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Don’t miss out, middle east travel & tourism announces the release of the best hotels of egypt for 2024.

Egypt’s hotel scene has undergone significant changes over the past two years since the last “Best Hotels of Egypt” list was published. As is very often the case in Egypt, changes in leadership, ownership, occupancy trends, budget priorities, staffing levels, and so on can drastically impact the …

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AirArabia becomes the latest airline to offer off-site airport check-in in downtown Dubai

Air Arabia has opened a new off-site flight check-in office in downtown Dubai to allow those flying with the low-cost carrier to check their luggage and pick up boarding passes up to 24 hours prior to their scheduled departure. The airline already operates 11 similar locations throughout the UAE, …

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Riyadh’s new record-breaking second airport to serve 120 million passengers by 2030

The Saudi capital of Riyadh is getting a second airport that will become one of the largest in the world when it is completed in 2030. The six new runways of King Salman International Airport will serve 120 million passengers annually, also making it one of the world's busiest airports. Riyadh's …

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Egypt’s Tourism Arrivals Defy Expectations Despite Challenges and Setbacks

If there is one country in the world that embodies resilience in the face of adversity, it’s Egypt. Despite having been poised for a much-needed breakthrough in setting a tourist arrivals record multiple times over the past five years, one unexpected event after another has held the country back …

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DXB’s passenger numbers show strong bounce-back while tourism arrivals set a record

Dubai Airports, the operator of what is now the the busiest international airport in thew world according to figures from global travel data provider OAG, has reported that its outperformed its own 2019 passenger numbers in 2023. In total, Dubai International Airport (DXB) handled 86.9 million …

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Red Sea International Airport begins offering its first international flights to and from Dubai

Saudi Arabia's new Red Sea International Airport (RSI) has announced its first international service offerings with the launch of a twice-weekly flight to Dubai International Airport (DXB ) on regional carrier FlyDubai. While the airport already serviced domestic airports within the kingdom, this …

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International fashion brand Dior unveils its fall men’s collection at Egypt’s Giza Pyramids

In a unique confluence of fashion and history, globally renowned fashion brand Christian Dior unveiled its latest men's collection against the majestic silhouette of the Giza Pyramids in Egypt with a star-studded fashion show that was set outdoors at night against the backdrop of the last remaining …

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Turkish Airlines low-cost subsidiary AnadoluJet rebrands and relaunches as AJet

The low-cost Turkish air carrier AnadoluJet, owned by Turkish Airlines, has completed its rebranding and transition to a new name - AJet Air Transportation, or AJet. The airline formally began operations as AJet on March 31, 2024 and previously ticketed AnadoluJet passengers were notified that their …

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Kempinski debuts in Kurdistan with a new partnership to manage the Bristoria Hotel Erbil

The Kurdish capital city of Erbil has welcomed the latest addition to its skyline with the reopening of the Bristoria Hotel Erbil. Following a recent refurbishment and a new management partnership with Keminski, the hotel began receiving its first guests earlier this week. Situated within …

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The tapestry of Egypt’s hotel scene has always been diverse, and that diversity and target market specialization continue to grow as the country enters a new era of development and change in 2024. - John Navarre, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Middle East Travel & Tourism

Unravelling the Confusing Web of Saudi Arabia’s New Tourism Mega-Projects

As the world begins to move away from its reliance on fossil fuels, Saudi Arabia is  attempting to rapidly and wisely diversify itself away from its traditional oil-based economy to one in which a newly established tourism industry can be a significant driver of investment, employment, and economic sustainability.  Largely centred around the kingdom’s 1,760 kilometers (1,100 miles) of warm and closely accessible Red Sea coastline, the variety, diversity, and sheer number of new destination announcements has been dizzying. But with the peak of the kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan still …

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When you want to diversify your economy, you want to work on all sectors, including tourism. If you want to have tourism, you need to develop your culture, entertainment, and sports sectors, as you need to create a calendar for events." - Mohamed bin Salman, Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Industry Voices

Sebastien Mariette, Area General Manager for Kempinski Egypt

Mac McClenahan, Creator and Owner of Beirut’s Hamra Urban Gardens

Rami Sayess, Regional Vice President at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

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the ultimate travel guide to Dubai

Dubai, often referred to as “The Gateway to the Middle East” is more than just a city of sparkling skyscrapers. We cover the best of the world’s new favourite stopover destination in our Dubai travel guide here.

The path to fascination and adventure here is paved with amazing hospitality (and unbeatable Indiana Jones-style photo ops).

Known for its luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife scene, Dubai is now more than just a popular stopover between Australia and Europe – it’s become a holiday destination in its own right. There’s plenty to do in this relatively progressive UAE city that is working hard for the tourist dollar. Highlights in the city include the 830m-tall Burj Khalifa tower and the Dubai Fountain (with jets and lights choreographed to music).

Be tempted to drop all your hard-earned cash at the Dubai Mall – the second largest mall in the world. This truly mind-boggling place boasts an iceskating rink, 250-room luxury hotel, 22 cinema screens, 120 restaurants and cafes and more than 1000 retailers.

Dubai is also an absolute paradise for foodies, with Michelin-starred restaurants as well as more cheap and cheerful traditional eats. Enjoy otherworldly falafel stuffed with onions and chilli paste, extraordinary eggplant dips and Yemeni chicken and rice dishes.

One of the most iconic accommodation offerings in Dubai is Atlantis – the first resort to open its doors on Dubai’s revolutionary island, The Palm.

Redefining tourism in Dubai as the first truly integrated entertainment destination resort, today it encompasses the region’s leading waterpark – Aquaventure – as well as extensive fresh and salt-water pools, lagoon exhibits, plus an open-air marine habitat. It’s a wonderland for children of all ages.

Another resort option on The Palm island is One & Only . The hotel’s Moorish-Andalusian architecture and Arabian-international interiors are sumptuous and sophisticated. Beachfront villas, suites and spacious guest rooms are designed to ensure privacy and seclusion. Michelin-starred, French super-chef Yannick Alléno directs the three restaurants – all set on the glimmering waterfront with Dubai’s reach-for-the-sky skyline glittering in the distance.

Friday brunch is favourite pastime in Dubai (the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, not Saturday and Sunday). It usually involves a four-hour all-you-can-eat marathon and takes place at hundreds of acclaimed restaurants across the city. We have a definitive list of Dubai’s best brunch spots to help you find your ideal venue.

If the action of the city isn’t to your taste you can always escape to the desert. Far from Dubai’s towers and traffic is The Al Maha Desert Resort – a super-luxe resort made up of just 42 suites.

The tented suites are filled with simple, sheikh-like luxuries – plush Middle Eastern rugs, Arabian antiques and four-poster beds, each with a private pool. Get up early to see the desert dawn and falcons soaring in the sky.

Camel treks, dune drives or a wildlife safari can fill the day, or slip into the spa for Middle Eastern and Asian-influenced therapies followed by a candlelit dinner on the dunes. Falconry dates back more than 2000 years in Emirati culture and the resort has seven falcons, most of them bred especially for hunting.

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38. Al Maha Desert Resort, Dubai, UAE

Dubai – Size Isn’t Everything

Dubai – Then and Now

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Arabian travel market opens in dubai: what's new this year, atm 2022 features 1,500 exhibitors, representatives from 158 global destinations.

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Published: Mon 9 May 2022, 8:55 PM

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022, official opened today marking the start of the 29th edition of the Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition.

Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from Monday 9 to Thursday May 12, this year’s event is more than 85% larger than ATM 2021 in terms of floorspace, with growth in every single region.

ATM 2022 features 1,500 exhibitors, representatives from 158 global destinations, and an anticipated 20,000 attendees. The live show will be followed by ATM Virtual, which will run from Tuesday 17 to Wednesday May 18.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group and Chairman of Dubai World said the emirate continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of global travel and tourism recovery by hosting global events that bring together decision-makers in the sector from across the region and the globe, contributing to worldwide efforts to open new growth horizons for the industry.

Dubai’s ability to provide a safe environment for both tourism and prominent global events over the past two years and its success in overcoming the repercussions of the recent worldwide health crisis have enabled it to welcome large numbers of visitors from all over the world.

"Dubai provides a unique model for sustainable development that not only promotes economic progress within the nation but also stimulates growth in the region and broader global markets. The Arabian Travel Market provides a vital platform for tourism and travel industry leaders in the Middle East and across the world to connect and network with each other and discover new opportunities for growth, collaboration and success,” he said.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed was accompanied at the inauguration by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); Vasyl Zhygalo, Portfolio Director, RX Global; Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director Middle East, ATM; and a host of other VIPs who embarked on a tour of the show floor as the four-day event got underway in Dubai.

New this year is the ATM Draper-Aladdin Start-up Competition, which has generated a huge buzz since its launch. The initiative will see up to 15 travel, tourism, and hospitality innovators pitch for up to $500,000 of funding – not to mention the opportunity to compete for an additional $500,000 of investment as part of the hit TV show, Meet the Drapers.

• Arabian Travel Market set to open today
• Emaar Hospitality Group set to expand footprint across UAE, region

In addition, ATM 2022 will include in-depth buyer forums dedicated to India and Saudi Arabia; live interviews with aviation and hospitality experts; debates on the future of sports, city and responsible tourism; the ITIC-ATM Middle East Summit on tourism investment; digital influencer networking; best stand awards; and the return of ILTM Arabia, with its focus on the lucrative luxury travel market.

For the first time, the ARIVALDubai@ATM forum and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) will take place live in Dubai after joining remotely for ATM 2021.

ATM 2022 is part of Arabian Travel Week, a 10-day festival of travel and tourism events taking place in Dubai.

Those attending ATM in-person are encouraged to post using the hashtags #ImGoingtoATM and #ATMDubai.

ATM 2022 is held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre and its strategic partners include Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner and Emaar Hospitality Group as the Official Hotel Partner.

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Introduction

The speed of Dubai’s metamorphosis is unparalleled, creating a thriving metropolis in the heart of the desert in less than half a century. Many people are likely to be dazzled by the whiteness of the sand and the scale of the skyscrapers, but it’s also still possible to step back in time with a desert safari or boat trip on the creek.

Dubai holidays are memorable and involve soaking up the sun on the prominent beaches of Dubai and limitless culinary delights in award- winning Michelin starred restaurants, some with awe-inspiring iconic views of the city. Or watch your sporting heroes take part in some of the most prestigious international sporting events around the year. Alternatively, shop till you drop in any one of Dubai's 96 malls or souks.

At a glance

Flying time: UK to Dubai 7hrs

Emirates gateway: Dubai International Airport

Time zone: GMT + 3 hours

Currency: Emirati Dirham. Currency is easily exchangeable beforehand. ATMs are plentiful and credit cards widely accepted

Languages: Arabic, with English is widely spoken

Dialing code: +971

Religion: Islam

Plug sockets: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. British-style plugs with three pins are standard

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Dubai City: 20 to 30 minutes

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Jumeirah Beach/Jumeirah Beach Residence: 40 to 50 minutes

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Palm Jumeirah, Jebel Ali or desert: 50 to 60 minutes

From beaches that fringe the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf bathed in year-round sunshine, to the architectural marvels that punctuate the skyline and define the destination, Dubai is irresistibly dynamic, with some of the world’s most unique and modern attractions.

• Wander the laneways of the atmospheric gold and spice souks of old Dubai, piled high with aromatic and glittering treats.
• Check out super-cool Kite Beach if you’re into watersports.
• Have hours of laughs and squeals while cooling down at Dubai’s water parks.
• Visit Downtown Dubai, packed with incredible sites, including an actual dinosaur skeleton inside a shopping mall and the tallest building on the planet, Burj Khalifa.

When to visit

Expect year-round sunshine – it’s just a case of exactly how hot you like it. October to April provides the most pleasant option (small potential of rain and wind in January and February), with temperatures around 25-28C. From May, these temperatures really rocket between June and September (upwards of 40C) but Dubai offers plenty of incentives to visit then, such as shopping festivals in air-conditioned malls, indoor attractions and fantastic value offers.

What to pack

These high temperatures require light, breathable clothing, but always have a cover-up for when you hit the air conditioning. Whilst a liberal and popular holiday hotspot, it’s still good to bear in mind that Dubai is a Muslim destination, so dress respectfully outside of your resort (for example, women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and the knees in shopping malls, and if entering a mosque, hair must be covered). Desert trips are best in comfortable safari-type clothing.

Places to visit in Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

This ambitious artificial archipelago, created using land reclamation, was one of many projects that put Dubai on the map, with its crescent-like “fronds” extending out from a “trunk” that runs the length of the central section – all the way from the mainland up to Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai . The 5.4km Palm Jumeirah Monorail also runs from the Gateway Towers at the base to Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai and is home to many thousands of private homes, and numerous hotels by some of the world’s leading brands, such as Fairmont , Sofitel , Jumeirah , One&Only , Waldorf Astoria and Anantara . No Dubai holiday is complete without visiting this unique spectacle.

Jumeirah Beach

One of the original homes of tourism here in the emirate, Dubai’s main beach area is washed by the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and lined with excellent hotels, such as the iconic wave-like Jumeirah Beach Hotel . Also here is Wild Wadi Waterpark™, which will keep everyone amused for hours, while Jumeirah beach park is a great public space that’s also popular with local families.

Downtown Dubai

The anchor of this futuristic district is the Burj Khalifa , the world’s tallest building, which took five years to build and opened in 2010, boasting a staggering 828 metres to its name; from the viewing area at its upper levels, other buildings below seem like crumbs. Inside the Burj Khalifa is the first-ever Armani Hotel , while other attention-grabbing attractions of this area include Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain - both the world’s biggest - where jets of water shoot up to 150 metres high, and seem to “dance” in time to music as they are illuminated by more than 6,000 lights.

While on holiday in Dubai, it is essential to visit the oldest part of the city, Bur Dubai, which dates back to the 1900s, with sandy-coloured buildings, museums and minarets. Here you’ll see Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood with its charming car-free, narrow streets and houses topped with wind towers, or barajeel. The area was previously known as Bastakiya after the Iranian town of Bastak, where the original Iranian settlers came from across the Gulf to take advantage of free land and low taxes. You can find out more about Dubai’s history with a look inside Dubai Museum or browse the rainbow of fabrics, clothes and slippers in the Textile Souk .

Sheikh Zayed Road

Named for the much-revered first president of UAE, this is where life has spread out to from the Creek, and has been the epicentre of development, amassing a collection of skyscrapers each more audacious than the next, such as Emirates Towers. Technically, it’s just part of the highway running across the whole of UAE, but it’s also where you’ll find many of the city’s hotels, restaurants and shops. For example, just some of the junctions off here will take you towards Mall of the Emirates , Gold & Diamond Park, Madinat Jumeirah , Burj Al Arab , Wild Wadi Water Park™, Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina.

Wander one of the city’s oldest districts, dating to around 1841. Once just a sleepy waterside village, Deira soon took over the original settlement of Bur Dubai in scale and is still a cornucopia of ethnicities mixed with tourists, here to check out the souks, where gold is among the cheapest in the world. You can cross Dubai Creek between Deira and Bur Dubai in an ‘abra’ (water taxi) for just AED2 (approximately 40p).

Dubai Marina

Sophisticated, skyscraping, and buzzing – Dubai Marina is designed to evoke Riviera-style living in a contemporary setting. This attractive and central place to play and stay in Dubai is a waterfront development built around a 3.5km canal. Along its banks are Dubai Marina Mall (with around 140 stores); The Address Dubai Marina hotel; Pier 7 Dubai Marina - which boasts seven restaurants, each on its own floor and with a unique atmosphere; and Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

Mall of the Emirates/Al Barsha

Now 11 years old, this place changed the face of shopping in Dubai forever. Billed as the world’s first shopping “resort”, it is a destination in its own right, home to Ski Dubai, hundreds of shops, two hotels including Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Magic Planet for family entertainment, a 14-screen VOX Cinema, Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre and more than 90 dining options. Al Barsha the residential area surrounding the mall offers affordable accommodation and local dining options close to many of Dubai’s key attractions.

No holiday to Dubai would be complete without a desert safari. Hop into a 4x4 and leave the city behind as you head into the wilds of the desert - go dune ‘bashing’ or camel-riding before sunset, then enjoy remote Bedouin-style camps with fireside tales and delicious dinners, or even spend the night sleeping out in tents before returning to Dubai after breakfast.

Jumeirah Beach Residences

This area combines casual outdoor living with top-notch shops, restaurants and the beach. The Walk at JBR, which was Dubai’s first outdoor promenade, has a 1.7km stretch of shops and restaurants and more recently has also been joined by The Beach, with even more dining and leisure options formed around a pedestrian esplanade.

Jebel Ali is the thriving commercial port area of Dubai, around 35km southwest from the city, and given its historic establishment, can also boast one of the most longstanding and largest resorts in the emirate – JA The Resort, comprising of three hotels with a private beach, golf course and a myriad of other leisure attractions. Jebel Ali is also home to Dubai Parks and Resorts which opened in late 2016, featuring LEGOLAND® Dubai, LEGOLAND® Water Park and MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, as well as Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts Autograph Collection and LEGOLAND® Hotel.

International restaurants and top global chefs are in abundance, but if you want to try Emirati cuisine, you’ll sense a range of regional influences. Most likely, you will find roast lamb with rice and nuts (ghuzi), stuffed vine leaves (warak enab), chickpea and sesame paste (hummus), bulghur wheat with mint and parsley (tabbouleh), spit-cooked meat in pitta bread with garlic sauce (shawama), cooked balls of chickpeas with herbs (falafel) and plenty of fish. Goat may also be on the menu, but no pork, in accordance with Muslim beliefs. Alcohol is tolerated and drinking is possible in the plentiful hotel bars and restaurants.

Culture in Dubai is rooted in Islamic traditions. Emirati men tend to dress in traditional dishdasha or khandura (long white shirt-dress), with ghutra (a white headdress) and agal (a rope worn to keep the ghutra in place), while women tend to wear an abaya (a long black cloak), with a sheyla or hijab (a scarf used to wrap around the face and head). The most religious time of the year is Ramadan, when Muslims fast for approximately a month and a festival atmosphere can be found in the evening when the locals break their fast. But as well as the minarets of mosques, you will also see temples and churches.

Hares and lizards - such as the spiny-tailed lizard - may scamper around the desert but you would be hard pushed to see much natural wildlife in Dubai these days. However, there are many excellent reserves and conservation projects you can explore – which provide the thrill of seeing the iconic oryx, an Arabian leopard, mountain gazelle, sand gazelle or caracal. In the waters, you might have the chance of spotting the biggest fish of the ocean, a whale shark.

The two emirate's of Fujairah and Ajman are not tourism hotspots like Dubai and Abu Dhabi but they both have a lovely variety of wildlife such as green sea turtles and black-tip reef sharks; this makes them perfect destinations for spotting aquatic animals.

The human history of Dubai dates back to the bronze age (2500BC) when nomadic cattle herders are first thought to have settled in the area. A couple of millennia later and Dubai was still little more than a small fishing settlement until members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the Maktoum Family, settled at the mouth of the creek in 1833. The creek was a natural harbour and Dubai soon became a centre for the fishing, pearling and sea trade. The population was later buoyed by the lure of tax-free living attracting traders from the Indian subcontinent. Oil was discovered in the 1950s and the first cargo left Dubai in 1969. In 1971, the six emirates agreed a Federal Constitution, gained independence from Britain becoming the United Arab Emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining the following year to form the UAE as it is today.

If you're looking to learn more about the history of the Arabian Gulf then check out our Oman holidays where evidence of life dates as far back as 100,000 years.

Attractions

Aquaventure Waterpark

This adrenaline-pumping waterpark set within Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai includes the chance to take the Leap of Faith or zoom through the darkened tunnels of Shark Attack; as well as an invite to tackle Aquaconda, the world’s largest water slide. Or, perhaps you prefer to just sit and mind everyone’s towels as you relax on 700 metres of private beach. Ticket prices from £55 per person.

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Calling all adventure seekers, Dubai Parks and Resorts opened its doors in October 2016 and should be at the top of your must-visit list. Home to three world-class theme parks, one water park and over 100 attractions ranging from rollercoasters and waterslides to cinematic rides and live shows, Dubai Parks and Resorts is sure to delight guests of all ages. Lapita, a four star Polynesian style hotel is located within the parks and offers guests the convenience of a night’s rest only a few minutes from the rides. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Palm Jebel Ali, a trip to this fun-filled resort is a great option for guests staying in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

Dubai holidays aren't complete without a visit to the tallest building in the world. The experience starts with the lift up to level 125, where you can marvel at the view from the 380-degree enclosed observatory. Then you can choose to go up a little more, to the 148th floor at 555 meters, where you step onto the world’s highest outdoor observation deck. After all that sightseeing, visit Level 122 which is home to the restaurant and bar, At.mosphere. Ticket prices from £35 per person.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Dubai’s first mega themed entertainment destination will be the largest temperature controlled indoor park in the world and will wow guests with its four epic adventure zones. Two are created with global adventure brands Cartoon Network and MARVEL, while IMG Boulevard and the Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure are original concepts from the IMG Group. Think rollercoasters, thrill rides and attractions – all based on popular characters and hair-raising dinosaurs. Combine with the amazing array of retail temptations and exclusive dining venues and you have a day of fun for the whole family.

Wild Wadi Waterpark™

One of the best family days out while on your Dubai holiday, Wild Wadi Waterpark™ is set in front of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, and offers 30 watery rides and attractions. Themed around the tale of Juha, a character from Arabian folklore, the rides range from sedate “lazy rivers” where you can bob along in a rubber ring, to the Jumeirah Sceirah, which has two tandem slides you zip down from a 32 metre high tower.

Dubai Aquarium

The 270-degree acrylic walkthrough tunnel takes you under one of the largest tanks in the world so you can see some of the 33,000 animals - representing more than 85 species including 400 sharks and rays. You can also just stroll past it from The Dubai Mall, with one of the world’s largest viewing panels to gaze through to the aquarium. Ticket prices from £20 per person.

Seawings Seaplane Tours

There’s only one way to really get to grips with the scale of things here - from the air and these tours by seaplane do just that. Giving the finest views over Dubai, these comfortable little planes can use 27 different water landing strips and runways across UAE, so any combinations can be arranged. The 40-minute Dubai Silver Air Tour flies you over all the Dubai classics, taking off from either Dubai Creek or Jebel Ali Resort, then cruising along the coastline, giving you a bird’s-eye view of The World, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Ticket prices from £356 per person.

Situated within the Mall of the Emirates, this made the world sit up and take notice of Dubai’s many ambitious projects when it first opened – and still does. It was the region’s first indoor ski resort and today offers a snow park, Ski School, Penguin Encounter and Snow Bullet. Ticket prices from £47 per person.

More To Discover

If you want to do more than “fly and flop”, you’ve come to the right place. One way to get the measure of Dubai is to catch it from the air – whether that be via an adrenaline-fuelled skydive over The Palm Jumeirah, or a scenic seaplane ride. Other aerial options include a sunrise hot air balloon experience, which will lift you off the ground 1,200 metres above the desert as you spot oases and the occasional wandering camel below. Kite surfers will love Kite Beach, one of Dubai’s best stretches of sand, and one where watersports operators aplenty await to help you pick up a new skill or hone your talent. Meanwhile at Dubai Mall, you can try a snorkeling cage experience within the huge tank at Dubai Aquarium, or even swim with sharks.

The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is an hour's north of Dubai and it is one of the most picturesque emirate's. It is surrounded by the sea and makes the perfect holiday destination if you're looking for relaxation and adventure.

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UAE Travel & Tourism Sector Set to Recover This Year, Says WTTC

Sector to match 2019 GDP contribution by the end of 2023 Travel & Tourism jobs to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year Sector to outstrip national GDP growth over the next decade  

Dubai, UAE: The World Travel & Tourism Council’s ( WTTC ) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the UAE Travel & Tourism sector is projected to meet the 2019 peak this year. The sector is set to contribute AED 180.6 billion to the UAE economy by the end of 2023, almost matching the 2019 high AED 183.4 billion, only 1.5% behind pre-pandemic levels. This represents nearly 10% of the total economy. WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create nearly 7,000 jobs this year, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 745,100, to reach more than 758,000 employed by Travel & Tourism. A look back on last year Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew more than 60% to reach nearly AED 167 billion, representing 9% of the country’s economy. The sector also created more than 89,000 more jobs from the previous year to reach more than 751,000 jobs nationally, surpassing 2019 levels by an additional 6,000 jobs. 2022 saw the return of international travellers to the UAE, with India (13%), Oman (8%), Saudi Arabia (8%), and UK (7%) leading as source markets for international arrivals.  According to the data, in 2022, international visitors contributed AED 117.6 billion to the national economy, representing a year-on-year growth of 65.3%, although 19% behind 2019 levels. In terms of domestic spend, 2022 saw a 35.7% year-on-year jump, reaching AED 46.9 billion, 10.6% above its pre-pandemic counterpart. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The national Travel & Tourism sector is recovering at a rapid pace, proving the UAE continues to grow in popularity amongst international travellers. The UAE is home to one of the world’s busiest and successful airports, Dubai International, which acts as a gateway to the Middle East. “The future for the sector looks positive. By the end of this year, the sector’s contribution will level that of 2019, and over the next decade, growth will outstrip the national GDP and create more than 114,000 new jobs, representing one in nine jobs. “Our recent Cities EIR Report highlighted the appeal tourist destinations across the country, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, continue to hold for international travellers. These cities have shown an incredible resilience and strong leadership.” What does the next decade look like? The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to AED 235.5 billion by 2033, representing 10.2% of the UAE economy. Over the next decade, Travel & Tourism is set to employ more than 872,000 people across the country, representing nearly 12% of all jobs. Middle East In 2022, the Middle East’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed more than AED 1.2 trillion to the regional economy, 25.3% below the 2019 peak. By the end of this year, WTTC forecasts the regional sector’s GDP contribution will reach more than AED 1.5 trillion (U.S.$ 413.2 billion) and be within touching distance of the 2019 highpoint. According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report, the sector employed more than 6.8 million people across the region last year, an increase of 865,000 from the previous year, but still 8.7% behind the 2019 peak. The sector will nearly recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of this year, only 2% behind pre-pandemic levels. Over the next decade, the Travel & Tourism sector is projected to reach a contribution of nearly AED 2.5 trillion and employ more than 9.8 million people. Download Press Release

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Julia Simpson, World Travel & Tourism Council President & CEO Addresses guests at ITB Opening Ceremony in Berlin

Colombia registrará un incremento del 24% en turistas internacionales en el primer semestre del año

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Economic momentum sets up Dubai’s tourism sector for robust growth

Launch of mega projects in the uae is supporting sector's rapid expansion, keeping it on track to achieve long-term growth targets.

Tourism remains at the heart of the emirate’s growth ambitions and it set to be a major contributor to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. Reem Mohammed / The National

The economic momentum carried forward from last year and the launch of mega projects in Dubai have set the emirate up for robust growth in the tourism sector this year, putting it on track to achieve its long-term growth objectives.

The tourism industry remains at the front and centre of the emirate’s growth ambitions and is set to be a major contributor to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the Dubai Media Office said on Friday.

“Dubai’s ability to simultaneously leverage new opportunities and industry trends whilst navigating the impact of global challenges has made it one of the world’s most attractive and fastest-growing tourism and economic cities,” Helal Almarri, director general of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, said.

“With a unique and diverse tourism proposition, diversified market strategy, world-leading urban infrastructure, inclusive and cohesive public-private partnership ecosystem and high safety and security, Dubai continues to be the preferred choice for global travellers.”

The tourism industry in Dubai, the commercial and leisure hub of the Middle East, started the year on a bright note with vital growth indicators closing in on pre-pandemic levels that gives the emirate a head start in achieving its targets over the next decade.

The tourism sector, an important pillar of the emirate's economy, has strongly rebounded from the coronavirus-induced slowdown . Dubai International Airport remained the world's busiest international hub for passengers last year for the ninth year in a row, as long-haul travel demand surged , rankings by the Airports Council International showed in April.

The emirate recorded 14.36 million international visitors in 2022, inching closer to the 16.73 million tourists in 2019, according to DET statistics.

It now aims to exceed the pre-pandemic annual number of international visitors this year, after the emirate recorded a 17 per cent increase in the tourist numbers in the first quarter of 2023, Issam Kazim, chief executive of the Dubai Department for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), told The National during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on Monday.

Dubai hosted 4.67 million overnight visitors in the three months to the end of March, compared to 3.97 million tourists during the same period in 2022, the DET data showed.

Growth of the tourism industry is also supported by the robust economic momentum in the emirate.

Business activity in Dubai's non-oil private sector economy hit a five-month high in March as output expanded on stronger increases in both jobs and inventories, with growth rates reaching multiyear records.

A raft of measures to support the hospitality sector were set out at Dubai's Arabian Travel Market 2021, including a one-month trial to ease Covid-19 rules for bars, restaurants and live venues. Antonie Robertson / The National

Dubai's economy expanded by 4.6 per cent on an annual basis in the first nine months of 2022, according to data from the emirate's statistics centre.

Emirates NBD estimates Dubai's full-year 2022 growth at 5 per cent and expects the emirate’s GDP to grow by 3.5 per cent in 2023.

With public and private sector players rolling out a series of mega projects and major global hospitality brands making a beeline to invest in the emirate, the tourism sector is expected to grow at a rapid pace.

In 2022, the emirate’s tourism sector contributed $29.4 billion to its economy, the media office said, citing the World Travel and Tourism Council data.

Dubai’s plans for tourism growth also support the national strategy launched in November last year by to attract Dh100 billion in additional tourism investments and receive 40 million hotel guests in 2031.

Recent investments have also led to the growth of Dubai’s hotel stock to 148,877 rooms in 814 hotels compared to 118,039 rooms in 717 hotels in 2019, a rise of 26 per cent and 14 per cent respectively, the media office said.

Another 8,000 rooms are expected to be delivered by the end of 2023, it said, citing KPMG data.

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• 09 May 2022

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THE MIDDLE EAST’S

Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders 2023

T he travel and tourism industry in the Arab world has been a major contributor to the region’s economic growth and development, with the region emerging globally as a world-class destination. Dubai has become a hub for tourism, and in recent years Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and Abu Dhabi have invested heavily in the sector.

The region is also becoming an important sporting destination, with the Formula One Grand Prix hosted by Bahrain, the U.A.E., and Saudi Arabia. The U.A.E. also hosts UFC events, and in 2022 Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup and in 2027 will bring the FIBA Basketball World Cup to the Middle East for the first time.

According to a UNWTO report, the tourism sector globally recovered 63% of pre-pandemic levels in 2022, with the Middle East recovering 83% of its pre-pandemic visitor numbers. The World Travel and Tourism Council expects Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism market to become the fastest-growing in the Middle East, forecasting it to grow at an average of 11% annually over the next decade. The contribution of travel and tourism to the Middle East’s GDP grew 46.9% in 2022 compared to 2021, at a value of $107 billion, while Middle Eastern airlines witnessed a 157.4% increase in traffic in 2022 compared to 2021, with capacity surging by 73.8%, according to IATA.

In our 2023 list of the most influential leaders in the region’s travel and tourism industry, hospitality companies and hotels and resorts dominate with 59 entries, followed by aviation (airlines and airports) with 31 entries. This year, there are also eight entries from tourism authorities. Leaders from over 33 nationalities feature on the list, with Emiratis leading with 16 entries, followed by 12 Saudis, and 10 British nationals.

1. Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

Emirates Airline & Group

2. Akbar Al Baker

Qatar Airways Group

3. Helal Saeed Almarri

Department of Economy and Tourism – Dubai

4. Paul Griffiths

Dubai Airports

5. Fahd Hamidaddin

Saudi Tourism Authority (STA)

6. Mohammed Almaghlouth

MATARAT Holding

7. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)

8. Jerry Inzerillo

The Diriyah Company

9. Hesham Al Qassim

wasl Asset Management Group

10. Ibrahim Koshy

11. John Pagano

Red Sea Global (RSG)

12. Guy Hutchinson

Rotana Hotel Management Corporation (Rotana)

13. Yehia Zakaria Ismail

EGYPTAIR Holding Company

14. Katerina Giannouka

Jumeirah Group

15. Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri

Abu Dhabi Airports

16. Sandeep Walia

Marriott International

17. Antonoaldo Neves

Etihad Aviation Group

18. Adel El Fakir

Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT)

19. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi

Miral Group

20. Ghaith Al Ghaith

21. Kamil Al-Awadhi

International Air Transport Association (IATA)

22. Nasser Matar AlKawari

Katara Hospitality

23. Adel Abdullah Ali

24. Kabir Mulchandani

FIVE Global Holdings

25. Tarek M. El Sayed

Al Rayyan Tourism Investment Company (ARTIC)

26. Duncan O’Rourke

Accor Group

27. Philippe Zuber

Kerzner International

28. Sami Bin Abdulmohsen AlHokair

Abdulmohsen Alhokair Group for Tourism and Development (Al Hokair Group)

29. Haitham Mattar

IHG Hotels & Resorts

30. Raki Phillips

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA)

31. Badr Mohammed Al Meer

Hamad International Airport (DOH)

32. Habiba Laklalech

Moroccan Airports Authority ONDA

33. Basmah Al-Mayman

United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

34. Yacine Benslimane

Air Algérie

35. Fernando Eiroa

Dubai Holding Entertainment

36. Chris Newman

NEOM Hotel Development

37. Abdulaziz Al Raisi

38. Ali Salim Al Midfa

Sharjah Airport Authority

39. Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri

ADNEC Group

40. Khalid Al-Amoudi

Jabal Omar Development Company (JODC)

41. Abdelhamid Addou

Royal Air Maroc

42. Mohammed Husain Ahmed

43. Nicolas Claude

Airport International Group (AIG)

44. Bander Almohanna

45. Hisham Talaat Moustafa

Talaat Moustafa Group Holding (TMG Holding)

46. Simon Casson

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

47. Philip Jones

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)

48. Amir Golbarg

Minor Hotels

49. Waleed Al Alawi

50. Hashil Al Mahrouqi

OMRAN Group

51. Maen Mahmoud Razouqi

Kuwait Airways

52. Adel Waly

Holding Company for Tourism and Hotels (HOTAC)

53. Hussein Sherif Fahmi

54. Khalifa Bin Braik

Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management Business

55. Samer Majali

Royal Jordanian Airlines

56. Panos Loupasis

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

57. Rohit Ramachandran

Jazeera Airways

58. Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim

Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA, Tetra Hospitality Investment

59. Mohamad El Hout

Middle East Airlines – Air Liban (MEA)

60. Adel Ezzat

61. Robert Carey

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi

62. Tim Cordon

Radisson Hotel Group

63. Abdulla Aujan

Aujan Group Holding (AGH)

64. Sultan Al-Otaibi

Dur Hospitality

65. Fawaz Farooqui

Cruise Saudi

66. Nader Ahmed Al Hammadi

Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA)

67. Marloes Knippenberg

Kerten Hospitality

68. Talal Jassim Al-Bahar

IFA Hotels & Resorts (IFA HR)

69. Hossam El Shaer

SUNRISE Resorts and Cruises; SkyMax Holidays

70. Stuart Deeson

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

71. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA)

72. Julien Bergue

Valor Hospitality Partners

73. Prateek Kumar

Dusit International

74. Joachim Schmitt

Orascom Hotels Management

75. Khalid Anib

Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH)

76. Nadia Zaal

Zaya and Abwab Real Estate Group

77. Adel Mardini

78. Hany Farag

National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCT&H)

79. Ahmad Abu Ghazaleh

International Wings Group (IWG)

80. Mohamed Ahmed

81. Rob Burns

The First Group

82. Simon Leigh

Premier Inn – MENA

83. Ranjit Phillipose

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)

84. Laurent Voivenel

Swiss Belhotel International

85. Alison Grinnell

RAK Hospitality Holding

86. Bani Haddad

Aleph Hospitality

87. Monther Darwish

Palazzo Versace Dubai; Palazzo Hospitality

88. Anthony Costa

Caesars Palace Dubai

89. Raj Rana

Citymax Hotels and Foodmark

90. Paras Dhamecha

Empire Aviation Group

91. Mohamed Awadalla

Time Hotels Management

92. Richard Haddad

Ishraq Hospitality

93. Kamal Fakhoury

Cristal Group

94. Abdullah Omar Al-Suwailem

Tourism Enterprise Company (Shams)

95. Siegfried Nierhaus

Deutsche Hospitality

96. Fariborz (Fred) Vessali

Oman Hotels Tourism Company (OHTC) SAOC

97. Nadim Yousef Muasher

The Arab International Hotels Company (AIHO)

98. Sumair Tariq

99. JS Anand

LEVA Hotels

100. Sanjiv Malhotra

Shaza Hotels Management

Methodology

For this ranking, we included leaders that span the entire travel ecosystem, including aviation, hotels, destinations, and tourism development authorities. All individuals had to be based in the Middle East. We ranked entries based on the following: • Size of the business, including the number of hotels, rooms, passengers, and visitors, revenues, values of investments and assets, fleet size, etc. • Ownership of assets. • Designation of the business leader. • Experience of the business leader. • Degree of influence of the business leader. • Other achievements of the business leader.

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The expansion of travel and tourism in the middle east.

In Blog , Destinations , Travel Industry .

The Middle East represents the present and the future of global travel and tourism thanks to its approach in developing the industry throughout the years and during the COVID-19 era.

The Middle East is a region full of wonders that experienced an outstanding growth, especially throughout the last two decades. This development continues influencing every sector of the area’s economy nowadays, including the travel and tourism industry. It’s in this particular sector where the achieved growth can be appreciated, a regional expansion that is turning the Middle East in the next focal point for global tourism .

What are the Middle East’s growth factors?

The combination of several factors brought prosperity in terms of travel and tourism to this area. In terms of both the number of international tourists’ arrivals and the contribution of travel and tourism to the area’s GDP , the region shows a staggering expansion that was initiated in the mid-90s and that continues up to this day, with the exception of a demand drop in 2010 caused by the outbreak of the Arab Spring.

The location of the area meands the countries in the Middle East are at the centre of key global regions and counties such as Europe, North Africa, India, and China. This factor facilitated the formation of international business relationships that boosted the countries’ economies through the years. An additional factor that propelled this development, and the beginning of new trading relationships for the Middle East, was the abundance of energy resources (especially oil) through the Arabian Peninsula.

Altogether, the Middle East initiated urbanization and other development projects that nurtured the region with the infrastructures and attractions needed to start offering travel and tourism services. Therefore, the nations from the Middle East embraced visitors gradually and started to position the travel sector as the main pillar of their economies. One effect of this favorable approach towards tourism was the creation of both megacities and international cities . From Dubai, to Riyadh, to Amman. All of these gather key features like large populations, state-of-the-art infrastructures, and excellent transportation networks which, overall, make these cities attractive for global travellers.

The creation and development of these cities in the Middle East is aligned with the current global trend which shows that around 50% of the world’s population live in cities nowadays . Besides, in the next decade this trend is expected to keep growing with an increase in the number of megacities worldwide as well as a bigger percentage of global population moving permanently to cities. Therefore, the affluence of visitors to the big metropolises of the Arabian Peninsula presents an opportunity for the region’s destinations to cater for more cosmopolitan ways of travelling and doing business.

According to the latest Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index elaborated by the World Economic Forum, the Middle East outperforms other regions mainly in indicators related to business environment and price competitiveness. The Middle East was the second-best performer in travel and tourism showing an annual growth rate of 5.3% in 2019. In terms of nations, Oman showed the best improvement in aspects like international openness and environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, the United Arab States lead in air transport and tourist service infrastructure. In the same way, Saudi Arabia achieved the best overall performance from the region in all the travel and tourism indicators of the report.

From Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy to Dubai’s embracement of global travel

The case of Saudi Arabia is the best example to show the growth experienced by a destination within the Middle East. This Kingdom elaborated an innovative tourism strategy that expanded the nation’s travel and tourism sector by around 15% while supporting 1.5 million jobs in 2019. This plan aims to open the nation to the world by investing in giga projects designed to retain both Saudi travellers and international visitors. Parallel to this, the mentioned strategy focusses its efforts in developing both Halal tourism and religious tourism by issuing more visas and including non-touristic ones as well. Altogether, Saudi Arabia seeks to attract 100 million visitors by 2030 and pose itself as a remarkable competitor to other destinations like the United Arab States.

Another example to be analyzed is the case of Dubai. This destination represents one of the most important aviation hubs not just in the Middle East but in the world. The city reached this status by attracting travellers from key markets like China and India through direct flights and by easing the procedures to obtain visas . At the same time, the metropolis developed world-class hotels and retails along with other attractions and experiences that aim to attract different travel segments from families to cultural tourists.

Although it could take up to three years to restore the pre-COVID levels of tourism spend in the Middle East, the region continues to move forward on its way to recovery. Two aspects that make a difference for the Middle East include aviation and events. Airlines from the region like Emirates, Qatar Airways or Etihad Airways are ranked on top of the best world airlines’ lists in terms of the quality of the services they provide. These air carriers have the capacity to secure the region’s air connectivity plus they all have embraced measures that facilitate a safe return for international travels like testing travel passes that provide reliable evidence that passengers have been either vaccinated or tested negative before flying. In the same way, the Middle East is a global reference for the MICE industry. Despite the pandemic stopping the organization and celebration of big events, the region shows its resilience by showing a wide offer of them. From hosting the FIFA World Cup next year in Qatar to the celebration of hybrid events critical for the tourism sector like the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai next month.

The role and impact of the Middle East’s destinations in the present and the future of global travel is unquestionable. As the comeback of leisure travel worldwide gets closer and new types of travellers continue emerging , this region shows the roadmap to recovery for when global travel restrictions are lift. The region’s response to the crisis that strikes the travel industry is quite clear. Well-defined tourism strategies, investments in giga projects, development of excelsior aviation hubs, organization of world-class events, and the application of measures like easier processes to get visas or the utilization of travel passes against COVID are the main features of the Middle East’s travel and tourism.

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Travel and tourism

Journeying from strategy through execution with our clients to develop tourism in the Middle East.

Travel and tourism generate 10% of the world’s economic output and support 1 in 10 jobs.

In the Middle East and North Africa, tourism is a strategic lever for the diversification of oil-based economies.

Today, the region is welcoming approximately 90 million international arrivals per year, which equates to 6% of the world’s total arrivals. Spanning more than 15 countries, the region’s natural, heritage, cultural, and religious tourism assets appeal to virtually all traveler segments.

Yet, some destinations benefit from distinct local priorities and a more mature tourism ecosystem. Destinations such as Egypt, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi have established themselves on the global tourism map, while others are reinforcing their positioning and even emerging as novel destinations.

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Why Strategy&

Our expertise in the Middle East’s travel and tourism space runs both wide and deep. We work with governments and authorities to articulate and implement their national and regional tourism strategies and frameworks—as well as public and private sector clients to design, develop, activate, promote, and manage destinations. Built on experience serving prominent clients and developing flagship travel and tourism projects, our team possesses unmatched capabilities and an in-depth understanding of the sector landscape, dynamics, and trends across the region.

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Sector development

We help governments and authorities to define and execute their travel and tourism strategies, policies, and governance models, while developing the enabling ecosystem and incorporating sustainability.

Destination development

We work with public and private sector clients to define new destinations’ concepts and tourism products that appeal to target visitor segments. We also create the assets that bring a tourism experience to life.

Destination activation

We devise and execute plans to activate and manage established destinations. From event calendars to itineraries, we outline distinctive end-to-end visitor experiences that are aligned to brand positioning.

Marketing and distribution

We assist tourism stakeholders in promoting destinations and articulating distribution plans. We also assist the travel community ecosystem across a variety of topics such as feasibility studies and digitization models.

Transport infrastructure

We design land, sea and air infrastructure development and upgrade plans to enable mobility of visitors to, from and within destinations.

We assist national and regional authorities in digitizing tourism journeys, from destination consideration through final departure. We also work with private stakeholders to digitize products and services.

Sustainability

We help clients apply economic, social, and environmental sustainability to their tourism agenda, while preserving heritage, cultural identity, and natural assets.

Our client journeys: Tourism case studies

Gcc island concept, cruise company business plan, green tourism destination, digital travel platform.

When a major investment fund decided to develop a destination island in the Middle East, Strategy& was asked to help design the concept.

Strategy& first assessed the host region and took a close look at other benchmark destinations. An analysis of source markets and visitor characteristics was also conducted to determine targeting and consumer preferences. From there, Strategy& developed the island’s concept including retail, beach, outdoor, and cultural activities. To finalize, the team tested the details with focus groups and developed financial forecasts. The concept and implementation roadmap were both approved by the investment fund’s board of directors and the island is currently in development.

Strategy& was retained by a major investment fund to assess the viability of the cruise sector and define its strategy.

The Strategy& team first confirmed the attractiveness of the region to the cruise ecosystem and estimated the cruise demand across different target markets. The team assessed potential destinations, estimated cruise traffic, and articulated an infrastructure and destinations upgrade plan. Strategy& defined the cruise line strategy and developed its business plan, which also covered details for vessel acquisition and deployment.

The board of directors approved the strategy and a cruise company was established to manage infrastructure and destinations upgrades, as well as launch the cruise line.

A tourist destination in the Middle East had the ambitious goal of transforming into a “Green Tourist Destination” and commissioned Strategy& to help develop the strategy.

Strategy& first analyzed the destination’s existing carbon emissions, water supply, solid and liquid waste, waste management practices, and biodiversity. The team then conducted a cost-benefit analysis and made recommendations for 14 holistic programs that could achieve a “realistic green” scenario, while also offering a framework for financing the green initiative.

The sustainability strategy developed by the team at Strategy& was presented and approved to move forward.

Strategy& was asked by a GCC government agency focused on aviation to support the activation of a one-stop digital platform for all travel services.

The Strategy& team first defined a clear objective for the digital platform—namely to offer tourists one central online location where they could connect with all travel suppliers including hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators. The team then designed the platform’s operating model, including the overall functional architecture and the required modules of the core technology.

Once the design was developed, Strategy& helped the agency select a vendor and trade partners, create marketing materials, and activate operations.

Explore further

Media clips.

Fasten your seat belts for accelerated growth in tourism - Marwan Bejjani's panel discussion at FII's 6th edition

Post-pandemic tourism is booming. Leaders in the field of tourism and hospitality got together at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) 6th edition in Riyadh to discuss how the entire tourism ecosystem can achieve and sustain hyper-growth.

Watch this panel where Marwan Bejjani , Partner at Strategy& Middle East, and Nicolas Mayer, Partner at PwC Middle East, talk about industry trends and opportunities.

Watch all clips

Select your topics of interest and get the latest insights from the Middle East

Our thought leadership

Destination middle east 2.0—innovative tourism.

GCC governments have made tourism a top development priority. Governments, destinations, and tourism providers are making considerable efforts and investing...

[Video: Arabic] Destination Middle East: Boosting the region’s position in global tourism

The GCC and Egypt understand tourism’s potential for economic diversification, growth, and job creation and have sought to become part of the recent global...

Five key stages for developing the tourism sector across the Middle East

Despite the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism remains a significant long-term opportunity for the GCC countries and Egypt.

Destination Middle East: Boosting the region’s position in global tourism

Tourism represents a significant long-term economic opportunity for the GCC countries and Egypt. To develop the sector, governments need a five-stage journey.

Marwan Bejjani

Partner, Strategy& Middle East

Karim Abdallah

Karim Sarkis

Vivek Madan

Sami Khawaja

Dima Sayess

Partner and Ideation Center Lead, Strategy& Middle East

© 2019 - 2024 PwC. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details.

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Why Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE's Next Big Travel Destination

Posted: April 4, 2024 | Last updated: April 4, 2024

The Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Courtesy of Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Without a doubt, the Middle East is one of the world’s fastest-evolving regions for hospitality development, with $1.9 trillion pouring into such destinations as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Few people have a front-row seat to the future of tourism in the region like Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the country’s sixth-largest city.

During more than two decades of working with hotel brands including Ritz-Carlton and Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Phillips has seen tremendous change in the Middle East’s hospitality scene. His role as CEO of RAKTDA, which he’s held since 2019, includes destination marketing with a focus on holistic growth strategies that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and cultural authenticity.

Under Phillips’ guidance, Ras Al Khaimah, a 45-minute drive from Dubai, has grown from a small fishing village to a premier tourist destination in its own right, thanks in large part to such notable new resorts as Anantara Mina Al Arab and the refurbishment of the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah . Future projects set to further elevate the destination’s profile include a Wynn resort, a Nobu hotel and restaurant, and Marriott’s design-driven W hotel brand , which is in the middle of a renaissance.

AFAR caught up with Phillips to talk about redefining Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality landscape, wider plans for the Middle East and Africa, and the challenges and opportunities in travel that lie ahead.

This interview was edited for clarity and space.

Raki Phillips is the CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

Courtesy of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority

Describe your role with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

Together with my team, we orchestrate the growth of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism infrastructure and sustainability investments. Our overarching vision is to transform the emirate into a destination of the future, aiming to elevate its tourism contribution from 5 percent to one-third of its economy by 2030, attracting over 3.5 million visitors.

My responsibilities include a range of activities, from overseeing infrastructure and project development to negotiating international partnerships aimed at boosting inbound passenger traffic. I am particularly proud of our achievements in securing significant investments, such as the $3.9 billion (USD) deal with Wynn Resorts to develop a 1,500-plus-room integrated resort on Al Marjan Island.

Can you tell us about the new hotel openings in RAK?

Ras Al Khaimah is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the region. Our emirate has luxurious beachfront resorts, charming glamping options, and serene desert and mountain retreats. Currently, we have an impressive portfolio of 50 properties, with more than 8,000 rooms available for guests, and an additional 7,000 plus hotel rooms in development.

Our hospitality offering includes globally recognized brands such as Waldorf Astoria, Hilton, InterContinental, Ritz-Carlton, and Mövenpick. Recent openings like the Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, offering ultra-luxurious Maldivian-style overwater villas, have been met with enthusiasm, and we have several exciting new projects in the pipeline, including Sofitel, Westin, Rove, Nobu, JW Marriott, W Hotels, and Nikki Beach. One of our most anticipated developments is the Wynn Al Marjan Island, set to debut in 2027 with more than 1,500 guest rooms, suites, and villas.

What sets us apart is not just our accommodation options, but also the diverse dining scene across our hotel portfolio, which ranges from traditional to contemporary cuisine. These include Umi, a theatrical showcase of Japanese food at the Waldorf Astoria, and Farmhouse, a farm-to-table concept located in a natural oasis on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert.

What are your thoughts on the future of hotels and hospitality in the Middle East?

The year 2024 will be a transformative one for the Middle East hospitality sector as it adapts to new trends and shifts in consumer behavior—a year marked by technology, sustainability commitments, personalization, authenticity, and wellness.

From contactless check-ins to AI-powered room service and personalized digital concierge services, hotels are leveraging technology to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. Virtual reality tours and mobile apps for room control are becoming popular, offering guests a seamless and personalized experience.

Sustainability is another critical aspect influencing the future of hospitality in this region. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, hotels are implementing green initiatives such as waste-reduction programs, renewable energy usage, and sourcing local produce. The emphasis on sustainability is also reflected in the design and construction of new hotels, with eco-friendly materials and technologies being increasingly adopted. Aligning with global standards, we are proud to be the first EarthCheck-certified destination in the Middle East.

We are seeing a rise in momentum in Mideast hospitality—why do you think the region is breaking ground these days?

In the past few years, there has been a concerted effort by Middle East countries to promote tourism on a global scale via a mix of strategies, including creative marketing campaigns and hosting international events. As we have seen from Dubai Expo 2020 and 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, such global events have become catalysts for driving tourism and hospitality growth in the region.

The Middle East is seeing a growing number of high-net-worth visitors and luxury travelers from all over the world. There is a strong demand for premium hospitality experiences, including luxury resorts, high-end dining, and exclusive entertainment.

Moreover, the region’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a geographically convenient hub for international travel and transit. Countries like the UAE have positioned themselves as global aviation and transportation hubs, attracting travelers from around the world and therefore increasing the demand for hospitality services. With a growing network powered by partnerships with leading airlines, and an extensive array of hospitality and hotel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah’s unconventional experiences help position it as one of the fastest-growing destinations in the region.

How would you define Arabian hospitality?

Arabian hospitality is a cherished cultural tradition deeply rooted in valuing the well-being and comfort of guests, ensuring they feel welcomed, respected, and cherished. It epitomizes the generosity and kindness inherent in Arab societies, fostering tightly knit communities and shaping meaningful interactions. In Ras Al Khaimah, we prioritize creating enriching cultural exchanges for guests by offering diverse experiences deeply intertwined with local traditions and heritage.

Ras Al Khaimah’s rich history spanning 7,000 years reflects the authentic Arabian identity and hospitality of the destination. For instance, visitors can experience an immersive journey to Suwaidi Pearls, the only pearl farm in the UAE, where they discover the fascinating history of pearl diving and witness live oyster-opening demonstrations.

Could you share an anecdote or career highlight?

Reflecting on some of my career highlights, the journey of achieving a record-breaking annual visitor count of 1.22 million in 2023 in Ras Al Khaimah stands out. This milestone symbolized the collective dedication, resilience, and hard work of our entire team and the broader Ras Al Khaimah tourism community, showcasing our agility and collective resolve to enhance our destination offering in ways that deeply resonate with our visitors.

Leading a diverse and talented multicultural workforce of 80 employees from 24 countries, I am proud that RAKTDA was honored as one of the top places to work in the Middle East for the third consecutive year, and we ranked fourth in Best Workplaces in the Public Sector in 2023. Being recognized affirmed our commitment not just to our external stakeholders and visitors but equally to our internal team, whose well-being and satisfaction are paramount to our success.

Equally significant was securing the $3.9 billion deal with Wynn Resorts—the largest-of-its-kind foreign direct investment in the region. This collaborative achievement was not just a win for RAKTDA but for the entire Emirate, marking a significant milestone in our journey toward economic diversification and sustainable tourism development. It exemplified our ability to work synergistically toward a common vision, attracting world-class investments that contribute to the emirate’s growth and global standing.

It’s National Arab American Heritage Month in the United States. How has your Arab American identity influenced your career?

Growing up as an Arab American, with a Lebanese Argentinian mother and an American father, I was immersed in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences from an early age. Be it through food culture, celebrating both Thanksgiving and Eid, or by traveling a lot with my family, my upbringing was a vibrant blend of traditions that spanned continents. This multinational background, coupled with the privilege of growing up in Orlando and attending high school in Kuwait, exposed me to the world’s diversity and the universal values of hospitality and connection. It was this exposure to different cultures and traditions that honed my appreciation for hospitality and travel, which has been instrumental in my career.

My journey to Ras Al Khaimah was not just a professional decision, but also a personal calling. Drawing on my diverse heritage, I saw in Ras Al Khaimah a reflection of the values I hold dear: a deep respect for heritage and a forward-looking vision for innovation and growth. The UAE, known globally as a beacon for exceptional hospitality, felt like the perfect place to continue my journey, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity that resonated with my own multicultural identity.

My decision to lead RAKTDA was inspired by my lifelong exposure to different cultures and the desire to bring to light the emirate’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. It was here, in Ras Al Khaimah, that I found a destination that echoes my personal journey of bridging worlds, celebrating diversity, and creating connections. This journey, from the multicultural celebrations of my childhood to the strategic vision for RAKTDA, has been fueled by the belief in the power of travel to unite us across cultures and borders.

Tell us what you love about travel and hospitality—and what you would like to improve?

What I love most about travel and hospitality is the power it has to connect people, bridge cultural divides, and foster understanding and appreciation for the diversity of our world. Travel opens our minds to new ideas, challenges our perceptions, and enriches our lives in countless ways. In the realm of hospitality, the opportunity to create moments of joy and comfort for others is deeply rewarding.

However, one area I believe the industry can improve is in sustainability. As we move forward, it’s imperative that we adopt more sustainable practices to protect the destinations we cherish for future generations. This means minimizing our environmental impact and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities and preserves cultural heritage.

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First Real Madrid theme park opens in Dubai

Opening at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, the Real Madrid World, will be home to over 40 original Real Madrid-themed experiences and attractions that offer all guests the exclusive opportunity to feel closer to their football heroes

Dubai Parks and Resorts and Real Madrid C.F. today (April 9) inaugurated the the first ever Real Madrid-themed park celebrating football and basketball the Real Madrid way.

Opening at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, the Real Madrid World (RMW), will be home to over 40 original Real Madrid-themed experiences and attractions that offer all guests the exclusive opportunity to feel closer to their football heroes.

"Dubai Parks and Resorts is the first theme park destination worldwide to announce a major partnership with Real Madrid. The world’s first and only Real Madrid-theme park celebrates the world’s love for sports and theme parks, presenting a unique adventure that has never been done or seen before," remarked Fernando Eiroa, the CEO at Dubai Holding Entertainment.

Real Madrid World will showcase the winning spirit of Real Madrid, embodying the deep passion that brings the club to life, he stated.

From visiting the locker rooms of Real Madrid players and exploring the secret sanctuary guarding the club’s winning trophies, to enjoying thrilling attractions, captivating entertainment shows and topped by the region’s first wooden roller coaster and tallest amusement ride in the world – guests are in for an unforgettable adventure, surrounded by captivating attractions and immersive experiences like never before.

"That’s not all! Fans will explore an impressive collection of official Real Madrid retail and merchandise in Dubai at Real Madrid World, where fans are invited to personalize the Club’s shirts and other collectibles to celebrate football the Real Madrid way as well as enjoy numerous dining venues and carts offering flavourful treats with Spanish twists," stated Eiroa.

"We take immense pride in crafting extraordinary entertainment experiences for guests of all ages. Our commitment contributes significantly to Dubai’s success by boosting tourism and firmly establishing the emirate as a captivating global destination," he added.

Real Madrid World is the newest addition to Dubai Parks and Resorts set to open from Sunday to Thursday from 12pm to 9pm and on Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 10pm, families, Real Madrid fans as well as theme park enthusiasts of all ages, where they are all invited to explore its three zones: Champions Avenue, Celebration Plaza and Stars Avenue, each zone paying tribute to the FIFA’s Best Club of the 20th Century.

Over 40 new themed attractions, immersive experiences and fan engagement opportunities await Real Madrid World guests, including the below:

•The Hala Madrid Coaster is the region’s first wooden roller coaster that encapsulates the emotions of the Real Madrid journey with the European Cups.

•The Stars Flyer, standing at 460 feet, is the tallest amusement ride in the world and an iconic and adrenaline-pumping ride dedicated to the Real Madrid stars.

•White Hearts is a walkthrough exhibition celebrating the past, present and future of the club offering various exciting experiences. The interactive experience will highlight the values of the club and transform any guest into a ‘Madridista’.

•The Bernabeu Experience is a theatrical interpretation providing fans with exclusive access to the locker room, the center of the pitch and a secret sanctuary guarding the 14 football European cups and the 11 Basketball European Cups – the sacred spaces within the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, Spain.

•The Wave – La Ola is a thrilling family roller coaster that will transport guests to the sacred seats of a stadium and embrace loyal fans who stand up, cheering their lungs out for their favorite team.

•La Fabrica Training Pitch is a playground for guests of all ages with lots of football balls and mini-training equipment for the children, to practice their best shots and train like the stars.

•The Factory Of Dreams is a virtual simulator that will take guests on a journey full of surprises where the magic that makes Real Madrid special comes alive.

•Hands Up! is a drop tower that invites guests to raise the Victory Cup together with the team.

•Football Training Camps And Programmes where guests aged 6 and above, are invited to participate to an exhilarating experience that combines learning, teamwork, and fun, starting with a warm-up session, followed by learning some basic tricks, topped by engaging in a short team-based game to showcase their skills.

•Entertaining Shows feature over 15 daily sets, offering a diverse range of fascinating experiences for Real Madrid World guests. From interactive football freestyle street shows to captivating full-cast performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The adventure will not be complete without indulging in delicious treats from the Real Madrid World diverse dining options, including the Hala Madrid Restaurant, where the passion of Real Madrid comes together with the flavours of Spain. Further excitement awaits all guests with The Real Challenge for family challenge games, physical and digital sport interactives. Moreover, Real Madrid fans will explore an impressive collection of official Real Madrid retail and merchandise that offers an exclusive opportunity to personalize the Club’s shirts and other collectibles to celebrate football the Real Madrid way.

A one day pass for the theme park has been priced at AED295 onwards.

Real Madrid World is located within Dubai Parks and Resorts in Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Palm Jebel Ali and is only 20 minutes from Dubai Marina, stated Eiroa.

Strategically located, it is accessible by car from Dubai on the E11 Highway (Sheikh Zayed Road) by taking exit 5. Guests can also use the RTA bus services that depart daily from the Ibn Battuta Metro Station, he added.

Copyright 2022 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

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Tourism’s Growth in the Middle East: What to Expect at Skift Global Forum East

Rafat Ali , Skift

November 22nd, 2023 at 1:00 PM EST

As we return to Dubai this December, we are thrilled to discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead for the Middle East with leaders on stage. It’s going to be a jam-packed event you will not want to miss.

Skift Podcast

Compelling discussions with travel industry leaders and creatives who are helping to shape the future of travel.

In anticipation of Skift Global Forum East, happening in Dubai December 12-14, I wanted to sit down with both our Middle East Report, Josh Corder, and Twenty31 Consulting (now Skift Advisory) Managing Director, Joe Naaman, to discuss a big picture view on growth and dynamics in the Middle East.

In 45 minutes, we were able to just scratch the surface of our 25+ full speaker lineup and topic discussions slated for our Forum in December. If you haven’t secured your pass, get yours today as you don’t want to miss it.

In this podcast, we discuss: 

• How is the conflict in Israel being felt on the ground in the region?
• What is the anticipated impact for COP28 and did the World Cup deliver? 
• How are countries planning ahead for Indian outbound travelers?
• What important changes have happened for China as a source market? 
• The status of a GCC unified visa and what this means for tourism in the gulf.
• Supply and oversupply: how has the hospitality mix shifted and is it working?
• How has Dubai captured the market and what are other countries doing to compete?

Listen in to this exciting discussion and join us at Skift Global Forum East this December as we gather representatives from the world’s leading brands who are eager to delve into the transformative global, economic, and technological trends shaping the travel industry. 

From aviation and hospitality to technology and online booking (and everything in between), this event is a unique opportunity to expand your industry knowledge and be inspired by the region and influential decision-makers in this space.

Tickets are going fast, so make sure to reserve your seat today.

Join Skift and the travel industry’s most effective leaders for the top creative business events in the global travel industry.

Learn more about future events and see our schedule at Skift Live .

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Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: skift podcast

Photo credit: Exterior of the Museum of the Future in Dubai, UAE. the blowup / Unsplash

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Gold rallies above $2,400 as Middle East risks stoke demand

Business markets.

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Bullion climbed as much as 1.2% to $2,400.67, silver traded at the highest since 2021

Gold jumped to another record as the safe haven asset was boosted by simmering tensions in the Middle East.

Bullion climbed as much as 1.2 per cent to $2,400.67, while silver traded at the highest since February 2021.

Israel is bracing for an attack from Iran in the next two days, a retaliation for its strike on the country's diplomatic compound in Syria last week, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing a person familiar with the matter.

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"Gold prices are up again this morning, as more investors view it as a better hedge against geopolitical risk than government bonds due to US inflation concerns," Mohamed A. El-Erian, the president of Queens' College in Cambridge and a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, wrote in a post on X.

The precious metal has powered higher this year, dragging silver along with it, as central banks including China's stepped-up purchases of the costlier metal, while heightened geopolitical risks in the Middle East and Ukraine lend support. In addition, traders have also been assessing the scope for rate cuts from the Federal Reserve over 2024, although recent, still-strong inflation prints from the top economy have muddied that outlook.

Spot gold was 1 per cent higher at $2,396.11 an ounce at 9:43am in London, with the metal on pace for a fourth weekly advance, the best run since early 2023. Silver rallied to as high as $29.2295 an ounce. Still, both metals' 14-day relative-strength indexes are well above 70, beyond the level that some investors see as overbought, potentially heralding a pause.

Platinum and palladium also advanced even as the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index traded near the highest level since November. A stronger US currency is typically a headwind for commodities prices in the greenback as it's can dull interest from overseas buyers.

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