A report by the World Travel and Tourism Council predicts that the UAE’s tourism sector will contribute AED 236 billion to the national economy by the end of 2024
Travel & Hospitality
Culinary
EXCLUSIVE: World-renowned home cook Notorious Foodie hints at Dubai-based culinary concept
Dubai has always been “home,” the influencer also revealed
Culinary
EXCLUSIVE: Why world-renowned home-cook Notorious Foodie has never revealed his real name
“It’s just always been food first,” the social media star said
Ain Dubai
Ain Dubai reopens after 2 years: Packages, prices, and new experiences unveiled
The attraction is open to the public for both corporate and private events
Christmas
Revealed: Top European destinations for UAE travellers on Christmas, NYE 2025
Moscow, London and Baku took the top spots this festive season
Branded residences
Minor Hotels to launch several branded residences in the region
A total 461 keys of branded residences to be launched alongside award-winning Anantara, Avani and Tivoli hotels in the GCC
Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism
Abu Dhabi partners with Trip.com to boost tourism
Trip.com supports Abu Dhabi tourism efforts
travel destinations
UAE outbound travel trends for festive season revealed
The most popular departure dates fall between December 14 and 18, as travellers opt to extend their holiday breaks for maximum enjoyment
GaStat
Saudi tourism growth continues with over 959,000 employed in the sector
Saudi statistics authority identifies increase in employment in Kingdom’s tourism sector
Abu Dhabi
France, Italy top visa destinations for UAE residents, data shows
New data shows France and Italy top UAE visa applications, but a surprising regional powerhouse came in third
Bahrain
Hilton announces the debut of Waldorf Astoria brand in Bahrain
Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will offer a prime location next to The Avenues – Bahrain and is scheduled to open in 2028
China
UAE and Qatar citizens to get 10-day visa-free entry to China
Number of provinces that these travellers can visit under the transit programme has been increased from 19 to 24
China
China extends visa-free transit to 10 days for foreign travellers from 54 countries
Foreigners made 8.2 million inbound trips to China, up 48.8 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2024
entertainment destinations
Saudi Arabia’s SEVEN announces new $346mn entertainment destination
Set to be located in Jazan, the flagship destination will span over 60,000 square metres with entertainment and recreational facilities
Japanese restaurant
Zuma Riyadh opens in Saudi Arabia in partnership with MJS Holding
Located in the King Abdullah Financial District, the new Zuma restaurant spans two floors and was developed through a strategic partnership with MJS Holding
Dubai
Dubai’s surging real estate prices hit F&B market, entry, expansion strategies set to shift in response
Walkable zones and dedicated dining corners are set to emerge as new hotspots for F&B players in Dubai
airport lounges
Flydubai unveils new Business Class Lounge
New flydubai Business Class Lounge at Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport