restaurants, homegrown concepts, and more. From Hakkasan Dubai’s limited-edition 9-course dinner menu to Demon Duck’s immersive dining experience, and from traditional Cantonese dishes at XU to bespoke menus at Shanghai ME, patrons have been in for a treat.

Morocco breaks tourism records with 17.4M visitors in 2024

Morocco has cemented its position as the most-visited country in Africa, welcoming a record 17.4 million international tourists in 2024, a significant 20% increase from 2023, according to the latest UN Tourism data. This achievement was celebrated during an official visit to Morocco by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, who praised the country’s efforts in growing tourism and making it a pillar of economic diversification and sustainable growth. With major upcoming events like the 2030 FIFA World Cup and the 35th edition of the African Cup of Nations, Morocco’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth, supported by initiatives like the “Tourism Doing Business – Investing in Morocco” guidelines, which outline opportunities for international investors.

Ras Al Khaimah sees surge in Indian tourists

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has reported a significant influx of Indian tourists, with 25,493 visitors in 2024, and is anticipating a substantial 30% growth in footfalls this year. To cater to this growing demographic, Ras Al Khaimah has introduced an initiative offering complimentary visas for Indians attending meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions, and wedding events, making it an increasingly attractive destination for Indian travellers.

Earlier this week…

Abu Dhabi records 26% rise in tourism

Abu Dhabi has recorded a significant surge in tourism, with 4.8 million visitors between January and October 2024, representing a 26% increase in international arrivals. The emirate’s cultural landmarks and museums attracted 3.9 million guests, a 21% rise compared to 2023. This growth is attributed to Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive tourism strategy, which aims to draw 39.3 million visitors and contribute AED 90 billion to the local economy by 2030. Ongoing developments, including expanded airport operations and new flight routes, are expected to further enhance the emirate’s appeal.

Al Hosn Festival returns for 9th edition to celebrate Emirati cultural heritage

The Al Hosn Festival, a vibrant celebration of Emirati culture, is currently underway at the historic Al Hosn site in Abu Dhabi. From 25 January to 9 February, visitors can immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. The festival showcases traditional crafts, live music, captivating performances, and engaging workshops, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of Emirati heritage.

Abu Dhabi to host 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four

Euroleague Basketball has signed an agreement with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Etihad Arena to host the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi for the first time in history. The event will take place from May 23-25, 2025, at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena, marking a historic expansion of Euroleague Basketball into new global markets. The agreement aims to bring the EuroLeague atmosphere to a new and diverse audience, while providing a fresh experience for loyal fans in one of the world’s most modern and tourist-friendly cities.

Bahrain gets online boost

Wego has teamed up with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to promote the Kingdom of Bahrain as a top travel destination. The partnership aims to showcase Bahrain’s unique cultural heritage, attractions, and innovative tourism initiatives to a global audience. From its historic landmarks, such as the UNESCO-listed Bahrain Fort, to its modern attractions and commitment to sustainable tourism, Bahrain is set to be highlighted as a must-visit destination for travellers.

Qatar Tourism unveils video for 2025 Doha Jewellery Exhibition

Qatar Tourism has launched an exclusive video showcasing the luxury and innovation on offer at the 2025 Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition. The video highlights the exhibition’s significant contribution to Qatar’s luxury retail sector, driving economic growth and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a premier luxury shopping destination. It also showcases the event’s influence on participating brands, driving sales and providing a global platform for innovation, as well as celebrating success stories that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

Muttrah cable car coming soon

Oman’s Muttrah cable car project is on track to be completed within the next 12 months, promising to boost tourism with breathtaking aerial views. The project, known as Muttrah Teleferik, will feature a 3km cable car route with three stops, offering stunning panoramas of the corniche and coastal scenery. In addition to the cable car project, a new museum is being built adjacent to Muttrah Fort, showcasing the area’s rich history and cultural legacy.

Diriyah Storytelling Festival kicks off

The Diriyah Storytelling Festival is set to take place from 30 January to 8 February, featuring over 150 prominent literary figures, 50 publishing houses, and numerous interactive events. The festival, held across three locations in Diriyah, offers workshops, novel fairs, storytelling sessions, and unique experiences like role-playing adaptations and live cooking demonstrations. A highlight of the festival is the inaugural Writers’ Retreat, an eight-day program gathering Saudi novelists for intensive courses led by international experts. The festival aims to empower Saudi writers, nurture creativity, and fulfill cultural curiosity among participants.

Riyadh to host World Stadiums and Arenas Summit

The World Stadiums and Arenas Summit is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 29-30 April, with the support of the Ministry of Sport. The event is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from 50 countries, featuring 45 expert speakers and 120 exhibitors. The summit will focus on the development of sustainable and technologically advanced sports venues, with discussions on eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and innovative strategies to enhance fan engagement. The event is part of Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a global sports hub, with significant investments in infrastructure to host major events, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.