News

Air India is all set to start daily non-stop services between Bengaluru and London Heathrow from October 27, 2024, thus connecting London Heathrow to all three of the airline's centres in India.

The new flights would replace Air India's currently served Bengaluru-London Gatwick route and enhance the frequency between Bengaluru and Lindon from 5x weekly to 7x weekly.

The non-stop service is opened using a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft with 18 flat beds in Business class and 238 open seats in Economy. This would include the capacity to London Heathrow by 3584 weekly seats, inbound and outbound. Air India recently operates 31x weekly from Delhi to Mumbai in London Heathrow.

Air India will continue operating 12x weekly flights to London Gatwick from four Indian cities: Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Goa, and Kochi.

Schedule of Flights Between Bengaluru and London Heathrow

Effective from 27th October 24

All times are local (+1) denotes next-day arrival

Flight bookings are open on all channels, including Air India's official website, mobile app, and authorised travel agents and partners.

#airindia #diwali #indianews #holidayseason #feastivalspecial

Saudi Arabia has mainly emerged as a front-runner to become the Middle East's top tourist destination.

Under the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, the Kingdom has experienced a prominent 73% growth in tourism as per the latest UN Tourism, catching global attention and surpassing its local neighbour, the UAE, which has long dominated the international tourism industry. The United Arab Emirates and mainly Dubai continue to attract millions of travellers with its luxury shopping, world-class infrastructure, and mega-events. Saudi Arabia's strategic focus on cultural, religious tourism and luxury developments reshapes the tourism landscape. By promoting its rich cultural heritage, futuristic mega projects and religious prominence. Saudi Arabia is drawing a border and a more varied audience that appeals to high-spending international tourists. The analysis explores the key factors driving Saudi Arabia's rapid increase and compares them with the UAE's steady and established approach to tourism growth. With both countries majorly investing in their tourism sectors, seeing closely reveals why Saudi Arabia is outpacing the UAE in attracting international visitors and becoming a global tourism powerhouse.

 Critical Components of Vision 2030 in Travel and Tourism Investment and Infrastructure Development

The Saudi government has set aside nearly $1 trillion to build its tourism infrastructure. This involves constructing 500,000 hotel rooms and significant projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project. The project aims to attract tourists and keep Saudi Arabia a luxury destination competing with the UAE's premium offerings. The Red Sea Project features over 45 hotels and more than 8,000 rooms, thus creating a world-class destination with beautiful leisure facilities and natural reserves.

 Visa-free policies

Saudi Arabia allows visa-free entry for citizens of around 49 countries, making travel to the Kingdom more accessible as part of its efforts to boost tourism under Vision 2030. This includes nations such as Australia, Canada, the United States, and many European countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Visitors from China can also benefit from the visa-free policy alongside other nations such as Japan, South Korea, Russia and New Zealand. Visa-free entry extends to numerous Middle Eastern and European countries, such as Austria, Denmark, Norway, and Hungary. By providing visa-free access to these 49 nations, Saudi Arabia aims to attract a broader range of international tourists, supporting its goal to position itself as a major global tourism destination.

 Saudi Arabia's Global Travel Shift: Growth in Business, Leisure and Spiritual Travel

In Saudi Arabia, a landmark shift towards inviting people from across the globe has led to a dramatic increase in international visitor numbers, driving growth across business travel, leisure travel, and religious tourism.

Some visa restrictions and promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage alongside religious tourism. The Kingdom has opened its doors to broader customers than ever before. This transformation has created a booming tourism industry that appeals to corporate and leisure travellers, presenting prominent opportunities for global investors.

 Targeting Key Markets: Attracting High Spending Tourists.

Although the UAE often focuses on AMSS tourism, Saudi Arabia has strategically targeted high-spending travellers from key markets such as China, India and Europe. The emphasis here is on quality over quantity, allowing the Kingdom to avoid the over-tourism issues that more mature destinations face.

 Infrastructure Development: Luxury Accommodations Lead the Way

Out of the nearly $1 trillion investment, a substantial portion is allotted towards building 500,000 hotel rooms with projections suggesting portion is allocated towards building 500,000 hotel rooms, with forecasts suggesting that 150,000 to 200,000 new rooms could be added in just the next two years. This puts the UAE on notice as Saudi Arabia's emphasis on luxury accommodations quickly makes it a competitive force in the region's upscale tourism market. 82% of the new hotel developments are expected to be in the luxury segment.

 King Salman International Airport: A Game Cager for Saudi Arabia's Tourism Growth

Saudi Arabia is making gradual strides in expanding its aviation infrastructure. The development of King Salman International Airport in Riyadh is believed to have made it one of the biggest airports in the World. Once completed, the airport is expected to handle 120 million passengers annually, with plans to increase its capacity to 185 million by 2050.

 Giga Projects and Attractions: Cultural Heritage Meets Modern Tourism

Besides this infrastructure, Saudi Arabia invests in giga projects, highlighting its distinctive cultural heritage while providing tourists with memorable experiences. Some iconic projects, like Diriyah Qiddiya and the UNESCO World Heritage site of ALUla, are developed to provide authentic and indulgent cultural expertise that sets the Kingdom apart from the UAE's modern luxury-focused appeal.

 AlUla: Saudi Arabia's Cultural Crown Jewel

A tourism success in a region that perfectly mixes ancient history with modern luxury to attract domestic and international tourists. The Kingdom is actively promoting ALULa as a premier destination through numerous key strategies curated to compete with the UAE's established tourist appeal.

 Strategic Marketing Campaigns: Taking AlUla To The World

In February 2024, the Royal Commission for AlULa launched the global marketing campaign Forever RevitalizingRevitalizing. This campaign targeted high-potential markets like the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the US, China, India and the GCC to increase international visitor numbers from 35% to 45% by 2024.

The initiative outlines Saudi Arabia's strategy for attracting high-value travellers who seek cultural and natural experiences, distinguishing AlULa from the more modern attractions of the UAE.

The Royal Commission for AlULa aims to attract 291,000 visitors in 2024 and 380,000 by 2025, building on the 263,000 visitors recorded in 2023.

 Infrastructure Development: Expanding for the Future

The infrastructure plan aids in ALULa's growth as by the end of 2024, the region aims to increase hotel capacity from 824 rooms to 1300, further expanding to 5,500 rooms by 2030 and 8,500 by 2035. This includes new openings like Dar Tantora The House Hotel and The Chedu Hegra, both aimed at attracting luxury tourists.

ALULa's cultural significance differentiates It from other destinations, including the UAE. It is home to Saudi Arabia's first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site. ALULa gives visitors a glimpse into ancient civilizations, with archaeological sites like Hegra spanning over 200,000 years.

Economic Impact: AlULa as a Key Contributor

The development of AlULa is expected to contribute around 120 billion Saudi riyals to Saudi Arabia's GDP by 2030, creating 38,000 jobs in the process.

 Partnerships and Collaborations: Enhancing Connectivity

To enhance accessibility, the RCU has an alliance with many Airlines to improve connectivity with AlULa, mainly from Europe and the US.

Flights account for 65% of arrivals, undermining the Kingdom's aim of attracting high-end tourists who value cultural and heritage experiences.

Dubai's Tourism Growth in 2024:UAE's Staedy Expansion

While Saudi Arabia is experiencing a rapid 73% growth in tourism, Dubai continues to perform strongly in the global tourism market. In the first half of 2024, Dubai invited 9.31 million international overnight visitors, an 8.9% increase from the previous year.

Comparing Tourism Strategies: UAE vs Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia and the UAE continuously invest heavily in their tourism sectors, but their approaches and focus areas show vital differences.

Tourism Infrastructure development: UAE's established Base vs Saudi Arabia's New Giga Projects

The UAE has long been known for its world-renowned infrastructure, with Dubai leading the way through iconic hotels, resorts, and airports catering to leisure and business travellers.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is catching up quickly with its large-scale giga projects like NEOm and the Red Sea project, which are curated to position the Kingdom as a global leader in luxury tourism.

 Diversification of Tourism Offerings: UAE's Broad Appeal Vs Saudi Arabia's Cultural and Religious Focus

The United Arab Emirates has long focused on luxury shopping, beach resorts, and religious tourism. The Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages are central to its tourism strategy, with plans to significantly increase religious visitors. Although the UAE provides more modern attractions, Saudi Arabia leverages its heritage sites like ALULa, appealing to tourists seeking historical and spiritual experiences.

 Government Initiatives: UAE's Well-Established Policies vs Saudi Arabia's Aggressive Promotion

The UAE government has promoted tourism through visa reforms and marketing campaigns,

ensuring the country remains an accessible and attractive destination. Events like Expo 2020 Dubai and year-round cultural initiatives have been instrumental in maintaining the UAE's high visitor numbers.

Compared with Saudi Arabia, it has taken a more aggressive approach, rolling out Vision 2030 with substantial investments and promotions to boost its global tourism appeal. Saudi Arabia's rapid push into the tourism market contrasts with the UAE's more gradual promotion of its tourism sector.

 Visa Free Policy

The UAE has made travel more accessible for tourists by providing visa-free entry to citizens of 55 countries, including Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, and many European Union member states, such as Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Travellers from Japan, Israel, and Mexico can also enjoy visa-free access to many Middle Eastern countries, such as Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

They include that the citizens of Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland benefit from the UAE's open visa policy. This initiative is part of the UAE's strategy for boosting tourism by making the country more accessible to a broader international audience, enhancing its appeal as a global spot.

 CustomizedCustomized Travel Experience: UAE Tailored Luxury vis Saudi Arabia's Emerging Luxury Market

Saudi Arabia is just beginning to develop its luxury market, with projects like Amaala and Sindalah targeting wealthy international tourists. While the UAE has an established reputation for luxury, Saudi Arabia's emerging luxury sector provides new, distinctive experiences that appeal to diverse tourists.

 UAE Tourism Infrastructure Investments: A Steady Path to World-Class Experiences

With Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030's rapid growth, the United Arab Emirates follows a more established yet ambitious path for boosting its tourism industry. The UAE focuses on expanding its already world-class infrastructure, ensuring it continues to be a global tourism hotspot, while Saudi Arabia rapidly builds its futuristic attractions.

 Big Investment Plans: UAE's Strategic Commitment to Infrastructure

The UAE is all set to invest over $10 billion in tourism infrastructure as part of its new long-term tourism strategies. These investments will fund the development of attractions, hotels, and other tourism facilities to continue positioning the UAE as a premier travel destination. Unlined Saudi Arabia is building much of its tourism industry from the ground up in the UAE and is expanding its already well-established foundation. Tourism investment in the UAE grew by 15.1 % in 2023, and it's expected to rise by nearly 12.5% in 2024. By 2034, total assets are projected to reach around AED 50.9 billion. While Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid growth, the UAE's established reputation as a global transit hub is something Saudi Arabia is still building towards with new projects like Riyadh's new airport.

 Hotel Construction: Enhancing Capacity for Meeting Future Demand

As part of its long-term vision, the UAE is focused on enhancing the number of hotels and resorts to meet the ever-growing demand for accommodations. In Abu Dhabi alone, hotel rooms are set to increase from 34,000 to 52,000 by 2030. New hotel chains like Nammos and Mondrian continue attracting luxury and mid-range tourists. Saudi Arabia's hotel development focuses majorly on luxury accommodations.

 Attractions and Entertainment: A Mix of Culture and Adventure

The UAE's diverse range of attractions continues to drive its tourism success. Significant developments include:

• The construction of the Guggenheim Museum.
• The expansion of Warner Bros World.
• The introduction of Harry Potter World.
• The enhancement of Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi.

By contrast, Saudi Arabia focuses more on cultural projects such as ALULa and the Diriyah Gate. Still, it is also making strides in entertainment with projects like Qiddiya.

The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031: A Vision for the Future

All these developments are perfect for the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to attract AED 100 billion in investments and boost the sector's GDP contribution to AED 450 billion by 2031. The objective is to make the UAE a top spot in the region and a world-renowned tourism hub.

Economic Collision of Tourism in the UAE: Slow Growth Path as Compared to Saudi Arabia's Rapid Surge

The United Arab Emirates is known for its prominent contribution to the tourism industry. In 2023, the sector contributed 11.7% of the UAE's GDP, amounting to AED 220 billion, and this is expected to rise to 12% by 2024. While these figures mirror the UAE's steady growth, Saudi Arabia's rapid 73% tourism growth under Vision 2030 pushes the Kingdom toward a transformative development period, allowing it to quickly catch up with the UAE's established sector.

UAE's Long-term Investment in Tourism

The World Travel and Tourism Council projects that the UAE's tourism industry will contribute around AED 275.2 billion to GDP by 2034, a testament to the country's ongoing commitment to fostering tourism as a significant economic driver. In comparison,

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 projections are objective for similar long-term impacts with a focus on building the Kingdom's economy through tourism investments that rival the UAE's.

Tourism investment in the UAE is expected to grow by 12.5% in 2024, following a 15.1% increase in 2023; by 2034, total investments will reach AED 50.9 billion. The UAE recently led the Gulf Cooperation Council in tourism investment as a percentage of GDP, with around 9% of its GDP going into the tourism sector, and this is expected to rise to 12% by 2030. This sustained investment ensures that the UAE remains a key player in regional tourism even as Saudi Arabia's never projects rapidly gain traction.  

Creation of Job and economic Diversification

Tourism in the UAE moves beyond its GDP contributions; therefore, it plays a vital role in creating jobs and diversifying the economy. Also, in 2023, the sector generated approximately 809,000 jobs, projected to increase to 833,000 by 2024; employment across numerous activities and fields has fostered economic stability and diversified revenue streams for the UAE.

The 2030 Vision of Saudi Arabia also prominently emphasizes job creation via its tourism initiatives, with projections showcasing that the tourism sector could employ over 3.6 million people by 2034. While the UAE has been a leader in this space, Saudi Arabia's aggressive investments in tourism infrastructure are expected to close the gap in employment growth over the next decade

 Why Is Saudi Arabia Beating the UAE in Tourism Growth?

Saudi Arabia and the UAE have made impressive strides in developing their tourism sectors. Saudi Arabia's rapid 73% growth shows a transformative shift outpacing the UAE's more established but slower growth trajectory. The main reason behind Saudi Arabia's growth is its strategic promotion. Conversely, when continuing to invest prominently, the UAE builds upon a more mature foundation, thus resulting in steadier growth.

Yet another main factor is Saudi Arabia's focus on cultural tourism. The Kingdom's emphasis on expanding the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages and promoting historical and cultural sites like ALULa and Diriyah has made a testament to an abroad audience seeking distinctive, spiritual, and authentic experiences in areas where the USE has less emphasis.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia's rapid infrastructure expansion has allowed it to open up newer destinations at an accelerated pace compared to the UAE's more gradual development. While the UAE continues to lead in established luxury markets, Saudi Arabia is tapping into high-speed travellers through newly developed luxury resorts, cultural projects, and personalized travel experiences, giving it a competitive edge in attracting international visitors.

• Saudi Arabia

 Riyadh- A City of Culture and Progress

Being the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh represents the Kingdom's heart. It is where modern skyscrapers are built with historical landmarks. Start your journey at the National Museum, which offers a deep dive into Saudi Arabia's culture, history and evolution. You can explore the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, which highlights the country's founder and his legacy.

For the latest and modern experiences, Kingdom CCentre offers an extraordinary view of the enthralling cityscape from its sky bridge. Shoppers and food lovers would find the mall a great spot to explore luxury brands and dine at high-end restaurants. Visit Al Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a quarter of a cultural indulgence. The restored mudbrick infrastructures of Diriyah take you back to the roots of Saudi Arabia's royal family, providing a glimpse into the history of the Arabian Peninsula.

Riyadh also hosts exciting annual events like the Riyadh Season, a festival that brings art, culture, and entertainment to the city. You will get from international concerts to traditional Saudi performances. For a more local vibe, indulge in the food markets or a traditional Arabic coffee at any of the city's charming cafes.

• Jeddah

Jeddah is the door to Mecca, a city known for its cultural diversity. Credit goes to its Red Sea coastline and history as a port city. The Corniche is one of Jeddah's most picture-friendly attractions, providing miles of waterfront walks, art installations, and parks.

• AlULa

ALULa is Saudi Arabia's most exciting historical landmark, situated northwest of the Kingdom. It is famous for its remarkable desert landscapes and old heritage. The city is home to Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 131 monumental tombs and beautifully carved facades dating back to the Nabataean Kingdom.

• Dammam

Dammam, the capital of Saudi Arabia's Eastern parts, sits alongside the Arabian Gulf, providing a laid-back coastal atmosphere. The Corniche of Dammam is a family-friendly space with parks, restaurants, and stunning views of the Gulf.

• UAE

Dubai—Dubai has become one of the most iconic cities globally, famed for its luxury towering skyscrapers and futuristic vision. Start your adventure at the Burj Khalifa, the World's tallest building, where you can enjoy unparalleled city views from the 148th-floor observation deck. The Dubai Mall, one of the biggest in the World, is next door, housing hundreds of retail outlets, an aquarium, an indoor ice rink, and a cinema.

• Abu Dhabi

The capital of the UAE balances cultural richness with cutting-edge development. Start your tour with the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a breathtaking structure combining Islamic architecture and modern design. Marbel-clad walls adorned with intricate calligraphy and gold details are a must-see. Just as culturally enriching is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which hosts various global artworks offering a fresh perspective on human civilizations.

• Ras Al Khaimah

RAK is situated in the northernmost region of the United Arab Emirates and offers different experiences in nature, adventure, and history. It is quite famous for the Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE, where thrill seekers can enjoy the World's longest zipline and stunning mountain views.

• Sharjah

It is often the cultural capital of USE Sharjah, providing a quieter, more traditional experience than the glamorous neighbours. Begin your day at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, home to thousands of rare artefacts, including manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles. A movement through the Heart of Sharjah brings you back in time with restored buildings that capture the essence of the emirate's history.

Art lovers should not miss the Sharjah Art Foundation, a hub for modern exhibitions and contemporary art installations by regional and international artists.

#sauditourism #uaetourism #tourismnews #uaenews #holidaydestination 

Travel companies said the Emirate's mix of sports events, luxury, and landscapes makes it a prime sportcation destination.

Travellers in the UAE are all splurging on “sportcations", with some spending up to Dh10,000 a night to enjoy the country's top-notch sports facilities and exceptional experiences. Travellers coming to the UAE quite often take advantage of the country's top-notch sports facilities and events, enjoying a seamless mix of leisure and fitness during their stay. Sportcation is a growing trend worldwide, and travel is mixed with various sports and fun activities with multiple options. From Dh370 to Dh10,000 per night, these packages cater to different budgets.

Rikant Pittie, co-founder of EaseMyTrip, said that the UAE's mix of sports events, luxury and landscapes makes it a prime sportcation spot. He said, "Ras Al Khaimah has become increasingly popular, particularly during colder months. Its Hajar Mountains offer great mountain biking and hiking. The emirate's varied scenery, from ancient forts to beaches, enhances its appeal. Marjan Island is ideal for running and cycling and hosts events like the Ras Al Khaimah Triathlon."

As per Easemy Trip, the costs for a sportcation can vary significantly. Economy class flights typically range from Dh1,500 to Dh2500 for a round trip. For accommodations, three 3-star hotels charge around Dh200 to Dh400 per night, while 4-star hotels start at Dh250 and can go up to Dh450 per day.

Spending leisure on sports cations

Similarly, residents of the UAE have increasingly embraced sports cations, often willing to spend up to 20 per cent more on these distinctive experiences. For example, Abu Mohammed, a UAE resident for the past decade, shared his perspective on this trend, saying he never mind spending 10 to 20 per cent extra on his favourite sport when on vacation. Initially, he planned a visit to Qatar in 2021 but postponed his trip to coincide with the FIFA World Cup in 2022, aiming to combine his vacation with his passion for sports. "While accommodations were slightly pricier, I was determined to spend up to 20 per cent more to experience the World Cup live for the first time". Similarly, Adnan Chaudhary, a frequent traveller and fitness enthusiast, emphasized the relevance of sports activities when selecting travel destinations. In light of this growing interest, Matthew Viemmiks, leisure manager at Dnata Travel, shared his insights into the ever-increasing trend of sports. He noted, "We introduced a sports division in recent years to meet the rising demand for sports travel from the UAE; Dnata Travel now offers packages that combine tickets to sporting events with flights, accommodations, and extras such as hospitality packages and stadium tours, among other benefits."

He further explained their offerings, highlighting famous upcoming events: "We have launched sports travel packages for fans, including the 6 Kings Slam in Riyadh, the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2024, the Premier League clash between Manchester City and Manchester United, and the Formula1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2025. All packages include applicable taxes and service fees, making it easier for sports enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite events."

Vlemmiks also observed that Formula 1 football and cricket packages are particularly famous among sports package bookings. "Recent examples include offerings for the ICC Cricket and T20 World Cups in India and the Caribbean as well as various Grand Prix and Premier League football packages throughout the year."

Lastly, he pointed out the increasing demand for sports events in Saudi Arabia, stating, "With sport now part of Riyadh Season and the country hosting high-profile boxing and other events, Saudi Arabia continues to establish its position as a leading destination for sports alongside other GCC countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain."

Top sport-cation destinations

Rashida Zahid, VP of Operations at musafir.com, highlighted famous sports-cation destinations for UAE residents throughout the year. "In winter, favourites include Georgia, Baku, Montenegro, and Switzerland. Spring and early summer destinations such as Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Nepal are in demand, while summer travellers prefer Zanzibar, France, and Greece. Autumn sees interest in France, Spain, and South Kores," she said.

She added, "Emerging spots gaining popularity are Costa Rica, Nepal, Latvia and Slovenia, with Albania being a top choice for hiking. Georgia, Slovenia, and Austria are also sought after for skiing."

Zahid noted that famous sports among UAE residents include skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, surfing, diving, snorkelling, and trekking. The Maldives is also one of the top destinations for UAE residents seeking sportscasting, offering adventure, relaxation, and tropical beauty.

Tom Van Tuijl, General Manager at Kandima Maldives, shared, "Football is top-rated among our Middle Eastern guests who frequently choose yoga and Pilates for wellness. There is a growing interest in adventure, like parasailing and diving. At Kandima Maldives, families can enjoy activities such as Football, volleyball, swimming and tennis together. For those looking for more adventure, diving, parasailing, and motorized water sports are available at an additional cost. Prices at the resort start from $275 for a half-board stay for two adults," Van Tuijl said.

Bulat Nurmukhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, highlighted the Russian capital as a diverse accommodation destination for UAE residents. Popular sports for UAE residents include drifting, horse riding, and quad biking. These activities are gaining traction, with quad biking and horse riding being particularly popular. Specialised accommodation packages cost $100 per person," Nurmukhanov said.

Nurmukhanov said seasonal trends affect sport-cation preferences prominently.

"There is an increased interest in running, cycling and outdoor training in summer. Moscow also hosts mass sports events and festivals, such as Moscow Sports Day, which features diverse sports and activities. When temperatures drop, Moscow transforms with ski tracks, skating rinks and curling alleys opening in parks. Activities at these sites are often free, and professional coaching is available," added Nurmukhanov.

#uaenews #sports #tourism #sportcation #games #tourismcommunity

Unveiled at the ongoing Arabian travel market in 2022, the vision determines the Emirate's leadership in conscious tourism.

Ras Al Khaimah, Tourism Development Authority, is set to undertake a bold new approach to sustainability—balanced Tourism—a key milestone in its strategy for driving overall sector growth and becoming the regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025. 

Under Balanced Tourism, the Authority is trying to shape tourism in the UAE by simply placing all critical aspects of sustainability at the centre of its investment and development strategy. Thus, avoiding issues surrounding tourism, such as overdevelopment, crowding of heritage sites, and spoiling its distinctive natural environment, creates a destination that resonates with today's responsible travellers.

In September 2021, Balanced Tourism follows the Authority's declaration of its sustainable Tourism Destination Strategy to secure the Emirate's long-term sustainability and drive overall growth through four key pillars: Sustainable development, Cultural Conservation, Attractions Built with purpose and Community and Liveability. Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, "The need for good stewardship of our cultural heritage, environment, people and infrastructure has never been stronger, especially in post-pandemic times. Balanced Tourism does precisely that as we become ever-mindful of the economic, social and environmental impacts on tourists. Simply put, it is time to move beyond just using less plastic and adopting an all-inclusive approach from ensuring new projects such as hotels are developed at an organised pace to building new attractions with sustainability at their core."

 Conservation of the Culture

The integrated approach also consists of cultural conservation; additionally, being the most fortified Emirate with over 65 forts due to its relevance as a trade route, RAK houses four archaeological sites on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list more than any other Emirate. The Authority has maintained a long-term investment plan to protect and enhance these and other critical cultural projects. This consists of Suwaidi Pearls Farm, the only site in the UAE that cultivates local pearls, all done by hand to preserve the Emirate's culture and traditions. It has also embarked on a phased restoration program at Jazirah Al Hamra, one of the last surviving pearl diving and safeguarding towns in the Arabian Gulf. Scheduled to be completed in 2025, experts are working in line with UNESCO guidelines for restoring traditional and sustainable materials to make it accessible to the public as an attractive destination.

 Spots with Purpose

With the balanced Tourism platform, all upcoming attractions will be purpose-built with sustainability standards and processes. Travellers can expect environmentally conscious development around Jebel Jais and more than 20 new sustainable tourism initiatives developed all across the Emirate. One example is the Scallop Ranch at Al Hamra Marine, a first-of-its-kind attraction in the UAE that supports and enhances understanding of the marine ecosystem with seagrasses and sea cucumber species within the farm.

 Community and Liveability

Additionally, RAK Tourism Authority embraces liveability as part of its balanced Tourism ethos. This consists of many policies in place to promote employee well-being. The Authority has also launched RAKFAM, a series of initiatives to enrich connectivity, community life, and facilities for Emirate tourism sector employees.

Providing a framework for action all across a diverse programme of activity, with the guiding principles include-

• Safeguarding and enhancing the Emirate's cultural and natural heritage
• Delivering new sustainable tourism developments
• We work with business, government and community partners to ensure economic return from tourism investment and human capital development.

The city of Dubai welcomed millions of international visitors between January and March 2022, up from millions of visitors during the same period last year.

This showcasing a massive 214 percent YoY visitation growth puts the city firmly on track for this year while at the same time reaffirming Dubai's position as the primary spot for global visitors.

Dubai ranked No. 1 globally in hotel occupancy in the first quarter of 2022 with 82%. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai said, "Dubai's ability to surpass other major global cities in key tourism indicators demonstrates the success of the far-reaching vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai for creating a centre for business, investment, entrepreneurship and tourism that competes the worlds best.

The strength of His Highness's revision and his fast determination to make it a reality has enabled Dubai to overcome the most complicated global challenges, including the repercussions of the recent worldwide health rises, to create a destination that provides rich value for tourists, whether they are visiting for leisure or business.

"The exceptional number of visitors in the first three months of the year is a testament to the fact that Dubai is at the forefront of global tourism recovery. These results attest to the Emirate's ability to develop a compelling new value proposition in a changing global environment and create innovative new offerings that meet the needs and preferences of the most discerning global travellers. Additionally, the vast global diversity of its visitors reflects Dubai's appeal as a destination that cuts across nationalities, regions, and continents and its growing status as a city that bridges global markets and cultures," His Highness added.

As per the latest data released by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism at the ongoing Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the first quarter international visitation mirrored the best Q1 performance since teh global pandemic, creating a clear pathway for the city to progress towards its covered goal of becoming the worlds most visited destination.

March 2022 was an exceptional month for post-pandemic tourism arrivals as the city invited millions of visitors, an 11 per cent increase over pre-pandemic visitation. The town invited millions of overnight visitors in March 2019. Dubai's impressive Q1 2022 results include a stellar hotel performance that shows prominent growth across key hospitality metrics. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, commented, "Spearheaded by the visionary leadership and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the exceptional performance in Q1 2022 cements Dubai's position as the destination of choice for international travellers and lays a solid groundwork for the city to deliver sustainable growth. The biggest successful Expo 2020 Dubai won a portfolio of leisure and business events in the first three months, placing the city on the world stage while reinforcing Dubai's global economy and tourism hub stand.

"Since leading global tourism recovery with the reopening of the city to international travellers in July 2020, Dubai has only gone from strength to strength, building on the momentum year on year by carefully calibrating a multi-pronged approach with the support of our valued ecosystem of stakeholders and partners to ensure the city remains open safe and accessible. With our result-oriented strategy becoming a role model for recovery, we are happy to invite the world as it yearns to be a part of Dubai's successful tourism journey.

"While these critical metrics of Q1 2022 allow us to benchmark our progress, we will seek to broaden Dubai's global appeal to new and diversified market segments and focus on encouraging greater length of stay and repeat visitation. And as we progress through 2022, we will also continually strive to achieve Dubai's vision of becoming the most sight travel destination and the best city in the world to live in and work in," HE Helal Almarri added.

Strongholds stage a remarkable comeback.

With the easing of travel restrictions worldwide, Dubai's local source markets delivered impressive tourism volumes in the first quarter. Both MENA and GCC collectively contribute 35 per cent of the volumes, mirroring Dubai's continued appeal to travellers from proximity makes. Overall, catering to the family-dominated GCC, travellers were a host of attractions and retail, sporting, and entertainment activities. Western Europe is subjected to 24 per cent of Dubai's tourism arrivals, while South Asia is estimated to be about 14 per cent of total international visitors.

Hotels lead the robust rebound.

Dubai hotels achieved prominent growth all across the key hospitality metrics in 2022, with average daily Rate, guest length of Stay and Occupied Room Nights exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

Achievements and Recognition

Making upon the city's drive to further diversify its offerings will ensure it is a broad tourist of all ages and interests. Q1 2022 witnessed the opening of the latest attractions and leisure spots, including the Museum of the Future.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, added, "Dubai's continued success, as demonstrated by the Q1 2022 results, validates the strategic framework that was put in place at the outset of the pandemic to implement the highest levels of health and safety, further reinforcing the trust that UAE residents and global travellers place in the city as one of the safest destinations in the world. Our commitment to safety travellers places the city as one of the safest destinations in the world. Our commitment to safety and the strength of our government, public and private sector partnerships, and our effective promotional and outreach have been fundamental in fueling growth in this period. As we are in the early stages of what promises to be an outstanding year for our tourism industry, we will continue to constantly dialogue with our domestic and international partners to sustain Dubai's multifaceted global throughout 2022 and beyond."

Global Happenings and Campaigns aided in driving Q1 growth.

As many references to the position of Dubai as an international incidents spot, the roster of global proceedings led by the 2020 Expo formed the cornerstone of Q1's success. Surpassing all expectations, Expo 2020 Dubai saw 192 countries participate in Connecting Minds and Creating the Future to celebrate culture, including the Dubai World Cup, World Government Summit, Binance Blockchain Week, and many more. Additionally, ATM 2022 and the ongoing Dubai Food Festival will strengthen Dubai's appeal as a family-friendly destination for the summer period. This year, DET will also celebrate the city's official events listings platform, Dubai Calendar. The continuous use of newer global campaigns to highlight the city's diverse destination proposition and reach international markets also significantly increased momentum, including the recent global campaign. Dubai represents featuring Hollywood stars Jessica Alba and Zac Efron. That is filmed by the Directors Guild award-winning Director Craig Gillespie Dubai Presents, declared in late 2021, and has been rolled out in 27 countries across 16 languages through cinema, print, broadcast, out-of-home, digital and social media channels. Since its launch, it has generated over 850 million views across multiple platforms, driving enquiries, stimulating engagement, and spurring bookings. In March, the campaigns featured world-famous celebrities with the release of Dubai presents Shah Rukh Khan, which sees the Bollywood superstar bringing into focus the best experiences ever in Dubai provides to international travellers.

Sustainability Initiatives

As the travel industry continues to expand and innovate, Dubai has launched some significant intervals curated to meet the requirements of a new generation of travellers seeking to explore destinations committed to sustainability. 2040 Dubai Urban Master Plan reinforces the city's varied development programmes embedded with sustainability features. In February 2022, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai's Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, started the Dubai Can sustainability initiative curated to encourage people to utilise regular lifestyle changes to inspire a movement to majorly diminishing the usage of the single-use plastic bottles with the efforts for enhancing Dubai's position as a leading sustainable destination.

Newer Approach for Driving Growth

A new strategy and regulatory bodies consisting of the latest declaration of more choices under the Golden Visa, as there is an increase in the duration of the visa from 30 days to 60 days starting from September, are all set to boost visitor arrivals further and encourage travellers to stay for a longer duration and explore the city's varied offerings while also aiding those who consider permanent movement towards Dubai. Additionally, the property investor and entrepreneur visas, Retire in Dubai, and Virtual Workig programmes give more flexibility and choices for talent to visit and stay in Dubai.  

#uaenews #tourismgrowth ##dubaitourism #worldclass #destination

Where to go and what to see in the city's man-made harbour.

A stretching desert metropolis and the UAE's most visited destination, Dubai has soared in popularity with tourists since the turn of the millennium. It has forged a reputation as a premier destination for shopping, fine dining and all-inclusive stays, with visitor numbers rising as the city has undertaken ambitious development projects that have become home to numerous superlatives, including the world's tallest building and the longest indoor ski slope. One such project is that of the Dubai Marina, which started in 2013. The area has become one of the calm waters and scenic views overlooked by soaring skyscrapers and has since evolved into one of Dubai's central entertainment districts.

The Marina is undoubtedly worth visiting on any Emirate trip. It provides dozens of options for more standard holiday Activities, like mall visits or more adventurous ventures. But where to start? We have made a list of the best things to do while there.

Go on a Walk

The Dubai Marina Walk covers almost five miles of waterside promenade and is home to over 60 dining ventures and 305 retail outlets, making it a great way to spend a day. Picturesque waterfront views can also be enjoyed throughout the route while the presence of doxes of skyscrapers such as Princess Tower, Cayan Tower and Marina 101 add to a backdrop of staggering urban beauty. The walk will take you across several of the attractions mentioned below, from the Mall to numerous cruise starting points; for something a little different, head to Covent Garden Market, an open-air market from October to April.

Go on a Beach

If the sweltering temperatures are getting too high, visiting the Beach might be an excellent way to cool off. Across the Marina, two family-friendly beaches provide stretches of golden sand that gently slope onto the emerald waters of the Arabian Gulf. Confusingly named The Beach at JBR and JBR Beach, both have a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities, from camel rides and jet skiing to inflatable waterparks and waterside markets.

Set Sail

Dubai's Marina provides spatial options for exploring the water. A famous option is a cruise on a traditional wooden dhow boat where guests can eat dinner while taking in the sights of skyscrapers, yachts and iconic buildings such as the Burj Al Arab or the Atlantis. Sightseeing boat tours will also cover most of these landmarks, while premium options include yacht tours that throw in breakfasts and barbecues. If you are searching for something more laidback, you can even use an abra or transport you via a short but scenic water route.

Visit the Mall

While the Marina Mall may be far smaller than the Dubai Mall, it is still worth a visit for those who want to pop in for some air-conditioned shopping while strolling the promenade. Its four floors are modest by Dubai's standards, though it still contains more than 140 shops and numerous dining options. You will find a range of international and local stores providing everything from fashion to electronics and a variety of entertainment areas, including a six-screen cinema and an indoor soft play area for kids.

Take on the zip line

Officially named XLine Dubai Marina, this zip line measures 170 meters in height and 0.6 miles in length, making it the longest urban zip line in the world. The line takes daredevils from Amwaj Towers to the Marina Mall at up to 50 miles per hour. Tickets start at AED 650. The Marina also provides other adrenaline-fuelled activities such as skydiving, indoor skiing and speedboat tours.

Dine Out

The Marina and Promenade area has an electric mix of dining options, from actual mall food halls to premium fine dining experiences. Pier 7 is arguably Marina's principal fine dining destination, with seven floors, each housing different restaurants, from hearty British cuisine to Asian fusion. And for something completely different, you can eat dinner suspended 50 metres in the air at Dinner in the Sky, held up by a crane while you enjoy tortellini or sea bass. The area does not have all novelty dining and expensive set menus. However, you will find everything from Wagamama to vegan restaurants: The Blacksmith, Loca Lito, and Asia Asia are famous options.

Visit Bluewaters Island

A more recent addition to Dubai Bkuewaters Island is a self-styled lifestyle destination comprising residential, retail, leisure and entertainment areas. It sits just opposite the Marina and has famous spots, including Dubai's Caesar's Palace, Hell's Kitchen, and Madame Tussauds. Linked to the Beach by a 300-meter walkway, the island provides walks along the coastline, though its defining spot is the Ain Dubai, a 250-meter tall Ferris wheel with 47 separate pods that is the tallest in the world.

Where to stay in Dubai Marina

The Marina and surrounding areas offer various accommodation options catering to varied budgets. Though there are few affordable options in the city, if you want exceptional views of the Marina and the Arabian Gulf at more affordable prices, try the Wyndham Dubai Marina. The hotel features 493 air-conditioned rooms, a spa, and an outdoor swimming pool at the southwestern corner of the water.

#dubaimarina #dubaiitinerary #uaenews #travelupdate #stayindubai #hotelbooking

Picasso, Da Vinci, and other workers used boasts to retrieve floating rubbish. Cynthia Drescher weighs up the new Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Cynthia Drescher told a friend, "This must be what it is like to walk around inside the Death Star," while strolling around the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a landmark for art and architecture opened to the public on November 11. Known as a museum city by architect Jean Nouvel, it is a collection of more than 50 buildings, including 23 galleries that hold 600 works of art. Its stark, white walls are bordered by lagoons, with most structures housed beneath a vast domed roof.

A deal between Abu Dhabi and France will see the Louvre name leased for 30 years. Loans of high-profile artworks from France's significant museums will fill many walls as the new sibling fills its collection. The works in display for its opening come from Paris greats and the Louvre: the Musee d Orsay Centre Pompidou Chateau de Versailles Musee Rodin, Musee Guimet, and Musee du quai Branly. Works have also been sourced from galleries outside France, such as the National Museum of Oman.

The most photographed artwork appears to be Jacques Louis Davids's large painting of Napolean crossing the Alps on loan from Versailles. It is a strange top pick that "works that qualify as classics to a Western viewer feel surreal at the multiculturalist Louvre Abu Dhabi".

If Napolean is not your thing, Leonardo da Vinci's La Belle Ferroniere is on loan from the Louvre Paris. This female portrait is almost as enigmatic as its more famous cousin, the Mona Lisa, only with a fraction of the crowds pursuing it. Some other works include Monet's La Gare Saint Lazare, Picasso's Portrait of a Lady, a Van Gogh self-portrait, and works by Magritte, Pollock, Warhol and Cy Twombly. Ai Weiwei's illuminated crystal tower structure forms the enclosed galleries' grand finale, leading visitors to an outdoor piazza beneath the museum's dome. Even the roof called Rain of Light by Nouvel is a work of art, with sunlight piercing its eight layers and 400,000 aluminium and stainless steel companies projecting geometric shapes on the floor below.

Unline the Paris Louvre, which is daunting even for a day-long visit. The new branch is doable in only a few hours, and travellers on an Abu Dhabi stopover can easily fit it between flights. Be aware that it still appears to be in the soft opening period, with viewing terraces unfinished, some signs marked off with masking tape as they wait for paint, and the gift shop so far lacking any Louvre-branded merchandise.

Finding its way, in general, is an issue that needs to be fixed or clarified. Signage and paths leading to locked globe doors are required. The situation is especially dire for artworks in the outdoor spaces such as the granite and slate fountain from 18th century Damascus, and few goes away from Jenny Holzer's specially commissioned work, which sees an ancient Sumerian script chiselled across an entire stone wall. These see few visitors as no explicit routes to visit them are marked on the paper maps or the walls.

Therefore, she prepared for a strict routing system as she tried to double back into the galleries. Having been to the cafe, she was forced out to rescan her ticket at the main entry. Regarding the cafe, it consists of a terrace to die for views, but the lack of rubbish bins combined with the breeze means that the remains of meals are blown into the museum's lagoons, and workers retrieve them with fishing nets in smaller inflatable boats.

The Louvre is on Saadiyat island, and it is a 20-minute taxi ride from Abu Dhabi's Corniche beachfront or a 30-minute taxi ride from the airport. Authorities have marked the area as a cultural district with plans for a Guggenheim Museum curated by Frank Gehry and a national museum of the UAE in partnership with the British Museum to be made by Fister Plus Partners. All of these have yet to start construction, and seeing how the Louvre was traditionally scheduled for a 2012 opening, do not bet on museums hopping on Saadiyat for maybe another decade.

So is it worth a visit? Yes, the sooner, the better. As word spreads of the treasures on show inside and the snaps taken of its photogenic angels rack up Instagram likes, crowds will grow fast. It is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture stocked with some of the most essential and renowned artworks on Earth, and the round-the-block day-ruining queues of the Paris Louvre are still determining it.

Travel essentials

Getting there

Etihad flies to Abu Dhabi from Heathrow for a 369-pound return.

Staying there

Saadiyat Island houses two beachfront, five-star resorts. The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi offers double rooms starting at 220 pounds, and the St Regis Saadiyat Island offers double rooms starting at 240 pounds.

More Information

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is closed on Mondays and open from 10 am to 8 pm every day except Thursday and Friday, when it closes at 10 pm. Entrance is 60 AED, and buying advance tickets online is highly recommended.

#abudhabi #uaenews #louvre #art #newopening

Have you ever thought of finding a boutique hotel in Dubai?

Instead, you get polished international chains, albeit with a nod, subtle or otherwise, to the UAE's bedouin heritage. There are many intricately carved dark wood furniture and plush tented canopies. Desert retreats come with private pools, spas, and services, so after a while, there is a danger that you may need to remember how to pour a drink or open your curtains. But where is it?

Which is where Ras al-Khaimah comes in. The northernmost emirate is building a reputation as an adventure travel destination. The new Alma Retreat is trying to fill the gap for those looking to get closer to nature. Guests stay in small but comfy cabins in RAK's dunes. They can opt into a diverse programme of activities, including yoga, fitness classes, meditation, desert walks, art and music sessions and time in the camp's ice bath and sweat lodge.

So far, so very un-UAE. It gets better. The food is prominently vegan, although meat or fish is usually available with your plant-based lunch or dinner. "The concept combines physical, psychological, and emotional health," Sarah Arnold said. "We want to provide something that helps guesses feel more balanced, detach themselves from their looks, nurture their soul, and be happy with who they are".

Originally from Germany, Sarah started the retreat after feeling burnt out by her demanding job as an IT strategist in Dubai. Having been to retreats in India and Sri Lanka, on her return, she felt the UAE was screaming for something the same.

She settled on less developed, less glitzy RAK, a 45-minute drive from Dubai. Alma was soft-launched with a tester season in February 2017. It didn't go smoothly; for starters, the tenets were not waterproof, but the kinks have been smoothed for this, the official opening season. Alma is a stop-off after a hectic, boozy Christmas break in Australia. One that worked its magic immediately, too.

It looks out onto dunes studded with shrubs and the occasional tree. The vibe they aim for says Sarah is a simplistic luxury, and they have it spot-on. Originally from Germany, Sarah started the retreat after feeling burnt out from her demanding job as an IT strategist in Dubai. Having been to retreats in India and Sri Lanka, on return, she felt the UAE was screaming for something similar. She settled on less developed, less glitzy RAK, a 45-minute drive from Dubai. Alma was soft-launched with a tester season in February 2017. It didn't go smoothly for starters; the tents were not waterproof, but the kinks have been smoothed for the official opening season.

The 15 cabins' turquoise and white frontage contrasts with the traditional darker hues of the decor at the neighbouring Bedouin Oasis camp. That one is a setup aimed at providing time-poor tourists with an authentic desert experience and giving them a crash course in the culture via belly dancers and bizarrely dodgy Europop speakers. So, no, this is not in the middle of nowhere, but the noise was less during my visit. Not least when sitting on the low sofa-style seating outside my cabin, looking out onto the dunes. It was an excellent spot for stargazing. Inside the cabins, white bedding continents the zen theme, and memory foam mattresses are a cut above your average camp bed. Bedouin-inspired touches such as the understand bed canopy and intricately patterned electric lamp add a little luxury, and while there is no Wi-Fi, those who cannot face a digital detox can charge their tech. Every cabin has a roofless but entirely private bathroom at the back. The water isn't heated, but showers, even in January, are warm.

A workout and yoga area with a canopy to exercise without heatstroke was under construction during the visit, but the winter sun didn't cause any problems. With low-lying seating and wooden tables on bedouin-patterned rugs, the communal area has the vibe of an upmarket hostel. The Yoga classes take place twice a day. Alma has a roster of instructors, and Serbian native Eva was our teacher. Our group consisted of people with mixed abilities, from novices to years-long devotees. The teachers will tailor sessions per the group's needs to deal with that. My classes were variations of Ashtanga; Eva encouraged the more experienced to try trickier poses and gave anyone struggling easy-to-follow tips. Alma's USP is flexibility; instructors are there on one during a stay, and you can opt out of sessions as and when you like. But Sarah says that even guests who intend to relax are satisfied with the camaraderie of following the group schedule. Despite preconceptions that wellness retreats tend to be female last season.

The most crucial aspect of Alma is its food. "Too much is imported in the UAE," says Sarah, who grew up on a farm and likes to support local producers. So here, the menu is the work of local caterers, emphasising vegan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients; think pumpkin with chickpea curry, coconut cauliflower rice, and red lentil shepherd's pie. It is a word away from a Dubai buffet. Booze is off the menu at the Alma, and guests are encouraged to choose from herbal teas. We were offered a caffeine fix at breakfast in bulletproof coffee: coffee, butter, and coconut oil that can aid with energy and cognitive function. Anyone who gets peckish during the day can snack on rice cakes and butter or fruit.

In the cool desert evenings, the sweat lodge was an inviting addition. A take on a Native American ritual, it is a spiritual sauna experience warmed by fire-heated stones to purify the mind, body, and soul. Extreme versions involve intense meditation ceremonies lasting for several hours, though this is a lighter experience. Having had my spiritual fill for the day, I felt it was more of a place to warm up and relax before bed.

Travel essentials

Getting there

Emirates flies to Dubai from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and Glasglow for 323 pounds. Alam Retreat is a 45-minute drive from the airport.

Staying there

Alma Retreat has cabins that cost 190 pounds per person on an entire board.

#uaenews #retreat #tourismnews #dubaiupdate #meditation #yogaretreat #rak

How can you make the most of the visit to this impressive desert city?

Many tourist-friendly destinations in the UAE, such as Dubai, stay to attract and enthral visitors worldwide. The stretching-out metropolis is well known for its luxury hotels, duty-free shopping, and general glitter and glamour. Still, it provides a far broader scope of activities and attractions than its image suggests. An image of ultra-modern architecture, soaring skyscrapers and the blue waters of the Persian Gulf also possesses various well-preserved local sites and attractions of historic and cultural significance from the Jumeirah Mosque to Alserkal Avenue. This makes for a city with abundant and wide-ranging things to do. Whether you like exploring landmark districts, wandering the world's biggest mall, or having dinner in the desert, Dubai must have something to catch your attention. So whether you have already booked your trip or are still caught in two minds fear, here is the list of some of the best things to do in Dubai on your next trip.

Burj Khalifa. Dubai Fountain and Marina

Known as the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is a modern symbol of Dubai and one of its most visited sites. The structure stands 830 meters tall. Anyone can see the observation deck named 'At The Top' on the 124th floor of the building for a beautiful view of the city and its marina.

At the foot of the building lies the Burj Khalifa Lake, a 30-acre artificial lake known chiefly as the home of the Dubai Fountain. This 270-metre-tall fountain is the tallest performing fountain in the world, with light shows consisting of over 60,000 lights dancing to varied songs ranging from classical Arab to contemporary world pop. These two structures are perhaps the highlights of the Dubai Marina, a manufactured marina with a waterside promenade, its mall, and dozens of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Find the city's Old Town

Away from the malls and skyscrapers, you will get Dubai's characterful Old Town. Traditional buildings, local markets, and cultural centres are the draw here, with many of the city's best districts in the area. There is nowhere better to start than Al Fahidi. In this historic neighbourhood, gypsum buildings and wind towers have been restored to provide a contrasting reminder of the city's old skyline. Al Seef along the Dubai Creek waterside is a blend of the old and new, with more gypsum buildings, narrow, winding streets that meet more modern buildings, and a background of skyscrapers. Across the Creek lies Diers, a district renowned for its traditional souks.

Explore the Jumeirah Mosque

It was built in a Fatimid style, and the Jumeirah Mosque opened in 1979. It can accommodate 1500 worshippers. Easily recognisable with its two towering minarets, it is one of the only mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslims. It has guided visits and opportunities to learn about Islam, its customs, and history. The mosque is open every day other than Friday, so adhere to dress codes. The website does say that Kandooras, Abaya, and Sheilas are available to borrow.

Sail across the Dubai Creek

The location where many of the first settlers made their home and an early port, Dubai Creek, lies at the city's heart. Separating the Deira area from Bur Dubai, it is a famous tourist spot for the boast names abras that you can travel across the water for just 1 AED. There are two routes across the first, from Deira Old Souk Abra Station to Bur Dubai, while the second busier route goes from Al Sabkha to Dubai Old Souk. Each crossing takes around five minutes, giving the travellers exceptional views of the city's old and new parts.

Go shopping in the world's largest mall

Located next to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is the world's biggest shopping mall, with over 1200 shops covering over half a million square meters. Visitors and travellers can expect anything from luxury stores to well-known international brands and American department stores with over 200 different places to eat once they are done shopping. The mall houses an aquarium, underwater zoo and go-kart track for children, while the entire area is mercifully air-conditioned in the summer months.

Expedite on a Desert Safari

Various companies provide excursions into the desert surrounding Dubai, from camel riding and barbecue buffets to quad biking and overnight stays in tents. Spending a day rolling across the golden dunes provides an adventurous alternative to strolling around malls, whether you go on a leisurely drive dune baggy over the sands or visit conservation reserves to sea flora and fauna. Visitors and travellers can see the sunset as night falls and enjoy an unforgettable lamp-lit meal among the dunes. Combine this with an overnight stay to experience what Dubai's desert provides.

Explore the souks

Dubai's souks are a legendary form of the local Arab market. Some of them are among the most well-known attractions in Dubai, selling an enticing range of products, from spice mixes to gold and hand-woven local crafts. Many houses are in the Deira above district, including the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk.

The Gold Souk is arguably Dubai's most famous market, a beacon for those searching for gold, silver, and fine jewellery. The Spice Souk offers, as you would expect, a colourful array of spices and dried herbs. The Textile Souk is a network of covered alleyways offering clothing, shawls, and souvenirs made from silk, wood, and cashmere fabrics.

A handful of modern souks are built to provide different shopping experiences. The Madinat Jumeirah is prime among them and is part of the Madinat Jumeirah resort, which was made to mirror the local aspects and architecture of a soul. It also offers galleries, restaurants, and shops. The Ripe Markets Dubai's take on farmers' markets runs in different locations around the city, with street stalls and boutiques selling organic foods and fresh produce.

Head to the Beach

Beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the country of Dubai, but with the weather sometimes scorching, you may well appreciate a dip in the sea. The hundreds of miles of beaches here range from free-to-access stretches to exclusive beach clubs. JBR Beach is the emirate's busiest, with a long stretch of golden sand and a backdrop of the city's skyscrapers and the Ain wheel, while Jumeirah Open Beach is a more relaxed alternative. Kite Becah is another free access area, an eight-mile stretch of white sand that is also trendy for pop-up shops, food trucks and cafes. For a tranquil spot, try Sunset Beach, the city's only decent surfing beach, as it offers excellent sunset views and a particularly enviable view of the Burj Al Arab.

Know About The UAE at the Etihad Museum

Opened in 2016, the Etihad Museum shows contemporary Emirati history at the site where the UAE was founded in 1971. The museum's eight pavilions hold a range of artefacts and interactive guides, from personal possessions of the rules to the first written version of the country's constitution. Other exhibitions focus on pictures of the developing nation, documentaries, interactive maps, and homages to the critical moments before 1971. Tickets for the museum cost roughly 5 pounds, and spending at least an hour there is recommended to have a good nose around. Last ticket sales are at 7 pm ahead of an 8 pm closing time.

Go on an adventure in Hatta

If you venture beyond the desert, you will find the Hatta region in the Hajar mountains. The area contains a Heritage Village. A centuries-old restored village that retains its defensive tower stone houses and traditional falaj water system. Dramatic mountains offer scenic hiking and mountain biking opportunities, while canoeing, kayaking, and boat rides are available on the emerald lakes.

Take in the culture of Alserkal Avenue

Though the grey and blue warehouses of Alserkal may not look too inspiring from the outside, these buildings house dozens of art galleries, cafes and shops. The city's artistic hub, Alserkal, offers myriad surprises for visitors, whether stumbling across an independent records shop or watching indie films at Cinema Akil. Famous galleries include the Green Art Gallery, 1X1 and Carbon 12, while creative spaces like Kave: The Story of Things host workshops, including guitar making and embroidery. Food options, meanwhile, range from vegan tacos to handmade Belgian chocolate.

Get Golfing

Golf in Dubai caters to everyone from seasoned golf travellers to total amateurs, with activities ranging from championship courses to Top Golf driving ranges. The city hosts various professional tournaments, and its climate provides the perfect weather for getting out onto the greens (when summer temperatures soar to unbearable heights, many courses offer the opportunity to play at night under floodlights). Regardless of level, the chance to play surrounded by sea, sun, and skyscrapers is to be noticed. Some of the city's premier courses include the Trump International Dubai Creek, Emirates Golf Club and Jumeirah Golf Estates, with 20 to 175 pounds green fees.

Visit a Theme Park

Dubai has many theme parks and waterparks to keep kids happy during their visit. Global Village is a park for adults and children with various pavilions, shows, and dining areas that showcase culture from 90 different countries worldwide. At the same time, the IMG Adventure Park is the world's biggest indoor theme park, with dozens of rides and areas related to Marvel characters, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley of Dinosaurs. The Hollywood-inspired Motiongate has various rides inspired by blockbuster classics from Shrek to The Hunger. At the same time, the city's Legoland park is another famous choice, home to over 40 rides and attractions and six themed lands, plus its waterpark. Regarding waterparks, Dubai has several: Wild Wadi, Aquavenure and Laguna are some of the best, with wave pools, 18-metre waterfalls, lazy rivers and even a 34-metre tall tower ride among the highlights.

#dubaiupdate #attractions #uaenews #visitdubai

Swapping planes in Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi? Holiday in the UAE or Oman? On a cruise to or from the Gulf?

The killings have raised tensions across the Middle East, and Iran has vowed to take revenge. Various travellers may feel apprehensive. The British and US authorities advise their citizens in the key tourist destinations of UAE and Oman to be observant. However, for the travel industry, it appears to be business as usual, with regular policies applying for changes and cancellations.

Key questions and answers everybody must know.

How many British travellers are on holiday in the region?

From Foreign Office figures combined with flight patterns, I estimate that around 30,000 UK tourists are on holiday in the UAE, a further 3500 in Oman and 2500 in Qatar, with smaller numbers in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Iran. Perhaps 40,000 UK holidaymakers and British citizens live and work in the region. For example, the Foreign Office says more than 100,000 UK expatriates live in the UAE, with a further 20,000 in Qatar. Many more British travellers are changing plans at Gulf hubs, particularly Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.

What does the UK government advise after the US attack?

Late on Saturday, January 4, the Foreign Office updated its travel advice to all countries in the region with the same paragraph: "Following the death of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in US strike in Baghdad on January 3, Briths nationals in the area must remain vigilant and thus keep up dated with the latest developments including via the media and this travel advice."

Iran and Iraq are the only countries bordering the Gulf on the Foreign Office's "no go" list. However, there are longstanding concerns about terrorism in the UAE. The Foreign Office has been saying for some time that an attack is likely. It warns that possible targets include "oil, transport and aviation interests as well as crowded places including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques." At its close point, Dubai is about 100 miles from Iran's coast across the Gulf. A statement from the American embassy in the UAE says: "US citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness."

For Qatar and Oman, the Foreign Office says: "Terrorist attacks can't be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners."

What are the options for holidays booked in Dubai?

Unless the Foreign Office were to warn against travel to the UAE, which is an unlikely event, there would be no legal right for passengers to change their plans without penalty. This applies to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, ras Al Khaimah and elsewhere. The Package Travel regulations that govern holidays from the UK say that if the travel organiser cannot deliver what was booked because of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund. However, flights to Dubai and elsewhere in the region continue as planned, and the UAE's tourism infrastructure usually works.

If booked a stopover Abu Dhabi/Doha/ en route to final destination, can the destination be switched to an immediate departure?

There is no automatic right to do so, and a hefty fee might be payable. A spokesperson for Abu Dhabi-based Etihad said: "Our operations are continuing normally. As always, we continue to monitor regional developments and are in close contact with aviation regulations. No special arrangements are in place." A Qatar spokesperson said: "As the safety of our passengers and employees is of the highest importance, Qatar Airways continues to monitor the situation in Iraq closely and is currently operating normal scheduled services."

Can we switch flights to a direct flight because of the circumstances?

If your airline cancels either leg with no immediate alternative, you might be rebooked on a direct flight but do not have an automatic right to change.

Can we rebook on a different routing?

You could choose not to travel or select a route that avoids the region, for example, on Aeroflot via Moscow or Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa. But you would lose all the money for your original flight.

What about cruises?

In August 2019, P and O Cruises cancelled its entire winter 2019-20 Gulf cruise programme because of concerns about potential attacks. At the time, some observers said that teh fact that P and O is a notionally British company and uses the Union flag prominently could increase the risk of being targeted. A spokesperson for PandO Cruises said: "Itineraries are due to resume at the end of 2020 but will take advice from authorities, and if changes are necessary, then we will advise guests as soon as possible." All travel firms appear to be sticking to their regular cancellation change policies.

What about overflights of the region?

That is a severe concern for the aviation industry. Much European Asia traffic is routed via the Gulf, with flight paths typically crossing Iraq and Iran. If airlines decide to reroute them, it will lead to longer journeys, missed connections, and higher fuel costs. If your flight is affected, the airline must find a solution.

Could the hajj be affected?

Thousands of British Muslims are expected to pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia in 2020. However, as it will only occur in late July/early August, it is too early to say if and how travel will be affected.

Would you go to the Gulf right now?

I rate the risks of travelling to the UAE or other Gulf countries such as Oman and Bahrain as tolerably low. However, an attack cannot be ruled out.

#usenews #uaeupdate #flights #traveladvice