This week’s highlights include Aqaba hosting the Destination Wedding Planners Congress, Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge’s 34th edition, Qatar’s record-breaking cruise season, Saudi Arabia’s rising popularity among Pakistani travellers, Egypt’s soaring tourism revenues, Muscat Nights festival’s record-breaking attendance, Bahrain’s new world-class golf course, and more.

Dubai strengthens ties with China as Lunar New Year celebrations unfold

As Dubai’s Burj Khalifa lit up with “Happy New Year” in Chinese characters, the city’s deepening ties with China were on full display. With an estimated 400,000 Chinese residents in the UAE, the influence of the Chinese community is increasingly visible across various sectors. Dubai welcomed 620,000 overnight visitors from China in 2023, with a 101% increase in arrivals in the first four months of 2024. Chinese investors are also showing strong interest in Dubai’s real estate sector, with leading developers leveraging Chinese digital platforms to connect with potential buyers. As Chinese New Year celebrations continue, businesses are seizing opportunities to engage with the Chinese community through targeted marketing and localised services.

Qatar International Food Festival returns for 14th Edition

The Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) is set to return from 12 – 22 February at Hotel Park Doha, promising to be bigger and better than ever. The 14th edition of the festival will feature over 100 local vendors, 27 international restaurants and cafes, and entertainment shows, showcasing culinary flavours from around the world and celebrating food, creativity, and cultural exchange. Visitors can indulge in world-class cuisine, participate in food competitions, and take part in exclusive workshops, supporting Qatar Tourism’s mission to elevate Qatar’s status as a top global destination.

Egypt to introduce free visas for tourists

Egypt is set to introduce free visas for tourists, in a bid to boost cultural and archaeological tourism in Upper Egypt. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced plans to waive visa fees for travellers arriving at Luxor or Aswan international airports, effective from May to October this year. The move aims to encourage tourists to visit these regions during the summer months, when visitor numbers typically decrease due to high temperatures. Currently, tourists are required to pay £20 for a 30-day visa, although those visiting the Sinai Peninsula are exempt. The announcement comes as Egypt celebrates a record 15.7 million tourists in 2024, with the majority hailing from European countries.

Bahrain to host unique travel fair

The Unique Travel Fair, a specialised tourism fair, is set to take place in Bahrain from 11 – 13 February, marking its first-ever edition in the Middle East. Organised by Visit Bahrain in partnership with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), the event will attract top global tourism and hospitality industry players, offering a platform for industry experts to explore emerging trends and foster new business collaborations. The fair will feature a distinguished lineup of exhibitors, including Air Arabia, Emirates Airline, and Gulf Air, among others, and is expected to attract hundreds of visitors and exhibitors from Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Qiddiya City takes shape

Saudi Arabia’s entertainment hub, Qiddiya City, is nearing completion of its major theme parks – Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City. Aquarabia, the Kingdom’s first home-grown water theme park, will feature 22 rides and attractions, including several record-holding water slides. Six Flags Qiddiya City will boast 28 rides and attractions, including five world record-breaking coasters. Additionally, work is underway on the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, a stunning SR4 billion ($1.1 billion) project scheduled for completion in 2029, which will host sporting events and serve as a cultural landmark.

Red Sea Global celebrates pioneering education journey

Red Sea Global (RSG) is marking a significant milestone in its education journey, which began in 2019, by providing training and learning opportunities to ambitious Saudi talent in the tourism sector. Through 16 educational programs, RSG has empowered 1,995 students with skills in specialised fields such as luxury hospitality, airport services, and tourism security. The company’s education department aims to equip the next generation with necessary skills and offer promising career pathways. Notably, RSG has established The Red Sea National Academy, which will provide joint training programs with the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation and Colleges of Excellence. This initiative is part of RSG’s strategy to build a bright future for national talent, with 122 young Saudis already employed at Red Sea International Airport after completing RSG’s educational programs.

Souk Wonders event brings immersive artistic experience to Diriyah Season

The Souk Wonders event, part of Diriyah Season, launches today, offering an immersive journey that combines imagination, performing arts, and live performances. Running until 28 February at the Mayadeen Venue, the vibrant indoor market will feature two daily shows, including magic tricks, trampoline shows, and traditional Saudi dance performances. Visitors will be treated to an enchanting atmosphere, complete with folkloric attire, lively music, and a culinary scene offering local and international cuisine, as well as shopping experiences showcasing the region’s diverse offerings.

Jordan sees 30% surge in tourist numbers in January 2025

Jordan has reported a significant increase in tourist numbers for January 2025, with a 30% rise compared to the same month in 2024. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, 610,000 tourists visited Jordan in January 2025, up from 469,000 in January 2024. Overnight tourist numbers also increased by 23% to 502,000, while tourism revenues reached $7.2 billion in 2024, despite a 2.3% decline from 2023.

Earlier this week…

Aqaba to host prestigious destination Wedding Planners Congress

Aqaba, Jordan, has been selected to host the 11th Annual Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress from 7-9 October 2025. The event, expected to attract over 500 attendees from 70 countries, will showcase Aqaba as a prime wedding destination, offering exceptional hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. The congress, previously held in destinations like Athens and Dubai, will bring together luxury wedding planners, suppliers, and experts, highlighting Jordan’s potential to capture a significant share of the growing destination wedding market, projected to reach $320.3 billion by 2033.

Miral’s Yas Island and Saadiyat Island receive 190+ awards

Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, part of Miral, have collectively received more than 190 regional and international awards in 2024. Yas Island secured 175 accolades, including recognition as the World’s Leading Theme Park Destination, while Saadiyat Island received over 20 awards, including Best Luxury Beachfront Destination in the UAE. These achievements highlight Miral’s commitment to excellence and innovation, driving Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and tourism sector.

Hatta Winter initiative draws record visitors

The Hatta Winter initiative has concluded successfully, attracting over 870,000 visitors to the mountainous region. The initiative, held under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, featured five festivals, including the Hatta Winter Festival, Hatta Cultural Nights, and Hatta Honey Festival. The events showcased Hatta’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique attractions, positioning it as a leading winter destination. The initiative’s success was underscored by its extensive digital reach, with more than 60 million video views and 2.4 million engagements on social media.

Dubai Unveils Plans for Therme Dubai, a AED2 Billion Wellbeing Resort

Dubai has announced plans to develop Therme Dubai, a first-of-its-kind wellbeing resort and interactive park, spanning 500,000 sq ft and standing 100m tall. The AED2 billion ($544 million) project, set to be completed by 2028, will feature a Michelin-star restaurant, waterfalls, pools, and experiential art installations. Designed by renowned architectural firm DS+R, Therme Dubai will integrate elements of relaxation, leisure, and healthcare, aiming to attract 1.7 million visitors annually and establish Dubai as a global wellness tourism destination.

Dubai DET partners with Dubai Basketball to boost sporting tourism

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has partnered with Dubai Basketball to enhance the emirate’s position as a global sporting destination. The collaboration aims to promote Dubai as a premier location for international basketball events, attracting top players, teams, and fans from around the world. By hosting high-profile basketball tournaments and events, Dubai seeks to boost its sporting tourism sector, capitalising on the growing popularity of basketball globally.

O Beach Dubai project completed

Arco Turnkey Solutions has announced the successful completion of O Beach Dubai, a luxurious beach club located at the Habtoor Grand Resort in Dubai Marina. Spanning 3,800 sq m, the venue features an expansive swimming pool, stylish beach beds, and state-of-the-art amenities. Arco delivered the project within a tight nine-month timeline, showcasing its expertise in design and construction of high-end beach clubs and reinforcing its position as a leading provider of integrated construction services in the UAE.

Abu Dhabi to host 13th MALT Congress, and Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo

The 13th Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress will return to Abu Dhabi on 19-20 February 2025, building on the success of last year’s event, which welcomed more than 250 delegates and 1,800+ one-to-one meetings. Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the congress promises a vibrant B2B marketplace, uniting leading MICE and luxury travel professionals to explore emerging trends, forge connections, and unlock collaborative opportunities.

The 2026 Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo will also be hosted in Abu Dhabi. The event, which will be held at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, aims to converge international influencers from the private and public sectors to catalyse the development of a future economy powered by AI. The UAE is already a leading global hub for AI talent, and the event is expected to accelerate new tech infrastructure projects and sector-wide AI applications, aligning with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027.

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge set for 34th Edition

The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is gearing up for its 34th edition, with a new-look route that promises to test the world’s top rally-raid drivers and riders. The event, which runs from March 2025, will feature a revised Prologue and a marathon stage that will push competitors to their limits. The rally will start from Al Ain for the first time, before heading into the Liwa oasis and the daunting Rub’ Al Khali desert. With the support of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event is expected to attract a strong international field.

Al Ain zoo offers free entry to senior citizens

Al Ain Zoo has announced that it will provide free entry to senior citizens and residents aged 60 and above, in line with the “Year of the Community” initiative. This move lowers the previous age threshold of 70 and demonstrates the zoo’s commitment to inclusivity and community care. The zoo has also ensured that its facilities, including pathways, buildings, and transport vehicles, are easily accessible for senior visitors, with wheelchairs available upon request.

Qatar welcomes record number of cruise passengers in 2024/2025 season

Qatar has seen a significant surge in cruise tourism, welcoming more than 53 cruise ships with 191,944 passengers to the country’s shores during the first half of the 2024/2025 cruise season. This includes 20,951 turnaround passengers who used Doha as a starting point for their cruise journeys. Germany, Russia, and Italy top the list of nationalities, accounting for 69.2% of total passengers. The season has also seen the arrival of four new cruise ships, including Resorts World One, MSC Euribia, Celestyal Journey, and Costa Smeralda. Racked the 8th largest cruise ship in the world, Costa Smeralda is expected to bring an estimated 82,000 passengers across its 10 calls this season. The country is expecting to welcome more than than 30 cruise ships by the end of the season.

Saudi Arabia is top destination for Pakistani travellers

Saudi Arabia has emerged as the leading destination for Pakistani travellers, with a 100% annual increase in visitors from Pakistan, according to travel service app Wego. The Kingdom’s rapidly expanding tourism industry, driven by mega-projects like NEOM and The Red Sea Project, is attracting thousands of Pakistanis who travel for religious duties, tourism, and business. Wego’s data shows that Saudi Arabia is a top choice among Pakistani travellers, with domestic flight searches increasing by over 120% year-on-year.

Egypt’s tourism revenues soar to $15.3B in 2024

Egypt’s tourism revenues have more than doubled to $15.3 billion in 2024, up from $7.2 billion in 2014, driven by a major overhaul of the industry. Inbound tourist numbers rose by 60% to 15.8 million in 2024, with the government aiming to attract 30 million annual tourists by 2032. To support this goal, Egypt has launched initiatives such as investment incentives, a five-year tourist visa, and a tourism investment map offering 156 opportunities, with the industry now accounting for over 8% of the country’s GDP. The country aims to attract 30 million tourists by 2032, driven by its National Tourism Development Strategy, which focuses on enhancing global competitiveness, showcasing unique heritage, and expanding promotional efforts. Egypt has also advanced 22 places in the Travel and Tourism Development Index, ranking 61st in 2024.

Muscat Nights festival smashes records with 1.7 M visitors

The Muscat Nights festival has shattered all previous records, attracting a staggering 1.7M visitors over 41 days, cementing its position as a premier event in Oman’s cultural and tourism landscape. Held across seven venues in Muscat, the festival offered a diverse range of activities, from sports and cultural exhibitions to entertainment shows, supporting over 1,000 local businesses and providing jobs for 1,300 personnel. Despite the festival’s conclusion, activities will continue at Wadi al Khoud until 16 February, leaving a lasting impact on the local community and economy

World-class golf course coming to Bahrain

The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) has signed an agreement with Bareeq Al Retaj Real Estate Company to establish a world-class golf course at its Raffa facility in Bahrain. The course, designed by Spanish golf star Sergio Garcia, is part of REHC’s efforts to enhance Bahrain’s position as a leading sports tourism destination. The project aims to transform the club into a premier destination, supporting the sports and tourism sectors, and attracting investment to advance Bahrain’s economic growth.