Latest news with #TourismStrategy2030
Campaign ME
22-05-2025
- Campaign ME
How the media is helping drive sustainable tourism in the UAE
The UAE is known for its unique skyline, luxury resorts and larger-than-life attractions. But recently, the country has been shifting gear, putting sustainable tourism at the heart of its hospitality and travel industries. Abu Dhabi, in particular, is leading the charge with big plans to grow its visitor numbers while keeping things eco-friendly. And the media has a role to play in making sure these efforts don't go unnoticed. Abu Dhabi isn't just looking to bring in more tourists; it wants to do so in a way that benefits both the environment and the local community. The Emirate's Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to increase visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030 – an impressive 7 per cent growth each year. But instead of only building more hotels and attractions, the focus is on sustainable tourism, ensuring that visitors experience Abu Dhabi in a way that preserves its natural beauty and culture for generations to come. A great example is Etihad Airways' new complimentary Abu Dhabi pass for its passengers. Not only do visitors get a free tourist SIM card with 10GB of data (perfect for Google Maps and Instagram), but they also get unlimited access to public buses and a 24-hour hop-on-hop-off bus pass. This makes it easier for tourists to explore Abu Dhabi without relying on taxis or rental cars, helping reduce carbon emissions in the process. Sustainable initiatives like these are fantastic – but only if people know about them! That's where the media comes in. From highlighting eco-friendly hotels and restaurants to covering government policies on sustainability, media outlets play a crucial role in making sustainable tourism something that both businesses and travellers actually care about. Spreading the word When major publications cover sustainability efforts, it puts the pressure on tourism operators to step up their game. It also helps educate tourists – because let's be real, most of us don't always think about how much water a hotel uses or whether an attraction is harming local wildlife when we're planning a trip. But the more we talk about these things, the more they become part of everyday travel decisions. A few hotels in the capital have been instrumental in the change to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, Jumeriah Saadiyat Island Resort, the first hotel in the capital to install filtered water stations (still and sparkling, no less!), provides every guest who checks in with a reusable bottle to drink from as opposed to using disposable plastic bottles. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr was the first in the city to have its own filtered water bottling plant within the resort, offering filtered (essentially, tap) water to guests in the hotel, reducing plastic waste and offering guests better value (not having to pay for bottled water is a huge saving). At Abu Dhabi Review, we've made it a point to showcase eco-conscious tourism in the UAE. Whether it's covering hotels that are going plastic-free, restaurants sourcing local ingredients, or new transport initiatives that make the city more accessible without a car, we're always looking for ways to shine a light on sustainable activations in the city. We also love talking to the people behind the change – whether on the website, or on our Podcast, The ADR Chat – from chefs using farm-to-table concepts, to sustainable fashion advocates creating spaces for people to recycle their clothes. The more we can share these stories, the more we can inspire both visitors and businesses to make sustainable choices. The UAE's tourism industry is evolving, and sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it's a real part of life. The 2025 Hilton Travel Trends Report reveals 84 per cent of respondents are actively looking for eco-friendly travel options and sustainable practices. And a recent Fast Company article, citing research from the Marriott Bonvoy hotel group, says 'Sustainability is gaining prominence, with 87 per cent of UAE travellers and 82 per cent of Saudi Arabian travellers factoring in the environmental impact of their travel plans.' Clearly, with more travellers looking for eco-friendly experiences, Abu Dhabi is proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. And with media platforms helping amplify these efforts, we're helping ensure that responsible tourism isn't just an option; it's the future. By Asha Sherwood, CEO & Founder, Abu Dhabi Review
Arab News
22-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Qatar tourism sector accounts for 8% of GDP, official says
RIYADH: Qatar's tourism industry contributed 55 billion Qatari riyals ($15.1 billion) to the country's gross domestic product in 2024, accounting for 8 percent of total economic output, according to a senior official. The figure marks a 14 percent increase compared with 2023, Chairman of Qatar Tourism Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji said during a high-level business forum in Doha, the country's news agency reported. The uptick aligns with the Gulf nation's broader Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to boost the sector's contribution to 12 percent of GDP and attract 6 million visitors by the end of the decade. The report stated: 'His Excellency highlighted some of 2024's achievements, which saw international visitor arrivals reached 5 million, a 25 percent year-on-year increase, with in-destination spend totaling nearly QAR 40 billion.' It added: 'The hospitality sector also achieved a key milestone, recording 10 million room nights sold during the year.' Speaking during a panel discussion titled 'Tourism in Focus' at the 5th edition of the Qatar Economic Forum, Al-Kharji emphasized the global shift in travel demand toward lifestyle-oriented and purpose-driven experiences, such as wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and luxurious nature-based getaways. He further noted that travelers are increasingly prioritizing experiences like personalized accommodations, culinary adventures, and curated cultural activities over traditional material purchases. 'Qatar's strategy aligns with these trends, focusing on six high-potential demand spaces and delivering 54 strategic projects across product development, regulation, and visitor experience enhancement,' the QNA report stated. The chairman highlighted that his organization is working closely with the Ministry of Public Health to develop a dedicated health tourism strategy, with several plans already approved. The Gulf nation ranks among the highest spenders on healthcare, allocating up to 12 percent of its annual budget to the sector, and Al-Kharji added further investments will boost tourism related to the industry. Qatar is also gearing up to host several major international sporting events in the coming years, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup annually from 2025 to 2029, the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027, and the 2030 Asian Games. The chairman underscored Qatar's commitment to combining luxury with sustainability across all projects, citing examples such as the Ras Abu Aboud Resort and the Qatar National Convention Centre. The center was the first venue in the region to be certified for both luxury and sustainability, alongside Msheireb Downtown Doha, which was developed to embody both eco-consciousness and upscale living. According to figures released in May, Qatar welcomed over 1.5 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, as the country continues to advance its tourism strategy built on major events, strategic partnerships, and diverse travel experiences. While slightly below the 1.6 million visitors recorded during the same period in 2024, the latest figures underscore Qatar's sustained momentum in attracting global travelers.
ILoveQatar.net
22-05-2025
- Business
- ILoveQatar.net
Qatar's tourism sector hits QR 55 Billion in 2024, making up 8% of GDP
H.E. Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, participated in a high-level panel discussion titled 'Tourism in Focus' at the fifth edition of the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025. The session, moderated by Bloomberg Television anchor Joumanna Bercetche, featured Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman and CEO of Accor, and explored key themes shaping the future of global tourism, including luxury and sustainability, economic resilience, health tourism, and emerging market trends. During the session, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, announced that the tourism sector contributed QR 55 billion to the national GDP in 2024, representing 8% of total economic output — a 14% increase over 2023. He assured that Qatar is well on track to achieving its Tourism Strategy 2030 goal of contributing 12% to GDP, highlighting the sector's increasing importance in the nation's broader economic diversification strategy. In 2024, international visitor arrivals reached 5 million, a 25% year-on-year increase, with in-destination spend totaling nearly QR 40 billion. The hospitality sector also achieved a key milestone, recording 10 million room nights sold during the year. As part of the panel, the Chairman highlighted how global travel demand is shifting towards lifestyle-driven and purpose-led experiences, such as wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and luxury nature-based getaways. He noted that travellers are increasingly prioritising experiences, such as bespoke accommodation, culinary exploration, and curated cultural activities, over traditional material spending. Qatar's strategy aligns with these trends, focusing on six high-potential demand spaces and delivering 54 strategic projects across product development, regulation, and visitor experience enhancement. The Chairman also discussed the expanding opportunities in regional collaboration, health tourism, and investment. He highlighted joint initiatives with Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, enhanced air connectivity with China, and Qatar's integrated health and wellness offerings. He also outlined major development projects such as the QR 20 billion Simaisma coastal destination and ongoing expansions at Hamad International Airport, reinforcing Qatar's positioning as a premium, sustainable, and competitive global destination. Held under the theme 'The Road to 2030: Transforming the Global Economy,' the Qatar Economic Forum 2025 convened global leaders to examine key topics including geopolitics, technology, energy security, investment, and the future of sports and entertainment.
Qatar Tribune
21-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Tourism contributed 8% to Qatar's GDP: Al Kharji
Tribune News Network Doha The contribution of the tourism sector to Qatar's GDP stood at QR55 billion in 2024, up 14% from the 2023 level, and 8% of the country's total economic output, Qatar Tourism Chairman Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji has said. Al Kharji made the statement while participating in a high-level panel discussion on 'Tourism in Focus' at the fifth edition of the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025. The session, moderated by Bloomberg Television anchor Joumanna Bercetche, featured Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman and CEO of Accor, and explored key themes shaping the future of global tourism, including luxury and sustainability, economic resilience, health tourism, and emerging market trends. He assured that Qatar is well on track to achieving its Tourism Strategy 2030 goal of contributing 12% to GDP, highlighting the sector's increasing importance in the nation's broader economic diversification strategy. In 2024, international visitor arrivals reached 5million, a 25% year-on-year increase, with in-destination spend totalling nearly QR40 billion. The hospitality sector also achieved a key milestone, recording 10 million room nights sold during the year. As part of the panel, the Chairman highlighted how global travel demand is shifting towards lifestyle-driven and purpose-led experiences, such as wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and luxury nature-based getaways. He noted that travellers are increasingly prioritising experiences, such as bespoke accommodation, culinary exploration, and curated cultural activities, over traditional material spending. Qatar's strategy aligns with these trends, focusing on six high-potential demand spaces and delivering 54 strategic projects across product development, regulation, and visitor experience enhancement. He also discussed the expanding opportunities in regional collaboration, health tourism, and investment. He highlighted joint initiatives with Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, enhanced air connectivity with China, and Qatar's integrated health and wellness offerings. He also outlined major development projects such as the QAR 20 billion Simaisma coastal destination and ongoing expansions at Hamad International Airport, reinforcing Qatar's positioning as a premium, sustainable, and competitive global destination. Held under the theme 'The Road to 2030: Transforming the Global Economy,' the Qatar Economic Forum 2025 convened global leaders to examine key topics including geopolitics, technology, energy security, investment, and the future of sports and entertainment.
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Disneyland Abu Dhabi: Rents to increase; hotel rates to rise by up to 25%
Hotel rates in Abu Dhabi and other emirates are expected to rise by as much as 25% following the opening of Disneyland in the UAE capital, with rents and property prices also anticipated to experience significant growth. Industry executives say that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will especially have a strong impact on the leasing business and hotel rates as it will attract tourists and resident visitors throughout the year, having a ripple effect across the UAE. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be the region's first-ever Disney theme park and the brand's seventh resort worldwide. The park will be located on Yas Island Waterfront, joining Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and further solidifying Yas Island's status as a global entertainment hub. Ayman Ashor, Cluster General Manager, Al Bandar Rotana and Arjaan by Rotana, said that with the anticipated surge in tourism, hotel rates in Abu Dhabi are expected to experience a notable increase once Disneyland becomes operational. 'Industry experts estimate that hotel rates may rise by approximately 15 per cent to 25 per cent, driven by the heightened demand for accommodations from both local and international visitors,' he said. Ripple effect Ashor noted that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will 'significantly increase footfall to the emirate' and 'visitors will extend their stay,' benefitting hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors. Ashor added that tourists are likely to combine their visits to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, thus enhancing the overall attractiveness of the UAE as a diverse holiday spot. Iftikhar Hamdani, area general manager of Bahi Ajman Palace and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Northern Emirates, said 'Disney Effect' will have 'ripple effects extending far beyond Yas Island.' 'Based on current market trends and the 'Disney Effect' observed globally, we anticipate a 10–15 per cent increase in hotel rates across Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates, once the park becomes operational, particularly in the initial 3–5 years post-opening,' he told Khaleej Times. 'Disney's global appeal will amplify demand, attracting families from the GCC, South Asia, Europe, and beyond. Family tourism, which prioritises multi-day stays and premium accommodations, will drive up occupancy while encouraging hotels to optimise room mixes — such as suites and interconnected rooms — to cater to this demographic. This shift will elevate Average Daily Rates (ADR) as guests prioritise comfort and convenience over cost.' Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to nearly double annual visitors to 39 million, with Disneyland serving as a cornerstone. The UAE's centralised location —within a four-hour flight from one-third of the world's population— positions it to capture regional travellers who previously bypassed the UAE for distant Disney destinations. 'This influx will create sustained demand, benefiting not only Yas Island's hotels but also properties in the Northern Emirates as tourists explore the broader UAE,' added Hamdani. 'We are preparing for this surge by enhancing family-centric amenities and aligning pricing strategies with projected demand,' he said. Impact on short-term rentals, property Nada Jaouhar, Abu Dhabi Branch Director at Betterhomes, expected that property prices, rents and short-term rentals for Airbnb will also see growth. 'We expect the prices to soar –on Yas Island, especially for leasing– once we are close to the handover of Disneyland. If anyone thought Yas Island has a lot of hotels and airbnbs, that is not the case anymore as Disneyland is an all-year-round event and we will need more airbnbs to cope with the influx of year-round tourists,' she added. 'Abu Dhabi's property market has been on an upward trajectory, and the announcement of Disneyland's arrival is expected to serve as a major accelerator,' said Betterhomes, a UAE-based property management and brokerage firm. In April, the emirate recorded a 15.7 per cent increase in transactions over March, reaching Dh2.9 billion in sales. Off-plan sales dominated, and represented over 70 per cent of the total, indicating significant investor interest in new and upcoming developments. This trend underscores growing investor appetite for new developments and future-forward communities. 'A game-changer' Hotspots such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Al Jubail Island have already been commanding premium prices, with villas on Al Jubail selling for up to Dh10 million and leases reaching Dh400,000 annually. 'Disneyland will be a game-changer for Abu Dhabi's property landscape. We predict increased property demand on Yas Island and nearby areas, with buyers seeking high-quality, future-oriented homes, given its closeness to a major future attraction," said Jaouhar. It is estimated that the Disneyland project in the UAE capital will take between five and eight years to complete. Rohit Bachani, co-founder of Merlin Real Estate, also expects 'a significant ripple effect on nearby freehold areas.' 'The most immediate beneficiaries will likely be Yas Island itself, Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Al Raha Beach, and Al Shamkha — which are already gaining traction among investors and end-users alike. These locations combine proximity to the new attraction with lifestyle appeal, beach access, and master-planned infrastructure,' said Bachani. He added that this new project will 'catalyse long-term capital appreciation across these strategic zones. Smart investors would do well to start positioning early.'
