Latest news with #AbuDhabiTourismStrategy2030
Mid East Info
4 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Tourism 365 to Participate in ITB China 2025 to Elevate Abu Dhabi and the UAE as Leading Global Tourism Destinations
Tourism 365, the tourism arm of ADNEC Group, has announced its participation in ITB China 2025, one of the most prominent trade fairs for the travel and tourism industry in the Chinese and wider Asian markets. This strategic participation underscores the company's commitment to reinforcing Abu Dhabi and the UAE's position as a preferred global tourism destination. During the three-day event, which will run from 27 to 29 May at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, Tourism 365 will showcase its exceptional tourism offerings to global industry leaders, professionals, and experts. These include unique travel experiences across Abu Dhabi and the UAE, as well as bespoke trip planning services. Josep-Antón Grases, CEO of Tourism 365, said: 'Our participation in ITB China 2025 is a key milestone in our strategy to position Abu Dhabi and the UAE as top-tier global destinations. Shanghai represents a market of immense potential and this platform provides us with a valuable opportunity to connect directly with new partners, highlight our diverse offerings, and reaffirm our commitment to delivering extraordinary travel experiences tailored to Chinese travellers. We are confident this engagement will significantly support our ambitious goals to increase inbound tourism to Abu Dhabi and the UAE.' Tourism 365 will exhibit as part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi's pavilion at the world's largest travel trade show. The pavilion will also feature iconic landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi, along with other key attractions from across the emirate. Participation in global exhibitions like ITB China is central to Tourism 365's strategy to promote Abu Dhabi's distinct tourism experiences to a wider international audience and drive visitation from both established and emerging markets. China remains a priority market for Tourism 365, with increasing interest from Chinese tourists in exploring the UAE and Abu Dhabi's rich mix of cultural, leisure and heritage attractions. Tourism 365 plays a vital role in supporting the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to grow annual visitor numbers from approximately 24 million in 2023 to around 39.3 million by 2030. ITB China is a comprehensive platform for the travel sector with a particular focus on business travel – a dynamic and high-value segment. As the importance of business travel continues to rise, the event provides an excellent opportunity to explore new trends and forge meaningful collaborations. It also offers both businesses and attendees a direct gateway to discover travel destinations and gather inspiration for future trips.
The National
29-04-2025
- Business
- The National
Abu Dhabi introduces facial recognition technology at hotel check-in desks
Abu Dhabi is to introduce facial recognition technology across its hotels to help reduce check-in times for guests and strengthen identification measures. The advanced system is now being piloted at a select number of hotels ahead of an initial roll-out at five-star properties in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain Region, and Al Dhafra Region. A second phase of the strategy will target four-star hotels, with the biometric technology to then be gradually deployed at all hotels in the emirate. Authorities did not provide a time-frame for when the new facial recognition procedures will be fully introduced. The scheme, announced at the Arabian Travel Market event in Dubai, is being led by Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). 'This initiative reflects our commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security for both guests and hospitality sector employees,' said Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, director general for tourism at DCT. 'By working closely with ICP and our hotel partners and national authorities, we are ensuring a seamless, safer and more connected journey for every visitor.' In April 2024, Abu Dhabi announced plans to invest more than $10 billion in infrastructure, as part of a new strategy to boost international visitor numbers and cultural activity. The Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to create 178,000 new jobs in the emirate, bringing the total number of jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors to about 366,000 by the end of the decade. The UAE capital also aims to attract 39.3 million annual visitors as part of the master plan. This high-tech verification process will be used as proof of identification for both guests and hotel employees. The DCT is providing technical and training support to hotels to ensure the smooth operation of the programme, which aims to streamline both check-in and checkout procedures. The facial recognition system captures and analyses biometric data during guest check-in. The data is securely encrypted, retrieved from ICP and transmitted to a centralised database managed by DCT Abu Dhabi. Data will be gathered and used in accordance with the UAE's cybersecurity and data privacy regulations. This month, Abdulrahman Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, outlined the work to harness biometrics – such as fingerprint and facial recognition technology – as an advanced identification measure for UAE residents, in support of a nationwide digital-first strategy. At the latest session of the Federal National Council, the minister set out the country's high-tech vision and steps being taken by the (ICP) to modernise identification procedures. The UAE has been taking steps to utilise new technology to bolster government efficiency and raise customer service standards. Biometric technology is widely used in airports in the Emirates. In July 2024, Abu Dhabi Airports announced details of a 'biometric smart travel' project to automate passenger registration at Zayed International Airport that will eliminate the need for travel documents and significantly cut processing time. Abu Dhabi Airports is partnering with the ICP to introduce the new system, Abu Dhabi Media office said. Data from the ICP will be used to automatically authenticate travellers with the help of biometric technology, eliminating the need for prior registration for departing passengers.
The National
29-04-2025
- Business
- The National
Abu Dhabi introduces facial recognition technology at hotels to cut check-in times
Abu Dhabi is to introduce facial recognition technology across its hotels to help reduce check-in times for guests and strengthen identification measures. The advanced system is now being piloted at a select number of hotels ahead of an initial roll-out at five-star properties in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain Region, and Al Dhafra Region. A second phase of the strategy will target four-star hotels, with the biometric technology to then be gradually deployed at all hotels in the emirate. Authorities did not provide a time-frame for when the new facial recognition procedures will be fully introduced. The scheme, announced at the Arabian Travel Market event in Dubai, is being led by Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). 'This initiative reflects our commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security for both guests and hospitality sector employees,' said Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, director general for tourism at DCT. 'By working closely with ICP and our hotel partners and national authorities, we are ensuring a seamless, safer and more connected journey for every visitor.' In April 2024, Abu Dhabi announced plans to invest more than $10 billion in infrastructure, as part of a new strategy to boost international visitor numbers and cultural activity. The Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to create 178,000 new jobs in the emirate, bringing the total number of jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors to about 366,000 by the end of the decade. The UAE capital also aims to attract 39.3 million annual visitors as part of the master plan. This high-tech verification process will be used as proof of identification for both guests and hotel employees. The DCT is providing technical and training support to hotels to ensure the smooth operation of the programme, which aims to streamline both check-in and checkout procedures. The facial recognition system captures and analyses biometric data during guest check-in. The data is securely encrypted, retrieved from ICP and transmitted to a centralised database managed by DCT Abu Dhabi. Data will be gathered and used in accordance with the UAE's cybersecurity and data privacy regulations. This month, Abdulrahman Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, outlined the work to harness biometrics – such as fingerprint and facial recognition technology – as an advanced identification measure for UAE residents, in support of a nationwide digital-first strategy. At the latest session of the Federal National Council, the minister set out the country's high-tech vision and steps being taken by the (ICP) to modernise identification procedures. The UAE has been taking steps to utilise new technology to bolster government efficiency and raise customer service standards. Biometric technology is widely used in airports in the Emirates. In July 2024, Abu Dhabi Airports announced details of a 'biometric smart travel' project to automate passenger registration at Zayed International Airport that will eliminate the need for travel documents and significantly cut processing time. Abu Dhabi Airports is partnering with the ICP to introduce the new system, Abu Dhabi Media office said. Data from the ICP will be used to automatically authenticate travellers with the help of biometric technology, eliminating the need for prior registration for departing passengers.
Mid East Info
27-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Building Momentum: Abu Dhabi's Culture and Tourism Sectors Show Strong Q1 Growth Ahead of Arabian Travel Market
Abu Dhabi welcomed 1.4 million hotel guests between January and March 2025 • The emirate's worldwide appeal contributed to AED 2.3 billion in hotel revenues in Q1 2025 • Abu Dhabi hotels witnessed 18% revenue surge in Q1 2025, with +25% RevPAR Abu Dhabi, UAE –April 2025: Following a landmark 2024, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to showcase the emirate's continued momentum as a globally appealing destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. With tourism and hotel figures presenting sustained growth in Q1 2025, Abu Dhabi remains firmly on track to meet ambitious visitor targets for the year ahead. Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is off to a strong start in 2025, welcoming 1.4 million overnight guests in the first quarter of the year. DCT Abu Dhabi's participation at ATM will highlight Abu Dhabi's growing popularity as a destination for international visitors, with guest numbers growing in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year. The emirate drew visitors from top tier targets markets and beyond—with best performing markets including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the USA. This positive momentum translated into significant gains for the industry, with hotels generating AED 2.3 billion in revenue, an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, and revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching AED 484, a 25% year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy maintained high levels during the period, including in Ramadan, recording 79% across the emirate. These early indicators reflect that Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is on track to reach its target of contributing AED 62 billion to the economy in 2025, a 13% increase from 2024, and supporting 255,000 jobs across the emirate in 2025. This sustained success reflects Abu Dhabi's evolving and increasingly distinctive value proposition and offerings, driven by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030. H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our strategic approach to elevating Abu Dhabi as a cultural and tourism destination is delivering tangible results. Sustained investment into data-led destination marketing, diversified programming, a culture-first ethos and ever-improving visitor experience touchpoints have driven robust growth in Q1 2025, building on a strong 2024. As we showcase the offerings of our emirate at Arabian Travel Market, we are focused on strengthening our key partnerships, expanding our global reach, and accelerating progress towards our long-term tourism goals—all while ensuring that Abu Dhabi's unique cultural identity remains at the heart of everything we offer.' Q1 growth continues from strong 2024 performance: In 2024, Abu Dhabi's tourism sector witnessed positive performance across multiple metrics. Last year, the emirate welcomed a 7% year-on-year increase in overall hotel and alternative accommodation guests combined, with international overnight visitors reaching 3.2 million—a 28% year-on-year surge. Last year, hotel occupancy rates reached 79% across the emirate. This strong demand translated into substantial gains, as total hotel revenue grew by 18.1% year-on-year, generating over AED 7.6 billion. RevPAR also climbed by 22%, reflecting the industry's robust profitability. Supporting this growth, DCT Abu Dhabi significantly expanded its global marketing efforts, increasing operations from 11 markets in 2023 to 25 markets in 2024, with a focus on emerging regions such as the CIS, APAC, and Eastern Europe. Home to world-class museums, contemporary art, rich heritage, a diverse culinary landscape, and hospitality rooted in Emirati values, Abu Dhabi has established itself as a destination where culture is reimagined to deliver meaningful impact and experiences. At ATM 2025, DCT Abu Dhabi will bring this cultural and creative story to life at its experiential stand, welcoming travel trade partners, media, and industry leaders to explore the destination's latest developments, partnerships, and opportunities. Now open to the public, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a key addition to Saadiyat Cultural District, which will be one of the greatest concentrations of world-leading cultural and educational institutions. Already home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, the District is growing as an unparalleled community of museums and cultural landmarks, and in 2025 will welcome Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, narrating the story of life on earth and the origins of our universe. Also on track for completion is Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring a global collection of modern and contemporary art that reflects the diversity of cultures and trends from around the world. The addition of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate's position as a global cultural epicentre, offering visitors a unique and transformative experience while showcasing its commitment to creativity, innovation and cultural collaboration on a global scale. The Experience Abu Dhabi stand at ATM 2025: Aligned with ATM 2025's theme of 'Developing Tomorrow's Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity', the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will showcase key cultural sites and attractions across the emirate, with a focus on Saadiyat Cultural District, a global platform for cultural exchange, and Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, offering visitors a diverse blend of wellness, nature, and adventure. Organised by DCT Abu Dhabi and located in Sheikh Saeed Hall, the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will offer a programme of activations and experiences, joined by 73 key trade and tourism partners from across the emirate, including Etihad, Miral, Yas Island, hospitality representatives, and many more. Abu Dhabi's upward trajectory is aligned with the Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually, support the creation of 178,000 new tourism jobs, expand hotel capacity to 50,000 rooms, and contribute AED 90 billion to the emirate's GDP by the end of the decade.
Zawya
27-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism sectors show strong Q1 growth ahead of Arabian Travel Market
The emirate's worldwide appeal contributed to AED 2.3 billion in hotel revenues in Q1 2025 Abu Dhabi hotels witnessed 18% revenue surge in Q1 2025, with +25% RevPAR Abu Dhabi, UAE – Following a landmark 2024, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to showcase the emirate's continued momentum as a globally appealing destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. With tourism and hotel figures presenting sustained growth in Q1 2025, Abu Dhabi remains firmly on track to meet ambitious visitor targets for the year ahead. Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is off to a strong start in 2025, welcoming 1.4 million overnight guests in the first quarter of the year. DCT Abu Dhabi's participation at ATM will highlight Abu Dhabi's growing popularity as a destination for international visitors, with guest numbers growing in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year. The emirate drew visitors from top tier targets markets and beyond—with best performing markets including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the USA. This positive momentum translated into significant gains for the industry, with hotels generating AED 2.3 billion in revenue, an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, and revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching AED 484, a 25% year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy maintained high levels during the period, including in Ramadan, recording 79% across the emirate. These early indicators reflect that Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is on track to reach its target of contributing AED 62 billion to the economy in 2025, a 13% increase from 2024, and supporting 255,000 jobs across the emirate in 2025. This sustained success reflects Abu Dhabi's evolving and increasingly distinctive value proposition and offerings, driven by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030. H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our strategic approach to elevating Abu Dhabi as a cultural and tourism destination is delivering tangible results. Sustained investment into data-led destination marketing, diversified programming, a culture-first ethos and ever-improving visitor experience touchpoints have driven robust growth in Q1 2025, building on a strong 2024. As we showcase the offerings of our emirate at Arabian Travel Market, we are focused on strengthening our key partnerships, expanding our global reach, and accelerating progress towards our long-term tourism goals—all while ensuring that Abu Dhabi's unique cultural identity remains at the heart of everything we offer.' Q1 growth continues from strong 2024 performance In 2024, Abu Dhabi's tourism sector witnessed positive performance across multiple metrics. Last year, the emirate welcomed a 7% year-on-year increase in overall hotel and alternative accommodation guests combined, with international overnight visitors reaching 3.2 million—a 28% year-on-year surge. Last year, hotel occupancy rates reached 79% across the emirate. This strong demand translated into substantial gains, as total hotel revenue grew by 18.1% year-on-year, generating over AED 7.6 billion. RevPAR also climbed by 22%, reflecting the industry's robust profitability. Supporting this growth, DCT Abu Dhabi significantly expanded its global marketing efforts, increasing operations from 11 markets in 2023 to 25 markets in 2024, with a focus on emerging regions such as the CIS, APAC, and Eastern Europe. Home to world-class museums, contemporary art, rich heritage, a diverse culinary landscape, and hospitality rooted in Emirati values, Abu Dhabi has established itself as a destination where culture is reimagined to deliver meaningful impact and experiences. At ATM 2025, DCT Abu Dhabi will bring this cultural and creative story to life at its experiential stand, welcoming travel trade partners, media, and industry leaders to explore the destination's latest developments, partnerships, and opportunities. Now open to the public, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a key addition to Saadiyat Cultural District, which will be one of the greatest concentrations of world-leading cultural and educational institutions. Already home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, the District is growing as an unparalleled community of museums and cultural landmarks, and in 2025 will welcome Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, narrating the story of life on earth and the origins of our universe. Also on track for completion is Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring a global collection of modern and contemporary art that reflects the diversity of cultures and trends from around the world. The addition of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate's position as a global cultural epicentre, offering visitors a unique and transformative experience while showcasing its commitment to creativity, innovation and cultural collaboration on a global scale. The Experience Abu Dhabi stand at ATM 2025 Aligned with ATM 2025's theme of 'Developing Tomorrow's Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity', the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will showcase key cultural sites and attractions across the emirate, with a focus on Saadiyat Cultural District, a global platform for cultural exchange, and Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, offering visitors a diverse blend of wellness, nature, and adventure. Organised by DCT Abu Dhabi and located in Sheikh Saeed Hall, the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will offer a programme of activations and experiences, joined by 73 key trade and tourism partners from across the emirate, including Etihad, Miral, Yas Island, hospitality representatives, and many more. Abu Dhabi's upward trajectory is aligned with the Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually, support the creation of 178,000 new tourism jobs, expand hotel capacity to 50,000 rooms, and contribute AED 90 billion to the emirate's GDP by the end of the decade.
