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    WTM Global Report: Domestic and inbound travel revive Middle East’s tourism economies

    Research released today confirms that the strong performance from Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates is behind the Middle East tourism industry’s full recovery from the pandemic.
    The WTM Global Travel Report, in association with Tourism Economics, is published to mark the opening of this year’s WTM London, the world’s most influential travel and tourism event.The number of leisure visitors to the region in 2023 is expected to reach 33 million, compared with 29 million in 2019. This 13% increase means that the Middle East is the only region fully recovered from the pandemic in volume. When measured in dollar terms, the Middle East leads the way, in growth terms, with a 46% increase in inbound spend compared with 2019.
    The Middle East is also outperforming all other regions for domestic travel, which has grown by 176% since 2019, albeit from a low base.
    The success of the region’s recovery from the pandemic is driven by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, with their commitment to tourism showing signs of success. The report notes that “both countries are investing heavily in tourism infrastructure, viewing tourism development as a key strategy to diversify away from hydrocarbons reliance.”
    Inbound and domestic in both markets is fully recovered from the pandemic. For Saudi, inbound is outperforming 2019 by 66% in dollar terms, with the UAE registering a 21% increase. For domestic visits, the countries are ahead by 37% and 66% respectively.ADVERTISEMENTThe next year is also looking good for the region’s overall inbound and domestic market as well as its two major markets. “Saudi Arabia will lead growth due to new visa arrangements and continued capacity development,” the report says, also noting Dubai’s “ability and desire to attract and host large-scale events of all types…” The picture is similar for domestic, with Saudi and the UAE reinforcing their leadership position in 2024.
    The long-term picture is also positive for the region and Saudi in particular. Over the next decade, the value of inbound leisure tourism to the country will increase by 74%, comparable with the growth profile for established markets such as Spain (74%) and France (72%).
    Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director, World Travel Market London, said: “The Middle East is one the most exciting and dynamic regions for tourism. The positive findings from WTM Global Travel Report show that the initial investments made in developing new tourism infrastructure are already paying dividends.
    “The WTM team continue to work closely with our sister event, Arabian Travel Market, to ensure continued support to the region in its ongoing endeavours.”

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    Participation of the Museo Diffuso dei 5 Sensi at WTM

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    WTM Global Report: tourists abandon sun loungers in favour of new experiences

    Research from World Travel Market London 2023, the world’s most influential travel & tourism event, has revealed that more holidaymakers are abandoning their sun loungers in favour of nature, foodie and wellness experiences.
    The exclusive WTM Global Travel Report – compiled in association with renowned researchers at Oxford Economics – notes “increasing demand for unique, authentic and personalised experiences” while people are away on vacation.The report, unveiled at WTM London on 6 November, cites social listening data curated by tourism intelligence specialist Mabrian in 2023.
    This “revealed that experiential activities such as wellness, nature and food tourism increased by over 10% compared with 2019”.
    “Meanwhile, traditional activities such as sunbathing were less important in travellers’ motivations compared with 2019,” says the report.
    It also notes how people “crave more opportunities to reconnect” in an increasingly digital world, with more meaningful in-person experiences “fast becoming the raison d’etre for travel”.ADVERTISEMENTFurthermore, climate change looks set to play a bigger role in consumers’ choice of holiday destinations and timings.
    “This is already influencing travel patterns after successive hot European summers,” according to the report.
    “In 2023, data from the European Travel Commission found that the popularity of Mediterranean destinations dropped by 10% compared with 2022, which was influenced at least in part by perceptions of weather.”
    The climate crisis has other influences over consumer trends and government policies, says the report.
    “This could mean fewer but potentially longer long-haul trips, and more local, short-haul trips,” it adds, noting a growing demand for volunteering and interacting with local communities.
    “Slow travel, which involves undertaking longer but potentially fewer trips, may also become an increasingly popular trend.”
    Meanwhile, many destinations have been grappling with the problems of overtourism, such as Thailand which had closed Maya Beach as thousands were lured there after it featured in The Beach.
    And next year, Venice will trial a new tax on day visitors, who have a significant impact on the city’s infrastructure.
    Elsewhere, outbound markets in emerging economies are continuing to grow, including China, India and Indonesia.
    As these countries become more affluent, more people can afford leisure travel, prompting new trends with different demographics and cultural preferences.
    “The ‘travelling class’ in China is expected to nearly double over the next 10 years,” says the report.
    “However, this represents only a very small portion of Chinese citizens (2.3%) which highlights huge potential for future growth. Similar growth opportunities exist also within India and Indonesia, to name just a few.”
    It also highlights how older people in China will become more affluent over time, which could mean more demand for holidays such as cruises.
    Furthermore, the report notes a resurgence in the demand for travel agents as consumers seek help to make the most of their time on holiday.
    Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at WTM London, said:
    “Trends in leisure travel are quickly changing, which mean this WTM Global Travel Report is a vital snapshot for the industry to see how markets fared in 2023 and what is in store for 2024 as post-pandemic consumer demands evolve.
    “Holidaymakers seem more determined to make the most of their precious time away – instead of just sun-bathing, more of them want to create treasured memories by booking experiences and excursions to get under the skin of their destination, to explore cultures, cuisine and nature.
    “After lockdown, we also saw that growing desire to enjoy the outdoors and connect with other people – but in an increasingly sustainable way.
    “Our report is vital for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it – and the discussions it will prompt can help to re-frame travel and tourism in a positive way for us all.”

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    Leisure travel is more important than ever for consumers

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    WTM Global Report: ‘Affordable luxury’ more popular amid ‘promising’ market sentiment

    New research from World Travel Market London 2023, the world’s most influential travel & tourism event, has revealed that “affordable luxury” is becoming more popular – despite the squeeze on many holidaymakers’ budgets.The exclusive WTM Global Travel Report – compiled in association with renowned researchers at Oxford Economics – has revealed that consumers generally remain determined to go on holiday and plenty are still prioritising upmarket options.
    The report, unveiled at WTM London on 6 November, says “affordable luxury” is becoming more popular “amid promising sentiment overall”.
    It explains that this growth area in travel aligns with a broader trend for consumers to seek out new and unique experiences on holiday.
    “After the pandemic and restrictions on travel, many have wanted to upgrade their experience…as consumers proactively catch up on missed tourism experiences,” says the report.
    Some of this demand may be the result of continued pent-up demand and savings accumulated during lockdowns – and relatively low unemployment rates in most countries.ADVERTISEMENTThe report notes: “Consumers unaffected by economic downturns are likely to continue opting for luxury destinations.
    “Meanwhile, those in lower income groups might increasingly feel the impact of squeezed personal incomes and seek out more budget travel options or reduce their travels overall.”
    The report cites United States consumer data from MMGY which suggests that the cost of living is having more of an effect on households with annual incomes under $50,000.
    However, those earning more indicated a “high likelihood” of future travel.
    Nonetheless, the report warns that some of the post-pandemic drivers of travel demand may have “gone into reverse in recent months”, posing a risk to continued expansion.
    It points to persistently high costs and the recovery of sterling and the euro, which is making the purchasing power of the US dollar weaker in Europe.
    The price of jet fuel is significantly higher than at the start of the year, putting pressure on air fares.
    Meanwhile, the travel industry continues to face supply side problems, amid geopolitical events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine – and staff shortages still affect many markets because large numbers of workers switched to other sectors during the pandemic.
    Consumers’ personal disposable income is also under pressure as their own transport and other living costs rise.
    Despite these headwinds, the report notes: “Higher costs have not yet been a significant deterrent to growth and travellers appear willing to pay higher prices.”
    Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at WTM London, said:
    “Commissioning the WTM Global Travel Report demonstrates our commitment to helping attendees at World Travel Market make informed decisions about up-to-date trends.
    “We are witnessing a remarkable resilience as people are still prioritising travel and many are seeking ‘affordable luxury’, such as higher rated accommodation or premium economy and business cabins instead of economy.
    “This offers those in the travel industry a chance to help consumers who want simple travel hacks to get more bang for their buck, such as being more flexible with departure dates or finding destinations that offer better value for money.
    “Savvy travel firms can capitalise on this tendency for consumers to value comfort over saving money by providing top tips for clients, loyalty schemes or added extras, for example.”
    Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA at Tourism Economics, said:
    “Findings show how consumers have a seemingly insatiable demand for travel despite a complex economic backdrop.
    “We hope this report sparks useful conversations over the course of WTM London and empowers tourism organisations to make better decisions about their strategies for 2024 and beyond.”

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    WTM Global Report: Domestic tourism leading Africa’s post-pandemic recovery

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    WTM Global Report: Domestic tourism leading Africa’s post-pandemic recovery

    Major destinations and source markets across Africa are expected to end 2023 ahead of pre-pandemic values in terms of value, with domestic tourism performing strongly, reveals new research published today.The WTM Global Travel Report, in association with Tourism Economics, is published to mark the opening of this year’s WTM London, the world’s most influential travel and tourism event.
    For 2023, the report predicts that African international inbound leisure will be down in volumes but up in value compared with 2019.
    This year an estimated 43 million people will visit the continent, a 13% drop on the 49 million guests welcomed in 2019. However, despite the drop in volumes, the value of these trips is 103% ahead of what 2019’s business was worth.
    As the report states, “the range of diverse countries has resulted in a varied picture” across the continent, and the inbound return for the three biggest markets illustrates the differences.
    Market leader Egypt is slightly ahead, with 2023 at 101% of 2019 in value terms; Morocco “has made a strong recovery” and will end the year 130% ahead of pre-pandemic levels. South Africa is the region’s third largest inbound market and the one taking longest to recover – 2023 will come in at only 71% of 2019.ADVERTISEMENTDomestic tourism for the region in 2023 is positive across the board, with all the top ten domestic markets, other than Nigeria, ahead of 2019 for value. South Africa is the biggest domestic market, and is ahead 104%. Number two Egypt is 111% up; third placed Algeria 134% up with Morocco completing the top five domestic markets, registering a 110% increase. Nigeria, which comes in at number four, is at 93% of 2019.
    Next year will see the region build on its post-pandemic recovery although South African inbound will continue to fall short of 2019.  However, the long-term picture for the region’s biggest market is positive. By 2033, the report expects that the value of inbound leisure to South Africa will be 143% ahead of 2024.
    It also identifies Mozambique, Mali and Madagascar are high-growth markets, with increases of 161%, 167% and 162% respectively in the value of inbound leisure travel by 2033.
    Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director, World Travel Market London, said: “Africa has so much to offer domestic and inbound visitors and its importance as a source market for outbound visitors to other destinations is growing all the time.
    “WTM London has always supported the region’s tourism industry, and we’re determined to step up our efforts across the board and to reinforce our message that tourism can be a global force for good, and nowhere is this truer than for Africa.”

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    Chestertons Global gallops ahead with launch of Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai

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    Chestertons Global gallops ahead with launch of Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai

    Chestertons, one of the world’s oldest and leading real estate advisory services, is galloping ahead with its international expansion with the launch of Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai. Taking place for the first time in the Middle East and supported by the Dubai Sports Council, Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai will be held on Saturday, 11 November at The Desert Palm Polo Club.
    Chestertons, which has over 30 offices in London, UK, has sponsored Chestertons Polo in the Park London for more than 10 years, during which time it has grown and evolved into the largest three-day polo event in the world, attracting more than 30,000 people each year.
    Chestertons Global, headquartered in the Middle East, is now bringing Chestertons Polo in the Park to Dubai as part of its continued international expansion. The first event is on an invitation only basis, with plans to host annual, public events from next year.
    Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai features two exciting matches between British and Middle Eastern teams.  The England Polo Team will play Northern Data Group Team Dubai, followed by Boadicea The Victorious Team Riyadh taking on Chestertons Team London.
    Salah Mussa, Chairman and Owner of Chestertons Global, said: “Chestertons has proudly supported this exciting form of city polo since it first came to London in 2010. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now a firm, much-anticipated fixture in London’s summer social and sporting calendar. ADVERTISEMENT
    “With our international headquarters in the UAE, bringing our event to Dubai is a natural progression in line with our continued growth in the region and internationally.  As a leading location for world class sporting events, Dubai is the perfect destination for Polo in the Park. We look forward to a successful event on 11th November – and every year thereafter.”

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    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS STUNNING NEW LOUNGES AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL’S NEW TERMINAL A

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    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS STUNNING NEW LOUNGES AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL’S NEW TERMINAL A

    Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has unveiled flagship premium lounges at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Terminal A. This follows Etihad making history when it operated Terminal A’s first commercial flight on 31 October, and the new lounge is revealed ahead of the airline’s full transition to the new Terminal which is phased to take place between 9 and 14 November.Etihad’s impressive new lounges span three floors of Terminal A’s north side, nestled between Piers C and D. The First and Business lounges feature a range of dining options, relaxation and entertainment spaces to suit all guests, including the stunning Constellation Bar at the enclosed Roof Lounge.
    “When designing the Etihad Lounges in our new home, Terminal A, our teams thought through every detail, ensuring an experience that will delight our guests from the moment they step through the door,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad.
    “The lounge is a hugely important aspect of our guests’ journey and we wanted to curate an impressive experience that will leave them wanting to fly again soon. In true Etihad style, we’ve been innovative with the design and will offer a selection of memorable experiences whether our guests choose to relax, indulge in various dining options or enjoy a refreshing drink at the signature Constellation Bar,” he continued.The Etihad lounges are accessible to guests flying in Etihad’s The Residence, First and Business Class and Etihad Guest members with eligible tier status. Guests flying in Economy who wish to enjoy the exclusive lounge space can purchase access to Etihad’s Business Lounge subject to availability.
    The Lounge is conveniently located with access to three gates offering direct-lounge boarding on selected flights, meaning guests in premium cabins can board straight from the Lounge for convenience and speed.Within the Lounge, expansive views of the runway can be savoured from the calm and tranquil retreat offered in the East and West Study, which offers guests the perfect place to watch aircraft take-off or come in to land.
    ADVERTISEMENTDining decadence and Rooftop loungeEtihad’s Business Class lounge features an array of dining experiences. Liwan Global Dining is Etihad Lounge’s informal, all-day dining restaurant which offers an abundance of choice featuring live cooking stations, Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisines alongside international favourites inspired by the destinations Etihad flies to.
    Guests can also choose to dine at the Roof Lounge at select periods and enjoy an international buffet of hot and cold dishes.
    For those preferring something lighter, there are multiple stations across the lounge where guests can help themselves to a selection of snacks as well as hot and cold drinks.
    The Constellation Bar within the Roof Lounge is decorated with a 172 piece, 25m long bespoke glass lighting sculpture– Panora – which depicts the Abu Dhabi city skyline. The bar will serve a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, wines and beverages, and is set to become a destination in itself for frequent travellers.
    The Relaxation Rooms provide private spaces complete with day beds and plush Armani Casa furnishings for guests to catch up on rest and refresh in one of the 18 beautifully appointed shower suites before their flight. Those preferring a more entertaining experience can head to the Games Room which is fully equipped with table football, air hockey and digital gaming options for all to enjoy.

    Family travellers continue to be important to Etihad and a bespoke Family Room has been thoughtfully designed with young travellers in mind, and comes packed with games, toys and books to keep little ones entertained. Additionally, Chesterfield sofas bring plush comfort to the Smoking Lounge for cigarette and cigar smokers.
    Prayer rooms have also been thoughtfully designed with ensuite ablution areas for comfort and convenience.

    A First class welcomeThe exclusive First lounge offers a dedicated reception lobby for Etihad’s most premium guests and a private elevator to access the Rooftop Lounge on the top floor of the complex.The First Lounge Dining Room offers an elevated dining experience with à la carte dining and a fine and boutique wine selection recommended by in-house experts. The cuisine will reflect the best of Emirati gastronomy as well as the destinations Etihad flies to.In The Parlour for First customers will be treated to a decadent selection of pastries, desserts and a signature tea experience in an elegant setting. The experience includes an array of tea ceremonies as well as signature coffee presentation.
    For the ultimate relaxation and indulgence before flying, First class Private Suites are available for guests to work, relax and dine in complete privacy. The Private Suites are complimentary for guests flying in The Residence and available for booking by all other First class lounge guests.
    On arrival in Abu DhabiIn addition to the First and Business class lounges in Departures, premium guests arriving in Abu Dhabi with pre-booked chauffeur services will be invited to visit the Etihad Chauffeur Lounge to shower, refresh or simply grab a quick snack or drink before meeting their chauffeur.

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    VISIT PORTUGAL GEARS UP FOR LARGEST PARTICIPATION EVER AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET

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    VISIT PORTUGAL GEARS UP FOR LARGEST PARTICIPATION EVER AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET

    Visit Portugal is excited to announce its participation, with the largest-ever delegation of 108 Portuguese tourism companies, in the World Travel Market, one of the most influential events in the global tourism industry.
    Nuno Fazenda, the Secretary of State for Tourism, stated: “I am very pleased to attend WTM this year, be a witness of the largest Portuguese participation ever in this relevant fair, in the UK, the Portugal’s primary tourism market, with proposals for every British targets. We’re committed with the development and promotion of differentiated tourist experiences, which adds value to the territories and to the tourists, making Portugal more attractive, and fulfilling our objective of growing. We have a strong purpose of welcoming everyone and respecting the differences and stands by the mission of affirming Portugal as one of the most competitive, safe, and sustainable destinations in the world.”
    The increased presence of Portuguese companies at WTM reflects the keen interest of Portugal in expanding the business within the UK market, demonstrates the strong bilateral relations between Portugal and the UK and provides an ideal platform for showcasing Portugal’s remarkable appeal as a travel destination.

    We highlight the relevance of the UK market that stands as the primary tourism market for Portugal, consistently delivering impressive results, so far. Comparing 2019, from January to August 2023 there is a growth in overnight stays of 5% and 11% in tourism revenues.ADVERTISEMENTAdditionally, visitors from the UK made up the largest share of international overnight stays in Portugal with an increase of over 5%. This remarkable growth cements Portugal’s position as a favourite destination among UK travellers. Furthermore, international airport arrivals also grew by 11% in 2023 vs 2019, while the year-on-year growth (2023 vs 2022) grew by nearly one quarter (24%).

    As part of the strategic approach to the tourism industry, Portugal has managed to stand out and reinvent itself, introducing a rich and high-quality range of tourism experiences that encompass wine tourism, nature, cultural heritage, art, literature, architecture, and gastronomy, which are all available year-round across Portugal.

    Sustainability and authenticity are also at the forefront of Portugal’s tourism plan, which is committed to funding tourism investment projects, supporting and prioritising investments in technology, infrastructures, and human resources. Portugal is dedicated to promoting tourism to the interior regions of the country, with the goal to achieving year-round tourism across the entire territory, enhancing the quality of life for locals, attracting people to the region, and revitalising kpthe places, traditions, history, and local culture.

    Visit Portugal extends a warm invitation to all attendees to visit their stand at WTM 2023, where guests can explore the myriad offerings of Portugal and engage with representatives from a diverse and dynamic tourism industry.

    Visit Portugal looks forward to welcoming visitors at Visit Portugal stand N4-200.For more information, please visit: www.visitportugal.com

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    Andalucía heads to World Travel Market in London in search of younger tourists

    A new tourism campaign, Andalusian Crush, uses the region’s rich cultural identity to showcase the area to potential future visitors, with a Game of Thrones theme
    Andalucía heads to its most important travel fair next week with a clear plan. The region’s stand will open at the World Travel Market in London on Monday to the sound of Andalusian Crush, its striking new tourist promotion campaign.
    Images from the Games of Thrones-style campaign will also go outside the ExCel centre, where the fair is held, to reach the general public with advertising in iconic locations such as Leicester Square, Westminster Bridge, Camden Town and Portobello Road.
    The Junta de Andalucía’s main goal this year is to attract new tourists and aims to promote the region as an ‘influencer’ destination, with a focus on the so-called Generation Z.
    After the new campaign video was released this week, the regional tourism minister Arturo Bernal said on Thursday that their aim at the WTM was to “continue to break moulds”.The objective is to attract new profiles of visitors, putting a focus on young people who will be the tourists of the future, said Bernal.ADVERTISEMENTThe minister added, “The promotion is aimed at people born between 1995 and 2010, who in 66% of cases already make the decision about where their family goes on holiday and in a few years’ time will be customers themselves. We have to take strategic positions with the Generation Z. The new campaign is essential for that,” said the regional minister.
    Six million visitsFor this new campaign, the Junta de Andalucía wanted to focus solely on the deepest feelings that the culture of Andalucía evokes in visitors, rather than landscapes.
    The theme of the one-minute video dubbed ‘Andalusian Crush’, refers to the inner impact a culture so rich leaves behind in its visitors. Its message is that no one remains the same after experiencing this destination, as warned at the beginning of the video by the voice of actor Peter Dinklage, one of the main characters in Game of Thrones.
    Source: https://www.surinenglish.com/

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