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Malaysia Allows Visa-Free Entry Leading to Visit of more Indian and Chinese Tourists Dr. Datuk Noor Zari Secretary-General Tourism Ministry Malaysia stated that the tourists from India and China were among the top contributors to the tourism sector in the country. Focus on Two Nations Also, the number of arrivals from India and China is expected to boost up, as the government has decided regarding providing free entry on a 15-day visa to Malaysia. The period is one year starting from January 1- 2020. Furthermore, tourists belonging to Singapore and Indonesia were the top arrivals that are followed by citizens of China, India and finally Thailand. The move of the government was on suspending the need for a visa for the next one year. The number of tourists exactly from India and China will be announced at an early date next year. Also, the latest data sates that tourists from these countries are among the top five nations that visit Malaysia. Malaysia aims to be the choicest destination for leisure and business and has kept the arrival target of 30 million tourists in 2020 beginning from Jan 1. Impressive Performances in the Past During 2018, Malaysia has welcomed 25.8 million global tourists, and in the January to September 2019; there were positive developments in Malaysia’s tourism. The overall tourist arrivals were 20,109,203 and their expenditure was RM66.14 billion. The first campaign was launched in 1990 and its theme was Fascinating Malaysia a Year of Festivals which was successful and attracted 7.4 million arrivals with tourist receipts of RM4.5 billion. VMY 1990 was a success leading to VMY in 1994. The theme was “Fascinating Malaysia – Naturally more in which 7.2 million tourists arrived and their expenditure was at RM8.3 Billion. This was followed by VMY 2007 in combination with the 50th Independence Anniversary of the country and its theme was Celebrating 50 years of Nationhood.  It had the tourist arrival of 20.97 million and receipts worth RM46.1 billion. Building the Popularity In 2014, another Visit Malaysia Year had a theme of Celebrating One Malaysia Truly Asia that reflected the diversity in the unity aspect of Malaysia. There were 27.4 million tourists, and tourism expenditure was RM72 billion. The ministry has hope that the Johor Craft Festival can achieve a worth of RM7.5 million in craft sales with 135,000 visitors attending it. The aim of this Festival 2019 is to promote handicraft products to the locals and a goal of promoting apt national craft products for the Visit Malaysia Year 2020. We bring all the trending news and our patrons can contact us. Source link Gulf Own Travel and Tourism

An Escape to Paradise, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort Offers the Ultimate Staycation this Eid Al Adha Dubai, United Arab Emirates This Eid Al Adha, treat yourself and your family to an ultimate staycation at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort. With a stunning 1.5 km private beach and experiences designed to please everyone, you’re in for a memorable vacation.  Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort Choose from five different types of rooms and suites, each beautifully furnished with modern amenities fit for royalty.  Relax and rejuvenate at the spa, complete with nine treatment rooms, Moroccan baths, Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam rooms. Hilton Fitness offers cutting-edge equipment and personalized wellness classes, while water lovers can take a dip in one of the eight swimming pools or enjoy water sports. The Tree House kids club and The Hide teens club offer a world of fun for the young ones, while adults can explore notable attractions such as the world’s longest zipline and Ras Al Khaimah National Museum. And when it comes to dining, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah has got you covered with nine amazing restaurants, cafes, and bars featuring cuisine from around the world. Don’t miss out on this incredible gastronomic adventure! Book your staycation now and create memories to last a lifetime at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort. Source link

Nestled on a lush hillside overlooking the azure Ionian Sea waters, Angsana Corfu’s 37 villas are all set to elevate the holiday experience for you and your family this Eid Al Adha. EID Al Adha also marks the school summer break as Eclectic Living offers curated experiences and activities, designed around the 37 villas of the beloved resort for the whole family. Juxtaposing the purity of the Mediterranean landscape with Eclectic Living’s exclusive services, Banyan Tree’s leading brand is making a unique luxury statement this season.   When refinement becomes raison d’ etre The breathtaking views of the Ionian and the unparalleled comforts of the villas are the perfect background for an unforgettable stay – but the Eclectic Living VIP amenities truly refine and fine-tune every moment of every day into a masterpiece of sur mesure hospitality.   Angsana Corfu’s New Villa   The tireless Eclectic Living Host Team is available for any request that may arise, curating one-of-a-kind experiences for the villa residents. At the same time, wellness, gastronomy and entertainment options await guests, such as a separate breakfast room and complimentary mini bar on the day of arrival. Special in-villa services include yoga sessions and butler services, with one of the highlights being the “Corfiot Chef Family-Style table” overseen by the resort’s award-winning Executive Chef, Tasos Andriotis. Inspired by Corfu’s traditional Sunday cooking rituals, Andriotis wants to showcase Corfiot cuisine’s coexistence with nature.   The genuine Corfiot tradition of bonding over food and wine is skillfully brought to life in a villa environment, where guests can host their own communal dining experience. This private gathering is both engaging and interactive, offering a variety of menus and wines, as well as the chance to consult a culinary expert for pairing suggestions. Meals are partially prepared beforehand and brought to the villas. A chef is present in the beginning to showcase each dish and demonstrate how to apply the finishing touches, such as selecting herbs, completing a dish on the barbecue, or crafting a kumquat-infused dressing. This brief cooking session is peppered with anecdotes about the origins of the ingredients and Corfiot family dinner customs. Once the table is ready, the team takes their leave. Guests can savor their lunch or dinner privately, accompanied by live background music.   “We utilize and respect the unique products of the island, which is why I collect exceptional ingredients from the mountains and plains of Corfu. In this way, we help preserve our region’s culinary heritage while modernizing it,” says Andriotis about the experience.   Exclusive access to the V Lounge is also one of the perks of Eclectic Living. A welcoming, luxuriously decorated space with coffee table books from top publishing houses (Assouline, Phaidon, Taschen, Rizzolli, Gestalten, and others), international press and magazines, as well as a selection of Greek-inspired delicacies, savory and sweet, and drinks.   37 reasons to fall in love with Corfu this season A constellation of 37 residences perched amid the greenery pays homage to Corfiot architecture, invoking imagery from movies that celebrate the Mediterranean. The sea-view pool villas are ideal for friend and family groups who wish to relax in their own perfect dreamscape. They can also dine al fresco under the stars in their private pavilions with Ionian sea views or visit the main Angsana Corfu premises. There, they sample the mouth-watering Asian cuisine of the brand new Oribu restaurant, or take part in soul-enriching activities. Options include meditation, sound therapy with majestic Ionian views, various activities for children, painting traditional Corfiot ceramics, making Mediterranean organic exfoliation masks, creating and tasting cocktails with Lazaris Kumquat, and tasting olive oil from award-winning Olithea. Additionally, they can participate in activities outside the resort, such as hiking in the lush green hills and horseback riding.   The villas themselves however are hard to leave behind, despite the abundance of offerings at Angsana Corfu. Guests can choose between five villa sizes, from the intimately luxurious 84m2 one-bedroom pool suite, to spacious 200m2 two-bedroom villas with private pools (heated, in some cases), to the sprawling 327m2 four-bedroom villa with a private pool.   All villas feature fully self-contained kitchens, with all the necessary equipment to cook and host private dinners and Nespresso coffee machines. An extensive selection of complimentary beauty products, bath amenities and personal items ensures that all everyday needs are taken care of. Inside, after a cozy lounging area, comfortable master bedrooms open up to ensuite marble bathrooms, featuring a power shower and a deep soaking bathtub. Poolside, the vistas are straight out of a movie, with comfortable sunbeds where guests can relax while listening to music through Bluetooth speakers.   The respect for the locale and to the essence of Corfu is evident in the villas’ design and decor. Celebrated interior decorator Dimitris Brazas, who oversaw the decor details, points out the use of Corfiot blue, a shade unique in Greece and the Ionian Sea. “It is the blue of the Ionian North,” he points out, “a much deeper, less green shade than the one found in other Greek islands.” The interior brings natural materials to the forefront, with an emphasis on Etruscan-inspired ornamental objects such as vases, lamps, deco objects, and rugs, as well as artworks. The strictly geometric art, with its austere elements and bold usage of primary colors such as blue, white, and black, became the inspiration for the color palette in the bedrooms and shared spaces. As for the furniture, most of it handmade, it cleverly combines the charms of two very different worlds: that of Italian finesse and of Asian-inspired influences. Angsana Corfu is, after all, the first Banyan Tree flagship hotel in Mediterranean land – and in all of Europe.   Holidays as bespoke as a dream… This is Eclectic Living!

Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Receives Coveted Travelife Gold Certification for Accommodation Sustainability Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives is delighted to announce that the luxury Maldives resort has been rewarded for its outstanding commitment to environmental and social welfare by being awarded the highly-coveted Travelife Gold Certification for Accommodation Sustainability. The award is seen as fitting recognition for Finolhu’s long-term efforts and achievements in the areas of sustainable tourism and Corporate Social Responsibility.   Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives   With its prestigious location within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Finolhu is fully conscious of its obligation to environmental protection. The resort was awarded Travelife Gold Certification for Accommodation Sustainability following a rigorous testing and review process that highlighted and confirmed the resort’s progressive action in minimising its environmental impacts, improving the economic and social situation of the people in its community, respecting and protecting human rights and fair labour practices, and safeguarding the welfare and biodiversity of the flora and fauna within its local environment.   Mr Steven Phillips, General Manager at Seaside Finolhu, states “What entices many of us to travel is the chance to experience beautiful new surroundings and cultures. To ensure we can continue doing so for many years to come, it is important that we make positive choices to ensure the protection and conservation of our planet and its people. With this latest achievement, Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives formalises its commitment to making our very special part of the world a better place to live, work and visit.”   As a leading international accommodation sustainability certification programme covering the areas of environmental management, fair labour practices, human rights and community support, the Travelife programme has some of the strictest selection criteria in the world. By working closely with accommodation providers around the world, the organisation aims to assure a better future for both tourism and local communities. It achieves this through its certification programme by rewarding environmental and social consciousness, identifying possible areas in need of development, and providing valuable tips on how accommodation providers can improve their practices in terms of environmental protection and relations with the local communities.    Luxury travel to exotic locations continues to grow in popularity as discerning travellers seek out new and unique adventures in ever more remote settings, but it is that very popularity which can place the destinations which attract those travellers at risk. Taking steps to protect the environment in which accommodation providers operate is therefore a key element of sustainable tourism. In recent times, this focus on protecting natural beauty has been extended to include the culture and the people who live in the local community.   As modern travellers become increasingly concerned with environmental and social issues, they are more likely to choose hotels, destinations and resorts which practice sustainable tourism. Having been awarded Travelife Gold Certification for Accommodation Sustainability, Finolhu now has the international recognition to assure travellers of its long-term commitment to protecting the pristine natural environment and local community that make it such an attractive destination.    Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives  Owned and managed by Seaside Collection, Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives, is a luxury island resort renowned for its two-kilometre white powdery beaches that stretch out across four islands. Firmly established as one of the finest resorts in the Maldives, Finolhu – meaning sandbank in Dhivehi – consists of 125 beachfront and overwater villas (more than half with a private pool), four restaurants and an array of activities, every day on Finolhu’s island playground is as varied as the coral reef landscape of the Baa Atoll. Whilst popular with honeymooners, the extensive resort which is set in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is also family-friendly, with a kids’ club and world-famous entertainment.   For more information about Finolhu Baa Atoll, visit finolhu.com or follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.    About Seaside Collection Founded in 1969 by Theo Gerlach, Seaside Collection is a group of 11 boutique properties located in the Canary Islands, Germany, Valencia, and the Maldives, where luxury is celebrated in an unobtrusive, casual way. Each of the 11 four and five-star hotels is characterised by its exclusive location, architecture, high-quality management, unforgettable cuisine and passionate hospitality.   For more information about the city and resort collection visit www.seaside-collection.com. Source link

In line with its theme, ‘Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, Arabian Travel Market 2024 will shine a spotlight on the innovators reshaping the sector Building on ATM’s net-zero pledge, delegates will consider how the spirit of entrepreneurism can be harnessed to create a more sustainable travel industry Following a record-breaking 30th edition, which attracted more than 40,000 attendees, ATM 2024 will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 6-9 May   Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s leading event for inbound and outbound travel and tourism professionals, has unveiled its next theme: ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship.’ The 31st edition of the show will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May 2024.   ATM 2024   Over the last 15 years, the travel and tourism industry has secured only 1 percent of total funding for startups across all industries, according to analysis from McKinsey. This is despite the fact that the sector accounted for more than 10 percent of global GDP in 2019. With exhibitors from the fields of aviation, accommodation, hospitality, attractions, technology and more, ATM 2024 will explore how innovators in the travel and tourism space are working to attract greater levels of funding to further increase the sector’s overall contribution to global GDP.   The 31st edition of ATM will once again host policymakers, industry leaders and travel professionals from across the Middle East and beyond, encouraging them to forge new relationships, exchange knowledge and identify innovations with the potential to reshape the future of global travel and tourism. From startups to established brands, the upcoming show will highlight how innovators are enhancing customer experiences, driving efficiencies and accelerating progress towards a net-zero future for the industry.   Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, said, “The Middle East’s travel and tourism sector has demonstrated impressive resilience and growth in recent years, but we must continue to innovate and adapt in order to achieve the industry’s long-term goals. Thanks to ATM 2024’s theme, ‘Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, we have a golden opportunity to showcase expert insights, cutting-edge technologies and commercial opportunities with the potential to completely reshape the sector.”   Building on ATM 2023’s theme of ‘Working Towards Net Zero’, environmentally responsible travel will represent a key focus during the show’s upcoming edition. Informed by the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), which will take place in Dubai later this year, ATM 2024 will explore how innovation can be leveraged to help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by building a greener travel and tourism sector for future generations.   More than 40,000 travel trade professionals, including 30,000 visitors, attended the 30th edition of ATM in May 2023, setting a new show record. The exhibition attracted more than 2,100 exhibitors and representatives from over 155 countries, providing a global platform for the unveiling of ATM’s net-zero pledge.   ATM 2024 will empower the global travel and tourism community to harness entrepreneurism, helping to catalyse innovation, increase revenues and maximise sustainability over the long term. The UAE aims to attract $150 billion in foreign investment by 2030, making it the perfect environment for these activities. With an emphasis on technological innovation, the nation plans to strengthen its position as an international hub for start-ups – a focus that looks set to benefit entrepreneurs operating in the region’s travel and tourism sector. By exploring the ways in which an entrepreneurial mindset can lead to positive change within the industry, ATM 2024 will enable attendees to identify strategies for growth across a range of key industry verticals.   “As a global leader in innovation, the UAE offers the perfect environment in which to explore these trends and identify new avenues for growth,” Curtis added. “Following the record-breaking levels of attendance witnessed during ATM 2023, my colleagues and I cannot wait to welcome the global travel community to Dubai once again next year.”   Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.   To register your interest in attending ATM 2024 or to submit a stand enquiry, visit www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb/enquire.html. Source link

Dubai, United Arab Emirates “Dubai’s travel and tourism landscape is poised for continued growth and transformation in the next couple of years; the city is likely to build upon its reputation as a global tourism hotspot ”, said Nasir Khan – CEO of Al Naboodah Travel – when prompted about the driving force behind this year’s TravelTech Middle East Summit & Awards.   The Middle East’s travel and tourism sector has always been a tapestry of contrasts, where slow-paced towns meet technologically driven city centers. In the heart of this ever-captivating landscape, Verve Management is hosting the 4th Annual TravelTech Middle East Summit & Awards, setting out to explore the innovation and possibilities that define the region’s remarkable journey into the future of travel. Over the course of two days, thought-provoking professionals will delve into areas such as sustainable tourism, touchless technology, AI and robotics, and contactless payments.   At the event – taking place at the Address Dubai Marina, UAE, on October 11th & 12th – Verve Management is setting out to feature a roster of esteemed partners: Speakers Amro Zubair, Director of Digital Product & Digital Experience, Ministry of Tourism – KSA Kashif Khalid, Regional Director – Africa & Middle East, International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Nasir Khan, Chief Executive Officer, Al Naboodah Travel JS Anand, Founder & CEO, LEVA Hotels & Resorts Jamel Ben Amor, President & Managing Director, IRIS Hotels Daniel Bayon, Director of the Spanish Tourism Office for the Middle East & Tourism Counsellor, Embassy of Spain in the UAE   Guest of Honor    Partners  Giata Onefly ISO Travel Solutions Adyen WaveAccess Nucore Fluxir Apiso   Save The Date Mark your calendars for this year’s TravelTech Middle East Summit & Awards, as innovation, sustainability, and recognition shape future initiatives in the region. The event promises not just insights from renowned trailblazers in the industry, but also a glimpse into the region’s next chapter in the realm of travel and tourism. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate amongst thought leaders, and redefine the future of travel.   About the Organizer Verve Management is one of the UAE’s leading business facilitation platforms, where the primary focus involves bringing together pioneers and professionals from all walks of the globe, under one roof. Verve Management strives to do exactly what your business needs; the team strongly believes in a sole purpose, which is to provide solutions that progress your company’s production and performance. Source link

Kanoo Travel, the first IATA member agency in the GCC and a prominent force within the Middle East’s travel industry, is proud to announce its association with Travel Leaders, the international network that is part of Internova Travel Group, one of the world’s largest travel service companies and a top-tier corporate travel management company in North America.   L-R: Mr. Gabe Rizzi, President of the corporate travel division of Internova Travel Group, and Mr. Ali Abdulla Kanoo, Chairman – SBU Trading Divisions   The strategic alliance amplifies Kanoo Travel’s international reach, leveraging its deep domain expertise to ensure continued premium service to its clientele and paving the way for future expansion opportunities within the global network. The partnership was announced at a gala event at the Museum of the Future in Dubai on October 5.   The fusion of Kanoo Travel’s personalised approach with Travel Leaders’ extensive state-of-the-art technology offerings promises an unparalleled travel management experience. As part of the Internova Travel Group, Kanoo Travel will now have access to Travel Leaders’ broad suite of services, including online booking platforms, marketing tools, a global destination marketing company network and exclusive hotel programs. Furthermore, a comprehensive technology suite will bolster international and local clientele servicing, providing tools for profile management, trip authorisation, consolidated data analytics, advanced meetings technology and in-depth customer reporting.   Zaeem Gama, Divisional CEO of Kanoo Travel, said, “We are thrilled about this collaboration with Travel Leaders, a renowned and revered brand within the Internova Travel Group portfolio. This partnership presents a unique opportunity for Kanoo Travel to further enhance the service experience for our travellers in the GCC.”   “The wealth of tools, innovative solutions and industry best practices that Travel Leaders brings to the table will empower our travel advisors to deliver even more value and broader services to our clients.”   “While this partnership marks a pivotal moment in our growth, our core principle remains unchanged. Our clients will consistently experience the superior personal attention and service they have always known. With advanced digital tools at our disposal, we can elevate our offerings across Corporate Services, M.I.C.E, and Leisure. We are excited for what the future holds with Travel Leaders International by our side.”   Mr. Ali Abdulla Kanoo, Chairman – SBU Trading Divisions, commented, “I believe this partnership with Travel Leaders International will be another milestone step for Kanoo Travel. It synergises with our recent digitalisation efforts and opens new doors, giving us new opportunities to better serve our client base.”   “Kanoo Travel has taken another step forward, reflecting on our continued dedication to elevate the travel experience. Earlier this year, we introduced Kanoo Travel MORE, expanding our offering with targeted solutions. And today, with this alliance, we are even more equipped to provide our clients with an unparalleled travel platform.”   On occasion, Gabe Rizzi, President of the corporate travel division of Internova Travel Group, stated, “We are excited about our exclusive new partnership with Kanoo Travel and the opportunity to expand our services to travellers across the MENA region. Our company offers a comprehensive array of programs and tools, combined with innovative thinking and proven best industry practices, that will allow travel advisors at Kanoo Travel to seamlessly offer their clients additional services and improved access to international partners.”   In over 80 years of operation, Kanoo Travel has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, curating unique and memorable travel experiences for its clients. The partnership with Travel Leaders International is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach and continuous drive to elevate travel management standards. By aligning with industry leaders and adopting cutting-edge tools, Kanoo Travel reaffirms its position as a client-focused trailblazer in the GCC travel sector. Source link

Arabian Travel Market 2024 will continue to go beyond leisure, highlighting how business, luxury and MICE travel are impacting destinations, hotels and airlines The 31st edition of ATM will explore how travel and tourism are driving economic growth and sustainable development across the Middle East and beyond From 6-9 May 2024, the global travel and tourism community will meet at DWTC to share knowledge and identify opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors   Attendees from around the world will explore opportunities spanning the full spectrum of travel and tourism – including leisure, business, luxury and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) – at the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in the UAE from Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May 2024.   ATM 2024   Revenue in the global travel and tourism market is projected to reach $854.7 billion this year, according to research conducted by Statista. The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.42 per cent during the period 2023-27, passing the trillion-dollar mark within the next four years.   Allied Market Research valued the global business travel market at $689.7 billion in 2021, predicting that the segment would grow to $2.1 trillion by 2031. The global luxury travel market, meanwhile, is on course to pass $440 billion by the end of this decade, according to research from Coherent Market Insights. The MICE segment also continues to make valuable contributions in GCC countries such as the UAE, where DWTC’s most recent Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) Annual Report estimated that the venue’s total economic output – across 63 large-scale events – exceeded $3.5 billion in 2022.   In line with ATM 2024’s theme of ‘Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, attendees will consider how the segments of leisure, business, luxury and MICE are driving economic growth and sustainable development across destinations, hospitality and aviation, creating fresh opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors from across the Middle East and beyond.   Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, said, “Holidaymakers represent a crucial focus for the Middle East’s travel community, but leisure is only one component of a much bigger picture. Business, luxury and MICE travel are also making significant contributions to economic growth and sustainable development, with Statista predicting a global market volume of more than $1 trillion by 2027.”   “It is therefore no surprise that the travel and tourism sector is creating unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, thousands of whom will showcase their innovations, exchange ideas and forge new partnerships at ATM 2024,” she added.   The travel and tourism sector is on course to contribute $49.18 billion to the UAE economy alone in 2023, according to figures released by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). This figure is predicted to reach $64.12 billion by 2033, accounting for an impressive 10.2 per cent of the nation’s GDP.   As the Middle East’s travel and tourism industry continues to mature, it is expected to create new jobs and income for millions of people from across the globe. The UAE Government, for instance, estimates that the country’s travel and tourism market will support 770,000 jobs by 2027. At the same time, the sector is expected to generate ever-increasing revenues for regional economies – Gulf travellers spending approximately 6.5 times more than tourists from other parts of the world, according to the UN World Tourism Organization (WTO).   Sustainable development will represent another key focus at ATM 2024 as the show builds on the net-zero commitments outlined during its milestone 30th edition. Dubai’s Department for Economy and Tourism (DET), ATM’s Destination Partner, will showcase its ongoing efforts to protect the environment and secure a greener and more sustainable future for the emirate. Pioneering initiatives such as Dubai Sustainable Tourism, Dubai Can and Dubai Carbon Calculator – coupled with the city’s hosting of COP28 later this year – will provide the ideal backdrop for ATM attendees looking to identify opportunities related to responsible tourism in the UAE and the wider Middle East.   Thanks to the region’s business-friendly approach to policymaking, tax-free salaries and ongoing visa reforms, GCC countries accounted for five of the top 10 global destinations where expatriates find it easiest to settle, according to a report from InterNations. In Q1 2023, a Magnitt report revealed that Saudi Arabia led the region in venture capital investment for startups, while the UAE topped the list in terms of number of exits. As such, the upcoming edition of ATM will offer the perfect forum for speakers, panellists and audience members to explore opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors operating in the Middle East’s travel and tourism space.   Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.   To register your interest in attending ATM 2024 or to submit a stand enquiry, visit www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb/enquire.html. Source link

China’s outbound tourism numbers to double in 2024 Y-on-Y, only 22% below record pre-pandemic levels of 155 million tourists ATM 2024 expecting to double number of Chinese participants that exhibited in 2019 Huawei to share latest trends and data on Chinese travellers’ plans to the Middle East during dedicated conference session   According to research by Oxford Economics, outbound travel from China is estimated to almost double this year, compared with 2023 and will only be 22% below its peak pre-pandemic numbers of 155 million tourists in 2019, who spent over $250 billion overseas.   Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024   Full recovery is expected to materialise in 2025, with the Middle East being the first region globally to recover its Chinese inbound market.   Underscoring that prediction, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 6-9 May, is set to welcome twice the number of Chinese exhibitors and travel professionals, compared with its 2019 show.   China lifted its COVID-related travel restrictions on 8th January 2023, allowing Chinese tourists to travel abroad, without having to quarantine upon their return. Bookings for overseas travel during Chinese New Year, soared by 540% compared with the same period in 2022, according to data from the Chinese travel site Trip.com.   Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market commented, “Last year, some analysts were predicting that the Chinese outbound market would recover to around six million per month by the summer of 2023, driven in part by the pent-up demand especially from young, affluent Chinese.”   “However, that rebound wasn’t as great as many tourism professionals had hoped for and now analysts are confident that this year, we could see Chinese visitor numbers double year-on-year, with major destinations in the Middle East recovering quicker than any other internationally, especially for luxury travel.”   “That sentiment has also been borne out by the latest spending data for the 2024 Chinese New Year. According to Chinese payment platform Alipay, the number of Chinese overseas transactions were 7% higher than those recorded in 2019.”   “The most popular Middle East destinations include Dubai, Saudi’s AlUla, Egypt and Jordan – Dubai alone welcomed more than one million Chinese visitors in 2019,” said Curtis.   Chinese participation at ATM 2024 is expected to more than double compared with ATM 2019, with new exhibitors that include private sector companies such as Heytrip International, Jiangsu Intelligence Equipment Co, Flightroutes24 Travel Company Ltd, Feeyo Technology and anticipated destination representation from Macao Government Tourism Office, China Cultural Centre in the UAE and the Hongkong Tourism Board.   ATM is also organising a dedicated conference session on this key market in its Global Stage, entitled ‘Capitalising on China’s Predicted Tourism Surge’, in association with Huawei. This session, which takes place on Monday 6th May from 15:10 to 15:50, will explore the changing trends, cultural preferences and the role of mobile marketing and tourism predictions in the Chinese tourism market.   In line with this year’s show theme ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, other highlights at the 31st edition of ATM include entrepreneurship-focused sessions as well as dedicated sessions for other key source markets such as India and the Americas. As well as showcasing a range of event features based around the theme, informative content will be delivered across the Global Stage and the new Future Stage at ATM 2024, led by respected industry keynote speakers, and thought leaders.   Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.   To register your interest in attending ATM 2024 or to submit a stand enquiry, visit www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb/enquire.html. Source link

Dubai offers 150,000 hotel rooms, surpassing the capacity of destinations such as London, New York City and Bangkok Riyadh has recorded a 134% growth in hotel supply, with 28,465 rooms, and Doha has doubled its room offering in the past decade  The region’s hospitality sector will convene at Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which takes place from 6-9 May    Recent data from global research companies indicates a bright future for the GCC hospitality industry, with insights from Deloitte and STR demonstrating sustained growth as tourism continues to be a key priority for regional governments. The upcoming edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), a premier global event in travel and tourism, will serve as a pivotal gathering for hospitality stakeholders when it takes place from 6 to 9 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.   Hotels at Arabian Travel Market   According to Deloitte, Dubai is leading the regional hospitality markets with a strong outlook for 2024. The city now offers more hotel rooms than major capitals such as London, New York City and Bangkok, and as of this month, Dubai has a hotel room capacity of over 150,000.   Data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) shows that the city welcomed 17.15 million overnight visitors during 2023, with the average length of stay also increasing. According to Deloitte, occupancy peaked at 88% in February.   Elsewhere in the region, STR figures show that Riyadh is leading the way in terms of hotel supply growth, offering an additional 28,465 rooms, a 134% increase. Meanwhile, Doha has doubled its hotel inventory over the past decade, with a current supply of 39,968 rooms.   “As the hospitality landscape in the GCC region continues to evolve, the data paints a compelling picture of growth and opportunity. ATM 2024 will feature a wide range of hospitality brands from around the world, and we are pleased to report that there has been a 21% increase in exhibition space dedicated to hotel brands this year, demonstrating strong interest and demand,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.   Curtis added, “IHG Resorts is the official hotel partner for ATM 2024, and this year’s edition is set to welcome back some of the most respected brands in the hospitality industry, including Four Seasons Hotels, Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, and the Shangri-La Group. It’s worth noting that the number of hospitality brands showcased at ATM has increased by 12% with a good selection of well-known international and regional brands. With so many world-class brands in attendance across all categories of luxury, upper-midscale and midscale, ATM 2024 promises an enriching experience for all attending.”   Several new European hotel brands, including Ethno Belek in Turkey and Buff Medical Resort in Germany, will exhibit at ATM for the first time. European Voyages, which specialises in tours, transfers, and private jets, will also mark its debut appearance. There has been a notable surge in exhibitor participation from Italy and Turkey, reflecting a growing interest from these regions in reaching the lucrative Middle East tourism market.   Attendees at ATM 2024 will learn the latest trends from hospitality industry leaders during a series of summits and panel discussions throughout the course of the week. These include the ‘’Frameworks for Tourism Investment‘ session, which will mark the beginning of the highly-anticipated ATM Market Insights Summit.   Presented by Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East and Africa, Hilton; Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director Middle East, UNWTO; and Jan Gerrit Koechling, Partner Dubai, UAE of Roland Berger, this session will take place on the event’s main stage, the Global Stage. Attendees can expect to gain invaluable insights on how to cater to new markets, maintain market share and identify new business opportunities.   Elsewhere, the ‘Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East’ session will officially open ATM’s new ‘Future Stage’, formerly the Travel Tech Stage. Providing key updates on the hospitality industry, upcoming trends and current challenges facing the sector, the session will feature senior regional representatives from IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriot International, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC and Banyan Tree Dubai along with hospitality experts from Mastercard and Silkhaus.   “As the Middle East continues its impressive strides forward in the global tourism landscape, IHG Hotels & Resorts is honoured and proud to be a strategic partner to multiple governments, tourism investors, industry stakeholders, and our customers across the region. As the official Hotel Partner of the Arabian Travel Market 2024, we look forward to engaging with industry leaders, peers and colleagues. ATM remains an unrivalled platform for dialogue, debate, networking, and knowledge-sharing as the regional industry’s legacy travel trade event,” said Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG.   The 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will focus on the theme: Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship. This year’s event will feature a wide portfolio of exhibitors from the fields of aviation, accommodation, hospitality, attractions, technology and more, ATM 2024 will explore how innovators in the travel and tourism space are working to attract greater levels of funding to further increase the sector’s overall contribution to global GDP.   Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner, Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner. STA is the Global Travel Partner for ATM 2024.   To register your interest in attending ATM 2024 or to submit a stand enquiry, visit www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb/enquire.html. Source link