Latest news with #GNTO
Zawya
30-07-2025
- Zawya
Germany unveils bilingual Halal Travel Guide tailored for GCC travellers
Highlights Muslim-friendly experiences and culturally considerate stays across Germany's cities and scenic regions AI-powered chatbot supports Muslim travellers with real-time answers Dubai: The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) has launched the Germany Halal Travel Guide, a dedicated resource designed to support Muslim travellers in planning seamless, culturally respectful journeys throughout Germany. Available in both English and Arabic, the guide can be downloaded free of charge from a dedicated microsite hosted on the official Germany Travel website. Created with the expectations of GCC visitors in mind, the guide features practical information and curated recommendations. It highlights halal dining, prayer spaces, and culturally considerate stays that help visitors from the region feel comfortable and confident while exploring Germany. Germany Welcomes All with Comfort, Respect and Accessibility Germany continues to grow as a preferred destination for travellers from the GCC, supported by a well-developed infrastructure, strong hospitality standards, and an inclusive approach to tourism. In cities such as Berlin, Dresden, Dusseldorf and Munich, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of halal restaurants, Arabic-speaking staff, and accessible prayer spaces, all contributing to a sense of ease and belonging. The Germany Halal Travel Guide offers valuable insights for Muslim travellers seeking experiences aligned with their lifestyle and travel preferences. Whether visiting for leisure, medical care, education, or retail tourism, the guide introduces options that support spiritual needs and cultural expectations. It also showcases Germany's natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and world-class wellness facilities in a format that makes trip planning both efficient and rewarding. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing and Sales Office, GNTO GCC, said: 'The launch of our Halal Travel Guide reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring Muslim travellers feel informed and welcomed in Germany. The guide presents clear, accessible information to support planning and create a worry-free travel experience. We are committed to showing guests from the GCC that Germany is a destination where they can explore freely while staying connected to their faith and traditions.' Meaningful Travel Experiences Across Cities and Countryside The guide presents region-specific insights from across Germany, connecting Muslim-friendly services with iconic landmarks and hidden gems. In Berlin, visitors will find a vibrant city that embraces diversity, while destinations like Munich offer scenic relaxation with culturally aware hospitality. From luxury shopping in Düsseldorf to the historic architecture of Dresden, the guide outlines accessible experiences that reflect the wide interests of GCC travellers. Each destination includes references to services such as prayer facilities, halal food options, and accommodation that meets the expectations of Muslim guests. In addition, the guide supports itinerary planning by suggesting travel tips and destination pairings that simplify decision-making for both first-time and returning visitors. The result is a travel resource that makes it easier to balance spiritual considerations with leisure and discovery. Smart Digital Tools Enhance Access and Confidence To further support travellers, GNTO has introduced an AI-powered chatbot on the Halal Travel Guide microsite. This interactive assistant allows users to ask real-time questions such as where to find halal restaurants in Munich or the closest mosque to a specific hotel in Berlin. The chatbot is available in both English and Arabic, offering instant access to practical travel information from the guide, specifically tailored to Muslim visitors. This innovation reflects GNTO's broader focus on digital transformation, multilingual engagement, and smart tools that empower travellers to plan independently. The chatbot complements the guide's user-friendly format and serves as an accessible touchpoint for GCC visitors seeking trusted information both before and during their visit. Yamina Sofo added: 'We know that convenience and clarity matter. The chatbot is an example of how we are using digital tools to support travellers from the GCC with real-time, useful answers. Our goal is to create meaningful connections and make planning a visit to Germany easier and more enjoyable for everyone.' Germany offers GCC families a welcoming travel experience, with Arabic-speaking services, family-friendly activities, and scenic lakes ideal for all ages. Improved air connectivity with direct flights to major cities makes accessing these natural retreats easier than ever, opening the door to a journey that blends culture, comfort and discovery. The Germany Halal Travel Guide and AI chatbot are available here - About the GNTB The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) works on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy to represent Germany as a tourist destination and is funded by the Ministry in accordance with a decision taken by the German Bundestag. As the central organisation for promoting inbound tourism to Germany, the GNTB works closely with the German travel industry and private-sector partners and trade associations to develop strategies and marketing campaigns that promote Germany's positive image abroad as a travel destination and encourage tourists to visit the country. The aim is to unlock future commercial potential and thus add value to the German economy by attracting international visitors to Germany. The GNTB's primary strategic areas of action are: Targeted market research and detailed analysis of global travel trends and market-specific customer demand Supporting the German travel industry, which is dominated by small and medium-sized businesses, by sharing expertise and connecting German providers with the international travel trade. Raising awareness of the Destination Germany brand and enhancing the brand profile with a focus on digital transformation The 'Germany. Simply inspiring' brand profile represents a high-quality, service-oriented, sustainable, and inclusive travel destination in the market. From its head office in Frankfurt, the GNTB manages 19 foreign representative offices in established and in high-potential source markets. For further information and media queries, please contact: Bashar Antoun | Director of PR | Neo Social & PR germany@ | Follow GNTO's accounts on social media:
Tourism Breaking News
22-07-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
Germany invites GCC travellers to discover its lakes and natural wonders this summer
Post Views: 13 This summer, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) invites travellers from the GCC to discover thrilling new experiences across Germany's great outdoors—where adventure, culture, and nature come together in unforgettable ways. Through its renewed 'Embrace German Nature' campaign, GNTO spotlights Germany's serene and lesser-known lakes, offering a refreshing escape where clear waters, alpine landscapes, and sustainable travel come together in perfect harmony. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, said, 'Germany's hidden lakes offer the perfect answer to the summer heat, with refreshing natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainable experiences that resonate deeply with GCC travellers. Our 'Embrace German Nature' campaign celebrates slowness, authenticity, and well-being. Whether you are exploring a forest-lined lake by paddleboard, relaxing in a spa town, or soaking up the calm from a houseboat, these are the journeys that stay with you.' From Lake Constance to Königssee and the vast Mecklenburg Lake District, Germany's lakeside destinations provide ideal settings for family holidays, nature retreats, and wellness escapes. Whether paddling across calm waters, cycling through forested paths, or staying on a houseboat under starlit skies, these experiences offer a revitalising break from the heat while promoting a connection with nature and climate-friendly travel. With Germany ranking second as a nature travel destination among Europeans, holding a 14 per cent share of the nature-oriented holiday market, and with nature-based trips making up over 21 per cent of all European holiday travel to Germany in 2023, totalling 6.7 million trips, these destinations promise both broad appeal and accessibility to GCC visitors seeking an alternative to traditional summer travel. Travellers looking for breath taking mountain scenery will find inspiration in the journey along the Lake Constance to Lake Königssee Cycle Path. Starting from Lindau on the shores of Lake Constance, this scenic route winds through the rolling hills of the Allgäu, past glistening lakes such as Tegernsee and Schliersee, and through storybook villages framed by alpine vistas. Along the way, visitors encounter cultural gems like Hohenschwangau and the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairytale palace built by King Ludwig II that continues to enchant travellers worldwide. The path culminates at Lake Königssee, nestled within the Berchtesgaden Alps. Known for its emerald-green water and dramatic cliffside setting, Königssee invites visitors to board silent electric boats that glide across the lake, revealing hidden coves and the iconic onion-domed St. Bartholomä Church. Surrounded by towering peaks and mirrored reflections, the lake is a tranquil haven for picnics, walking trails, and quiet contemplation. The Mecklenburg Lake District, one of Europe's most extensive and unspoiled lake regions, is just a short journey north of Berlin. Known as the 'Land of a Thousand Lakes,' this area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and slow travellers alike. Müritz, the largest inland lake in Germany, forms the heart of the region and is surrounded by dense forests, gentle hills, and winding waterways. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards to explore the peaceful water routes that pass through reed beds, wooded shorelines, and quiet villages. One of the most popular experiences is captaining a houseboat, which allows travellers to sleep on the water and journey at their own pace, mooring in hidden bays or near charming lakeside towns. No special license is required, making it an accessible adventure for families and first-time visitors. On land, travellers can hike through Müritz National Park or cycle the Müritz Circular Route while enjoying the region's rich biodiversity, including sightings of rare birds such as cranes and eagles. With minimal light pollution, nature parks like Nossentiner and Schwinzer Heide offer some of Germany's best stargazing opportunities. Beyond the lakes, the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania region stretches to the Baltic Sea, where 1,900 kilometres of coastline host elegant spa resorts, historic port cities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visitors can enjoy the maritime charm of Wismar and Stralsund, where red-brick Gothic architecture and mediaeval streets tell the story of the Hanseatic League's golden era. Seaside resorts like Heiligendamm and the island of Usedom continue Germany's proud spa tradition, offering wellness facilities, sandy beaches, and graceful buildings from the Belle Époque. Schwerin Castle, rising from its island on a reflective lake, serves as a stunning historical site and a venue for vibrant summer festivals and cultural performances. This coastal and inland region is seamlessly connected to Germany's major cities. With direct train links and frequent InterCity and ICE services, places like Waren (Müritz) and Neustrelitz can comfortably reach from Berlin and Hamburg. Many local towns offer guest cards that allow free travel on regional buses, encouraging visitors to explore sustainably and car-free. Through its renewed 'Embrace German Nature' campaign, GNTO highlights not just the beauty of Germany's lakes, but the country's deep commitment to sustainability and conservation. With 33% of the mainland under environmental protection, Germany offers one of Europe's richest natural playgrounds—ideal for low-impact, restorative travel. The landscape is home to three UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, 18 biosphere reserves, 16 national parks, and 104 nature parks, all preserving unique ecosystems and offering immersive experiences. Travellers can explore this diversity across 300,000 kilometers of hiking trails and 76,000 kilometers of cycling routes, which pass through tranquil forests, glittering lakes, river valleys, and alpine vistas. One-third of Germany is forested, providing clean air, natural wellness, and the calming backdrop for adventures or quiet moments in nature. With rising interest in nature-based holidays and growing awareness of climate-conscious travel, Germany continues to offer experiences that are not only memorable but meaningful. The country's hidden lakes await discovery from its alpine south to its coastal north, offering a literal and emotional cool-down for the summer.
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.'
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Germany concludes strong ATM 2025 presence with sustainability at the forefront
Dubai: 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. Germany's participation showcased various offerings through its leading campaigns: Cultureland Germany, Simply Feel Good, and Embrace German Nature. These initiatives spotlighted Germany's world-renowned cultural experiences, diverse landscapes, eco-certified travel options, and its alignment with GCC travel preferences, including Arabic-language services, Halal-friendly dining, family attractions, and wellness experiences. 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." The German delegation also highlighted the country's strong air connectivity, with direct flights from multiple GCC hubs to German cities, including Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hanover, Munich and Stuttgart. This ease of access and tailored hospitality continue to position Germany as a preferred European destination for Gulf travellers. A highlight of GNTO's participation was the announcement of the Sustainability Media Award 2024, revealed during its press conference on the opening day of ATM. This award is part of a global initiative by the German National Tourist Board that recognises outstanding journalism covering sustainable travel in Germany. First introduced in the GCC in 2023, the award has since grown in scope and impact, encouraging local media to highlight the importance of environmental awareness within the tourism sector. This year's submissions were evaluated under the supervision of the Emirates Environmental Group, with a jury of three sustainability experts assessing entries based on journalistic quality, originality, research depth, and the broader societal impact of their messages. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Chairperson of the Emirates Environmental Group – Dubai, commented: "Sustainability is not a trend but a necessity. It is a way of life that we must all embrace, especially in how we travel. Initiatives like the Sustainability Media Award play a vital role in encouraging the media to champion this message and inspire travellers to make conscious choices that help protect our environment." Imad Saad, Sustainability and Climate Change Expert and Head of the Jury, said: "This year's entries were rich in content and insight. Each one contributed meaningfully to the public conversation around sustainable tourism. Using engaging storytelling and well-researched perspectives, these journalists help readers understand the value and impact of responsible travel practices." Building on the award's success momentum, GNTO will continue promoting sustainable tourism as a core part of its international outreach. Yamina Sofo added: "The Sustainability Media Award reflects our long-term commitment to inspiring responsible travel and supporting meaningful environmental storytelling. By recognising outstanding media coverage, we are empowering local voices to drive change and highlight how sustainable choices can shape a better future for travel and beyond." As 2025 progresses, Germany will continue to highlight unique offerings through seasonal promotions, cultural events, and digital innovations like the AI-powered virtual travel assistant Emma. These efforts will further personalise the travel experience for GCC audiences while strongly focusing on Sustainability and cultural authenticity. For more information about destination Germany and to plan your trip, visit: About the GNTB The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) works on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action to represent Germany as a tourist destination and is funded by the Ministry in accordance with a decision taken by the German Bundestag. Working closely with the German travel industry and private-sector partners and trade associations, the GNTB develops strategies and marketing campaigns to promote Germany's positive image abroad as a travel destination and to encourage tourists to visit the country. The GNTB's primary strategic areas of action are: Conducting targeted market research and analysis of market-specific customer demand in relation to various aspects of travel in the context of sustainability and culture among those with values-based lifestyles. Supporting the travel industry, which is dominated by small and medium-sized businesses, through relationship management and the sharing of knowledge. Raising awareness of the Destination Germany brand and enhancing the brand profile with a focus on sustainability and climate change mitigation. Focus on sustainability and digitalisation The GNTB promotes forward-looking tourism in line with the objectives of the German government. The focus here is on sustainability and digitalisation. To make inbound tourism more sustainable and competitive, our organisation follows a three-pillar strategy that combines the sharing of knowledge with external partners and a supporting communications strategy with our internal sustainability initiative. The GNTB positions Germany as a sustainable and inclusive destination in the international travel market. The GNTB is a pioneer when it comes to using immersive technologies (virtual, augmented and mixed reality), voice assistants and other conversational interfaces, and artificial intelligence applications such as chatbots. To ensure that tourism offerings are visible on AI-based marketing platforms, the GNTB coordinates the German tourism industry's open-data/knowledge graph project. The GNTB has 19 foreign agencies that it manages from its head office in Frankfurt. Follow GNTO's accounts on social media: For further information and media queries, please contact: Bashar Antoun | Director of PR | Neo Social & PR germany@ |
Trade Arabia
27-03-2025
- Trade Arabia
Germany reveals sustainable holiday experiences
Whether exploring peaceful nature reserves, cycling through historic towns, or relaxing in heritage hotels committed to green living, Germany provides something for every eco-conscious traveller. Experience Germany's Car-Free Holiday Islands For those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty, Germany's car-free islands offer a rare escape from modern noise. The island of Juist, a narrow strip in the North Sea, replaces taxis with horse-drawn carriages, creating a serene, storybook atmosphere. Likewise, Heligoland, Germany's only offshore island, bans bicycles to preserve its peace and pace. Other serene sanctuaries like Baltrum, Spiekeroog, and Hiddensee welcome visitors with sand dunes, panoramic walks, and timeless charm ideal for family-friendly, slow-travel holidays. Sustainable Cities and Green Urban Mobility Germany's cities are leading the way in sustainable living, offering eco-conscious ways to explore urban life. In Karlsruhe, e-bikes glide through scenic nature reserves on the 48-km NaturRADtour, while Lübeck's e-boat experiences drift silently past UNESCO-listed architecture. In the Upper Black Forest, nature park restaurants combine local foraging with regional cuisine, and Wernigerode in the Harz Mountains uses electric trains and biogas buses to connect travellers with breathtaking mountain trails, which are all free for overnight guests through the Harz holiday ticket (HATIX). Water Adventures with a Light Footprint Germany serves as a playground for water enthusiasts with more than 12,000 lakes and 15,000 rivers. Sustainable canoeing and kayaking tours on the Müritz, Danube, Lahn, or Isar rivers offer moments of calm and connection with unspoiled landscapes. Adventurous visitors can enjoy canyoning in the Bavarian Alps or eco-conscious rafting in Oberstdorf or Bad Tölz, while families may prefer serene water hikes through the lakes of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. E-Bike Discovery Tours for All Ages Cycling has long been a beloved activity in Germany, and it is now easier than ever to explore the country's diverse landscapes thanks to a growing network of e-bike-friendly routes. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) spotlights seven exclusive e-bike trails, offering visitors a sustainable and effortless way to discover the beauty of Germany. Whether cycling around the Bavarian Sea (Lake Chiemsee), navigating the Northern Black Forest, or tracing the Danube Cycle Path, these routes provide curated experiences enhanced by nature, culture, and sustainability. Particularly unique is the Prima Climate Tour in the Swabian Alb, where travellers encounter solar panels, wind turbines, and a biogas plant on their way to Rottenburg's historic town centre. Sustainability at the Core of German Tourism Germany continues to set benchmarks in sustainable travel. The country ranks 4th in the 2024 UN SDG Index, reinforcing its leadership in climate action and sustainable development. The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is also a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) member, aligning its strategy with international sustainability standards. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, stated, 'Sustainability is no longer a niche and is more of a necessity. We've seen growing interest from GCC travellers who are mindful of the environment but still seek enriching experiences. We offer a diverse portfolio of destinations and activities where they can explore nature, culture, and history, all while contributing positively to the planet.' From boutique eco-hotels and forest spas to electric mobility and culinary adventures using local ingredients, 'Simply Feel Good' presents Germany as a sustainable haven catering to conscious, comfort-seeking travellers. More than 2,100 certified accommodations and many TourCert-certified destinations across Germany ensure that every journey—whether urban or off-grid—aligns with sustainability goals, hospitality, and quality.
