UAE's hotel revenues surge 8.8pc to $12bn in 2025
Sat, 24 Jan 2026
UAE's hotel revenues for the 11-month period from January to November 2025 rose to AED44.4 billion ($12 billion), up 8.8% over the previous year, said a report. This was mainly driven by a spurt in the number of hotel guests which soared to 29.1 million, while guest nights exceeded 99.4 million.
Saudi Arabia invests $400bn in tourism sector: Minister
Fri, 23 Jan 2026
Saudi Arabia has become a major global player in tourism, with the sector now contributing approximately 5% of the kingdom’s GDP and accounting for nearly 5% of total employment, said Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Qatar Tourism Chairman highlights tourism’s role in global collaboration
Thu, 22 Jan 2026
Saad Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, joined the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, highlighting tourism’s growing role in global cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development, and outlining Qatar’s long-term vision focused on partnerships, economic diversification, and future-ready visitor experiences.
AlUla, Pompeii collaborate to elevate historical tourism
Tue, 20 Jan 2026
AlUla in Saudi Arabia and Pompeii in Italy have partnered to redefine cultural tourism, hosting a high-level delegation from the Archaeological Park of Pompeii under the Saudi-Italian Cultural Cooperation Framework to enhance how travellers experience historical sites.
Saudi Arabia updates beach regulations to boost tourism
Mon, 19 Jan 2026
The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has launched requirements and regulations for beach operators that redefine beaches as regulated operational environments rather than mere public spaces, establishing a unified national framework to develop the coastal tourism sector by managing risks, enhancing quality, and prioritising the protection of life.
Startups drive tourism growth in Ras Al Khaimah
Sun, 18 Jan 2026
Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism sector is the emirate’s fastest growing, driven by diversified services, competitive markets, and leisure projects leveraging mountains, beaches, and deserts. These features enable distinctive experiences and create strong opportunities for startups, supported by world-class hospitality infrastructure.
SKH Family Office buys Rotana's RAK resort from Orascom
Tue, 13 Jan 2026
SKH Family Office, registered with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), said it has completed the acquisition of The Cove Rotana Resort in Ras Al Khaimah from Orascom Development Holding, following the fulfilment of all contractual, financial, and regulatory requirements.
Vatel Bahrain showcases hospitality opportunities to St. Christopher’s students
Sun, 11 Jan 2026
Vatel Bahrain organised a workshop for students from St. Christopher’s School who are enrolled in the BTEC Travel and Tourism pathway.
Vietnam tourism accelerates green transition to power 2026 growth
Sun, 11 Jan 2026
Vietnam’s tourism sector is shifting toward green development, emphasising service quality, workforce training and promotion. Growing 21% in 2025, it aims to sustain momentum in 2026 through enhanced competitiveness and improved visa policies supporting sustainable travel.
Sohar International advances tourism through strategic events
Thu, 08 Jan 2026
Sohar International is supporting Oman’s tourism and economic growth through strategic partnerships, nationwide platforms, and flagship events, including roadshows in Sohar, Ibri, and Musandam, engaging communities and local teams to boost regional activation and audience participation.
Tourism sector's contribution to UAE GDP hits $79.24bn
Wed, 07 Jan 2026
The UAE tourism sector delivered a robust performance last year, with its contribution to the national GDP rising to 15 per cent, compared to six per cent in 2021, said Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism.
Morocco records tourism surge with 19.8m visitors in 2025
Tue, 06 Jan 2026
Morocco achieved a milestone in its tourism sector in 2025, securing a record-breaking 19.8 million arrivals, according to official data released by the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism.
Global City Dammam opens as premier investment, tourism destination
Tue, 30 Dec 2025
Global City Dammam, a major tourism, entertainment, and cultural investment, was inaugurated by Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region Governor, Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz. Featuring international pavilions across 650,000 sqm, it supports private-sector growth, boosts competitiveness, attracts global investors, creates jobs, and is expected to welcome 25,000 visitors daily.
$23m investments drive tourism growth in Al Jabal Al Akhdar
Mon, 29 Dec 2025
Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman is implementing development, service, and tourism projects worth RO 9 million ($23 million) to improve infrastructure, boost tourism, and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors.
UAE National funds empower tourism entrepreneurship
Wed, 24 Dec 2025
The UAE’s tourism sector attracts entrepreneurs through strong economic impact, government support, and national funding programmes. Initiatives like Khalifa Fund, Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment, RUWAD, and Emirates Development Bank provide financing, training, and advisory services, fostering SMEs, innovation, Emirati talent, and sustainable growth.
BIT 2026 reimagined with focus on travel makers
Mon, 22 Dec 2025
Responding to the tourism sector’s ongoing evolution, BIT 2026, scheduled to be held at Fiera Milano from February 10 to 12, is being reimagined around a powerful new concept: the Travel Makers.
Riyadh Air names Khimji’s Travel & Tourism as Omani partner
Thu, 18 Dec 2025
Saudi Arabia’s national carrier Riyadh Air has officially appointed Khimji’s Travel & Tourism, a key unit of Khimji Ramdas Group, one of the reputed business houses in Oman, as its exclusive distribution and sales partner in the sultanate.
Moment Factory expands to Abu Dhabi for cultural, tourism projects
Thu, 11 Dec 2025
Moment Factory, a global entertainment studio known for creating immersive experiences in airports, museums, and public spaces, is opening a regional office in Abu Dhabi. With 25 years of multimedia expertise, it aims to support the UAE’s growth through high-profile collaborative projects.
16 global tourism leaders discover UAE’s tourism sector
Mon, 08 Dec 2025
The UAE has welcomed 16 senior tourism leaders from nine countries as part of its Global Tourism Leadership Programme, organised by the Government Knowledge Exchange Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs in collaboration with the Dubai College of Tourism.
Dar Global, Art District unveil $4.2bn new coastal destination in Oman
Sun, 07 Dec 2025
Dar Global has partnered with Art District Real Estate for the development of its new coastal destination - Muscat Marine, Art & Digital District (MAD) - being set up in Oman. The RO1.6 billion ($4.2 billion) project integrates oceanfront living, luxury hospitality and future-focused digital industries.
Saudi Arabia's tourism sector spending reaches $73bn
Thu, 04 Dec 2025
Vice Minister Princess Haifa Bint Mohammed Al Saud said Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is rapidly growing through coordinated national efforts. Tourism spending hit SAR275 billion ($73 billion) and visitor numbers exceeded 116 million, with the Kingdom now aiming to reach 150 million tourists by the end of the decade.