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Al Bawaba
a day ago
- Al Bawaba
Big-ticket events set the stage for tourism growth in the Middle East
'Big-ticket' events are playing a pivotal role in driving international tourism and accelerating economic growth, according to experts speaking recently at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. In the GCC alone, the event and exhibition market is expected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.94%.Following the global success of mega-events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and Expo 2020 Dubai, momentum is building across the region as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World the evolution and impact of these events, panellists including H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Sebastien Doussin, Senior Vice President - Global Travel Services & Destination Management. Dnata and Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), shared fascinating insights at ATM 2025, where the events industry was under the spotlight. The panel addressed how big-ticket events – so-called for their high value, cost and impact – have demonstrated their ability to attract millions of international visitors, boost hotel occupancy, stimulate infrastructure growth and generate long-term brand positioning for host the importance of understanding the long-term strategic value of big-ticket events beyond immediate sales, H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa commented: 'Big-ticket events provide a destination with an opportunity to establish brand positioning and exposure in a competitive global environment. These events play a vital role in supporting broader government objectives, but it is essential to invest in the right product for your destination.'Doussin reaffirmed the importance of large-scale events in destination positioning, referencing the growth of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the surge of international golfing tournaments throughout the UAE and the launch of NBA events in the capital. Commenting on the impact of technology on events, Doussin said: 'Technology has already changed big-ticket events, especially in terms of distribution and customer experience. All of the ticketing for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar was completely digital through the official event app, offering flexibility and ease of use. Ultimately, technology enables an event to become more seamless, easier and enjoyable.' Meanwhile, Hamid urged the industry to broaden the definition of big-ticket events to include exhibitions, conferences and cultural performances. He referenced Bangkok's weekly concerts, which are mainly K-pop driven, as examples of how live entertainment extends tourist stays. Supporting the panel's observations, the ATM Travel Trends report highlights the rising appeal of live entertainment and sports in influencing travel decisions. Leisure events were outlined as the top opportunity for tourism growth among 50% of industry experts, as consumer demand for in-person and cultural experiences has increased significantly in recent years. The trend of combining traditional leisure and business travel, or 'bleisure', has also accelerated as increased remote working and flexible working visas have enabled more people to live and work overseas. Building on this, business travellers are often extending their stays in destinations, creating a new opportunity in this rapidly expanding report also highlighted that business events (MICE) are emerging as a significant driver of tourism growth across the Middle East, complementing the region's thriving leisure sector. Global business travel reached a record US$1.4 trillion in 2024 and is projected to rise to US$2 trillion by 2030. The Middle East is well-positioned to capture a growing share of this lucrative market, increasing from approximately 2.5% in 2024 to over 3% by the end of the decade, supported by world-class infrastructure, a strategic location, and an expanding schedule of high-profile Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, concluded: 'As big-ticket events continue to gain global prominence, their role in shaping the future of tourism, driving economic diversification and enhancing international reputation has never been more evident. The Middle East, with its strategic vision, world-class infrastructure and focus on innovation, is well-positioned to lead the next era of global event tourism.'Building on the success of its inaugural edition, IBTM@ATM will return to ATM 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4-7 May 2026, with a dedicated zone within Hall 3, highlighting the show's strategic focus on the global business events to facilitate high-value connections, the zone allows business event suppliers to showcase, promote their destinations and services, and engage with pre-qualified international event planners, Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs), and associations through an exclusive hosted buyer programme. This specialised area will once again host the IBTM Stage, providing a comprehensive conference programme tailored to industry professionals, encouraging knowledge exchange and thought leadership. IBTM@ATM 2026 is set to be a vibrant hub for innovation, collaboration, and business growth in the global events industry. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Al Bawaba
7 days ago
- Al Bawaba
A Last-Minute Family Escape to the Hilton Seychelles Resorts
Before backpacks are packed and alarms are set, families are invited to spend the final days of summer reconnecting, exploring, and relaxing across three distinct resorts. Whether you're seeking ultra-luxury seclusion, vibrant beachfront living, or nature-filled adventure, Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Islands, Canopy by Hilton Seychelles, and Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa each offer their own unique take on quality time, comfort, and curated experiences for all ages. While children engage in imaginative programs and outdoor activities, parents and grandparents can unwind or join in for shared moments in settings designed with every generation in Astoria Platte Island: A Private Island Retreat Where Nature Leads the WayJust a short flight away from Mahè Island, the ultra-luxurious Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island offers an exclusive retreat for guests looking to disconnect in the most serene settings. At the Turtle Bay Kids Club, children can dive into days filled with themed fun, from pirate treasure hunts and wizard adventures to movie-inspired dance sessions. For a more hands-on experience, kids can enjoy snorkeling lessons, mocktail masterclasses, pancake and pizza making workshops. While the little ones are busy, adults can find complete serenity through ocean-inspired spa treatments, private beach dinners, or guided yoga sessions. Families can also come together for signature activities such as turtle patrol tours, cinema evenings in their villa, and stargazing sessions. For those seeking more active pursuits, the island also offers tennis and padel courts, with private lessons available upon a wide range of one-to-five-bedroom villas, each featuring a private pool and personal concierge, the resort is perfectly suited for everything from intimate escapes to extended family by Hilton SeychellesLocated along the southern shores of Mahé, Canopy by Hilton Seychelles blends laid-back islands life with energy, colors and community spirit. Children aged 4 to 12 are welcomed into the vibrant world of Bounty Seekers, the resort's engaging kids club offering themed days like 'Superhero Friday' and 'Dino Party Saturday.' In addition to daily programs, families can join lively weekend events like the South Side Sunday BBQ, featuring beach games, face painting, and even bouncy castles. While kids dive into imaginative play, parents can escape to the resort's tranquil mangrove-view spa, enjoy fresh snacks and lunches at Sega Bar, or indulge in bold South Asian flavors at Tiger pool and beach become a playground for all, kids splashing in the water and building sandcastles by the shore, parents soaking up the sun, and families making the most of every shared resort's branded residences provide a comfortable, long stay option for families who want the freedom of apartment style living with full access to resort services, an ideal choice for those travelling with children and extended family Seychelles Labriz Resort & SpaFor a true island adventure, Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa on Silhouette Island is a family playground set in one of the country's most pristine natural settings. The resort's Jungle Fun Kids Club welcomes young adventurers daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, offering arts, crafts, storytelling and outdoor exploration. This August, Labriz transforms into a haven of discovery with Big 7 Summer Camp, a month-long series of outdoor experiences including kayaking, beginner's diving, guided hikes, scavenger hunts, and harvest & tasting sessions. While kids explore and create, parents can take advantage of this time to explore rainforest trails, unwind at the spa, enjoy a private candlelit dinner, or embark on PADI-certified dives. For shared experiences, Labriz offers curated activities such as tortoise sanctuary visits, beachfront picnic, and island cruises that turn every moment into a lasting you're planning a last summer escape before the academic year begins or simply looking to reconnect as a family, each of the Hilton resorts in Seychelles offers its own version of meaningful time together. With immersive programming for children, thoughtful amenities for parents and grandparents, and activities that bring everyone closer, these properties offer distinct settings where unforgettable memories are made. Book your late summer island retreat now and end the season on a high note, with moments that stay with you long after the holiday ends.
Al Bawaba
11-08-2025
- Al Bawaba
With Lufthansa nonstop from Riyadh to Munich
With a new connection from Riyadh to Munich Lufthansa is planning to grow in Saudi Arabia its capacity by around 50 percent. With the beginning of the upcoming winter schedule 2025/26, on 27 October 2025, Lufthansa will inaugurate this route which was already previously operated until 2017. The airline will welcome each up to 300 passengers every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning to carry them in just five hours flight time without any stop to Lufthansa's hub Munich. This new service will better connect the Saudi Arabian capital to the Lufthansa from Saudi-Arabia and the Middle East region will soon easily reach the airport of Munich in Southern Germany, which has been awarded as a five-star airport terminal by Skytrax. The new flight to Germany is scheduled to depart every Monday, Wednesday and Friday early in the morning from Riyadh at 6:25 a.m. Flight LH641 will then land in Munich at 10:25 a.m. local time, giving passengers ideal connections to the global Lufthansa network. The return flight to Riyadh will leave Munich every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 9:45 p.m. for a night flight to the capital of Saudi Arabia, where it is scheduled to land the next morning at 4:50 a.m. local time at King Khaled International Airport. It complements the existing daily route from Riyadh to Frankfurt and increases the choice for the passengers with its alternative of the airline's most modern aircraft, a fuel-efficient Lufthansa Airbus A350-900 with 293 seats on board will operate this renewed connection. With Business Class, Premium Eco and Economy Class of choice, customers will have a full product range. A return fare in Economy Class is starting already at 1,495 SAR. Lufthansa Airlines is currently offering daily flights from Dammam and Riyadh to Frankfurt, ITA Airways is offering five weekly flights from Riyadh and three weekly flights from Jeddah to Rome and finally Eurowings is flying seven times per week from Jeddah to Berlin, Cologne and Stuttgart this upcoming winter. Including this new connection to Munich, these three Lufthansa Group airlines will offer a total of 25 flights a week to Saudi Arabia. The airlines of the Lufthansa Group fly to the Middle East region more than 120 times a has a long tradition in Saudi-Arabia. The German carrier has been flying to the Kingdom since 65 years and did celebrate recently this anniversary in Damman, its first destination. The demand for flights for the Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh is steadily growing, as does the city itself. Mayor events like The World Expo 2030 and the FIFA Men's World Cup in 2034 as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 will also rely on increased air capacities allowing easy access to the heart of the Arabic Mohamed, General Manager Sales Saudi Arabia at Lufthansa Group Airlines, said:'Munich is one of the most popular destinations in Western Europe for many of our customers. The airport itself is a relaxing, convenient, and beautiful gateway, whether travelers are connecting onward or visiting the city and its stunning surrounding region, known for its castles and picturesque lakes near the Alps.'Munich airport, one of Lufthansa's two major hubs, opens up for Saudi-Arabian travellers around 130 global destinations, especially to Europe, America and Asia. This route had previously been part of Lufthansa's schedule until 2017 and is poised to reconnect Saudi-Arabia to one of Germany's most important economic centres. Munich, with a growing population of 1.5 million, is renowned for its diverse culture, scenic landscapes, and as the home to major international companies such as BMW, Siemens, and Allianz. The city is also famous for its vibrant events, including the annual Oktoberfest and its picturesque Christmas markets.
