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    Arabian Travel Market 2023 sees 29% year-on-year growth in attendees

    More than 40,000 people – including 30,000 visitors – attended the 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded last week in Dubai, UAE.
    This not only represents a year-on-year increase of 29% in attendees compared to 2022, it also represents a 5% increase over 2019, establishing a new record for the show, demonstrating that the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector is booming.
    In line with ATM 2023’s theme, ‘Working Towards Net Zero’, more than 2,100 exhibitors and representatives from over 150 countries gathered at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to explore how the industry can ensure sustainable travel for future generations.
    Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues and I are thrilled that so many tourism professionals were able to join us in Dubai to celebrate the 30th edition of the show and shine a spotlight on our sector’s ongoing journey to net zero. The fact that we witnessed record attendance at ATM 2023 is extremely encouraging and a strong indication that the Middle East’s travel industry is once again in excellent shape.”
    To mark three decades of ATM, there were a number of special events on the agenda during the four-day exhibition. Hilton won the inaugural Sustainable Stand Award. Selected by an independent panel of judges, the hospitality brand was chosen for its decision to use a local supplier in the creation of its stand as well as its commitment to repurposing materials as much as possible over the coming three years. Hilton also used a carbon calculator to measure the carbon footprint associated with its involvement in the show and has taken steps to mitigate this output.ADVERTISEMENTThe prestigious Pearl Award was also created exclusively for the 30th edition of ATM and awarded to Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free, for his outstanding contribution to the travel and tourism sector in the UAE. McLoughlin began his career at Dubai Duty Free in 1983 and has since helped to transform the organisation into a $2 billion company.
    Moderated by Eleni Giokos, Anchor and Correspondent CNN, the show’s opening session delved into a climate change debate as tourism heads took to the Global Stage. The prestigious line-up of speakers included Sujit Mohanty, Regional Division for the Arab States, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR); Dr Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director, Jordan Tourism Board; and HE Walid Nassar, Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism.
    ATM 2023 was held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, and its strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner.

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    Aquicito, the rural tourism guide for exploring the most unique spots in Quito

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    Aquicito, the rural tourism guide for exploring the most unique spots in Quito

    ‘Aquicito’ is the new rural tourism guide developed by Quito Turismo, a collection of the tourist attractions that the Metropolitan District’s 33 rural parishes have to offer. The guide includes information about festivals, traditions, outdoor activities, experiences, tours, cultural events, lists of food stores and establishments, accommodation and tourist services. Designed for audiences of all ages, the guide covers an extremely broad range of interests where visitors can find options for enjoying their free time in Quito.
    Cristina Rivadeneira, General Manager of Quito Turismo, said that promoting tourism in rural areas helps to strengthen the sources of income of low-income parishes, creating local jobs and diversifying the local economy. It is also a firm commitment to preserving local culture, history and traditions, offering new experiences to visitors and positively impacting communities’ education, health and infrastructure.
    The guide, which will be continually updated, is available in digital format at visitquito.ec and in the Visit Quito app. There is an interactive map in ‘Aquicit’ with around a thousand rural tourist establishments; a guide to outdoor activities; and tourist routes such as ‘Tulipe – Rumisitana’, ‘Exploring the Cloud Forest’, ‘El Quinche – Guayllabamba’, ‘Hiking in Pahuma’, ‘Between Lagoons and Paramos’, ‘Middle of the World’, ‘Hidden Route’, ‘Culuncos de Yunguilla’, ‘Maquipucuna’ and more.
    Quito Turismo showcases the fantastic destinations and the variety of activities on offer in the city’s surrounding area through this living document that is open to the public.  It is an invitation to enjoy all the possibilities that the parishes have to offer: culture, nature, adventure, cuisine, relaxation and sports.
    More information about Aquicito – Quito Rural Tourism Guide: aquicito/ADVERTISEMENT

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    Bartlett to Participate in Caribbean Travel Marketplace Trade Show

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    Bartlett to Participate in Caribbean Travel Marketplace Trade Show

    Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett will continue his push for the introduction of a multi-destination tourism framework within the region as he heads to Barbados for the annual Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace trade show. The highly anticipated event runs from May 9 to May 11, 2023.Minister Bartlett has become the leading advocate for multi-destination tourism in the Caribbean, one of the major selling points he has been promoting regionally and globally.
    He has renewed his call for the private sector to get involved. “Regional governments and the private sector need to collaborate more closely to develop multi-destination tourism and advance market integration by fostering and harmonizing legislation on air connectivity, visa facilitation, product development, promotion and human capital development,” he said.
    “Jamaica has always played a leading role in the CHTA and coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year is even more special for our participation as our own Nicola Madden-Greig is the president with the responsibility of charting the course for the Caribbean moving forward,” added Minister Bartlett.
    The schedule for the trade event will entail the participation of other Jamaicans during an innovative Caribbean Travel Forum and Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 9.
    This forum is a new event for the CHTA and will focus on the business of tourism in the Caribbean with specific emphasis on topics such as intra-Caribbean travel relating to air connectivity and multi-destination marketing, sustainability, technology, labour market constraints and taxation.ADVERTISEMENTCHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig will deliver her state of the region and industry address while Prime Minister of Barbados, Hon Mia Mottley will give the keynote address.
    Minister Bartlett will participate in an in-depth panel discussion among regional Ministers of Tourism and private sector leaders on pressing issues affecting the business of tourism with emphasis on multi-destination marketing and new markets for Caribbean tourism.
    Other panellists will include Minister of Tourism and Transport, Cayman Islands, and current Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), Hon Kenneth Bryan; Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Barbados, Hon Ian Gooding-Edghill, and Chief Executive Officer of Chukka Caribbean, Marc Melville, with Mrs Madden-Greig as moderator.
    Another panel discussion will focus on responsible and resilience tourism: “Positive Mind Change = Positive Climate Change.” It will explore impactful and innovative ideas as well as solutions to drive responsible and resilient tourism with an emphasis on human capital development.
    The session will be moderated by General Manager, Jamaica Inn and Chairperson, Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), Kyle Mais.
    Other topics for discussion include technology and its impact on Caribbean tourism and the impact and state of artificial intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry.
    The CHTA Awards Luncheon recognizing Destination Resilience and Caribbean Icons of Hospitality will close off the forum allowing participants to prepare for the CHTA Marketplace official opening, followed by two packed days of back-to-back meetings. Minister Bartlett’s slate of activities kick off with a Jamaica Press Conference on Wednesday, May 10 and includes meetings with prospective investors, participation in the CHTA Marketplace sessions, and the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the CHTA and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC).
    Mr Bartlett, who is being accompanied by Director of Tourism, Donovan White, returns to Jamaica on Friday, May 12.

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    Four Seasons Unveils Eighth Private Jet Itinerary in 2024, Ancient Explorer

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    Four Seasons Unveils Eighth Private Jet Itinerary in 2024, Ancient Explorer

    Discerning travelers looking for exceptional one-of-a-kind travel experiences should look no further. Leading luxury hospitality company, Four Seasons, unveils the eighth Private Jet Itinerary in 2024 – Ancient Explorer.
    Taking flight in late August 2024, across 24 days and ten captivating destinations, guests will enjoy an expertly curated itinerary spanning five continents, all aboard the fully customized Four Seasons Private Jet with a bespoke design, latest in technology, and widest and tallest cabin in its class for enhanced comfort and connection on board. With 20 journeys spanning 35 countries completed since the first branded Four Seasons Private Jet journey in 2015, and with a 30%+ repeat guest rate, demand for the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience shows no signs of slowing down.
    Highlights from the Ancient Explorer itinerary include soaring over Mexico’s ancient city of the gods in a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, and exploring one of the world’s most remote destinations, Easter Island, among the most iconic and unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From there, sail Bora Bora’s crystal-clear waters aboard a 40-foot (12 metre) catamaran, lounging on its sundeck in between refreshing dips in the South Pacific. Experience Bangkok’s creative district – the beating heart of the city – with after-hours gallery access, sampling street food, and exploring hidden alleys. Travelers will then head westward to Egypt for a unique day stop to revel in two ancient wonders of the world – The iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Temple of the Sphinx. Fans of the hit TV series, The White Lotus, can look forward to visiting Taormina, the picturesque backdrop to season two and a new addition to the August journey, and enjoy a stay at the iconic San Domenico Palace overlooking the Ionian Sea.
    As always, guests of the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience will stay at Four Seasons hotels and resorts throughout the journey. In more remote locations, guests will stay at luxury accommodations selected by the Four Seasons team.Now taking reservations: • Ancient Explorer, August 28 – September 20, 2024Miami – Mexico City – Easter Island – Bora Bora – Great Barrier Reef – Bangkok – The Lost City of Petra – The Pyramids – Taormina – MadridThe full list of 2024 Four Seasons Private Jet Experiences are outlined below; for the latest availability of 2023/2024 itineraries, click here:• African Wonders, December 28, 2023 – January 9, 2024Athens – The Pyramids – Serengeti – Mauritius – Rwanda – Victoria Falls – Johannesburg
    • Asia Unveiled, January 11 – 26, 2024Tokyo – Bali – Maldives – Hoi An – Bhutan – Angkor Wat – BangkokADVERTISEMENT
    • Timeless Encounters, March 23 – April 15, 2024Oahu – Bora Bora – Sydney – Bali – Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai – Taj Mahal – Dubai – Prague – London
    • World of Adventures, April 17 – May 10, 2024Seattle – Kyoto – Bali – Seychelles – Rwanda – Marrakech – Bogotá – Galápagos Islands – Fort Lauderdale

    • Ancient Explorer, May 12 – June 4, 2024Fort Lauderdale – Mexico City – Easter Island – Bora Bora – Great Barrier Reef – Bangkok – Lost City of Petra – The Pyramids – Athens – Madrid
    • International Intrigue, September 21 – October 14, 2024Seattle – Kyoto – Hoi An – Maldives – Serengeti – Marrakech – Budapest – Florence – Paris

    • Uncharted Discovery, November 30 – December 20, 2024New Orleans – Costa Rica – Machu Picchu – Buenos Aires – Antarctica – Bogotá – BahamasContinue to explore by following the #FSJet hashtag on Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and traveler experiences.The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience is operated by TCS World Travel, dedicated to delivering immersive, worry-free travel experiences, and the aircraft is operated by Titan Airways.

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    Discover Unforgettable Adventures at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

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    Discover Unforgettable Adventures at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

    SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the region’s next-generation Marine Life Theme Park, is set to offer an unmatched experience across all eight realms, including animal encounters, exhilarating rides, exciting entertainment and diverse dining and retail options upon opening on May 23rd, 2023. Guests visiting the Marine Life Theme Park will be captivated by SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s One Ocean story, which uncovers the interconnectivity between life on earth and our ocean. Alongside Yas Island’s world-class theme parks including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, guests will be able to access SeaWorld Abu Dhabi year-round with new upgrades to the Yas Annual Pass.
    Yas Island was voted World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022 at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
    When it opens to the public, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s eight realms will take guests of all ages on an adventurous journey of discovery leaving them with a greater appreciation of the ocean’s beauty and importance. The adventure begins in Abu Dhabi Ocean, where guests can engage with invertebrates, sharks, and rays in touch pools, learn about the local marine life, and explore the nation’s founding father’s respect for the natural world. In the One Ocean realm, guests will get the chance to witness the park’s signature multi-media spectacular, One Epic Ocean, that takes guests on a journey through the earth’s most fascinating ocean environments, while also celebrating the connection between life on earth and the ocean. This realm also features the Animal Care Center, an on-site clinic allowing guests to observe and interact with our expert veterinarians and animal care specialists who provide animals with around-the-clock care, routine check-ups, and treatment when needed.

    The Rocky Point realm will usher guests into a beautiful hidden cove in the USA’s Pacific Northwest, where park-goers will find seals and sea lions resting on rocks and swimming around their stunning surroundings. A venture into the sun-soaked Tropical Ocean will reveal a glimmering blue lagoon, a lush rainforest and various animals such as dolphins, flamingos, and tropical fish living in bespoke state-of-the-art dynamic habitats. This realm will also be home to the record-breaking Manta Coaster, a thrilling roller coaster with the region’s most airtime moments in addition to the world’s first zero gravity flip-out and the world’s first twisting double-down dive.ADVERTISEMENTIn MicroOcean, a special realm designed with young explorers in mind, children can discover the vital role of some of the ocean’s smallest inhabitants, plankton, through interactive exhibits, rides, entertainment and play structures. Endless Ocean is home to the world’s largest multi-species marine life aquarium containing 25 million liters of water and featuring over 68,000 marine animals. Meanwhile, the Arctic and Antarctica realms of Polar Ocean showcase the habitats of walruses, penguins, and other amazing polar species, giving guests ample opportunities to learn about the uniqueness of these diverse regions. The Arctic realm also features Hypersphere 360°, a fully immersive 360-degree multimedia sphere that offers guests an opportunity to delve into the ocean’s depths through an around-the-world journey brimming with awe and exploration beneath the waves.
    Guests will be able to indulge in 17 different dining options featuring a wide selection of cuisines across all eight realms of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, from quick snacks on-the-go to fine dining experiences with stunning views into various animal habitats, both above and below the water.
    Those looking to take home mementos from their visit to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi can choose from 13 distinct retail destinations to shop from. Guests can browse Sunken Treasures at Tropical Ocean for delightful keepsakes, explore The Armillary Collection at Polar Ocean for enchanting ocean-inspired treasures, or visit the bustling Souk Al-Seef at Abu Dhabi Ocean for a diverse selection of souvenirs, apparel, plush animals, and other memorabilia in addition to photos of their unforgettable experiences at the park.
    At SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, guests will be able to experience over 100 animal experiences and presentations and over 10 up-close animal encounters. Additionally, guests are invited to experience 15 interactive experiences and rides, roaming entertainment and the parkwide game – S•E•A Guardian Games. Guests can witness the inspiring Dolphin Presentation at the Tropical. From Rocky Point’s playful sea lions and seals to various birds, dolphins and rays at Tropical Ocean, there’s so much to discover, explore and learn at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – a Marine Life Theme Park that aims to educate and inspire people of all ages to care about marine life.
    SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with extended hours on weekends and holidays. Tickets for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi can be purchased online, priced at AED 375 for adults and AED 290 for children (with children below the age of three entering free of charge). To experience more than one of Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks, guests can purchase tickets for multiple park access both online and at the entrance, with a 2-park access priced at AED 475, 3-park access at AED 575 and 4-park access at AED 675 – all multi-park passes are valid for 14 days.
    Ahead of its highly anticipated launch, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will also offer guests year-round access as it joins the Yas Annual Pass offerings. In addition to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, families who purchase the pass will have year-round access to the rest of Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi. Featuring a range of tiered benefits and perks, Annual Passholders can choose from Silver, Gold, or a new Diamond Annual Passes to enhance their visit to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi with exclusive access to events, discounts on retail and dining, and access to Quick Passes among other perks.
    To purchase tickets or learn more about SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, please visit www.seaworldabudhabi.com.
    For purchase a Yas Annual Pass or for more information, please visit https://www.yasisland.com/en/yas-annual-pass.

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    Damac Real Estate Development Limited (DAMAC) Joins UN Global Compact Initiative

    DAMAC has joined the United Nations Global Compact initiative — a voluntary leadership platform for the development, implementation and disclosure of responsible business practices.
    With this announcement, DAMAC joins other companies globally committed to taking responsible business action to create the world we all aspire to.
    The UN Global Compact is a call to global companies to align their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and to take action in support of UN goals and issues embodied in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    Launched in 2000, the UN Global Compact is the largest corporate sustainability initiative in the world, with more than 15,000 companies and 3,000 non-business signatories based in over 160 countries, and more than 70 local networks.
    “In line with our commitment to sustainability and sustainable principles, we are proud to have joined the UN Global Compact initiative which acts as a natural transition that aligns with our goals and vision,” said Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC. “ADVERTISEMENT“DAMAC will strive to work towards safeguard our communities, assets, workforce and stakeholders in order to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace, supporting our communities, and promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical practices across our organisation,” he added.
    DAMAC has been mindful of adapting to environmentally-friendly features and aims to incorporate sustainable building practices into its planning and construction phases.
    In April this year, a Board of Directors was established to improve the leadership structure and administrative roles necessary for effective governance and management of the company that included aligning DAMAC business practices with the United Nations Global Compact initiative.
    In addition, the Company is currently all set to be awarded a LEED gold certification for its third and latest master community, DAMAC Lagoons, aspiring to be the first in the UAE to do so.
    Working in tandem with processes to align energy, environment, and sustainability is an ongoing process at DAMAC. As builders and professionals in the construction and real estate sectors, the Company believes it is their responsibility to engage with and implement best building practices that pave the way for safer future generations.
    As a participant of the initiative, we encourage you to visit our profile on the UN Global Compact website and learn more about our latest sustainability work

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    Jet2holidays responds to trend for wellness holidays to Türkiye

    Jet2holidays has responded to strong demand from holidaymakers looking to enjoy some rejuvenation and relaxation by announcing details of its biggest ever summer portfolio of spa hotels in Türkiye – one of the top wellness destinations in Europe.
    Home to many natural wonders and ancient healing centres such as Hierapolis and Pergamon, as well as specialised spa treatments, thermal springs, Turkish hammams and peaceful nature, Türkiye is proving to be a popular destination amongst customers looking to boost their wellbeing, due to the destination’s longstanding history of wellness and rejuvenation.
    As the UK’s largest tour operator from the UK to Türkiye, Jet2holidays has responded to this trend for wellness breaks by announcing details of a bigger offering of spa hotels on sale for Summer 23.
    The new spa hotels are on sale across Antalya, Izmir, Dalaman and Bodrum. Offering luxurious on-site spas boasting facilities such as steam rooms and saunas, plunge pools and thalassotherapy, as well as a choice of treatments, these hotels will enable holidaymakers to truly spoil themselves.
    In addition to this, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays will also operate their biggest ever programme to Türkiye for Summer 23. Recently, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have put over 25,000 extra seats on sale to Antalya and Dalaman from seven UK bases between April and June from Belfast International, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, and London Stansted Airports. This brings the total number of seats on sale this summer to Türkiye to over two million, offering customers plenty of choice and flexibility when it comes to enjoying some self-care in one of the top wellness destinations in Europe.ADVERTISEMENTJet2.com and Jet2holidays are offering an unrivalled Summer 23 flying programme to Türkiye with flights on sale to a further two destinations in the country – Izmir and Bodrum. This means Jet2.com and Jet2holidays are operating flights and holidays to Türkiye from all ten of their UK bases this summer.
    With wellbeing at the top of the agenda for many holidaymakers visiting Türkiye, Jet2holidays has compiled an overview of the top wellness experiences the destination has to offer.
    Pamukkale Hot SpringsWhen it comes to spoiling themselves and enjoying some well-deserved me time on their next getaway to Türkiye, holidaymakers can take advantage of Türkiye’s thermal resources that rank as first in Europe and seventh globally. With the country’s thermal springs available to take advantage of for almost 300 days a year, thousands of holidaymakers flock to the springs to soak in the goodness.
    Located in south-western Türkiye, Pamukkale is a natural wonder and a top visitor attraction due to its hot springs and stunning setting. An ancient spa town, its hot springs are made up of of travertines pools created by mineral waters and are world-famous for their healing properties. Home to three thermal regions: Sarayköy, Gölemezli and Karahayıt, all of the waters in Pamukkale are rich in iron and calcium.
    Hammams and SpasDating back to Ancient Roman times, Turkish hammams are an essential part of Turkish culture. Thought to offer many benefits ranging from relieving stress, cleansing the skin, eliminating toxins, and improving blood circulation to clearing the respiratory tract, Turkish hammams provide hot steam hydrotherapy.
    As well as the traditional hammams, Türkiye is also home to some great spa hotels. Alongside offering a vast range of spa treatments, holidaymakers can take advantage of on-site spas and modern facilities, such as steam rooms, saunas and plunge pools available at these hotels.
    Back to NatureWith turquoise seas, golden, sandy beaches, and vast forests, Türkiye is the perfect destination for holidaymakers to reconnect with nature. The Düden Waterfalls are located just outside of Antalya and are one of the most stunning natural shows to see in the city. This beautiful and spectacular waterfall consists of two parts – upper and lower. While the upper Düden waterfall combines natural beauty with tranquil green space, the lower Düden waterfall is all about the ferocious power of nature.
    Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “We are seeing strong demand for spa and wellness breaks to Türkiye. In response to this trend, we have put on sale our biggest offering of spa hotels to date for next summer. In addition to this, we also have on sale our biggest flying programme to Türkiye for Summer 23 and have recently put on more flights to Dalaman and Antalya. With flights on sale to four destinations – Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir, customers have plenty of choice and flexibility when it comes to experiencing a rejuvenating holiday in the sun. Whether you are looking to bathe in hot springs, treat yourself to a traditional Turkish hammam, or simply enjoy a spa break, there is no better destination than Türkiye when it comes to a wellness experience.”
    Arzu Kahraman Yilmaz, Counsellor of The Turkish Culture and Information Office, said: “We are delighted to see this significant growth in Jet2holidays’ offering of spa hotels. Türkiye is the ideal wellness destination with many different options, from our thermal springs and spa facilities that are notable worldwide for their high standards and healing waters, to our iconic hammams that are an essential part of Turkish culture. We look forward to welcoming even more guests to enjoy a relaxing break in Türkiye in the future.”

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    Abu Dhabi targets 24 million visitors by 2023

    His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi, affirmed the start of an ambitious new chapter for the emirate’s tourism sector. The new targets follow a surge in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector in 2022, with hotel occupancy rates and other metrics demonstrating that the sector’s revival is well underway.The emirate received a total 18 million visitors representing a 13 percent increase from previous year, while the hotel occupancy rates reached 70 percent, which surpasses the Middle East average of 67 percent.
    The emirate welcomed visitors from around the world, with the highest number of international visitors arriving from India, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, respectively. The improved domestic and international market performance can be attributed to increased destination awareness and consideration of Abu Dhabi’s increased range of year-round entertainment and sporting events, as well as trade events and roadshows.
    H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi: “Our ambitious goal to welcome more 24 million visitors by end of 2023 builds on healthy growth over the past year. This encouraging performance was enabled through powerful collaborations and delivery of memorable travel and business experiences across the whole year, supported by an integrated ecosystem of best-in-class services, infrastructure, and impactful marketing.  In Abu Dhabi we are demonstrating the power of partnerships across the tourism sector and the fact that collectively we can thrive.”
    Commenting on the new targets, H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The success we have achieved so far inspires us to strive for more. We are committed to deliver on our ambitions for 2023 by further elevating the successful strategy of creating and delivering unique experiences for everyone to enjoy and diverse range of year-round events for visitors in collaboration with our global IP partners. This is complemented by a MICE industry that continues to thrive, owing to the emirate’s world-leading venues, hotels and supporting facilities.
    Last year, Abu Dhabi Calendar successfully hosted a diverse range of over 100 events during a 180-day period, featuring an impressive line-up of A-list global talent. From the legendary Grammy award-winning singer Sting to K-pop sensations BLACKPINK, and Oscar-winning Indian composer A.R. Rahman, the events left audiences captivated and entertained.ADVERTISEMENTThe emirate also played host to some popular homegrown family festivals such as the Mother of the Nation (MOTN) and LIWA festivals, which added to the cultural richness and vibrancy of the city.
    Abu Dhabi also proved itself as a premier destination for global sport by hosting key events such as the renowned Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, NBA, and UFC. These events drew in massive crowds and garnered global attention, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s status as a world-class destination for entertainment and sports enthusiasts.
    In line with DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to provide a diverse range of experiences, 2022 witnessed the launch of two tourism campaigns: ‘Experience Abu Dhabi, Find Your Pace’ and ‘Summer Like You Mean It’. Additionally, a month-long program of activities was held to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s, alongside two high-profile events, namely, Abu Dhabi Art and Culture Summit Abu Dhabi.
    Looking ahead to 2023, DCT Abu Dhabi is determined to offer even more ambitious campaigns and events that showcase its commitment to providing memorable experiences to a worldwide audience, leveraging the strength of its partnerships.

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