Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Jubail Mangrove Park has become one of the most sought-after destinations for nature lovers. The park has achieved a remarkable accomplishment by drawing in over 150,000 visitors from October 2022 to March 2023.This achievement is a testament to the park’s commitment to sustainability and its dedication to providing visitors with engaging activities that help them forge a deeper connection with nature.
In line with Abu Dhabi’s ambitious goal of planting 100 million mangrove trees which was announced by Her Excellency, Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment during COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, Jubail Island has launched a project to plant 1 million mangrove trees, where more than 500,000 trees have been planted to date. This initiative is a testament to the island’s dedication to preserving this unique ecosystem and contributes to the UAE’s significant objective. By expanding the mangrove forest, Jubail Island aims to create a healthier environment for wildlife and support local communities.
Jubail Mangrove Park is committed to sustainability and engages visitors in edutainment and interactive mangrove tree planting experiences. Through such activities, visitors gain insight into the pivotal role that mangroves play in mitigating climate change and promoting biodiversity.
Numerous high-level dignitaries who are actively contributing to preserving the environment and promoting sustainable development on a global scale, have been attracted to the Jubail Mangrove Park, the first self-contained educational, nature and leisure destination of its kind in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Their involvement, in addition to Jubail Island’s several partnerships with high-end entities including Etihad Airways, Emirates NBD, ADGM, Marriott International and IFZA, attest to the significance of achieving a greener future for generations to come.
The tree planting initiative has also attracted the participation of numerous schools and universities, providing an engaging and educational experience for students. Jubail Mangrove Park recognizes the crucial role of education in promoting environmental consciousness and offers students a platform to learn, explore, and engage meaningfully with nature.ADVERTISEMENTSituated on Jubail Island in Abu Dhabi, the park is a unique natural treasure that provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and abundant natural wonders that the park has to offer. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking a natural haven and has become a popular choice among both tourists and residents alike.
Visitors to the park have a plethora of activities to choose from, ranging from guided walks to yoga and meditation classes, all of which provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature while nurturing the mind and body. For those seeking a thrilling adventure, kayaking tours are available to observe the unique biodiversity of the region. Additionally, spinning classes on the park’s tranquil terrace provide an excellent way to stay fit while enjoying the stunning scenery.
As one of the leading eco-tourism destinations in the region, the park acknowledges the importance of promoting sustainable tourism practices to protecting the environment while providing visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
For more information about Jubail Mangrove Park, visit the park’s website at: www.jubailisland.ae/jubail-mangrove-park/

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The U.S. Travel Association today unveiled a weeklong preview of its popular Daily Getaways program. Officially launching for sales on June 12, Daily Getaways will feature exclusive offers from major travel brands—offering discounts up to 50% off loyalty points, theme park tickets, vacation packages and hotel stays.
Survey data shows travelers are increasingly looking for ways to save on travel. According to a Morning Consult survey, a greater share of travelers (34%) are using points and rewards to book travel than last year (28%). With deals in Daily Getaways carrying at least a year-long expiration and many programs offering points that never expire (with an active account), travelers can secure a travel deal now to use beyond this summer.
Available DealsSince its inception in 2010, Daily Getaways has offered travelers access to deals from top travel brands in a one-stop, once-a-year marketplace, with deep discounts on points from top loyalty programs being among the fastest sellers.
The following is a breakdown of how travelers can view and buy the deals:
Deals Preview: Starting June 5, U.S. Travel begins previewing the Daily Getaways deals online, allowing travelers to sign up for reminders when the deals go live.Daily Deals: A limited number of offers will be available for online purchase in the United States and Canada each weekday beginning Monday, June 12 until July 14, or until supplies last.Deals Platform: To preview and later purchase the deals, consumers can visit DailyGetaways.com. Travelers can also sign up for daily alerts to be reminded of deals that interest them before limited quantities sell out.Travelers can look forward to Daily Getaways travel opportunities from these and additional travel brands:ADVERTISEMENTAccorBest Western Hotels & ResortsCaesars EntertainmentChoice HotelsIHG Hotels & ResortsHiltonHyatt Hotels & ResortsMarriott InternationalMGM Resorts InternationalOmni Hotels & ResortsSeaWorld Parks & EntertainmentUniversal Destinations & ExperiencesThe Venetian Resort Las VegasWyndham Hotels & ResortsVisit DailyGetaways.com for more information or follow @DailyGetaways on Twitter.

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Palm Jebel Ali, twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, will mark a major new milestone in Dubai’s growth as a leading global lifestyle destination.
Mohammed bin Rashid: Dubai will continue to innovate and deliver world-class lifestyle destinations that enhance its status as the globe’s best city to live, work and visit
“Palm Jebel Ali will further strengthen our urban infrastructure and consolidate the city’s emergence as one of the world’s leading metropolises”
Ambitious project forms part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan
With a new growth corridor in the Jebel Ali area, the project supports the objective of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s top cities for business and tourismADVERTISEMENTHis Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, approved the new futuristic development masterplan of Palm Jebel Ali. Part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Palm Jebel Ali is one of a series of visionary projects being undertaken by world-leading Dubai-based real estate master developer Nakheel.
His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, were present during the approval of the masterplan.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said Dubai will continue to innovate and deliver world-class lifestyle destinations that enhance its status as the globe’s best city to live, work and visit. “We have vast ambitions for the future and we are confident that we can transform our grand vision for development into reality. Palm Jebel Ali will further strengthen our urban infrastructure and consolidate the city’s emergence as one of the world’s leading metropolises. This new groundbreaking project reflects our strategic development plan centred on raising the quality of life and happiness of residents.”
His Highness further said: “Dubai has entered a new phase of development driven by innovation and creativity. By taking advantage of the opportunities arising from the evolving global environment, Dubai’s competitiveness and reputation as a thriving global business and tourism hub continue are set to grow further. We remain committed to shaping a brighter future both for our people and the world.”
“The urban expansion that Palm Jebel Ali represents is a testament to Dubai’s economic dynamism. It also signifies Dubai’s exceptional outlook as a hub for talent and investment. The project will contribute to Dubai’s sustainable development by opening new avenues for growth in several sectors,” His Highness added.
Also present during the approval of the new masterplan were His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of His Highness The Ruler’s Court of Dubai, Managing Director of the Investment Corporation of Dubai and Chairman of Nakheel; as well as members of the Nakheel Board and other dignitaries.
Palm Jebel Ali will raise the global benchmark in waterfront living and offer an exceptional breadth of luxury lifestyle amenities for residents, families and visitors, supporting the objective of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to consolidate Dubai’s status as one of the world’s top cities for business and tourism. The project also marks the beginning of a new growth corridor in the Jebel Ali area, underlining the expansion of the emirate.
Spanning an area of 13.4 square kilometres and occupying an area twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali will feature extensive green spaces and unique waterfront experiences. The project will add approximately 110 kilometres of coastline to Dubai that will provide approximately 35,000 families with unrivalled luxury beachside living.
Palm Jebel Ali will feature over 80 hotels and resorts, and a wide choice of entertainment and leisure facilities that will contribute to Dubai’s tourism sector, while distinguishing the archipelago as an aspirational residential destination in the city.
His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Shaibani said: “We are honoured to embark on a pathbreaking journey with the new masterplan of Palm Jebel Ali, which is unprecedented in magnitude and scale. The megaproject is inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and will mark a new milestone in the continued growth of the city.
“Palm Jebel Ali will capture the spirit, energy and life of Dubai as a thriving, prosperous and sustainable waterfront community and a world class lifestyle destination and secure Dubai’s reputation globally as an innovator in waterfront developments, besides creating exceptional value for investors.”
In line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Palm Jebel Ali will support the emirate’s vision to deliver the highest standards of urban infrastructure and facilities, increase beach destinations as well as support sustainable development and facilitate the expansion of the population, estimated to reach approximately 5.8 million by 2040.
Setting a model in contemporary urban planning practices, Palm Jebel Ali will feature mixed-use walkable neighbourhoods, incorporate smart city technologies and sustainability practices, as well as provide a diverse range of mobility options for residents, visitors and communities. This will position Palm Jebel Ali as a global benchmark for waterfront living, as well as contribute to the transformation of the landscape of Dubai.
Palm Jebel Ali has been designed keeping sustainability in mind, with plans including renewable energy resources being incorporated into its infrastructure design, allowing it to become almost completely self-sufficient in terms of power generation once complete.  As much as 30% of Palm Jebel Ali’s energy requirements will be obtained from renewable sources.

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CIO Jason Momoa announces ‘Kids Go Free’ on Yas Island this summer

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Jason Momoa’s infectious energy continues to ripple around Yas Island as he shares his excitement in the latest ‘Kids Go Free’ summer campaign. Chief Island Officer Momoa takes matters into his own hands and declares that this summer, all kids can ‘Stay & Play’ for free on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.Following his exciting adventures onboard the world’s fastest rollercoaster and after attempting to become Batman for a day at Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi and honing his drifting skills at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, Hollywood superstar Momoa never ceases to let out his playful personality wherever he goes, especially when showing fans how to #LiveitUpLikeMomoa with Yas Waterworld’s splash-tastic adventures.
Yas Island’s Kids Go Free packages offer families a wide array of leisure and entertainment offerings that are made to delight every preference. With Yas Island’s ultimate summer package, guests and little ones can enjoy endless fun where they can stay, play and dine for free all summer long.
Watch the video here[embedded content]
Fans can tune to catch the series on Yas Island’s social media pages: Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. For more information, please visit: https://www.yasisland.com/
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200 tonnes of waste are generated in the Mount Everest region every year. That is why Sagarmatha Next, an experience centre at 3,775 meters on the foot of Mount Everest, is dedicated to raising awareness on the issues through art and design. Sagarmatha Next is now releasing a new film to help raise awareness and support for the important cause of keeping Mount Everest free from waste.
“We are excited to celebrate our first anniversary and the release of our new film. The film shows how this remote region attracts thousands of visitors and how we must all come together to preserve it for future generations,” said Varun Saraf, Director at Saraf Foundation and founder of Sagarmatha Next. 
With 80,000 yearly trekkers visiting Sagarmatha National Park, approx. 200 tonnes of solid waste are generated. Given the lack of infrastructure and connectivity, this waste is left behind in the mountains. Sagarmatha Next works with the local NGO SPCC to find innovative ways to remove and upcycle waste from the mountains. Started in 2019, carry me back is a crowdsourced waste removal system, that offers every trekker an opportunity to remove 1 kg of waste from the mountains. The program has successfully removed 10,000 kg with the help of 6,000 participants who have voluntarily carried them out of the national park.
Powered by DELL Technologies, the high-altitude experience centre Sagarmatha Next has become a must-stop for visitors. Since opening, more than 15,000 visitors have been educated about the challenges in the region and the initiatives to solve them, and enjoyed the interactive digital exhibition and several VR experiences that transports visitors to the highest peaks.
Sagarmatha Next is excited to announce the release of its new film that showcases the impact of tourism and waste in the region and hopes it inspires further action globally.      ADVERTISEMENT“The entire world comes to Everest, the highest place on earth and this is where the change begins. We wish to spread the message and replicate projects to remove waste to other environment-sensitive regions across the globe,” says Varun Saraf.
More information about the film can be found here: https://youtu.be/Jgg8P2KGSMU.

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With a typhoon-sized splash bash to ring in the summer in style, LEGOLAND® New York Resort officially unveiled its newest attraction, the highly-anticipated LEGO® City Water Playground, over the holiday weekend! Bedecked head to toe in scuba gear, inflatable tubes, swimmies and pool noodles, hosts Slidin’ Ryan and Matty Splash introduced a brand-new LEGOLAND New York character, Shark Suit Guy, who led the crowd in a massive wave to open the new attraction in a shower of water and bubbles!
Families can now splash into the season at the hottest place to cool off this summer. After a day riding, driving, climbing, and building under the summer sun, the Water Playground is the perfect oasis for families to cool off, build and race a LEGO® boat, splash on water slides and be doused by a giant 318-gallon water bucket. A nearby changing area allows guests to dry off and continue exploring the Park’s seven LEGO® themed lands and can’t-miss attractions. Water-loving families can splash and play into the evening at the LEGOLAND® Hotel pool, which is also open for the season.
“We’re as eager as our guests to kick off summer with the debut of our long-awaited LEGO® City Water Playground,” said LEGOLAND New York Resort Divisional Director Stephanie Johnson. “We’ve developed this exciting new attraction in response to direct feedback from our guests asking for a place to cool off, but our Water Playground is so much more. Like all of our attractions, our Water Playground aims to give families interactive, creative opportunities to build, play, splash and learn together.”
Since opening in 2021, LEGOLAND® New York Resort continues to find ways to surprise, delight, and support every visiting family who walks under the iconic entrance arch. Like its sister North American LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida and California, LEGOLAND New York opened for the 2023 season as a Certified Autism Center, credited by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Every ride has a posted Sensory Guide indicating whether there are bright lights, loud sounds, or any feature that guests might need to plan around. Visitors will notice a posted Sensory Guide at the entrance to the Water Playground, and they can decompress in the nearby quiet room with weighted blankets, dim lighting and tactile toys.
This year, LEGOLAND New York Resort will treat visitors to new events and bring back signature experiences including:ADVERTISEMENTRed, White, and BOOM! (Summer): This July 4th, Red, White, and BOOM! is back and bigger than ever with five nights of fireworks beginning June 30. Live music is also back with Summer Saturdays in July and August.Brick-or-Treat (Fall): The Monster Party returns! LEGOLAND New York’s biggest Halloween party for kids will run weekends from mid-September through Halloween.Holiday Bricktacular (Winter): Celebrate the season at LEGOLAND New York! Families will have the opportunity to meet LEGO® Santa and enjoy a series of seasonal activities, builds and adventures.LEGOLAND New York Resort takes kids on a journey through seven LEGO themed lands, including Brick Street, Bricktopia, LEGO® NINJAGO® World, LEGO® Castle, LEGO® City, MINILAND and LEGO® Pirates. Built for families with children ages two through 12, can’t-miss highlights of a LEGOLAND New York vacation include transforming into a Minifigure on the world premiere LEGO® Factory Adventure ride, chasing the red wizard out of the castle on the signature Dragon coaster, and mastering the power of the elements with Master Wu on LEGO® NINJAGO® The Ride. For the ultimate multi-day LEGO vacation experience, guests can book a Vacation Package at LEGOLAND® Hotel, just steps from the Park entrance.
For more information about LEGOLAND New York Resort, visit our website or follow us on Facebook. Advanced reservations are required to visit the LEGO City Water Playground. See more information on our website.

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The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) reveals China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution is forecast to grow more than 150% this year.The sector is set to contribute CNY 9.9TN to the economy this year, edging closer to the 2019 pre-pandemic high of CNY 12.27TN.
Despite the effects of the pandemic spanning into 2022 in China, WTTC is forecasting for the sector to create almost 11.5MN jobs this year, recovering one in two of the jobs lost to reach 74.7MN. This means around one in 10 workers in China, are directly or indirectly employed in the Travel & Tourism sector.
While the sector is still shy of 7.9MN jobs to reach pre-pandemic levels, by the end of this year it will only be 10% below 2019 levels.International visitor spend in China is forecast to grow more than 50% this year to reach more than CNY 306BN. Although this is positive growth, it is still almost 70% below the 2019 peak.
A look back on last year
Due to ongoing travel restrictions, last year the sector’s GDP contribution declined by almost 30% to reach CNY 3.9TN, representing just over 3% of the economy. ADVERTISEMENTIn 2019, before the pandemic, the Travel & Tourism sector in China was worth CNY 12.3TN, representing almost 12% of the economy. The sector saw jobs decline in 2022, from the previous year, to a low of 62.9MN jobs nationally – one in 12 jobs across China.
International visitor spend in China also declined in 2022 as the effects of prolonged travel restrictions continued to have a chokehold on the sector. International visitor spend declined a further 8.5%, remaining almost 80% below 2019 levels.
Domestic visitor spend followed a similar pattern, declining 33% last year, remaining 67% below 2019 levels.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is a vital driver of economic growth and job creation to China, and we predict a significant boost to the global Travel & Tourism sector as residents begin to travel once again.
“The fact China has reopened is great news. In 2019 Chinese tourists represented 15% of international spending and that figure is set to grow. We are urging governments to prioritise and streamline visa applications to ensure embassies can manage the high visa demand from Chinese residents.”
In 2019 and 2022, between 74-77% of international visitors to mainland China came from Hong Kong, Macau, Myanmar, South Korea, Japan, the U.S. and Vietnam. There were 49.7MN arrivals from those source markets in 2019, however in 2022, this reduced by 85% to 7.2MN arrivals.
What does the next decade look like?
The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to almost CNY 27TN by 2033, 14% of the Chinese economy and will employ over 100MN people across the country, with one in seven Chinese residents working in the sector.
Asia-Pacific
In 2022, the Asia-Pacific Travel & Tourism sector contributed $1.6TN to the regional economy, but this is still 50% behind the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will reach more than $2.6TN in 2023 – just 16% below the 2019 highpoint.
The sector employed over 155MN people across the region in 2022, an increase of 8.7MN from the previous year but still 15% behind pre-pandemic levels. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024.

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From the rolling prairies of North Dakota Badlands to the tall bends near the Pembina River, North Dakota’s awe-inspiring views and off-the-beaten path adventures pair together for a summer to remember.Embark in the state’s wide-open spaces, revel in sunflower fields as far as the eye can see and watch in awe as majestic wildlife roam in their natural environments. Home to some of the country’s most inspiring terrain, summer is an ideal time to explore the legendary wonders that make the state a restorative escape.Crow Flies High Butte – New Town, NDJust west of New Town, this outlook provides unobstructed views of Lake Sakakawea and the Badlands bluffs. The view is breathtaking no matter what time of year and includes a glimpse of the Four Bears Memorial Bridge spanning across the water. Along with stunning views, Crow Flies High Butte also has historical significance as it was once used as a lookout by famous explorers Lewis and Clark.
Starry Nights – Bottineau, NDExperience not only some of the darkest skies in the U.S. but some of the nation’s best views of the spectacular aurora borealis also known as Northern Lights. Camp under the stars at Lake Metigoshe State Park in Bottineau and make a stop at the nearby town of Rugby’s Northern Lights Tower and Interpretive Center, which is dedicated to the dancing night skies. Visitors to the region can also partake in the Lake Metigoshe Outdoor Learning Center, which offers hands-on programming related to history, nature and recreation.
Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway – Walhalla, NDLocated in northeast North Dakota, this backway is a special place with a storied history, recreation and scenic beauty. Winding along the banks of the Pembina River this scenic backway offers several opportunities to take in the panoramic views of the Pembina Gorge. Recreation in the Pembina Gorge includes canoeing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and wildlife observing.
Badlands Overlook – Medora, NDTheodore Roosevelt National Park is a place where visitors become fully immersed in the one-of-a-kind terrain that mesmerized our nation’s “conservation president.” The old western town of Medora, where Theodore Roosevelt once wore the boots of a deputy sheriff, is the gateway to the national park. This year, take part in the park’s 69th Annual Birdwalk on Sunday, June 4. Participants depart from the South Unit and are invited to take in the sights of more than 40 different bird species.
Painted Canyon Overlook – Belfield, NDThere is no hiking required to see one of the state’s most iconic views. Painted Canyon Overlook, right off Interstate 94 near Medora, offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Badlands. Known for its formation of red, brown, white and orange rock, this is a must-see vista while exploring the region. Complete with a visitors center featuring information and exhibits, Painted Canyon Overlook is one of the most accessible areas of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is free to the public.ADVERTISEMENTFor more information on North Dakota’s scenic views and to plan a one-of-a-kind summer road trip, visit NDTourism.com or browse the 2023 Travel Guide.

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