Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

In terms of visitor numbers, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry remains bigger than Dubai’s. In the first quarter of this year, the Kingdom had 7.8 million tourists, while Dubai had 4.7 million.
Saudi Arabia has historically inched ahead of Dubai when it comes to arrival figures, while the glamorous emirate dominates when it comes to spending. In 2019, KSA had 17.5 million visitors compared to Dubai’s 16.8 million, with Saudi benefitting from a steady religious tourism market which brought in 9.3 million people in that year.
Dubai last year was the world’s top destination when it comes to international traveller spend, raking in $29.42 billion, according to WTTC. That is almost double second place, Doha’s $16.79 billion. Saudi Arabia did not make the top 10 list even though it had around two million more visitors than Dubai.
According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO) index, Saudi Arabia secured the 13th position globally among the leading countries in terms of international tourist arrivals in 2022. This marked a significant improvement from its previous ranking of 25th in 2019.
ADVERTISEMENTWTO reported that the Kingdom welcomed a total of 16.6 million international tourists in 2022 for various travel purposes.Furthermore, Saudi Arabia made impressive strides in the international tourism revenue index, climbing 16 spots to claim the 11th position in 2022, a substantial leap from its 27th ranking in 2019. These findings were outlined in the World Tourism Barometer report for May 2023, released by the WTO.
In the first quarter of 2023, the Kingdom experienced its highest quarterly performance to date, attracting approximately 7.8 million international tourists for all purposes. This figure represents a 64 percent increase compared to the same period in 2019. The country also emerged as the second-fastest growing tourism destination during this period, as per the latest data from the WTO.
Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to strengthen its global tourism standing and boost its contribution to the gross domestic product align with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative.
Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb attributed these accomplishments to the facilitation of travel visa procedures, targeted promotional campaigns in key countries, and the diverse range of tourism destinations within the Kingdom.

Moreover, the Minister stressed the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with both public and private sector partners to transform Saudi Arabia into a prominent global tourism hub.
Notably, Saudi Arabia achieved a milestone in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) issued by the World Economic Forum (WEF), securing the 33rd position globally. This represented a significant improvement of ten ranks compared to 2019.
Source: Hotelier Middle East

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Yosemite’s largest waterfalls peak in April, May and into June, with some falls (including the park’s signature, Yosemite Falls) running dry by late summer. However, Yosemite Falls is expected to continue flowing until July as a result of this year’s heavy snowfall throughout the winter season. The snow has resulted in Yosemite showcasing the best waterfalls it has seen in the last 40 years. The Mist Trail, one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite, Nevada and Vernal Falls run through summer. See below a guide to Yosemite’s must-see waterfalls from its most iconic to its lesser-known wonders.
Yosemite’s Iconic Waterfalls
Yosemite Falls – flowing until July
● Height: 2,425 feet● Region: Yosemite Valley● Flow: November to July, peak in May/June
Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America and the sixth tallest in the world. The twin cascades – upper and lower – are together nearly twice the height of the Empire State Building and visible from many points around Yosemite Valley. There is a one-mile loop trail to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall (year-round and wheelchair accessible). The full Yosemite Falls Trail is strenuous, but for strong hikers well worth the trek.ADVERTISEMENTBridalveil Fall
● Height: 620 feet● Region: Yosemite Valley● Flow: Year-round, peaks in May
The first waterfall most Yosemite National Park visitors see is stunning Bridalveil Fall which greets visitors as they enter Yosemite Valley from Highway 140 or Highway 41. It varies from a thunderous spring flow to a gently swaying wisp by season’s end. Bridalveil’s beauty is surpassed only by its ease of access. Thanks to the Yosemite Conservancy’s multi-year Bridalveil Fall Restoration project, the newly-renovated, paved trail to the base of the fall is wider, wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly. New restrooms and expanded viewing areas are set to be completed this spring.
Nevada Fall
● Height: 594 feet● Region: Yosemite Valley● Flow: Year-round, peaks late May
The operatic Mist Trail continues steeply for 1.5 additional miles with 2,000 ft. elevation gain to the top of its second aquatic act, Nevada Fall. Between Vernal and Nevada falls, hikers pass a pair of beautiful pools (no swimming permitted) – Emerald and Silver Apron – before making the final ascent. Nevada Fall thunders in late spring and summer as the Merced River tumbles down toward Yosemite Valley. The view from the top is spectacular, especially where a footbridge crosses above the Merced River.
Yosemite’s Lesser-Known Waterfalls
Horsetail Fall
● Region: Yosemite Valley● Drop: 2,030 ft (619 m), two-stage● Best Time To See: December-April
A good snowpack is required for Horsetail Fall to flow and this year it will. Horsetail Fall is where the annual phenomenon of Yosemite Firefall takes place during the month of February. When conditions allow Horsetail Fall appears as a plummeting cataract of flames. Photographers from all over the globe come to capture this unique phenomenon.
Chilnualna Falls
● Region: Wawona (Southern Yosemite)● Drop: 690 ft (210 m), multiple tiers● Best Time To See: Year-round, with peak flow in May
Chilnualna Falls (“Chil-noo-all-na”) gets a fraction of the visitors compared to falls in Yosemite Valley. The fall weaves through forested sections offering views of Wawona Dome above and the village of Wawona below. Chilnualna Falls is perfect for those looking to get off the beaten path. It is located away from main roads and tucked back into the small community of Wawona.
● Region: Foresta (near Yosemite Valley)● Drop: Multiple cascades with a 40 ft (12 m) finale● Best Time To See: Year-round, with best flows March-June
Located just six miles from Yosemite Valley, it’s surprising how few visitors have explored Foresta and its fascinating history. The easy 1.8 mile out and back trail to Foresta Falls is actually a decommissioned dirt road with views of several tumbling cascades as it descends to a wholly satisfying 40 ft (12 m) drop. Here, a ramshackle bridge provides a convenient platform for up-close views and photographs. After viewing the cascade, take a stop by the Meyer and McCauley Barns in the big meadow in Foresta. The barns are on the US Register of Historic Places and stand as a testament to the early pioneering days of Yosemite’s early transplanted inhabitants.

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Ahead of the opening Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the upcoming attraction.
The newest theme park on Yas Island, was developed by Miral, in partnership with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment.Sheikh Khaled toured the attraction and was briefed on its facilities, which span 183,000sq m, offering entertainment and education themed around marine life to visitors, and further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a tourism hub.
Sheikh Khaled also visited the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue – the first integrated research, rescue, rehabilitation, return and education centre in the MENA region.
Sheikh Khaled reviewed the centre’s programmes, which are working to conserve the Arabian Gulf’s marine wildlife, habitats and ecosystems while educating and inspiring a new generation of marine enthusiasts.He was accompanied by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Miral; and Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
As well as offering entertainment, education, and family-friendly experiences, including up-close animal encounters and animal presentations, the new Abu Dhabi attraction is home to rides and attractions, as well as dining and shopping destinations.ADVERTISEMENTMohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, said: “Today marks a great milestone for Abu Dhabi as we open SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, a landmark attraction that is unparalleled in the region and the world on every level.

“SeaWorld Abu Dhabi represents the next generation of theme parks, joining the world-class experiences on Yas Island, further positioning it as a top global destination, contributing to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism vision.
“The Park will also play a key role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine life in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the wider region, undoubtedly inspiring guests to care for and protect our precious marine life for years to come.
“We are proud to be pushing the limits of science and conservation to create a truly unparalleled knowledge hub, demonstrating our joint commitment to upholding the highest standards of animal care and welfare.
“We look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to showcase the beauty and wonder of the ocean at this one-of-a-kind park.”
Scott Ross, Chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, said: “It is with great privilege we celebrate this highly anticipated grand opening alongside our valued partners at Miral.
“The extraordinary SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Marine Life Theme Park was born through years of collaboration and innovation, combining SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of experience in animal welfare and commitment to marine conservation with Miral’s unprecedented track record as a leading developer of world-class destinations.
“Together, we have created a state-of-the-art Marine Life Theme Park unlike anything the region has seen to date, truly representing a next generation SeaWorld experience. We have no doubt that guests will be amazed with all that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has to offer and we are proud to play our part in inspiring their commitment marine conservation for years to come.”
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has recently announced its certification by Global Humane, the international brand of American Humane and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare. It is the first facility in the MENA region to achieve this certification.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is the latest addition to Yas Island’s portfolio of theme parks and attractions, including:
Warner Bros. World Abu DhabiFerrari World Abu DhabiYas WaterworldCLYMB Abu Dhabi.
Yas Island and its world-class theme parks, experiences and attractions were recognised with seven awards in the globally renowned World Travel Awards in 2022. In addition to scooping the accolade of World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022, Yas Island received the flagship Middle East’s Leading Tourism Development award for the fourth consecutive year, testament to the global reputation Yas Island has as a leisure and entertainment hub.
Source: www.arabianbusiness.com

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High levels of confidence have been noted among passengers for the peak Northern summer travel holiday season, based on the recent report of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).The survey, in which participated a total of 4,700 travellers from 11 countries,  noted that the demand corresponds with the first quarter of this year’s forward bookings data for May-September, which is tracking at 35 per cent above the figures registered last year, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
According to the study, 79 per cent of passengers surveyed stressed they were planning a trip in the June-August 2023 period, while a total of 85 per cent of participants said that peak travel season disruptions should not be a surprise, and 80 per cent said they expected smooth travel with post-pandemic issues having been resolved.
According to forward bookings data, the most significant increase will be expected in:
Asia Pacific region (134.7 per cent)Middle East (42.9 per cent)Europe (39.9 per cent)Africa (36.4 per cent)Latin America (21.4 per cent)North America (14.1 per cent)
ADVERTISEMENTIATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security, Nick Careen, said that expectations are high for this year’s peak Northern summer travel season. He admitted that some disruptions could occur, adding that there is a clear expectation that the ramping-up issues experienced at some significant hub airports last year will have been resolved.
“In order to meet strong demand, airlines are planning schedules based on the capacity that airports, border control, ground handlers, and air navigation service providers have declared. Over the next months, all industry players now need to deliver,” Careen pointed out in this regard.
He considered that sufficient staffing, as well as collaboration and accurate information sharing, are important to diminish operational disruptions as well as their impact on travellers. Careen said that the key is ensuring that the capacities which have been scheduled and declared are available.
“A lot of work has gone into preparing for the peak Northern summer travel season,” he added.
According to the association, among the main causes of concern is labour unrest, particularly in France.
The travel and tourism industry has marked significant improvement recently, thus recovering from the devastating situation caused by the Coronavirus and its new variants, following COVID-related restrictions that were kept in place for many months in order to contain the virus’s further spread.
Recently, the figures of IATA showed that European carriers registered a 38.5 per cent traffic increase in March this year, compared to the figures for the same period last year.source: SchengenVisaInfo.com

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Colombia —the second most biodiverse country in the world— has 1,966 bird species, 20% of the world’s total, and way more than other countries such as Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, India, and Indonesia.A few days ago, the largest birding event organized by Cornell’s University Ornithology Lab occurred, reuniting scientific and amateur birdwatching communities worldwide. This contest proved, once more, why Colombia is the #1 country in bird diversity on the planet.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), emphasizes that participating in this event contributes to conserving Colombia’s biodiversity and strengthening regenerative nature tourism. Julian Guerrero, Chief of the Party of Destino Naturaleza at USAID, said: “Global Big Day is a powerful citizen science tool that allows us to position Colombia and its territories as a world-class nature destination.”
The regions reporting the most significant number of bird species are Antioquia, Meta, Valle del Cauca, Cundinamarca, and Caldas. So, attention nature fans, as these destinations are perfect for the incoming birdwatchers seeking the ultimate experience.
“Our natural wealth means great opportunities to continue promoting our country as an ideal destination for birdwatching, a product that meets the sustainability parameters to ensure the conservation of the species, as well as the livelihoods of the communities that depend on these meaningful activities,” said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia. Furthermore, birdwatching promotes environmental justice through the conservation of the ecosystems; thus, this tourism type brings awareness to travelers on the protection of habitats.
Currently, Americans are the largest number of international travelers arriving in Colombia, making this country the ultimate destination of US travelers in South America; as of today, 11 cities in the US are directly connected to 8 cities across the Colombian territory, and there are 301 air frequencies with over 52,000 seats available per week.ADVERTISEMENT“Having earned this recognition seems like the perfect opportunity to invite Americans and travelers from across the globe, to visit Colombia and see by themselves the immense biodiversity and beauty of our territories,” concluded Caballero.
For more information about Colombia, please visit https://birds.colombia.travel/en

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The Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD), the largest environmental regulator in the Middle East and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences and, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today with Miral to collaborate with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue on marine conservation, research initiatives and marine wildlife rescue efforts in the region. The largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center in the region, Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue serves as an integrated and advanced marine science knowledge hub and a key contributor to marine life conservation in the UAE and the wider region.
Through this partnership, EAD and Miral, through Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue will collaborate across multiple areas including response to marine wildlife incidents and rescues and the rehabilitation of rescued marine animals and the safe return to their natural habitat. The two partners will also work closely to enhance education around marine life conservation through capacity building as well as outreach programs aimed at the general public. The center, located adjacent to the upcoming Marine-Life Theme Park SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, joins a network of three facilities established across the US and aims to build on SeaWorld’s legacy of almost 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation with over 40,000 rescues to date.
Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, HE Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, said: “This collaboration with Miral and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is a significant step forward in our mission to protect and preserve the marine ecosystems of Abu Dhabi and the entire UAE. By joining forces, we endeavor to improve the treatment of rescued wildlife, expand ecological research, and better understand environmental threats. It will also enhance the success of conservation efforts led by the EAD, ultimately benefiting the region’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. We believe this partnership is of paramount importance for the future of conservation in the country, as it will support our ambitions to inspire and nurture the next generation of marine life scientists in the UAE.”
Miral Group CEO, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, said: “We are honored to announce our partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. This collaboration with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is a testament to our shared commitment to protecting the UAE and region’s marine life, while pushing the limits of science and conservation to create a truly unparalleled knowledge hub. Abu Dhabi and the UAE have a rich maritime heritage and it is our responsibility to preserve this legacy for the years to come and forge a sustainable future for those who will inherit the earth from us. Our partnership with EAD is a significant milestone in this journey and we are committed to working closely to promote sustainable practices, advance research and rescue efforts and foster greater public understanding around the importance of conserving our oceans.”
The collaboration will see Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue join EAD’s established Wildlife Stranding Network, facilitating marine wildlife rescue efforts in Abu Dhabi and other emirates. In addition to facilitating satellite tagging, the network encourages collaboration among various partners in Abu Dhabi, and more broadly, seeks to enhance coordinated efforts across the emirates and the extended region. While EAD will assist in facilitating necessary permits required for research and rescue activities, the center will offer state-of-the-art rescue vessels, housing, and treatment of rescued species at its facility. These efforts, as well as a high level of expertise in animal care, will support the rescue and rehabilitation capacity of Abu Dhabi.ADVERTISEMENTThe partnership will also serve as a driving force towards increasing awareness and appreciation of the unique characteristics of the Arabian Gulf and its diverse marine ecosystems. Additionally, the collaboration will prioritize the development of skills among national cadres to create and implement policies aimed at protecting the region’s marine wildlife. The MoU will also set out a roadmap where the center will serve as a knowledge hub, collaborating with EAD to develop educational content seeking to enhance public awareness around marine conservation. The two partners will also develop joint research initiatives to better understand the ecosystem values of sensitive nearshore habitats such as seagrass. Working with students in related fields, EAD and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue will also provide internship opportunities to nurture the development of aspiring marine scientists.
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue are committed to helping any marine animal in need or at risk. Members of the public are encouraged to call the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) via Abu Dhabi Government Call Center 800 555 to report any animals who may be injured or in danger.
Yas Island and its world-class theme parks, experiences and attractions were recognised with seven awards in the globally renowned World Travel Awards in 2022. In addition to scooping the accolade of World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022, Yas Island received the flagship Middle East’s Leading Tourism Development award for the fourth consecutive year, testament to the global reputation Yas Island has as a leisure and entertainment hub.

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UNWTO has launched a new report to determine the status of rural tourism in its Member States and identify the main challenges and opportunities for tourism as a driver for rural development from a policy perspective.
“Tourism and Rural Development: A Policy Perspective – Results of the UNWTO Survey on Tourism for Rural Development to Member States” represents the first baseline document of UNWTO on tourism and rural development undertaken with the participation of Member States worldwide. 
Key Findings: Rural Tourism for Opportunity
More than half of all Member States (59%) stated that rural tourism is a priorityAlmost all Member States (96%) foresee a better future for rural tourism in the upcoming yearsThe creation of new jobs, improvement of livelihoods and fighting depopulation were the most frequently-cited opportunities offered by tourism for rural areasMember States also identified the conservation and promotion of cultural heritage and environmental protection as among the biggest potential benefits of rural tourism
Main Challenges in Rural Areas ADVERTISEMENTThe UNWTO research also identified three main challenges associated with realizing the potential of tourism for rural development:
The “infrastructure gap” in rural areas: Deficiencies in roads, ports, airports and other infrastructure that allow access to rural areas remain a challenge for the surveyed countries.  Rural depopulation: Seasonality and product competitiveness add to this challenge, increasing the instability of rural businesses, which prevents the retention of population and human resources.The lack of education and training, as well as skills development, in addition to the capacity to attract and retain workforce talent. 
Other challenges include limitations in accessing financial systems, restrictions in the development of innovative tourism products in rural areas, managing the impacts of degradation of natural resources, and limitations in handling data, digitalization, and knowledge management.
UNWTO: Advancing Tourism for the SDGs
In terms of how tourism can help in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNWTO Member States emphasized the potential of rural tourism for advancing SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 11 (Sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
The report was launched during the 118th Session of the UNWTO Executive Council in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.  It forms part of the work of UNWTO’s Tourism for Rural Development Programme, established to develop initiatives and programmes to grow the sector in size and relevance as well as to monitor it in destinations worldwide.

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The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the Canadian Travel & Tourism sector continues to show strong signs of post-pandemic recovery.According to the latest EIR, the sector is set to contribute $162.6 billion to the Canadian economy this year, up 17.2% from last year and within touching distance of the previous peak of $173.9 billion in 2019.
WTTC is also forecasting that Travel & Tourism will create 90,000 jobs this year, recovering almost all of the jobs lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic to reach 1.64 million.
Employment levels are also within touching distance of the 2019 high point.
A look back on last year
Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew by 41.4% to reach more than $138 billion, representing 5% of the Canadian economy, with one in every 20 dollars created in Canada being generated by Travel & Tourism.ADVERTISEMENTLast year the sector also created 169,000 more jobs from the previous year to reach 1.55 million jobs nationally – one in 13 jobs across Canada.The sector has now recovered 124,000 of the 283,500 jobs lost during the pandemic.
Last year also saw the return of international travelers heading to Canada, with spending from overseas visitors growing 64% to reach almost $23 billion.
However, this is still 47% below the 2019 peak of $42.9 billion.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is recovering strongly in Canada with high visitor demand.
“The sector is a vital driver of economic growth and job creation in Canada with cities such as Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal remaining must-see global destinations for international visitors.
“As overseas visitors continue to return to Canada, we will see international visitor spending recovering quickly, to reach 2019 levels in the coming years.”
What does the next decade look like?
The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to more than $238 billion by 2033 to reach 7% of the Canadian economy and will employ almost 2.1 million people across the country, with one in 11 Canadians working in the sector.
North America
In 2022, the North American Travel & Tourism sector contributed $3.05 trillion to the regional economy, just 7% below the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will fully recover in 2023 to reach $3.7 trillion.
The sector employed 24.7 million people across the region in 2022, an increase of 3.6 million from the previous year but still 1.5 billion behind the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2023.

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