Latest news with #TravTalkMiddleEast
Tourism Breaking News
3 days ago
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Diriyah backs Saudi drive to attract 5 million Chinese tourists, debuts at ITB China 2025
Post Views: 35 In an exclusive interview with TravTalk Middle East, Naif Hassan Awlia, Tourism and Engagement Director of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, shared insights into the destination's debut at ITB China. Representing Diriyah for the first time at the event, Awlia emphasized the strategic importance of China as a key source market, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader tourism vision. 'As part of Diriyah's tourism ecosystem, we closely follow the National Tourism Strategy,' Awlia explained. 'China is a priority market for us. With the Kingdom targeting 150 million visitors annually by 2030, 5 million of those are expected to come from China—and we intend to play a significant role in achieving that goal.' He highlighted the purpose of their participation at ITB China: to connect with leading travel trade partners, including platforms such as Alibaba and and tailor their offerings to resonate with Chinese travellers. 'We're here not only to tell our story but to understand and align with the narrative that appeals to the Chinese market,' he concluded.
Tourism Breaking News
30-04-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Middle East's iconic Arabian Travel Awards return for 8th edition this November
Post Views: 56 The Arabian Travel Awards, one of the Middle East's most prestigious platforms celebrating excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality, is set to return for its landmark eighth edition on 25th November 2025. This invite-only event will bring together the region's top leaders and innovators to honour outstanding contributions that continue to define the Middle East's global travel identity. A symbol of credibility and industry recognition, the Arabian Travel Awards has become a trusted benchmark for excellence across the GCC. Backed by TravTalk Middle East and TravelTV News, the 2025 edition will feature awards across four dynamic segments: Personal Awards, Business Awards, Trending Awards, and Partner Awards—each designed to spotlight individuals and organisations leading change and driving growth. This year's award categories include industry benchmarks such as Best Business Hotel, Best Green Hotel, Best Destination Management Company, Best B2B Travel Portal, and Best Luxury Hotel, reflecting the diversity and depth of the region's tourism ecosystem. Winners are selected through a transparent, online voting system, ensuring credibility and inclusiveness. Speaking on the occasion, San Jeet, Mentor, Arabian Travel Awards, noted: 'The awards this year come at a pivotal time. With the region witnessing historic growth and tourism becoming a strategic economic pillar, it's more important than ever to recognise those leading the way. From sustainability champions to digital disruptors, the Arabian Travel Awards is a tribute to those redefining the future of travel in the GCC.' In a testament to its growing influence, the 2025 edition welcomes Embassy Suites by Hilton as its Hospitality Partner, marking the brand's debut in the UAE. Ziad Tantawi, Cluster General Manager, Embassy Suites by Hilton, said: 'As Embassy Suites by Hilton makes its debut in the UAE, a vibrant playground for hospitality, we are proud to partner with the Arabian Travel Awards to mark this milestone. With its spacious suites and premium amenities, Embassy Suites by Hilton Dubai Business Bay brings a fresh approach to comfort and design for today's global traveller. This collaboration helps us amplify visibility, build strategic industry connections, and solidify our position as a key player in the region's upscale hospitality segment.' As the Middle East continues to rise as a global tourism powerhouse, the Arabian Travel Awards remains committed to celebrating visionaries and changemakers shaping the industry's future.
