Tourism

Title: “Unified GCC Tourist Visa Fuels Surge in Demand for Short-Term Rentals in the UAE” However, industry experts anticipate that the largest beneficiary of the unified GCC tourist visa will be the short-term rental segment in the UAE, particularly in Dubai. This sector is expected to experience significant demand due to the abundance of options available to tourists compared to other cities and countries in the region. Dubai Tourism’s latest figures reveal a substantial increase in visitors to the emirate, reaching 12.4 million between January and September 2023, a notable 97% surge from 2022 and 2021. The consistent growth in tourist traffic since 2020, coupled with the introduction of the unified GCC tourist visa, is poised to encourage travelers to explore multiple GCC cities, positively impacting the short-term rental and holiday home market in the UAE. Driven by escalating demand and prices for short-term rental properties, global and local platforms like Airbnb, dubizzle, BlueGround, HomesGetaway, among others, are expected to witness significant increases in new listings in the coming years. Fibha Ahmed, sales director at dubizzle, expressed enthusiasm about the unified GCC tourist visa, likening its potential impact to the Schengen visa in Europe. She anticipates that tourists from other GCC nations may explore various cities within the UAE, including Dubai, resulting in a more even distribution of tourists and influencing short-term rental markets beyond traditional hubs. Dubizzle has recorded a 25% surge in short-term rental listings in the UAE in 2023, with a notable 26% increase specifically in Dubai, indicating a promising trend in the market. The introduction of the new visa is also expected to intensify competition and influence pricing strategies. With an anticipated influx of tourists, short-term rentals may experience higher occupancy rates, leading to potential benefits for property owners and rental platforms. Increased tourism spending on dining, entertainment, and related activities is expected to contribute positively to the local economy, influencing the real estate and rental markets. Depending on demand levels, property owners may adjust rental prices to capitalize on increased tourist arrivals, according to Ahmed. Farooq Syed, CEO of Springfield Properties in Dubai, noted the abundance of short-term rental options available in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, catering to varied traveler preferences. He believes that the GCC tourist visa promises a positive outlook, anticipating a surge in demand for short-term rentals. Short-term rentals have already proven to be a preferred choice for many visitors to the UAE, offering a “home away from home” experience. Syed expects a notable increase in short-term rental rates, particularly during peak tourist seasons and in sought-after locations. The convenience and accessibility offered by the unified GCC tourist visa are likely to attract more tourists to the UAE and Dubai, leading to a surge in demand for short-term rental properties. Property owners and operators may adjust rates, potentially yielding higher investment returns, with the extent of the increase varying based on individual property characteristics, location, and the broader economic landscape.

The enchanting Hatta region of Dubai, nestled in the Hajar Mountains, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, positioning itself as a model for sustainable growth and cultural preservation. This visionary development is gaining widespread acclaim, solidifying Hatta’s status as a destination of increasing popularity on both national and global scales.Recognized as one of the ’50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveler in May this year, Hatta reflects Dubai’s visionary leadership and commitment to balanced growth. Situated 130 km southeast of Dubai city, Hatta has not only become a must-visit destination but also serves as an example of how modern development can seamlessly coexist with cultural conservation and environmental sustainability. The Hatta Master Development Plan, initiated in 2021 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, plays a pivotal role in this transformative journey. Integral to the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the development plan focuses on enhancing residents’ well-being, creating unique visitor experiences, and catalyzing Hatta’s ascent as a vital tourism and cultural hub. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Dubai’s Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar, emphasized that Hatta’s development, guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s visionary strategy, strikes a harmonious balance between sustainability and economic growth while preserving the region’s unique cultural identity. As part of the initial phase of the plan, the ‘Hatta, The Highlands of Dubai’ campaign was launched to promote the region’s natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich history. Notably, Hatta received a significant boost with the development of the new Hatta Souq and the revitalization of the Hatta Heritage Village. The Souq, blending traditional and contemporary designs, has become a vibrant marketplace showcasing local products and crafts, while the Heritage Village has transformed into a cultural landmark, highlighting the region’s rich history and traditions. With attractions like Hatta Dam, Hatta Hill Park, Hatta Honeybee Garden, and Discovery Centre, Hatta has become a bustling tourist hub offering distinctive experiences in nature and heritage. The first phase of the plan also witnessed the creation of a robust infrastructure, including an extensive network of cycling tracks, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for eco-friendly travel and adventure sportThe second phase, launched in early 2023, includes 22 projects and initiatives, featuring the transformation of Hatta Beach into an all-season tourist spot. The Hatta Beach Project, with the Crystal Lagoon, is designed to provide year-round leisure and entertainment facilities, further elevating the region’s appeal. Another notable project is the Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls, near Hatta Dam, uniquely designed to combine sustainability, heritage, and economic development. The hexagonal beehive design, inspired by Hatta’s honey-making traditions, adds a cultural touch to the project. Additionally, a 5.4 km cable car will be installed, carrying visitors from the dam to the top of Umm Al Nusour, the highest peak in Dubai. Hatta has emerged as a hub for sports and culture, hosting events such as the Dubai Fitness Challenge and the Spartan Race. These events underscore Hatta’s potential for hosting international sporting events and promoting an active lifestyle.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has unveiled a strategic collaboration with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) for the forthcoming edition of the event, scheduled from May 6th to 9th, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Designated as ‘Knowledge Partners’ for the regional trade show, these esteemed global organizations will offer comprehensive insights and opportunities within the thriving domains of business events and travel. Citing data from the ICCA statistical forecast, which delineates the history and performance of the International Association Meetings Industry from 1963 to 2022, it was revealed that 10,602 business events were documented globally last year, with 9,009 (85 percent) being conducted in person. This marked a remarkable 349 percent surge from the previous year when only 2,007 in-person events occurred. Notably, the Middle East accounted for the highest percentage of in-person delegates (94 percent) in the official figures for the preceding year. The business travel industry is also witnessing substantial growth, as indicated by the 2023 GBTA Business Travel Index™ Report, revealing that the global business travel sector rebounded more swiftly than anticipated in 2023. Factors such as pent-up demand post-pandemic and healthier economic conditions than projected were identified as significant contributors to this positive trend. The report further highlighted a 47 percent increase in global business travel spending to $1.03 trillion last year, with expectations for this figure to reach nearly $1.8 trillion globally by 2027.Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director at Arabian Travel Market, expressed: “The latest research underscores the robustness of the business events and business travel sectors. As integral verticals at ATM, the official partnership with ICCA and GBTA for the 2024 edition will elevate our offerings. Collaborating with these esteemed industry leaders, ATM aims to provide enhanced value and innovation to its attendees and exhibitors. With a dedicated focus on these pivotal sectors, ATM is committed to delivering a world-class event that serves as a platform for networking, education, and business opportunities for global professionals.” During ATM 2024, ICCA will present seminars covering various MICE industry topics, while GBTA will delineate prevailing trends in the business travel sector. These seminars aim to provide valuable insights into recent research, innovations, and best practices within the industry. Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, expressed: “ICCA proudly announces our collaboration with ATM, envisioning business events as a foundational segment in future editions. With ICCA as a Knowledge Partner for the MICE segment, we are collectively poised to redefine collaboration, innovation, and success in the interconnected realms of business.” Catherine Logan, Regional Senior Vice President EMEA and APAC at GBTA, added: “Despite being one of the smaller global business travel markets, the MEA region has significant growth potential and exceeded pre-pandemic business travel spending, reaching 95 percent recovery in 2022. Forecasts for 2023 predict business travel spend in the region to surpass this figure and reach USD$30.6 million, continuing its growth trajectory.”

Dubai International (DXB) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the first international airport to be granted the Certified Autism Centre™ (CAC) designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This accomplishment underscores Dubai Airports’ commitment to enhancing the travel experience and fostering accessibility for individuals with disabilities, aligning with Dubai’s aspirations to be recognized as a Certified Autism Destination™. Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, expressed the significance of this achievement, stating, “This recognition attests to our steadfast commitment to providing an inclusive travel experience for all our guests, including those with hidden disabilities. In line with UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021, aiming for the Emirate to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city, we are devoted to promoting the inclusion of all guests and creating an airport environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported. “We are honored to collaborate closely with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the IBCCES team to address challenges in this area.” Essa bin Hadher, General Manager at Dubai College of Tourism, highlighted the pivotal role of Dubai International Airport as the initial touchpoint in the traveler’s journey, emphasizing the significance of this accomplishment in advancing accessibility goals. Dubai International (DXB) underwent a thorough on-site assessment of all three terminals conducted by IBCCES to earn the certification. The assessment included an evaluation of the tailored services introduced through the Sunflower Lanyard Programme. The Sunflower Lanyard Programme discreetly identifies and assists People of Determination (POD) guests, providing access to prioritized routes for check-in, passport control, security checkpoints, and boarding when wearing a sunflower lanyard. Specially trained Guest Experience Ambassadors and employees wearing a sunflower pin are available to assist POD travelers throughout their airport journey. In addition to the Sunflower Lanyard Programme, Dubai International (DXB) introduced a hidden disability service training and awareness program as part of its ‘We all meet the world differently’ initiative launched in 2022. This program, delivered to 33,000 airport staff across DXB service providers, enhances their understanding of visible and non-visible disabilities. Furthermore, a travel planner was introduced as a step-by-step visual guide for passengers with hidden disabilities, facilitating their navigation of the airport. DXB’s POD service offering includes complimentary two-hour parking, specialized assistance at customs and immigration, dedicated taxis, and wheelchair services. Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman, commented on the certification, stating, “This certification reflects the airport operator’s dedication to exceptional service and aligns with Dubai’s vision for a more accessible city. Through our partnership, we empower airport staff with skills and tools to create a more welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers, contributing to an enhanced travel experience for all.”

  Dubai Parks and Resorts revealed the name of their latest park addition – RealMadrid World – in a press statement on last week.The new park is touted as the first ever football theme park. The football cluband the entertainment destination signed a deal in 2022, but details of theopening are yet to be announced.A ‘world-first’ addition to Dubai Parks and Resorts, the theme park is set toengage sports fans, families, and children, contributing to Dubai’s status as aleading tourism destination.Fans of the club will be taken on a timeless journey to experience the past,present and future of the club. The destination promises that guests will comeface to face with icons from across different eras and share the passion ofsome of the heroic comebacks and greatest achievements that have created thelegend of Real Madrid, both on and off the pitch.Real Madrid World will have adrenaline-pumping rides, family-friendlyattractions, themed food and dining, as well as unique retail stores featuring acollection of official Real Madrid merchandise, celebrating the club’s histor