The second edition of CONNECT. XCITE MENA, held from August 31 to September 7, 2025, across Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Doha, concluded successfully, reinforcing its status as a premier platform connecting China and Singapore’s luxury travel buyers with the MENA region’s leading hospitality and lifestyle experiences. CONNECT. XCITE 2025 strengthened cross-cultural partnerships and is expected to drive bespoke travel itineraries, enhanced hospitality offerings, and long-term collaborations between Asia and the Middle East.

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development inaugurated the 5th Ajman Philatelic & Numismatic Exhibition at Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, showcasing more than 10,000 rare stamps, coins and currency notes worth over Dh5 million. Highlights included historical editions, milestone collectibles, live auctions, workshops and lectures, reflecting Ajman’s cultural tourism strategy and dedication to heritage preservation.

Erden Kendigelen, Marriott International Regional Vice President, and Rahul Chaudhary, MD, CG Corp Global & CGDevelopers Global, with other officials announced the launch of the first JW Marriott Residence in Dubai at Dubai Islands, Central, and the reveal of CG Developers’ new Global logo.

Siyam World Maldives, in collaboration with the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), hosted the Discover Tourism: Explore Career Pathways programme, welcoming 21 Kudafari School students for an engaging half-day session. The initiative introduced students to career opportunities in tourism, offering insights into guest services, culinary operations, recreation and sustainability practices through guided tours, interactive sessions and hands-on experiences.

Arada’s hospitality and entertainment division has signed a Dh100 million joint venture with Tashas Group to launch 10 new outlets across the GCC over the next two years. The partnership focuses on expanding tashas, the premium café concept, and introducing the upcoming Cafe Sofi. Initial locations include Sharjah, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, Nad Al Sheba, and Dubai from December 2025. All outlets will be non-alcoholic and designed as community-centric lifestyle destinations.

Dubai Municipality has launched the first sand equestrian track in Hatta, spanning 2.54 km in length and 3 meters in width. Built to international safety standards, the track offers a safe, adventurous riding experience for equestrian enthusiasts, amateurs, and visitors against Hatta’s scenic mountainous backdrop. Part of the Supreme Committee’s Hatta Development Plan, the project boosts tourism, supports local SMEs, and promotes heritage preservation. Visitors can bring their own horses or hire locally to explore the natural surroundings.

Wilderness Tanzania, through its non-profit Children in the Wilderness (CITW), partnered with Travel Elevates and local authorities to enhance educational infrastructure at Gwikongo Primary and Manyara Secondary schools in rural Tanzania. Funded by a Travel Elevates grant via the Wilderness Trust, the project refurbished Gwikongo’s classrooms, benefiting more than 500 children with safe learning spaces, electricity and rainwater systems.

AURA Skypool, home to the world’s highest 360° infinity pool, has announced the second edition of The AURA Sleepover from October 4 to 5, 2025. This 12-hour immersive retreat offers an exclusive overnight stay 210 meters above Dubai’s skyline. Guests will enjoy night swims, live harp music, calming rituals, premium dining, sunrise views, wellness sessions and massages.