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Gulf Today
13-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Shurooq pumps Dhs7.2b into investments, partnerships
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced Dhs7.2 billion in investments across 52 groundbreaking projects and experiences, transforming over 60 million square feet throughout the emirate. This announcement comes as Shurooq marks 15 years since its inception, highlighting a journey defined by sustainable growth, community impact, and cultural preservation. Rather than simply expanding its footprint, Shurooq has focused on creating destinations that offer meaningful, lasting connections between people and place. From real estate developments to immersive experiences, its projects have been pivotal in shaping Sharjah as a thriving, future-ready destination. Among its achievements are 7.7 kilometres of developed beachfront, offering unique coastal escapes that celebrate the emirate's natural beauty. The impact of these initiatives goes beyond the numbers. Shurooq's projects have directly and indirectly generated 5,000 jobs, with 1,095 of those created through joint ventures. In addition, the authority has driven major collaborations with 10 local and international partners, highlighting the breadth of Shurooq's influence across multiple sectors. From real estate, tourism, and entertainment developments to integrated experiences, these initiatives have played a vital role in reinforcing Sharjah's status as a dynamic and attractive destination. They include three major real estate projects with investments and partnerships totalling Dhs 5 billion, and 10 distinctive projects in the hospitality sector with investments and partnerships amounting to Dhs850 million. The retail and entertainment sectors saw 18 projects, with total investments exceeding Dhs 870 million, while the arts and culture sector recorded five projects with investments reaching Dhs 447 million. In the F&B sector, Shurooq and its partners delivered 10 projects ranging from small to medium-sized ventures. Additionally, Shurooq took part in six joint ventures with strategic partners across various sectors, reflecting its vision to diversify its investment portfolio and promote sustainable growth across all fields. Anchored by the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq; Shurooq has consistently prioritised sustainable economic growth and diversification. Its innovative approach, global partnerships, and focus on strategic investments continue to position Sharjah as a competitive destination for high-value projects and long-term growth. Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi said that Shurooq's investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy, adding that Shurooq's journey over the past 15 years has been one of ambition and execution, driven by the total commitment to creating sustainable value for Sharjah. The diversity and scale of our investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy. Guided by the visionary strategy of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, each project we have implemented has strengthened Sharjah's appeal as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation. 'Our success has always been rooted in strategic foresight, meaningful partnerships, and an unwavering dedication to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future.' Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), stated: 'Since its inception, Shurooq has strived to be more than just a development entity — it has aimed to be a true partner in shaping Sharjah's economic, social, and cultural future. Every project we have undertaken is rooted in a clear vision inspired by the directives of Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. With the continued support of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Authority, we have worked to bring this vision to life through integrated development projects that place people and place at the heart of growth. Shurooq's strategy has always centred on diversity, sustainability, and impactful partnerships. Today, we are witnessing the results of this approach through projects that have delivered tangible economic and social impact and strengthened Sharjah's regional and global competitiveness and investment appeal.' Real estate as the bedrock of growth The UAE's non-oil GDP has seen substantial contributions from the real estate sector, which accounted for 7.6% of the nation's non-oil GDP. Shurooq has recorded 48.9% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) in real estate sales between 2018 and 2024, showcasing strong market growth. The authority's real estate projects include a total of 4,516 units across three world-class developments: Maryam Island, Sharjah Sustainable City, and Ajwan Khorfakkan. Of these, over 4,187 units have been sold. These projects have attracted buyers from more than 98 nationalities, contributing to Shurooq's total real estate investments and partnerships of Dhs 5 billion. This remarkable success has significantly shaped Sharjah's skyline and solidified Shurooq's role in the region's real estate sector. Maryam Island: This flagship waterfront development, a joint venture with Eagle Hills Development, offers 3,083 units across 3.19 million square feet in Al Khan - Sharjah. The luxurious residential and commercial spaces have attracted both local and international buyers, underscoring the global appeal of Sharjah's real estate market. Sharjah Sustainable City: This eco-friendly project, developed in partnership with Diamond Developers, spans over 3.29 million square feet. The project features 1,248 units that are expected to reduce water consumption by 30% and cut carbon emissions by approximately 20%. The city is a model for future sustainable urban planning, integrating renewable energy systems and offering solar-powered homes. Ajwan Khorfakkan: Although still under development, the Ajwan Khorfakkan is poised to become a landmark in Sharjah's luxury real estate market. Upon completion, it will add 682,119 square feet of premium living space to the picturesque Khorfakkan community, featuring 185 residential units. World-class hospitality to bring the world to Sharjah As the UAE's tourism and hospitality industry continues to grow, the restaurants and hotels sector secured the fifth spot in the UAE's non-oil GDP, achieving a growth rate of 5.1% in the first half of 2024, driven by exceptional tourism activity across the country. Shurooq has played an instrumental role, developed 10 hospitality projects (7 operational, and 3 in the pipeline), with investments totalling Dhs 850 million. These projects, alongside world-class F&B experiences at top destinations across Sharjah, have enhanced the emirate's appeal. The authority's focus on high-quality infrastructure and luxury accommodations has played a key role in making Sharjah a preferred tourism destination. The seven 'Sharjah Collection' properties, which are bespoke stays at heritage sites, eco-retreats, and desert escapes across the emirate, are leading sustainability practices and have been designed to focus on caring for their natural and cultural environment. To meet the growing demand of guests at these properties, Shurooq recently added 35 new rooms and simultaneously made a strategic foray into full in-house management and operation of these seven assets. Najd Al Meqsar: This luxury heritage retreat in Khorfakkan spanning 17,654 sqm revitalises a 100-year-old village into seven exclusive units. Guests are invited to explore cultural landmarks such as the Al Meqsar Fortress and ancient petroglyphs nearby. In the restoration and development of this historic village — part of a broader restoration effort in the area in collaboration with the Sharjah Infrastructure Development Authority (Mubadara) — the utmost care has been taken to utilise the highest quality materials that not only honour the architectural legacy but also compliment the natural surroundings, and simultaneously provide attractive destinations and unique experiences for modern travellers. Nomad: Spanning over 192,092 sqm, this eco-conscious retreat in Kalba features 20 trailers that promote sustainability. Guests can enjoy yoga, stargazing, and hiking amidst the stunning mountainous landscapes. Al Badayer Retreat: A unique bedouin-inspired experience spanning 226,530sqm, offers 21 opulent units and 25 tents. Set against Sharjah's expansive dunes, it provides authentic activities like dune bashing and camel rides. Kingfisher Retreat: A serene eco-luxury island getaway in Kalba, nestled within a natural reserve overseen by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA). Spanning 678,265 sqm, the retreat offers private pools, bird watching, and nature walks — all designed to leave a minimal environmental footprint. Moon Retreat: This glamping destination in Mleiha spans over 79,900 sqm, featuring geodesic domes and tents for an exclusive experience. Visitors can enjoy desert trekking and pristine stargazing opportunities. Al Faya Retreat: Spanning over 15,211.4 sqm, this Dhs 20.7 million project redefines desert luxury with just five exclusive rooms — each thoughtfully restored to welcome modern travellers. Guests can unwind in the serene saltwater pool or enjoy personalised spa treatments and curated dining experiences. Al Rayaheen Retreat: The enchanting ensemble of restored heritage houses, developed in collaboration with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage in Khorfakkan, spans 24,929 sqm and features 20 restored heritage homes the largest of these, formerly owned by the Al Mushtagal family, has been transformed into a restaurant, reception lounge, and mini museum. The remaining 19 residences seamlessly merge heritage architecture with modern comfort, thoughtfully designed and brought to life with a unique interior concept by an Emirati designer, offering exceptional nature-inspired activities and authentic local experiences.
Gulf Today
01-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Display of incredible hospitality offerings and tourist attractions
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor The UAE is a magnet for global tourists and a safe haven for investors. Gulf Today shares the candid views, announcements and expansion plans of the exhibitors during ATM on Thursday. Hyatt shares that its UAE portfolio of hotels and resorts are showing rising travel demand trends across the summer, reinforcing the country's appeal as a year-round travel hotspot for international and regional visitors. The company saw an occupancy percentage growth of almost 20% across Hyatt branded hotels in the UAE in August 2024, compared to the same period in 2022. Additionally, the pace for summer 2025 bookings signals that this upward trend is set to continue, with travel interest up 30% versus the same time last year. Hyatt made its debut in the UAE more than 44 years ago, with the opening of Hyatt Regency Dubai in 1980. 'The UAE continues to solidify its position as a top global destination, with incredible hospitality offerings, tourist attractions, cultural experiences and globally renowned city-wide events.', commented Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. 'In the last three years, we have witnessed continuous upward trends with travel demand across both business and leisure segments in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and we see this steady growth of interest not only in the winter months but also in the summer, which reinforces the destination's draw to travellers all year-round.' The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) GCC concluded a highly successful showing at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, reinforcing Germany's commitment to the Gulf region and underlining the growing appeal of its culturally immersive and sustainable travel experiences. The German pavilion at ATM featured 27 co-exhibitors, covering 135 square metres of the Europe Hall. Representatives from German destinations, hotels, airports, airlines, healthcare partners, retail and travel service providers held numerous meetings with regional travel agents, tour operators, and media professionals over the four-day event, strengthening bilateral tourism ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration. In 2024, the number of visitors from the GCC to Germany reached over 489,689, reflecting a steady year-on-year increase of 1.2 per cent and a significant rise of 21 per cent compared to total visitor numbers in 2022. This growth demonstrates the ongoing appeal of Germany as a preferred destination for Gulf travellers and highlights the effectiveness of GNTO's targeted regional engagement and marketing strategies. Yamina Sofo, Director at the German National Tourist Office GCC, said: 'Arabian Travel Market is an essential platform for engaging with our regional partners and understanding the evolving expectations of travellers from the GCC. Germany is seeing sustained growth in this market, and we are committed to offering experiences that combine authenticity, accessibility, and environmental responsibility. From vibrant city breaks to peaceful natural escapes, Germany continues to meet the needs of GCC families, couples, and explorers alike.' Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel: Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel exhibited at the event on a strong note. As a distinguished nominee for the International Travel Awards 2024 in the 'Best Architecture Design Hotel' category, the hotel continues to set benchmarks in luxury hospitality and architectural innovation. Architectural Brilliance Recognized The hotel's architectural design, characterized by its curved glass façade and wavy structures symbolizing desert dunes and ripples, has garnered international acclaim. The blue and green glass panels create a mosaic effect, reflecting the colours of the Arabian Gulf. Nidal Saloum, General Manager, Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel, said: 'Our nomination for Best Architecture Design Hotel at the International Travel Awards 2024 is a recognition of the hard work and vision that went into creating this masterpiece. We are incredibly proud and fortunate to be considered among the best.' Arjaan by Rotana Dubai: Arjaan by Rotana Dubai served as the official venue sponsor for the Tourist Security Awareness Workshop in close collaboration with Dubai Police and several esteemed government authorities. The workshop was designed to elevate the standards of guest safety, health, and security by aligning hotel practices with official protocols set by Dubai's leading public institutions. Attended by key hotel professionals from Rotana properties across the city, the initiative highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in ensuring Dubai remains a safe and welcoming destination for all. Facilitated by high-ranking officials from key departments — including the Tourist Police, Civil Defense, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Dubai Municipality, Department of Economy and Tourism, and the Cyber Crimes Department — the event covered critical topics ranging from suspicious item handling to first aid, customer care, and digital safety. 'This workshop is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can drive real impact,' said Timur Ilgaz, Area Vice President for Dubai and Northern Emirates at Rotana and Cluster General Manager of Arjaan by Rotana Dubai. 'We're truly grateful to the Dubai Police and all participating authorities for their invaluable support and for equipping our teams with the knowledge to maintain the highest safety standards.' Held at the state-of-the-art Skylight Hall, the event reflected the shared vision between Rotana and Dubai's governmental bodies to prioritize safety. SOHBA Hospitality Management: Marking a new chapter in the regional hospitality landscape, SOHBA Hospitality Management announced its official formation and floated at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai. Established with a passion for operational excellence and authentic guest experiences, SOHBA Hospitality Management specialises in bespoke hotel management solutions, offering owners a dynamic and flexible pathway to long-term success. Headquartered in Egypt, SOHBA Hospitality Management has been founded with a strong focus on supporting tourism development across Egypt while building a robust growth pipeline in key GCC markets, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Eng. Mohammad Al-Nadi, President of SOHBA Hospitality Management, said, 'At SOHBA Hospitality Management, we believe every hotel has its own soul, its own story. One size does not fit all. Our mission is to make owners proud, guests delighted, and brands confident through an approach that combines cultural authenticity with the highest service standards and truly personalised management. We are also deeply committed to supporting the growth of Egypt's tourism sector by bringing world-class operational expertise and bespoke management solutions to new and existing hotel projects across the country.' Led by a strong team with decades of regional and international expertise, SOHBA Hospitality Management draws on extensive experience - shaped by both successes and challenges - to deliver a superior management model focused on agility, accountability, and asset value optimisation. Michael Zager, CEO of SOHBA Hospitality Management, commented, 'Our objective is not merely to manage hotels but to set them up for sustainable, long-term success. Brands provide the franchise, and SOHBA seamlessly manages the day-to-day operations on ground. This structure ensures operational discipline, strategic marketing, robust revenue management, and consistently high service delivery - combining the global reach of international brands with the personalisation of local management.' Almaty Roadshow: The city of Almaty, Kazakhstan's southern capital, successfully hosted a high- profile roadshow titled 'Almaty Tourism Days in Dubai' during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2025. The event marked a significant milestone in promoting Almaty's tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) potential to Middle Eastern, Asian, and European markets. The roadshow welcomed over 50 representatives from tour operators, DMCs, and travel agencies based in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and India, all of whom expressed strong interest in Almaty as a travel destination. As a result of the B2B networking meetings, 10 cooperation agreements were signed to boost inbound tourism to Kazakhstan. Additionally, the Almaty City Tourism Department announced plans to: • Expand air connectivity with key Middle Eastern cities • Launch joint marketing campaigns • Ensure Almaty's active participation in global tourism exhibitions, including the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt The roadshow highlighted growing interest in Almaty as a modern, safe, and unique destination for travelers from the Middle East and beyond. Almaty's roadshow was held alongside Kazakhstan's official presence at ATM Dubai 2025, where the country unveiled a national pavilion featuring top Kazakh tour operators. The ATM exhibition annually attracts more than 50,000 tourism professionals from around the world and provided a powerful platform for Kazakhstan to showcase its tourism offerings — from nature and adventure experiences to gastronomic, cultural, and business travel packages. Georgia: Georgia has firmly positioned itself as a premier travel destination at ATM 2025, building on the remarkable momentum of a record-breaking 2024. The country continues to experience impressive growth in its tourism sector, reaffirming its appeal to international travelers. In 2024, Georgia welcomed 5.1 million international visitors — a 9% increase compared to 2023 and a significant milestone surpassing pre-pandemic figures from 2019. Tourism revenue also reached a historic high, generating $4.425 billion, reflecting a 7.3% growth from the previous year. Voyager, the leading local Destination Management Company (DMC), remains the primary point of contact for the majority of tourism partners across the GCC and India, playing a key role in supporting and expanding inbound travel to the country. The United Arab Emirates continues to be Georgia's main partner in the region, with regular direct flights operating from Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. With the summer season approaching, expectations are high for even greater visitor numbers in the coming months. Adding to its growing international reputation, Georgia proudly hosted the 2025 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in Bakuriani, marking its debut as a winter host for this prestigious sporting event. H World International: H World International, a leading global hospitality management group, is proud to commemorate the 95th anniversary of its flagship brand, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, a legacy rooted in culture, hospitality, and innovation. As part of this momentous occasion, the Group showcases nearly a century of hospitality excellence at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. 'We are proud to celebrate 95 years of Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, a brand that has stood the test of time,' said Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President and Head of Business Development of H World International for the Middle East, Africa, and India. 'Our participation at ATM 2025 is more than a showcase; it is a celebration of our journey, experiencing the Steigenberger brand grow to a globally admired symbol of hospitality. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue our expansion across key growth markets, bringing the Steigenberger experience to even more guests across the Middle East, Africa, and India.' As part of its regional growth strategy, H World International is targeting the opening of several new hotels across the Middle East, Africa, and India by 2028. Louvre Hotels Group in the MENA Region (LHG), a leading hospitality management group, announces the expansion of its regional portfolio with several new openings slated for by 2026. These include the highly anticipated launch of Tulip Hotels & Residences at The Village Muscat in Oman, the introduction of the Kyriad brand in Saudi Arabia, and the upcoming debut of the luxury Tempting Places Collection in Oman and Morocco. Commenting on the group's regional expansion at Arabian Travel Market 2025, Rami A. Moukarzel, Board Member of Louvre Hotels Group says: 'The introduction of Tulip Hotels & Residences in Oman and the Kyriad brand in Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in our regional growth strategy. These expansions are not just about increasing key count; they're about delivering the right hospitality solutions for a rapidly transforming market. We are bringing to life brands that resonate with the evolving needs of modern travellers, creating meaningful hospitality experiences tailored to each segment, and designed with purpose, identity and innovation. These openings are a testament to our commitment to shaping the future of affordable, experience-led hospitality across the Middle East and North Africa.'
Gulf Today
29-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Major deals and expansion strategies spice up ATM 2025
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor The Arabian Travel Market 2025 entered its second day on Tuesday. The exhibition halls were packed with visitors and exhibitors. Gulf Today shares the candid views, deals and announcement made during the event on Tuesday. Etihad Airways: Etihad Airways signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, at Arabian Travel Market 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: 'Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences.' Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.' Rotana expansion: Rotana, the Middle East's leading hospitality management company, has announced a significant expansion of its regional portfolio, with 12 new hotels set to open across the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These openings reaffirm Rotana's position as the region's most trusted hospitality operator and underline its commitment to shaping the future of tourism in its home markets. The properties, which include long-stay residences, lifestyle hotels, and full-service premium offerings, form part of Rotana's strategy to expand its flexible brand portfolio in line with national agendas such as the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 and Saudi Vision 2030. 'The UAE will always be our home — it's where Rotana started, and it continues to shape who we are,' said Philip Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of Rotana. 'We've also been proud to grow alongside Saudi Arabia, a market that has welcomed us and inspired us with its vision. This next chapter is about deepening those relationships and continuing to serve both countries with the care, respect, and commitment they've shown us.' Expansion Across the UAE Rotana's latest UAE openings showcase the breadth of its brand architecture and its agility in catering to different guest segments and owner expectations. Reem Island Arjaan by Rotana – Abu Dhabi (280 keys): A premium serviced hotel apartments concept in one of the capital's fastest-developing waterfront districts, designed for long-stay corporate travellers, families, and digital nomads. Bloom Arjaan by Rotana – Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi (217 keys): A new upscale property offering leisure and wellness-focused stays in the heart of Saadiyat Island's cultural district, catering to both international visitors and GCC weekenders. Mangrove Rotana – Ras Al Khaimah (240 keys): This full-service hotel blends eco-tourism, wellness, and leisure, capitalising on Ras Al Khaimah's emergence as a nature-driven tourism destination. Significant Growth in Saudi Arabia The latest project involves a significant multi-property development agreement with Memar Development & Investment Company, a well-regarded Saudi real estate company. Through thi spartnership, the following hotels are scheduled to open in the Kingdom in 2025 and 2026: These properties are part of a larger development pipeline that will bring Rotana's total KSA presence to 20 hotels by 2027. The projects span commercial zones, heritage districts, and family travel hubs, reflecting the breadth of Saudi Arabia's new tourism vision and the flexibility of Rotana's brands to meet local demand. Additionally, Rotana is actively progressing three new properties in Al Baha as part of a strategy to expand into secondary and tertiary Saudi cities — a key element of Saudi Arabia's effort to diversify its travel infrastructure beyond the primary gateways. 'In Saudi Arabia, we're seeing the results of our proximity and performance', said Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer at Rotana. 'Through sustained engagement and consistent delivery, we've earned developer trust — not just for what we say, but for how we show up. That's what drives long-term success in complex, fast-moving markets.' 'We are not chasing growth for growth's sake,' said Philip Barnes. 'We are expanding in the places we know best - places where we have history, deep relationships, and operational advantage.' In support of these openings, Rotana will extend its enhanced loyalty programme, Rotana Discovery, across all new markets. Expected to be fully integrated with the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) by the end of 2025, the platform will connect Rotana guests to a global network of over 30 million members, delivering increased reach, recognition, and value for both travellers and owners. Eddy Tannous stated, 'The UAE has always been our innovation testbed. But what makes that innovation work is how closely we stay connected to our owners. We're not just launching new properties — we're building deep, high-trust partnerships that allow us to test, learn, and scale Al Bandar Rotana: Al Bandar Rotana and Al Bandar Arjaan by Rotana proudly participated in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, with General Manager Ayman Ashor and the Sales team leading the representation of the properties at one of the most influential travel and tourism events in the region. Recognized as the leading international travel and tourism exhibition in the Middle East, ATM has grown over the years to surpass even some of the most prominent global travel shows. This year's edition brought together tour operators, travel managers, and key decision-makers from across the globe, reinforcing Dubai's status as a hub for international tourism collaboration. Under the leadership of Ashor, our participation at ATM reflected a continued commitment to visibility and partnership development. The exhibition served as a valuable platform to align with our partners, evaluate production performance, and finalize new agreements that will secure the steady flow of tourism to our properties in the upcoming year. The event was a great success. The Al Bandar team was delighted to engage with top travel partners from all major source markets, ensuring strong momentum as we head into the next travel season. The presence of our leadership and sales force not only reaffirmed our dedication to the market but also strengthened strategic ties that continue to drive mutual growth. HMH: Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH), a leading hotel management company in the Mena region, marked a significant milestone at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, marking 15 consecutive years of participation in the region's premier travel and tourism exhibition. This year's event proved particularly successful as HMH secured multiple strategic agreements that reinforce its expanding presence across the GCC and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to the region's hospitality sector. During the exhibition, HMH marked two significant milestones that highlighted its regional growth strategy and broader GCC tourism objectives – the signing of an MoU for a new hotel property in Dammam and an HMA for Corp Makkah Al Naseem Hotel. These developments form part of HMH's comprehensive expansion strategy in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its commitment to the Kingdom's thriving hospitality sector. Haytham Abdelaziz, Chief Operating Officer of HMH, stated: 'ATM continues to serve as our principal platform for establishing valuable relationships, exploring innovative solutions, and accessing cutting-edge hospitality technologies. Reaching 15 years of continuous participation is an achievement we take great pride in, and we're even more proud to announce partnerships that reflect our ambitious regional vision. These agreements support our long-term strategy to deliver quality hospitality solutions that align perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030. We're particularly excited about entering new markets while simultaneously strengthening our presence in Saudi Arabia's most spiritually significant destinations.' This strategic expansion underscores HMH's commitment to diversifying its portfolio and bringing its expertise to promising new markets. The Dammam agreement and ongoing operations in Jubail, Yanbu, Khobar, and Makkah demonstrate the group's confidence in Saudi Arabia's robust hospitality sector and its potential for sustained growth. Over the past fifteen years, HMH has consistently used Arabian Travel Market (ATM) as a platform to announce new projects, develop strategic partnerships, and reinforce its position as a key player in the region's hospitality industry. Barbados Tourism: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has reported a robust 31% year-on-year increase in arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2024, as the island continues to interest the travellers seeking authentic, high-end Caribbean escapes. The UAE led the visitor numbers, followed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with increases of 30% and 36%, respectively. Oman also emerged as a standout market, registering an impressive 104% increase in travellers to Barbados compared to the previous year. This regional upswing reflects a growing appetite for long-haul, luxury leisure travel among GCC residents, particularly to culturally rich destinations like Barbados. The island's appeal lies in its pristine beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and a wide range of family-friendly and wellness-focused experiences. The presence of luxury family all-inclusive resorts also serves as a value-add for family travellers from the region. 'We are incredibly proud to see Barbados striking a chord with discerning travellers from the GCC who seek authenticity, luxury and enriching experiences. This upward momentum fuels our commitment to deepening strategic investments in the region and amplifying Barbados' unique appeal on the global stage. The appointment of our new Director of Emerging Markets, Kyle Gittens, coupled with the impressive growth in arrivals from the GCC, highlights our dedication to expanding Barbados' international footprint and welcoming new audiences to our island,' said CEO of the BTMI, Andrea Franklin. 'The GCC continues to show strong potential as an emerging source market,' said Kyle C. Gittens, Director of Emerging Markets, BTMI. 'Travellers from this region are seeking unique, meaningful experiences and Barbados delivers on that promise—from immersive island culture to unmatched hospitality. We are encouraged by the growth and are committed to further strengthening our presence in the market.'
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
ATM 2025 opens its doors with record-breaking 2,800 exhibitors
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, on Monday opened the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), a leading global event for the travel and tourism industry, being held from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Bringing together professionals and leaders from across the global travel sector, including leisure, business events (MICE), luxury, and corporate travel, this year's event features a record 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries and is expected to welcome 55,000 attendees. During the opening, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed said that the strong turnout at this year's Arabian Travel Market reflects Dubai's position as a leading global hub for tourism, travel and hospitality, and underscores the emirate's growing role in shaping the future of the global tourism sector. Sheikh Ahmed said: 'Guided by the vision of our leadership, Dubai continues to consolidate its position as a leading global destination for tourism and a key meeting point for industry stakeholders, bringing together investors, decision-makers, experts and leading travel agencies from around the world. The longstanding success of Arabian Travel Market highlights Dubai's pivotal role in fostering strategic partnerships that drive the growth and advancement of the global tourism industry.' 'The success of Arabian Travel Market, along with other major events hosted by the city throughout the year, reflects our steady progress towards achieving a key objective of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which is to position Dubai among the world's top three cities for business and specialised tourism by 2033,' he added. Following the official inauguration, His Highness toured the exhibition halls, accompanied by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority; and Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai. Key Highlights His Highness was briefed on key highlights of the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market, which has recorded a significant increase in international exhibitor participation, with a 20% rise from Asia, a 15% increase from the Middle East, more than 12% growth from Europe, and continued growth from Africa and the Americas. ATM 2025 is being held under the theme 'Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow's Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity', underlining the vital role of cross-border collaboration, industry partnerships, and community engagement in reshaping the future of tourism and advancing sustainable practices. Several new features are debuting at ATM 2025. Responding to growing demand for a dedicated platform for business events, IBTM@ATM has been launched this year. The new sector provides a specialist zone for business events suppliers to connect with buyers through pre-scheduled appointments and business exchanges. IBTM@ATM will also host a dedicated conference exploring key industry trends, staged on the new Business Events Stage. ATM Travel Tech has expanded by more than 26% this year, reflecting the sector's increasing integration with technology and innovation. A new Start-Up and Innovation Zone has been introduced, showcasing 21 pioneering companies reshaping the future of travel. The zone also offers an immersive VR experience, allowing visitors to explore new possibilities and transformative solutions within the travel ecosystem. Commenting on the opening of ATM 2025, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'From next-generation technologies and the rise of travel start-ups to the introduction of IBTM@ATM, this year's edition of ATM highlights an industry that is more connected, innovative and resilient than ever before. We are proud to offer a platform that fosters global collaboration, drives impactful business opportunities, and helps shape the future of travel.' ATM Conference Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum was also briefed on the renowned ATM Conference, which returns this year with more than 200 speakers leading over 70 sessions across the Global Stage, Future Stage, and the newly launched Business Events Stage. The conference programme will explore emerging trends, share global best practices, and discuss strategies to unlock new opportunities while addressing key industry challenges. This year's programme covers a diverse range of topics, including the future of aviation, emerging trends in hospitality, climate action initiatives, and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the sector. On the first day, Cassie Kozyrkov, CEO of Kozyr, a leading international expert in AI and Google's first Chief Decision Scientist, hosted the opening session on the Future Stage on how the travel industry can lead in AI adoption. The second day of the ATM Conference will feature the annual Ministerial Session, which will explore how tourism growth can be unlocked through enhanced connectivity. The session will bring together the Ministers of Tourism from Bahrain and Lebanon, alongside the CEO of to discuss how infrastructure, innovation and inclusion can build robust tourism frameworks that empower communities and enhance cross-border accessibility. On day three, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, will address the Global Stage to examine the future of aviation in an era of transformation and global disruption. Meanwhile, key findings from the IBTM World Trends Report will be shared on the Business Events Stage. The final day will feature in-depth market insight sessions on Asia Pacific, as well as a dedicated spotlight on India's burgeoning tourism sector. A major highlight on closing day will be the ATM Start-Up Competition, offering a platform for emerging entrepreneurs and innovators to pitch their ideas and redefine the future of travel.
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Airline's commitment to attract more travellers
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) opened its doors to the public at the Dubai World Trade Center on Monday. The exhibitors are upbeat about this year event. Gulf Today shares the candid views of various exhibitors and companies. Emirates signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) on the first day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) with the Tourism Boards of Sharjah, The Philippines, Maldives, Visit Britain, Thailand, Japan National Tourist Organisation (JNTO), Uganda and Hungary. These agreements demonstrate the airline's commitment to attract more travellers across its extensive network of more than 140 destinations to experience each locale's distinctive sights, culture and attractions, as well as boosting tourism to the wider UAE through strategic collaborations. Emirates and Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Authority (SCTDA), will work together to jointly promote tourism and boost visitor arrivals to the UAE emirate of Sharjah. The new partnership, which takes effect from Monday, will see Emirates and SCTDA explore and implement promotional activities and offer bespoke packages for tour operators and the wider travel trade in key markets. Emirates and SCTDA will also explore opportunities to create unique products and packages marketed directly to Emirates' customers via 'Dubai Experience' on the airline's website. This is in addition to advertising and cross promotional marketing campaigns, familiarisation programmes for travel trade and media, as well as promotional competitions aimed to encourage visits to Sharjah as part of their overall UAE holiday. Emirates and the Department of Tourism Philippines will work to promote the Southeast Asian nation and help drive inbound tourist flows, particularly from the Middle East and Europe. Both entities will explore avenues of cooperation across marketing and advertising to further boost visitor traffic to the Philippines, in addition to organising familiarisation trips for media and key tourism stakeholders from European and Middle Eastern markets. Emirates and the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation for the Republic of the Maldives will collaborate to attract more visitors to the archipelago nation through the airline's global network. The strategic partnership underscores Emirates' commitment to promoting tourism to the destination, which has been part of its West Asian and Indian Ocean network since 1987. Emirates will promote the Maldives in key markets across its global network through joint advertising campaigns, familiarisation trips, customised travel packages, as well as activate tour operators and travel agencies. The airline will also support the development of business and trade opportunities in the Maldives, via its cargo-handling capabilities. Emirates has signed a declaration of intent with VisitBritain to boost inbound tourism to the UK, including key strategic markets across the Middle East, Far East Asia and Australasia. Under the agreement, Emirates and VisitBritain will explore joint promotions and tactical efforts, familiarisation trips to the UK for media and travel agents; and support other promotional activities that will increase travel demand to London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. According to VisitBritain's forecast, the UK is expected to welcome 43.4 million visits in 2025. Playing a vital role in supporting this growth, Emirates operates 133 weekly flights to/from the UK across eight gateways. Emirates and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have established a new strategic partnership aimed at driving inbound tourism from the airline's global network to Thailand. Emirates and TAT will collaborate on a range of marketing and promotional initiatives to highlight Thailand's appeal as a premier destination. The partnership will include joint advertising campaigns, familiarisation trips for key media representatives, and joint efforts with travel agents and tour operators to offer promotional packages, giveaways, and incentives across Emirates' key markets. Emirates has pledged its support to help grow tourism demand with the Japan National Tourism organisation (JNTO) between Japan and the Middle East. The partnership will include a series of data sharing, joint analyses and potential promotional campaigns to drive awareness and visitation to Japan. Building on a successful year of collaboration, Emirates and Uganda Tourism Board have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 2025. With a focus on driving inbound tourism to Uganda, the partnership underscores the airline's ongoing commitment to market Uganda as a premier tourist destination. Since signing the MoU in 2024, Emirates and the Uganda Tourism Board have hosted familiarisation trips for key trade partners, hoteliers, travel agency partners and tour operators, who are instrumental in driving awareness of the destination worldwide. Emirates has also noted a 16% uptick in passengers on the Dubai-Entebbe route, since January 2025. Emirates and Visit Hungary will work together to boost inbound tourism to the country. Under the agreement, Emirates and Visit Hungary will drive joint marketing and advertising campaigns to showcase Hungary's touristic appeal. The two partners will also work closely to organise familiarisation trips for media and travel agents, as well as support other promotional campaigns to increase travel demand to Budapest. Central Hotels & Resorts: Central Hotels & Resorts, one of the fastest-growing hospitality management companies in the UAE, exhibited at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. With a bold vision for the future of hospitality, the homegrown brand will reveal a dynamic roadmap of expansion, unveil transformative tech solutions, and spotlight strategic alliances—all designed to elevate the guest journey and redefine excellence in the region's thriving travel and tourism sector. 'Our participation at ATM 2025 is a testament to our continuous drive to innovate and enhance the guest experience while maintaining our commitment to sustainability,' said Abdulla Al Abdulla, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Central Hotels & Resorts. 'By leveraging AI-driven personalisation, predictive analytics, and smart automation, we are transforming hospitality services to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers. Our vision is to blend cutting-edge technology with warm, authentic hospitality to create seamless and memorable stays for our guests.' As part of its forward-thinking approach, Central Hotels & Resorts is revolutionizing hospitality with AI-powered digital transformation. By harnessing advanced technologies, the group is optimizing customer engagement through personalized recommendations, AI-driven marketing strategies, and automated operational processes. These innovations enhance efficiency while ensuring tailored experiences that cater to individual guest preferences. GNTO GCC: The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) that GCC visitors to Germany have grown steadily to over 489,689 in 2024, a steady year-on-year increase of 1.2% and an impressive 21% increase when compared with the total visitor numbers in 2022. The announcement was made during a press conference, which was held on the opening day of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. Yamina Sofo, Director at the German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC), an affiliate of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), commented, 'We have now witnessed considerable growth in visitor numbers from the GCC countries since the end of the pandemic. 'These figures underscore Germany's increasing post pandemic popularity with GCC visitors and bodes well for 2025. With direct flights from the GCC countries to Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hannover, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hamburg, this year we want to encourage GCC residents to visit Germany and experience our diverse year-round tourism offering.' Luis Monreal, Senior Director Sales Middle East Lufthansa Group Airlines, commented: 'Lufthansa Group is proud to team up this year with the DZT as their official carrier. We connect the GCC with Germany nonstop since 1960 with its flights to Saudi Arabia. Lufthansa and Eurowings offer both to our passengers German hospitality already on board. Lufthansa, as a premium carrier, offers stable and year- round connections to Frankfurt and Munich from Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam. Our value-airline Eurowings is expanding substantially since 2023 in the GCC by offering more direct connections to other German such as Berlin, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hanover. the UAE's leading travel management platform, announced the official launch of musafirtag, a next-generation booking tool tailored for travel agents, sub-agents, and reseller partners across the GCC and beyond. The unveiling took place at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, reinforcing commitment to innovation and digital transformation in the region's travel trade ecosystem. Built for the modern travel professional, musafirtag combines robust Agent Tools, an intelligent Back Office, and a supplier-facing Extranet—all housed in one seamless interface. Travel agents gain access to a full inventory including Flights, Hotels, Transfers, Activities, and Visas, with real-time booking capabilities, scalable controls, and deep customization options. 'musafirtag is more than a product—it's our bold step forward in reshaping the B2B travel landscape across the region. We've brought together deep industry insight and cutting-edge technology to build a platform that empowers every agent, every sub-agent, and every customer touch point,' said Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Thani Chairman and Co-Founder of What Sets 'musafirtag' Apart Unmatched Flight Connectivity: Access to multiple GDS providers, combined with direct integrations with low-cost carriers. One of the first in the UAE to integrate Emirates' New Distribution Capability (NDC). Smart Agent Management: Customize access, markups, commissions, and credit limits across a multi-tiered agent hierarchy, making the platform ideal for scaling regional networks. White-Labelling & Custom Branding: Agents can launch fully-branded travel portals with real-time engines and curated content, turning resellers into independent travel brands. Live Dashboards & Reporting: Stay on top of every booking, cancellation, and sale with customizable reporting dashboards—filtered by agent, market, or product. Inventory Management System (Charter Module): to manage bulk inventory and special fares Unified Platform, Multiple Services: From flights inventory to visa offers, holiday packages, hotels, transfers and activities everything is managed within one powerful ecosystem. musafirtag isn't just a technology launch, it is a strategic move to empower regional travel professionals with the tools to compete and grow in an increasingly digital economy. With built-in CRM capabilities, booking insights, secure transactions, and partner management tools, the platform ensures agents can focus more on selling and less on admin. 'With musafirtag, we're putting cutting-edge tools directly into the hands of travel agents—because they're the ones driving the industry forward,' said Sachin Gadoya, CEO and Co-Founder of 'We've built a platform that's smart, scalable, and future-ready—so our partners can spend less time on operations and more time growing their business.'
