Latest news with #ThermeDubai
Time Out Dubai
2 days ago
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai in 2040: From flying taxis to new metro lines
Come step into our time machine – and buckle up. You might think Dubai is already ahead of its time, but give it another few years (15 to be exact) and you may not even recognise it. The city has some jaw-dropping plans in the coming decades, and has already laid out its goals for 2040. Last year, the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning reviewed plans including everything from the the 'Therme Dubai' project to new metro stations and sustainable housing. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, chairs the Committee's 33rd meeting, where key strategies and projects aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan were reviewed. The meeting also reviewed the progress in achieving the vision of Mohammed… — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 4, 2025 Inside the masterplan, Government of Dubai details a targeted growth in population by 5.8 million, taking the total number of people living in Dubai to a staggering 7.8 million. This means that by 2040, according to one report, Dubai is expected to have a bigger population than Sydney, Australia, by then – woah. But what else will have changed? A lot is the answer. So let's go full Marty McFly and whizz on to the future (you might even spot a flying car or two). What Dubai will look like in 2040 The Dubai Metro will be gigantic – and you'll pay with your hand You think you love the Dubai Metro now, wait until you see it in 2040. The line will have undergone a huge expansion, with 140 metro stations and a network that covers over 228 square kilometers. Plans were confirmed by the Dubai Government in 2024, and it's expected to loop in with the new Dubai Metro blue line, which will stretch over a total of 30km, with 15.5km running underground and 14.5km above ground. The project encompasses 14 stations including 3 interchange stations and will integrate with the existing red and green lines. Plus you might not even need a Nol card to try out all of those 140 stations, just the palm of your hand. That's because the RTA wants to roll out palm payments as early as 2026, meaning the system will know your biometrics and link your nol account to them. Simply scan your hand, then board the train hassle-free. You'll be whizzing around in pods The RTA has revealed a new Duo Rail concept at GITEX Global (Credit: RTA) Electric pods — does it get anymore Dubai than this? Although there's no confirmation this will definitely be in place by 2040, there are plans in the works for these self-driving pods to become a staple of the city. Currently being looked at by the RTA, the Floc Duo Rail pods can each fit up to 16 people and are said to help beat congestion (and look pretty cool). Or grabbing a flying taxi to the office Credit: Joby Aviation By 2040, flying taxis will be the norm, in fact they might even be old news (that's how soon they're about to be introduced). The incredible air taxis will have arrived by the first few months of 2026 and you'll be able to get across the city in minutes. Not only that, the flights will cost around the same as an Uber Black, which, for your own private trip, is a serious bargain. There will be a second Palm How Palm Jebel Ali should look once completed (Credit: Dubai Media Office) By 2040, Palm Jebel Ali will be truly up and running, you might even be living there if you're lucky. Backed by developer Nakheel, the island will span over 13.4km of land, with over 80 hotels and resorts, beach clubs and even a 'celebration village'. If you like reading this: 5 Dubai mega-projects in the works (that we're seriously excited about) There isn't a final completion date for the shiny new palm, however Palm Jumeirah took around six years to construct, so we can assume things might be up and running by then. The coast will be unrecognisable (Credit: Supplied) In 2040, you'll be able to take a nice day trip out to the Dubai Mangrove visitor centre, or check out the 72km of coastline that will be covered in lush greenery. That's right, Dubai is bringing in the mangroves to help combat CO2 and protect from coastal erosion, so you can enjoy the wildlife and stroll past what should be over 100 million trees. You'll be flying in and out of Al Maktoum International Dubai news: New images from the architects behind Al Maktoum International Airport show what we can expect when it is built (Credit: Coop Himmelb(l)au) Your boarding pass won't be reading DXB anymore by 2040, and you'll most likely be flying out of the newly refurbished airport in Dubai South. But 'newly refurbished' doesn't cut it to describe the ongoing transformation at what was once just a cargo airport. Set to become five times bigger than Dubai International Airport, all DXB operations will eventually move to the new location. The first phase will have been completed in around 10 years' time, but the full scale of the works mean that there will still be construction and expansions going on well into the 2050s. You'll be getting the train to Abu Dhabi The Etihad Rail passenger train is one of the most highly anticipated projects in the country (Credit: Etihad Rail) The next station is… Abu Dhabi. We're all eagerly waiting on the date that Etihad Rail announces the line will open a passenger service between Dubai and the capital. Currently only connected by road, the now freight track will soon become a route for passengers, that will get you there in under an hour. Connecting 11 different locations, if you fancy a weekend in Fujairah, it'll take 1 hour and 45 minutes. The track is now up and running, so it's only a matter of time before we can get on one, and we're pretty sure this will be the case before 2040. Dubai will be home to the world's tallest wellness resort Dubai has announced ambitious plans to build the world's tallest wellbeing resort. Therme Dubai will feature a massive interactive park, the world's largest indoor botanical garden and three 18-metre waterfalls. The Dhs2 billion project will be built in Zabeel Park, one of the largest parks in Dubai, and is slated to open in 2028. When announcing the plans in a post on X, formerly Twitter, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said that Therme Dubai will be 'an iconic addition to Dubai's skyline.' You can read more about the project here. In other news 12 major road and RTA projects that will slash Dubai traffic There might one day be a reason to stop beeping your horn What we know so far about the Dubai Metro Blue Line: When it will open, route and more This project will be a game-changer The 6 Dubai visa changes you need to know about in 2025 New ways of getting a long-term stay
Hi Dubai
30-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Middle East Tourism Leaders Call for Strategic Investment to Drive Sustainable Growth
Tourism and investment leaders at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai have called for strategic investment and strong public-private collaboration to unlock the Middle East's full tourism potential and secure its place as a global tourism powerhouse. Speaking on the Global Stage at the Dubai World Trade Centre, panelists emphasized the need for diversified tourism offerings, innovative infrastructure, and inclusive policy frameworks to meet the evolving expectations of international travellers. The session underscored that sustainable growth in tourism requires not just vision but coordinated action across sectors. Irina Matei, CEO of Therme Dubai, highlighted the region's forward-thinking approach. 'Our vision is to democratise wellbeing, transforming it from a luxury to a necessity,' she said, citing government partnerships that support inclusive and accessible tourism development. From major infrastructure projects to global mega-events like the FIFA World Cup and Expo 2020 Dubai, speakers noted how strategic investments have boosted the region's appeal. Guy Hutchinson, President MEA at Hilton, described the Middle East as a blueprint for sustainable tourism. 'The UAE is now exporting its tourism strategy globally,' he said. Panelists also pointed to the critical role of integrated policy and shared responsibility. 'Success comes when airlines, governments, and the tourism sector work together in a structured and strategic way,' Hutchinson added. As the Middle East positions itself as one of the world's fastest-growing tourism hubs, leaders agreed that long-term success depends on sustainability, innovation, and strong cross-sector alignment. The Arabian Travel Market continues through 1 May, with more sessions exploring the future of tourism in the region. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Tourism leaders at ATM outline the investment strategies powering Middle East growth
The high-level panel discussion explored how diversified, inclusive and forward-thinking investments are shaping the future of tourism in the Middle East Representatives from Hilton and Therme Dubai shared valuable insights on the Global Stage on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, United Arab Emirates,April 2025: Tourism and investment leaders have gathered at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) this week to discuss the critical role of strategic investment in unlocking the Middle East's full tourism potential. During a session held yesterday on the event's Global Stage, a high-level panel explored how government policies, innovative development and strong public-private collaboration are accelerating sustainable tourism growth across the region. According to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), a sustainable tourism framework takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities. As the Middle East continues to evolve into one of the world's fastest-growing tourism hubs, the panellists agreed that the diversification of tourism offerings is essential for long-term sustainability. During the discussion, the panel emphasised that in order to attract a wider range of visitors and meet the evolving demands of global travellers, the region must continue to incorporate a variety of experiences, with strategic diversification not merely a choice but a vital component for continued growth. Irina Matei, CEO of Therme Dubai, which is set to be the world's tallest wellbeing resort, said: 'We have been fortunate to partner with Dubai Municipality to bring wellbeing to the forefront of the national agenda. Our vision is to democratise wellbeing, transforming it from a luxury to a necessity, which is accessible to all. Government strategies in the region are already ahead of the curve, prioritising inclusivity and long-term impact.' From large-scale infrastructure investment to mega-events like the FIFA World Cup and Expo 2020 Dubai, tourism leaders underlined how hosting these events in the region is creating a ripple effect across the travel and tourism sector, boosting tourism numbers from international visitors, who are experiencing the Middle East for the first time. Guy Hutchinson, President MEA at Hilton, said: 'The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing regions for Hilton in the world and is a blueprint for how to develop a sustainable tourism infrastructure. The UAE has gone from developing a tourism industry to exporting its strategy to the world. In the Middle East, there is strong demand across multiple segments, which generates growth for companies like Hilton. Across the region, we're seeing tourism infrastructure supercharging growth, driven by strong policy frameworks and coordinated public-private partnerships.' The session also examined the importance of integrated policy, private sector engagement, and a shared commitment to sustainable development. 'Success comes when airlines, governments, and the tourism sector work together in a structured and strategic way,' Hutchinson added. 'It's this alignment that drives transformation on a national and regional level.' Tomorrow, the Global Stage will host ATM's first Influencer Networking session. Held in collaboration with NaviSavi the session is designed to foster meaningful connections and provide influencers with the opportunity to engage directly with leading brands and destinations, opening new avenues for collaboration. ATM continues at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 1 May. Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025's strategic partners include Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner. Now in its 32nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. With over 48,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors, including over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries during last year's show, ATM remains a pivotal gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events from 28 April to 4 May, alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East's travel and tourism sector, it includes the all-New Business Events @ATM focusing on MICE, Start-Up Competition, influencers' events, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. It also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums. About RX: RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. About RELX: RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are: WTM London is the world's most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes. WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019. About ATW Connect: Africa Travel Week's digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology. WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Tourism leaders at ATM outline the investment strategies powering Middle East growth
Representatives from Hilton and Therme Dubai shared valuable insights on the Global Stage on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Tourism and investment leaders have gathered at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) this week to discuss the critical role of strategic investment in unlocking the Middle East's full tourism potential. During a session held yesterday on the event's Global Stage, a high-level panel explored how government policies, innovative development and strong public-private collaboration are accelerating sustainable tourism growth across the region. According to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), a sustainable tourism framework takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities. As the Middle East continues to evolve into one of the world's fastest-growing tourism hubs, the panellists agreed that the diversification of tourism offerings is essential for long-term sustainability. During the discussion, the panel emphasised that in order to attract a wider range of visitors and meet the evolving demands of global travellers, the region must continue to incorporate a variety of experiences, with strategic diversification not merely a choice but a vital component for continued growth. Irina Matei, CEO of Therme Dubai, which is set to be the world's tallest wellbeing resort, said: 'We have been fortunate to partner with Dubai Municipality to bring wellbeing to the forefront of the national agenda. Our vision is to democratise wellbeing, transforming it from a luxury to a necessity, which is accessible to all. Government strategies in the region are already ahead of the curve, prioritising inclusivity and long-term impact.' From large-scale infrastructure investment to mega-events like the FIFA World Cup and Expo 2020 Dubai, tourism leaders underlined how hosting these events in the region is creating a ripple effect across the travel and tourism sector, boosting tourism numbers from international visitors, who are experiencing the Middle East for the first time. Guy Hutchinson, President MEA at Hilton, said: 'The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing regions for Hilton in the world and is a blueprint for how to develop a sustainable tourism infrastructure. The UAE has gone from developing a tourism industry to exporting its strategy to the world. In the Middle East, there is strong demand across multiple segments, which generates growth for companies like Hilton. Across the region, we're seeing tourism infrastructure supercharging growth, driven by strong policy frameworks and coordinated public-private partnerships.' The session also examined the importance of integrated policy, private sector engagement, and a shared commitment to sustainable development. 'Success comes when airlines, governments, and the tourism sector work together in a structured and strategic way,' Hutchinson added. 'It's this alignment that drives transformation on a national and regional level.' Tomorrow, the Global Stage will host ATM's first Influencer Networking session. Held in collaboration with NaviSavi the session is designed to foster meaningful connections and provide influencers with the opportunity to engage directly with leading brands and destinations, opening new avenues for collaboration. ATM continues at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 1 May. Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025's strategic partners include Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner. Now in its 32nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. With over 48,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors, including over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries during last year's show, ATM remains a pivotal gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai ATM takes place from 28 April to 1 May 2025, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events from 28 April to 4 May, alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East's travel and tourism sector, it includes the all-New Business Events @ATM focusing on MICE, Start-Up Competition, influencers' events, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. It also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums. About RX RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. About RELX RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are: WTM London is the world's most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes. Next event: 5 to 7 November 2024 at ExCel London. WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. Next event: 14 to 16 April 2025 – Expo Center Norte, SP, Brazil. WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019. Next event: 9 to 11 April 2025 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town About ATW Connect: Africa Travel Week's digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology. WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub.
Hi Dubai
29-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE's Wellness Sector Poised for Growth, Expected to Boost Regional Travel, Experts Say
Wellness is rapidly emerging as a top priority for both travelers and consumers, with the GCC region at the forefront of this growing trend. According to Visa's Senior Vice President Leila Serhan, wellness and lifestyle have surged into the top three categories for which people seek discounts, a shift that reflects broader changes in consumer behavior. Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, Serhan highlighted the significant rise in demand for wellness-related experiences. 'In our market survey, wellness and lifestyle, which used to be in the top ten, are now top three things that people want discounts for,' she noted. The ATM, which began on April 28 and runs until May 1, features over 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries and serves as a hub for the region's travel industry. Experts like Hala Matar Choufany, President of hospitality consulting firm HVS, emphasized that wellness is not only driving consumer spending but also reshaping global travel patterns, particularly toward Europe and the US from the GCC. At the conference, a key highlight was the unveiling of Therme Dubai, a groundbreaking wellness resort set to open by 2028. Located in Zabeel Park, the 500,000-square-foot facility will be the world's tallest wellness resort, designed to cater to 1.7 million visitors annually. The project promises a holistic experience, blending thermal baths, plant-based meals, music performances, and wellness programs into one immersive space. As the wellness sector continues to expand, the rise of such transformative projects underscores its growing influence on both tourism and lifestyle spending in the region. News Source: Khaleej Times
