Latest news with #tourismDevelopment
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: MoHT plans to develop Al Jabal Al Sharqi site
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) reiterated in a statement its keenness to address appeals and calls to improve and expand services in Al Jabal Al Sharqi in the Wilayat of Al Hamra, as part of its ongoing efforts to upgrade key tourism sites across the Sultanate of Oman. In coordination with the Governor's Office of Al Dakhiliyah Governorate and relevant authorities, the ministry confirmed that the Governorate recently floated a tender for the construction of Al Jabal Al Sharqi Oasis project. The initiative, which was announced in April this year, will help enhance basic public services in the area in line with the ministry's tourism development strategies. The ministry also stated that efforts are underway in collaboration with the Governorate to implement elements of the 11th Five-Year Development Plan. These include comprehensive service frameworks aimed at meeting the needs of major tourist sites and landmarks across the governorate, in parallel with the ministry's broader tourism development agenda. The ministry stressed its commitment to transforming Al Jabal Al Sharqi into a high-quality tourism destination with integrated tourism elements, while ensuring a delicate balance between tourism growth, environmental sustainability and preservation of the area's natural features. It also underlined the need for relevant stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of agreed-upon development projects, and noted that it would take the necessary legal steps, including land reclamation measures for investment plots that remain undeveloped or have failed to meet the intended development projects. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
26-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Unlocking the future of African tourism: Harnessing coastal potential for inclusive growth
Africa is on the cusp of a tourism renaissance. With its extraordinary natural beauty, cultural diversity, and expansive coastline, the continent is well poised to become one of the world's most exciting cruise destinations. Now is the time to transform long-recognised potential into lasting progress — and cruise tourism is one of the avenues to help achieve this. As managing director of MSC Cruises South Africa, I've seen how cruising offers valuable travel experiences and acts as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation and regional development. Through collaboration and investment, the full value of cruise tourism across Africa can be unlocked. A coastline of opportunity Africa's more than 30,000 kilometres of coastline span vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic. Ports like Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Richards Bay, Maputo and Walvis Bay already welcome cruise ships, with some offering facilities to service vessels. These destinations demonstrate the potential that exists and lay a foundation for future growth. We're looking ahead to the upcoming 2025/26 season, with MSC Opera returning to South African waters and extending to destinations such as Port Louis and, for the first time, Mamoudzou in the Comorian Archipelago. These itineraries reflect the growing appeal of African coastal cruising and what's possible when a shared vision for tourism development is embraced. Laying the groundwork for growth For this industry to flourish, there's growing recognition of the importance of holistic infrastructure development. Modern ships can carry up to 10,000 people (passengers and crew), representing a larger economic opportunity, but many African cities will need to strengthen their capacity to handle this scale of tourism. While well-equipped ports are essential, a quality cruise experience also depends on seamless airport connections, modern roadways, efficient services, and memorable inland excursions. In Durban, for example, easy access to highlights like Hluhluwe or the Drakensberg would enhance visitor experiences. Equally important are leisure activities that make destinations memorable. From snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and exploring World Heritage sites to enjoying local cuisine, music and cultural experiences, these opportunities create lasting memories for visitors while supporting local businesses. Whether it's a township tour in Gqeberha, a spice market visit in Port Louis, or a sunset dhow cruise in Maputo, excursions help connect travellers with the heart of each destination. Cross-sector collaboration is essential to realising cruise tourism's potential. Partnerships between port authorities, tourism boards, local governments, hotels, transport operators and activity providers help align efforts with broader development goals. By creating cruise-ready cities that act as gateways to inland adventures and cultural experiences, lasting value can be generated for local communities and visitors alike. Tourism that enriches and empowers Sustainable growth is a vital focus. From adopting cleaner fuel technologies and advanced waste management systems to efficient itineraries, environmental responsibility is increasingly embedded in cruise operations. Equally important is the potential for cruise tourism to uplift communities. Prioritising partnerships with local guides, artisans and entrepreneurs ensures that each stop on a cruise route contributes to job creation, cultural exchange, and small business growth. With training and enterprise support, local communities can become active participants in the tourism economy, creating authentic, meaningful experiences for visitors while expanding opportunity at home. Working together for shared success A notable aspect of Africa's cruise tourism journey is the growing spirit of collaboration. Globally, successful cruise destinations have been built on coordinated strategies between public and private stakeholders. Africa is no exception. From joint marketing to infrastructure development, there's a unique opportunity to harness the power of partnership. Regional cooperation can take this further. Multi-country cruise itineraries offer unmatched variety, and by working together to streamline visa processes, harmonise standards, and co-promote cruise corridors, African nations can create an interconnected cruise experience that benefits all. A bright future in sight The global cruise industry has already shown its transformative potential. For example, Florida's cruise sector contributes over $168 billion to its economy. While every region is unique, Africa, too, can chart its own course. Already, tourism contributes 8.8% to South Africa's GDP, with room for growth. Looking at the achievements of peers like Morocco and Greece reveals the potential. In Morocco and Greece, strategic investment, coordinated marketing, and public-private partnerships have revitalised coastal towns into vibrant cruise destinations. Casablanca and Tangier have become gateways to cultural experiences, while Greece's islands offer itineraries filled with history, cuisine and natural beauty. These examples illustrate how infrastructure and partnerships can position cruise tourism as a driver for inclusive growth, job creation and international visibility — a model for South Africa and the continent. This is a moment of opportunity. With aligned policies, investment and a shared commitment to inclusive development, Africa can position itself as a leading cruise destination, combining innovation, sustainability and cultural connection. This transformation is not only possible, but already underway. Through collective effort, African tourism's future can be unlocked and shaped for generations to come.
ABC News
26-06-2025
- Business
- ABC News
Controversial ramp labelled 'seawall' dropped from Smiths Beach tourism village proposal
The proponent of a $280 million tourism development in Western Australia's South West has dropped plans for a controversial beach access ramp amid staunch community opposition. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announced today that Smiths 2014 Pty Ltd, a company of Perth businessman Adrian Fini, has requested to remove the universal access ramp from its proposed luxury beach development at Smiths Beach, about 250 kilometres south of Perth. The access ramp drew significant criticism from members of the community, who labelled it as a "seawall" that would impact coastal erosion and visual amenity. The proponent has denied it was a seawall, insisting the ramp would have replaced an existing limestone ramp used by visitors, lifesavers and emergency services to access the beach. The proposal is currently being assessed by the EPA for environmental impacts. A spokesperson said the amendment would result in a small overall reduction in the development envelope. The proposed development envelope is nearly 42 hectares, with around half of that to be impacted by buildings. According to developers' documents, the ramp would have been 88 metres long, 2.5m high and 4m wide, with a 10m rock wall on the ocean side of the ramp. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Fini Group said the ramp was intended as an upgrade for the foreshore to improve beach access. "Feedback received clearly indicates a strong community preference to retain the current informal beach access and avoid physical changes to the beach front," the spokesperson said. The decision follows years of advocacy and protests from the Save Smiths Beach Action Group, with WA's Liberal and Greens parties also forming an unlikely alliance against the controversial proposal. Save Smiths Beach Action Group spokesperson David Mitchell said the removal of the ramp was a "great victory". "Against all odds, they stood up against a very powerful group of WA businessmen, knowing they were doing the right thing." Although happy with the outcome, Mr Mitchell said the group will keep campaigning against parts of the development. "It's great the EPA has come out after doing an investigation and said 'Nope, that is actually correct' and pressured the developer into an alternate solution," he said. "We're all very glad the beach will be saved, but it doesn't negate the fact that this development is larger than allowed under the current planning and environmental rules. The EPA will publish submissions received during its eight-week public review in the coming weeks. Its report and recommendations will then go to the WA Minister for Environment Matthew Swinbourn for review.
Zawya
17-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt: Madbouly reviews development plans for 7 historic hotels under IPO program
Arab Finance: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly held a meeting to follow up on the development plans for seven historic hotels previously offered under the government's initial public offering (IPO) program, as per a statement. The meeting focused on efforts by the Arab Company for Tourism and Hotels Investments (ICON), a subsidiary of Talaat Moustafa Group Holding (TMG), to manage and upgrade these landmark properties in partnership with the private sector. The hotels are Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Mövenpick Resort Aswan, Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, Steigenberger Hotel Tahrir, Steigenberger Cecil Hotel Alexandria, Marriott Mena House Cairo, and Marriott Omar Khayyam Zamalek. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, Minister of the Public Business Sector Mohamed Shimi, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan El-Khatib, and TMG CEO Hisham Talaat attended the meeting. The discussions addressed the ongoing renovation and modernization efforts aimed at restoring these properties while preserving their architectural and cultural heritage. The development plan is designed to enhance the hotels' tourism value, attract a broader international visitor base, and strengthen their global positioning. In December 2023, ICON signed the final agreements for the acquisition and full management rights of a 39% stake in Legacy Hotels. Legacy Hotels is a joint venture between The Sovereign Fund of Egypt's (TSFE) Tourism, Real Estate, and Antiquities Sub-fund and the Egyptian General Company for Tourism and Hotels (EGOTH), and it has a unique portfolio of the seven hotels. © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Bloomberg
29-05-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Rixos Hotels Bets on Gulf Boom With $3 Billion Qatar Project
The Turkish owner of the Rixos Hotels is expanding beyond Europe and Central Asia to bet big on the Gulf with a $3 billion investment in Qatar's capital. The firm will build hotels, an amusement park as well as some residential and retail properties on beach-front land north of Doha, Chairman Fettah Tamince said in an interview. They will be part of Qatar's mammoth Simaisma tourism development and the investments will be made over the next three to four years.
