Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

THE RIG., one of Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) entertainment projects, announced today the launch of its Masterplan, an ambitious and unprecedented vision for tourism that will redefine adventure tourism.
The project is in line with PIF’s strategy and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives of contributing to the growth of the tourism sector, directly and indirectly contributing to employment opportunities, and diversifying the economy.THE RIG. is inspired by the design of offshore oil platforms, to celebrate the legacy and heritage of Saudi Arabia’s long oil and gas history.  The unique hospitality and adventure experience will span a gross floor area of over 300,000 square meters, located 40km from the coastline, near Al Juraid Island and Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf.
THE RIG. will seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences, including adrenaline seekers, explorers, balanced holiday makers, and relaxation seekers.
The range of hospitality, leisure, entertainment and accommodation options provided by THE RIG. include three hotels totaling 800 rooms, along with 11 restaurants, an extreme sports and adventure park, a world-class marina, and helipads.
THE RIG. will feature a wide variety of water activities, including a diving center, in addition to an amusement park, splash park, an E-sports center, an immersive theater and multi-purpose arena. THE RIG. will also celebrate the Kingdom’s rich oil and gas heritage by creating an exceptional and unique experience, making it a must-visit destination. ADVERTISEMENTThe project will be developed by the Oil Park Development Company (OPDC) under the direction of its CEO, Raed N. Bakhrji, who brings more than 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and a passion for the future of adventure tourism.
Additional information: www.THERIG.sa.

Older
The All-Inclusive Summer Vacation Meets Unmatched Luxury at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

Newer
Emirates Launches Global Cabin Crew Recruitment Drive for 5,000 New Members in 2024 More

UnionPay, one of the world’s largest payment brands, is embracing a new chapter of development after its global acceptance scope spanned 183 countries and regions and issuance outside the Chinese mainland surpassed 230 million cards recently.Thanks to its 20 years of internationalization efforts, it can contribute more “Chinese solutions” to the global payment industry.
On Jan 18, 2004, with approval from the People’s Bank of China, UnionPay launched card services in Hong Kong, marking the beginning of the internationalization efforts made by Chinese bank card brands.
In 2012, UnionPay International, dedicated to international business, was established. Its international strategy evolved from “where Chinese go, UnionPay card services follow” to a more comprehensive “global network, international brand,” aiming to better serve China’s resolve to open wider and to set a high standard in the payment sector.
With the recent initiation of UnionPay card services in El Salvador, its global acceptance scope now covers 66.4 million online and in-store merchants outside of the Chinese mainland. UnionPay cards have been issued in 81 countries and regions outside the Chinese mainland. Currently, UnionPay International has cooperated with more than 2,600 institutions globally.
First choice of touristsADVERTISEMENTAs China’s payment industry has rapidly evolved over the past two decades, UnionPay International has actively enhanced its network service capabilities, diversified product offerings, and improved payment scenarios to provide high-quality financial payment services for both Chinese and international residents engaged in trade and cooperation.
During the New Year holidays, Chinese tourists celebrating globally found UnionPay’s distinctive three-color logo ubiquitously present, whether in the streets of Hong Kong and Macao or at merchants in Bangkok, Tokyo, Abu Dhabi and beyond.
According to a Nielsen report, UnionPay has become the most widely accepted international card brand globally. Since the first UnionPay transaction landed in Hong Kong, UnionPay cards have been accepted in 183 countries and regions around the world, among which 99 countries and regions support UnionPay mobile payment products. UnionPay acceptance rates in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and other regions have increased to approximately 80 percent.
In China’s Hong Kong and Macao, hundreds of thousands of merchants, millions in South Korea, and almost all QR code merchants in Malaysia and Sri Lanka support the UnionPay app.
Building on the foundation of practicality, UnionPay International has collaborated extensively across industries to create a rich ecosystem for UnionPay payments, giving cardholders more convenience and ease when making payments.
In 2023 alone, tourism bureaus in Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, international duty-free group DFS, travel platform Trip.com, and tax refund agency Planet Tax Free, among others, have collaborated with UnionPay International, enhancing its payment capabilities in scenarios such as hotel bookings, transportation, dining, and shopping.
Currently, UnionPay payment services are supported in more than 5,000 overseas schools, the top 10 hotel groups globally, renowned airlines, cross-border transportation such as the China-Laos Railway and public transportation in popular overseas tourist destinations.
Close collaboration in cross-border payments between commercial banks and UnionPay International provides personalized options for residents. Various commercial banks have introduced distinctive UnionPay card products, such as cross-border cashback cards, Prestige Asia, cards themed in “Tour South Korea”, and more, catering to different customer segments. Connected to the UnionPay app Network Payment Platform, commercial bank apps can also directly use UnionPay QR codes in overseas acceptance scenarios.
Global expansion
Since the resumption of cross-border movement, international events like Canton Fair and the China International Import Expo have been successfully held in China, making it essential to provide quality payment services for overseas visitors in China.
Currently, outside the Chinese mainland, more than 230 million UnionPay cards have been issued in 81 countries and regions, 180 UnionPay local wallets have been established in 35 countries and regions. These diverse UnionPay payment products cover multiple functions, including card swiping, scanning and cash withdrawals, meeting the needs of both daily life and cross-border payments, positioning UnionPay as one of the preferred payment brands for visitors to China.
This journey began with the opening of UnionPay card acceptance in China’s Hong Kong, where Bank of China (Hong Kong) issued the first local UnionPay card in the same year. This marked the localization of UnionPay International business and the starting point for exploring payment services for residents around the world.
Currently, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has issued 30 million UnionPay cards in total. In the countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, the cumulative issuance reaches 170 million cards. In countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Mongolia, Singapore and Kazakhstan, UnionPay has become the go-to payment card, favored by local students, workers and teachers, becoming integrated with local life.
These cards can be used in almost all POS terminals and scenarios in China, including taking public transportation, shopping on the Taobao app, booking tickets on travel agency Trip.com, hailing a ride on the Didi app, and ordering food through the Meituan app.
Drawing from its experience of promoting QR code payments domestically, UnionPay has continually extended its mobile payment services to residents outside the Chinese mainland.
In 2018, the Hong Kong-Macao version of the UnionPay app landed in Hong Kong. Subsequently, UnionPay International has innovated cooperation models, supporting overseas wallets to bind UnionPay cards or issue UnionPay virtual cards within their apps. This allows users to utilize familiar local products for payments on the Chinese mainland, without the need for additional account creation or downloading domestic apps. Authentication can be completed through local institutions, eliminating the requirement to provide sensitive personal information to third-party platforms.
Leading Chinese solution
While providing high-quality payment services for overseas residents, UnionPay International collaborates with central banks, national payment networks, and payment alliances of various countries to establish technical standards for payment networks, QR codes, and chip cards. In doing so, it contributes more “Chinese solutions” to the global payment industry.
Adapting to the trends of industrial development, UnionPay International actively seeks new strategies to build global network advantages through the development of both cards and mobile payment.
In recent years, many countries have accelerated the construction of local payment networks and promoted the interoperability between different networks. Since 2023, UnionPay International has collaborated with local networks in 15 countries and regions overseas to promote the interoperability of QR codes. Sixteen projects have been implemented or are in progress including payment networks from Southeast Asian countries such as PayNet of Malaysia, NAPAS of Vietnam, Bakong of Cambodia and LAPNet of Laos. The acceptance scope of UnionPay QR codes outside the Chinese mainland has subsequently increased to 6.5 million merchants in 45 countries and regions. This establishes UnionPay as a payment product with major advantages in the Asia-Pacific region.

Older
Villa Select Launches Crete Villas

Newer
The All-Inclusive Summer Vacation Meets Unmatched Luxury at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya More

Latest flight booking data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and its knowledge partner ForwardKeys, shows France is set to keep its pole position as the world’s most popular destination for international arrivals this year.The research reveals a positive outlook for France’s inbound travel, with arrivals set to almost reach pre-pandemic highs this year.
During her participation at the Destination France event taking place in Chantilly and hosted by President Macron, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, praised France for its steely focus in recognising the economic and cultural value Travel & Tourism brings in jobs and contribution to GDP. This is achieved through a strong private sector working well with government and the regions.
According to latest analysis from WTTC and ForwardKeys, the leading travel data and analytics company, international arrivals in France for the first half of 2024 are at 93% of the same period in 2019, with France cementing its position as the world’s most popular destination.
International arrivals to France are surging significantly in the first half of this year, providing a welcome boost to the sector, which, at its peak, contributed €220 billion to the national economy, and Travel & Tourism businesses up and down the country, supporting 2.7 million livelihoods.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “France’s commitment to Travel & Tourism is not just reflected in the impressive data, but in the unwavering efforts of the government.ADVERTISEMENT“President Macron recognises the real value Travel & Tourism brings to France in terms of the economy, jobs and its standing on the world stage. His support has ensured France remains the world’s most popular destination.”
Research also shows that airlines are ramping up their capacity to match the growing demand from around the world, with the number of seats set to surpass 2019 levels this year.
Olivier Ponti, Vice President Insights at ForwardKeys, added: “With flight bookings on the rise and air carriers set to introduce a record number of seats, France enters 2024 in a strong position.
“Capitalising on the successful hosting of the Rugby World Cup 2023 and on the growing exposure provided by the upcoming Olympic Games, the country is set to be one of most thought-after destinations this year for both regional and long-haul markets.”
This rise in passenger capacity is led by Orly Airport, with an increase of 28%, reaching nearly eight million. Charles de Gaulle remains the busiest airport in France, to reach 18.5 million in the first six months of 2024, just 3% below 2019 levels.
Paris is the world’s most powerful city destination. According to accommodation data from WTTC Knowledge Partner, CoStar, occupancy rates in the French capital reached above 2019 level in the first half of 2023 for over half of hotel classes.
In 2024, other French cities are also going to be popular attractions for foreign visitors. Nice is among the top-performing European cities, with international arrivals expected to reach 94% of pre-pandemic levels.
France as a destination is becoming increasingly popular amongst Spanish and Canadian travellers, with international arrivals exceeding 2019 levels by more than 64% and 54%, respectively.
Irish and South Korean travellers are returning to France in their droves, with visitor numbers up from 2019 levels by 19% and 16%, respectively.
Travellers to France are also spending more money, with bookings of premium cabins witnessing a surge of 21% compared to pre-pandemic levels in the first half of the year.
Last year, WTTC’s Economic Impact Research (EIR) revealed that the French Travel & Tourism sector is expected to grow at an average of 3% annually over the next decade, twice the 1.5% annual growth rate of the country’s overall economy, to reach more than €297 billion (9.7% of the total economy).
The forecast also revealed the Travel & Tourism sector in France, is expected to create more than 555,000 jobs in the next 10 years, averaging nearly 56,000 new jobs every year, reaching nearly 3.3 million employed within the sector by 2033.

Older
Hamad International Airport Welcomes DHL Boeing 767-300, Strengthening Regional Logistics Hub Status

Newer
First speakers announced for Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia More

Dubai has secured the coveted No.1 global destination ranking in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards for an unprecedented third successive year – becoming the first city to achieve the milestone.Dubai’s latest top international ranking was announced by Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, in its Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024: Best of the Best Destinations. The accolade carries further significance due to the winners being selected based exclusively on the reviews of millions of global travellers in the Tripadvisor community. The awards factor in the quality and quantity of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and experiences in each destination over a period of 12 months between 1 October 2022 through 30 September 2023.

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), said, “Travellers from around the world seeking a safe, secure and easily accessible destination, have embraced Dubai’s diverse offerings for all segments, from families and thrill seekers to business visitors and cultural explorers, recognising the unique experiences that can only be found in the city.”
“As consumer demands and trends further evolve, and aided by the feedback we receive through Tripadvisor and other digital platforms, as well as directly from tourists within the city itself, we will continue to work to maintain the highest standards across the city’s offerings and services, and ensure visitors have an unrivalled experience in Dubai.”
The top Tripadvisor award is the latest in a series of global accolades for Dubai. In 2023, the city was ranked the No.1 city in the world to relocate to in a report by financial services provider Remitly, and was ranked the best city in the world for remote workers by property consultancy Savills in its top 20 list of the 2023 Executive Nomad Index. Dubai was also named the world’s No.2 city destination in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 and ranked one of the top 10 cities in the Global Power City Index, in a report issued by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies in Japan. The UAE was also named the second safest country in the world in 2023, according to findings revealed by Numbeo, the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. This recognition strengthens Dubai’s attractiveness as a top global liveability hub that provides a unique lifestyle to the 200 different nationalities that call the city home, underpinned by high safety and security standards that allow travellers to visit with peace of mind.ADVERTISEMENT
The repeated acknowledgement of Dubai as the world’s favourite destination is a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse offerings – with an eclectic mix of luxury and affordable hotels and restaurants, as well as a range of attractions, and cultural sites which pay homage to the heritage of the emirate, keeps visitors returning time and time again. Dubai’s unique proposition has seen tourism become a vital contributor to overall economic growth.
Dubai’s ease of entry initiatives, air connectivity, strong public-private partnership, globally recognised culinary scene, and unique quality of life, have cemented its stature as the top destination of choice. According to the latest data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai welcomed 15.37 million international overnight visitors between January and November 2023, a 20% increase over the same period in 2022. This accomplishment directly aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

Older
RIYADH SEASON ANNOUNCES THE NEW BLVD RUNWAY, FEATURING WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES More

In a landmark achievement, Trip.com Group has been awarded one of the Leading Brands in the 2023 Forbes China Global Brands Selection 30&30 in recognition of its exceptional global growth over the past two decades. Trip.com Group joins the selection in its inaugural year, alongside other industry leaders like automaker BYD, smart home appliance maker Skyworth, and real-time engagement platform developer Agora.io.
Forbes China’s 30&30 selection celebrates brands originating in China that have displayed robust growth trajectories and pursued cutting-edge innovation on the world stage. Building on the legacy of their predecessors, brands venturing overseas in recent years feature richer business experiences, newer technology, and stronger market influence. This year, thirty brands that have demonstrated creativity and have achieved significant industry impact, as well as thirty individuals that contributed to brand globalisation, were selected by Forbes China to the list.
“We are honoured to be listed among brands that have broken new ground on the path to globalisation,” said Han Feng, Head of Marketing at Trip.com. “The selection acknowledges Trip.com Group’s strategy of ‘Local Focus, Global Vision’, as we leverage advanced technology and creative marketing tools to bring fulfilling and personalised experiences to our global customers.”
Founded in 1999, Trip.com Group has accumulated extensive experience in international business growth, getting listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021. Today, it has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. 
Comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar, Trip.com Group provides services to hundreds of millions of users in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions. Its extensive network all around the world consists of more than 1.2 million international accommodation services, over 510 partner airlines, and more than 30,000 tourism ecosystem partners. The Group held its Global Partners Summit abroad for the first time in 2023, as more than 2,000 partners and media gathered in Singapore to explore collaboration opportunities internationally. ADVERTISEMENTTrip.com Group is redefining the travel landscape with cutting-edge technological innovations. In 2023, the Group released TripGenie, an advanced AI travel assistant to facilitate the planning and booking processes, which enhanced user engagement and overall service effectiveness. Meanwhile, the Group has built a joint innovation lab with Amazon Web Services to combine resources and knowledge in cloud computing and artificial intelligence to identify and develop new ways to support Trip.com customers.
Trip.com Group’s content marketing strategy has also proved to be a game-changer in the travel industry, as tools such as Trip Moments create a vibrant, travel-related social media experience that connects travellers globally and provides partners with new ways to engage with visitors. AI-enhanced curated lists, such as “Trip.Trends”, “Trip.Best”, and “Trip.Deals”, have helped expand consumer choice and improve the booking experience.
As global tourism continues to recover after the pandemic, Trip.com Group has been working with partners to improve the experience of inbound travel to China and help destinations around the world reconnect with keen travellers. Trip.com has collaborated with major payment provider Alipay to provide packages on the Alipay app, aimed at helping international visitors navigate China with ease. Partnerships with tourism authorities in Singapore, Fiji, and Saudi Arabia, among others, further bolster tourism in their respective countries.
With positive developments in visa-free travel and increased international flights, 2024 is set to be an exciting year for travel. Trip.com Group remains committed to its global expansion strategy, advancing innovations in AI, content, and ESG to firmly establish itself as an acclaimed tourism brand worldwide.

Older
Shamal Holding breaks ground on exclusive Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai

Newer
Emirates and Azul expand partnership to offer joint loyalty programme benefits More

Skyros Holidays, renowned for its transformative retreats and workshops, proudly announces its 2024 programme, marking 45 years of providing life-changing experiences. This year’s programme continues the tradition of excellence, offering a diverse range of courses designed to enrich the mind, body, and soul.The 2024 lineup includes the famed Skyros Writers’ Lab, offering a nurturing environment for both budding and experienced writers. The Writers’ Lab is part of a broader curriculum that also features a unique blend of mental health and wellbeing courses, designed to foster personal growth and emotional resilience.
Skyros Holidays continues with their exciting array of physical and creative activities. Participants can explore their humorous side with Comedy courses, find inner peace through Yoga, and unleash their creative potential in various art-centric workshops.
For those seeking adrenaline and adventure, the programme includes exhilarating options such as Trapeze & Aerial Silks, Kayaking & Windsurfing, and Abseiling. The wild swimming sessions offer a refreshing way to connect with nature and embrace the great outdoors.
“Our 2024 programme is a culmination of 45 years of expertise in crafting holidays that are not just a break from the routine but a journey towards self-discovery and joy,” said Christine Director at Skyros Holidays. “We believe in the power of community, creativity, and adventure to transform lives, and our diverse course offerings reflect this philosophy.”
Skyros Holidays invites everyone to join this journey of exploration and transformation. Whether it’s finding your voice, developing a new skill, or simply taking the time to relax and rejuvenate, Skyros offers a space where every individual can find something that resonates with their spirit.ADVERTISEMENTAt Skyros Holidays, we’re continually evolving to enhance the experience of our guests while also considering the environmental impact of travel. In line with this commitment, we’re excited to announce an increase in the number of two-week holiday options for the upcoming season. This change not only allows for a more in-depth and fulfilling holiday experience but also aligns with our sustainability goals by reducing the frequency of travel.
For more information about the 2024 programme and to book your transformative holiday experience, visit www.skyros.com or contact Leigh Jackman at marketing@skyros,com.

Older
Hilton’s Luxury Hot List: Global Properties and Brand Signatures to Debut in 2024 and Beyond

Newer
Vialattea Ski Partners With Trenitalia For Trains To The Alps & Discounted Ski Passes More

As artificial intelligence conquers more and more areas of our lives, the Austrian National Tourist Office is launching the world’s first “Authentic Intelligence”. At “Chat SkiPT”, real-life ski instructors answer live questions about winter holidays and beyond.
With typical Austrian humour and their in-depth expertise, they convey the special flair of a winter holiday in Austria. The ChatSkiPT.com website is already online, with the actual chat phase starting on 17 January 2024.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is finding its way into more and more areas of life, and AI is already being used for holiday planning. Tools such as ChatGPT can provide valuable tips and well-founded information. However, they have not (yet?) mastered the typical Austrian humour. And there is also a residual risk of incorrect results and poor recommendations. Not least because holidays in Austria are all about authentic experiences, the Austrian National Tourist Office is relying on “Authentic Intelligence” – the knowledge and humour of real-life Austrian ski instructors – instead of “Artificial Intelligence” as part of a new marketingcampaign.
CHAT SKIPT ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS
“Winter holidays in Austria are not just about state-of-the-art ski infrastructure with over 23,000 hectares of pistes and more than 2,600 ski lifts. What makes a holiday in Austria special are the authentic experiences and personal contacts. The conversations with local people, hosts and ski instructors. We at the Austrian National Tourist Office are enthusiastic about technology and open to the possibilities and capabilities of artificial intelligence. With Chat SkiPT, we still want to remind everyone that it’s all about people and that AI cannot replace the friendly Austrian charm, at least not yet,” says Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, Managing Director of Austrian National Tourist Office.ADVERTISEMENTOn the website www.chatskipt.com, visitors write their questions in a chat window, similar to ChatGPT. Instead of AI, 15 ski instructors from the Austrian ski regions respond. The experts provide in-depth specialist knowledge about skiing, reveal how to enjoy the Austrian winter and are also happy to share a word or two of wisdom. You can chat from Wednesday, 17 January 2024 to Saturday, 20 January 2024 during fixed time slots. The chat is available in English, German and Dutch. Information on the chat times can be found on the website.
“With Chat SkiPT, we are generating additional attention for winter in Austria alongside our regular high-reach campaigns in Austria’s 12 most important foreign markets. In the 2022/23 winter season, winter sports enthusiasts in Austria generated sales of 12.6 billion euros, which corresponds to direct and indirect added value of 6.7 billion euros. Winter in Austria is crucial for the economic success of our tourism country and I am delighted that we as the Austrian National Tourist Office can make our contribution in the form of modern, effective communication,” says Steharnig-Staudinger.
The campaign was developed in co-operation with the agency Wien Nord Serviceplan, which has been the new lead agency of the Austrian National Tourist Office since last year.

Older
Avani Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Germany with the Launch of Avani Frankfurt City Hotel

Newer
Dr. Rui Loureiro Brings Wellness to Maldives for Valentines Day More

Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, and its destinations achieved new records by clinching an impressive collection of over 170 regional and international accolades, further solidifying Yas Island and Saadiyat Island as leading destinations for excellence and innovation.
This year Yas Island witnessed a remarkable milestone for the world-renowned leisure and entertainment destination, amassing over 130 prestigious awards and in parallel success, Saadiyat Island experienced a noteworthy triumph, culminating in an impressive array of over 40 prestigious awards. Recognized as the premier beach destination in the Middle East, the island has garnered widespread acclaim for its world-class resorts, iconic cultural attractions, and dining establishments.
HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, said: “Achieving a stellar track record of success across the tourism ecosystem within Abu Dhabi is a proud testament to our relentless commitment in bolstering Abu Dhabi’s position as a global tourism hub. Award-winning destinations and attractions across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island continue to define new industry benchmarks while contributing to the growth and economic diversification of the Emirate.”

Yas Island and its leading theme parks have garnered widespread international acclaimADVERTISEMENTIn 2023, Yas Island achieved several prestigious honors, including recognition from the World Travel Awards as ‘World’s Leading Theme Park Destination’, the International Travel Awards as the ‘Best Holiday Destination’ at the regional and continental levels, along with the esteemed title of ‘Best Entertainment Destination’ at the country level. Furthermore, it received the MENALAC 2023 award for being the ‘Best-integrated Leisure Destination’.

The island’s iconic theme parks extensively received significant acclaims. Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi earned the title of the ‘Middle East’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ at the World Travel Awards. Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi proudly won ‘World’s Leading Theme Park’ for the fifth year in a row at World Travel Awards and achieved the title of ‘Thrills’ at the Blooloop Innovation Awards 2023. Adding to the accolades, Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi was awarded a Silver for ‘Innovation in the Use of Events’ at the MENA Stevie Awards, underscoring the park’s commitment to innovative event execution. Simultaneously, Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi was honored as the ‘Middle East’s Leading Water Park’ at the World Travel Awards while CLYMB Yas Island, Abu Dhabi secured the distinguished title of the ‘Middle East’s Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction 2023’.

Yas Island’s campaigns win big in 2023
Reaffirming the island’s stature as the leading destination for leisure and entertainment, Yas Island sets the bar high with its award-winning campaigns that continuously captivate audiences, leaving them eagerly anticipating what’s next. Notably, Yas Island’s campaigns received top PR industry awards, securing the ‘Best Integrated Campaign’ accolade with a gold win in Bahrain and a bronze win in Kuwait during this year’s MEPRA Awards, for its latest GCC campaign in collaboration with the Miami Band. Additionally, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi took home the ‘Best Use of Limited Budget’ at the MEPRA Awards for their campaign with Etihad Airways – Taken by Surprise. The year also witnessed Yas Island securing four EFFIE Awards MENA across various categories. These included an outstanding bronze win in Season Marketing for their campaign ‘Yas Yas Baby’, along with a bronze win in Travel, Tourism and Transportation for their latest campaign in partnership with Miami Band ‘Let’s Meet Again on Yas Island’.

The campaign wins do not stop there, Yas Island and its renowned theme parks achieved a remarkable five wins at the 2023 MENA Stevie Awards. The island’s highly successful ‘#SummerOnYas’ campaign received the coveted Gold Award for ‘Innovation in Media Relations’. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi celebrated dual victories with Gold Awards in ‘Innovation in the Use of Media Relations’, recognizing their collaboration with Etihad Airways, and another for ‘Innovation in Consumer Events’, honoring the success of the family-friendly ‘Batman Run’. This event was organized as part of ‘The Batman Season’ in conjunction with the release of the DC movie ‘The Batman’.

The latest entertainment addition on Yas Island has achieved remarkable success
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the island’s newest theme park, has made a significant impact in just a few months since its inauguration. The marine life theme park has garnered widespread acclaim, earning the prestigious ‘Award in Outstanding Achievement’ at the esteemed TEA Awards, a recognition considered one of the highest honors in the themed experience industry.

Adding to its list of accolades, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, celebrated for its fascinating ocean theme, also achieved the title of ‘Best Use of Theming’ at the Park World Excellence Awards. Notably, the park’s standout ride, Hypersphere 360, earned the distinguished honor of ‘Best Dark Ride or Media-Based Attraction’.
Additionally, it recently achieved recognition at the Blooloop Innovation Awards as it won second place in the ‘Themed Environment’ category.

The rapid and impressive recognition garnered by SeaWorld Abu Dhabi highlights its impact and success within a short span, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the entertainment landscape of Yas Island.

Yas Island’s prestigious accolades in lifestyle and dining
Earning widespread acclaim as a leading destination for lifestyle and dining enthusiasts, Yas Island truly stands out. One of its crown jewels is the Yas Bay Waterfront, a collection of award-winning dining venues that have collectively earned an impressive tally of 16 prestigious awards. These accolades hail from esteemed outlets such as the What’s On Awards, Time Out Abu Dhabi Awards and the FACT Dining Awards, underlining the island’s reputation for excellence.
Further contributing to Yas Island’s accolades is the Hilton Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, which proudly secured the prestigious title of ‘Best Business Hotel in Abu Dhabi 2023’ at the Business Traveller Awards 2023. Similarly, the WB™ Hotel clinched the esteemed title of ‘Middle East’s Leading Theme Park Hotel 2023’ at the World Travel Awards.

Nestled among these esteemed hotels is the W Abu Dhabi Yas Island, a standout in its own right with four notable awards to its name this year. Notably, it garnered recognition for ‘Favorite Brunch’ at the What’s On Awards, specifically for the B.I.G – Brunch In Garage, solidifying its position as a premier dining destination on the island.

Yas Island’s other attractions also received their fair share of wins. Yas Links secured the title of ‘UAE’s Best Golf Course’ at the World Golf Awards. Additionally, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management claimed victory in the categories of ‘Favorite Concert, Show, or Festival’ for Post Malone at Etihad Park at the What’s On Awards and ‘Best Use of Digital and Social Media in Sports’ for Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the SPIA awards, among others.

As for Etihad Arena, it earned two accolades in 2023. The venue was named the ‘Winner in the Sports and Recreation category’ at the 2023 International Architecture Award by The Chicago Athenaeum and was also recognized as a finalist for ‘Venue of the Year’ at the 2023 The Stadium Business Awards.

Saadiyat Island achieves exceptional results in 2023
The accolades began pouring in with Saadiyat Beach Club, claiming the title of ‘Best Beach Club in Abu Dhabi’ at the FACT Spa & Wellness Awards Abu Dhabi 2023’. Notably, it also clinched the What’s On Award for ‘Favorite Sundowner Spot 2023’ and ‘Favorite Daycation 2023’. Nurai Island proudly received the title of ‘Best Leading Villa Resort 2023’ at the esteemed World Travel Awards.

The island’s leading hotels left an indelible mark across diverse industry categories. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort emerged triumphant with four prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards, including ‘Abu Dhabi’s Leading Resort 2023’ and ‘World’s Leading Luxury Resort & Villas’. Additionally, Tean at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort secured a win at the World Culinary Awards 2023 for ‘Abu Dhabi’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2023’, among other recognitions.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas celebrated an impressive total of eight awards this year. Noteworthy wins include the Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2023 for ‘Best Outdoor – Beach House’, FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2023 for ‘Best Alfresco Dining – Beach House’ and the World Travel Awards for ‘Abu Dhabi’s Leading Beach Resort 2023’, among numerous others.

Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island also shone brightly with four prestigious awards, securing the ‘Favorite Resort Spa in Abu Dhabi’ at the FACT Spa & Wellness Awards for its renowned Anjana Spa. It further received honors at the World Travel Awards as ‘Abu Dhabi’s Leading Family Resort’ and the ‘Middle East’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort’.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi made a lasting impression with the Royal Suite winning ‘Abu Dhabi’s Leading Hotel Suite 2023’ at the World Travel Awards, along with six additional awards. Meanwhile, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas also received several accolades, particularly for its exceptional dining experiences, including the highly commended ‘Best Buffet Brunch’ at the Time Out Abu Dhabi Awards 2023 for Sim Sim Restaurant.

Memorable recognitions
Miral Destinations, a subsidiary of Miral and promotional arm of Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi, received its well-deserved recognition through a series of prestigious awards in 2023.
One notable achievement was YasIsland.com’s recognition as the ‘Best MENA SEO Campaign 2023’ at the Global Search Awards, highlighting Miral’s prowess in digital marketing strategies.

A testament to its unwavering commitment to customer experience excellence, Miral clinched four significant wins at the International Customer Experience Awards 2023. Noteworthy among these were the Silver award for ‘Best Learning & Development’ and the Bronze for ‘Best Use of Technology’.
Additionally, Miral Destinations was recognized as the ‘Best Destinations Promoter UAE 2023’ at the International Business Magazine Awards, further affirming its position as a trailblazing promoter of unparalleled destinations within the UAE.

Older
Radisson Hotel Group sets new record in 2023, adding the largest number of keys to its portfolio More