Tanzania has allocated $39.2 million for implementation of 23 projects aimed at revamping the tourism sector affected by the Covid-19 pandemic…reports Asian Lite News
Damas Ndumbaro, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, told a press conference in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam that the funds were part of the $567.25 million approved in September by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), reports Xinhua news agency.
Tanzania allots $39.2 mn for tourism recovery
The IMF approved the funds in emergency financial assistance to Tanzania under the Rapid Credit Facility and Rapid Financing Instrument to support the authorities’ efforts in responding to the pandemic by addressing the urgent health, humanitarian, and economic costs.
Ndumbaro said projects to be implemented include renovation of infrastructure, installation of security systems, purchase of mobile test kits for testing Covid-19 infections among tourists and acquisition of transportation facilities.
“These projects will simplify access to different tourist attractions and subsequently reviving the tourism sector,” said the official.
He said part of the funds will be used to renovate roads leading to Serengeti, Mkomazi, Tarangire, Nyerere, Kilimanjaro, Saadani and Gombe national parks.
Ndumbaro added that the funds will also be used to conserve forests managed by state-run Tanzania Forests Services Agency.
Shurooq announces the opening of Mysk Moon Retreat
‘Mysk Moon Retreat’ welcomes guests and unveils 4 new hospitality projects in Sharjah…reports Asian Lite News
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) announced that the Mysk Moon Retreat has begun welcoming guests and bookings to experience the emirate’s first-of-its-kind luxury glamping destination, and unveiled four new luxury hospitality projects in Sharjah’s Central and Eastern regions which are: Al Jabal Resort in the city of Khorfakkan, a luxurious hotel in the city of Kalba, a hotel in the city of Khorfakkan which will feature UAE’s first waterpark in the east coast; and Al Bridi Resort at the Sharjah Safari project in the city of Al Dhaid.
Shurooq announces the opening of Mysk Moon Retreat
Exciting range of desert adventures
The family-friendly Mysk Moon Retreat comprises 10 single-bed domes with private pools, 4 family tents with private pools, and 2 single-bed tents. Each unit is self-sufficient and fitted with all essential amenities that guests would require, including a private barbeque area, in addition to a lobby, and a common area.
The Mysk Moon Retreat is part of Shurooq’s Sharjah Collection brand, managed by Mysk by Shaza, which includes the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba, Mysk Al Faya Retreat in Mleiha, and Mysk Al Badayer Retreat in the heart of the Al Badayer desert.
HE MARWAN BI JASSIM AL SARKAL, EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF SHUROOQ: “With Mysk Moon Retreat now welcoming guests and bookings, this marks an exciting expansion of Shurooq’s portfolio of boutique hospitality offerings in the central region of Sharjah. It is the latest destination in a series of projects developed here, namely, the Mysk Al Faya Retreat, Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism, and the Mleiha Archaeological Centre.”
Al Sarkal pointed out that the eco-luxury retreat provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities like trekking, dune bashing, and nature-inspired experiences in the rugged Mleiha landscape. Guests at Mysk Moon Retreat will have access to a wide range of activities offered by Shurooq’s tourism destinations in Mleiha, in addition to enjoy the calm and tranquil environment of Mleiha through the retreat’s restaurant and a café, as the destination is situated away from all types of noise and light pollutions.
Al Jabal Resort – Memorable beach getaway in a stunning setting
Shurooq’s latest hospitality offering, Jabal Resort, overlooks the pristine waters of the Soueifa Beach, situated between Khorfakkan Beach and Luluya Beach, and comprises of 45 eco-friendly units with choices of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms, and a private royal suite with swimming pool. In addition, the 187,000sqm project which is being developed on the slopes of the Al Soueifa mountain, will feature a restaurant, gym, kids play zone, reception, and lobby.
Various attractions around the project will be connected via walking routes and tracks with a completion date set for March 2022.
5-star luxury hotel and waterpark in Khorfakkan
The Executive Chairman of Shurooq also announced the development of a new 28,000 sqm hospitality project in Khorfakkan, opposite the Khorfakkan Port, to cater to the needs of families and adventurers seeking new hospitality experiences. He revealed that the project will feature 75 luxurious units, UAE’s first waterpark in the east coast, shopping complex, restaurant, gym, spa, marina, and residential units.
5-star Hotel in the City of Kalba
Announcing the new hospitality project in Kalba on Sharjah’s eastern coast, Al Sarkal stated that this region which lies on the southern coast of the UAE, next to the Kalba waterfront project, opposite to Kalba flag square
Shurooq’s new 12,500 sqm project here lies in the vicinity of the region’s renowned diving locations. It includes 80 units, two restaurants including a café in the lobby, a gym, spa, swimming pool and meeting halls.
Al Bridi Resort and Petting Zoo in Al Dhaid
Al Sarkal noted that “Al Bridi Resort” in Al Dhaid, Shurooq’s latest tourism attraction in Sharjah’s central region which is being developed in partnership with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, as part of the “Sharjah Safari” project, the largest safari in the world outside Africa, is expected to start at the end of this year.
Al Sarkal also announced that Shurooq has started developing “Al Dhaid Farm”, the city’s first petting zoo experience, near The Flag Square in Al Dhaid, which set to feature a wide range of entertainment activities and experiences for families and children along with domestic farm animals.
Expansion of “Mysk Kingfisher Retreat” and “Mysk Al Badayer Retreat”
Shurooq also announced it has begun operations in expanding both Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba and Mysk Al Badayer Retreat in the natural dunes of Al Badayer, in response to the growing demand which both destinations experienced over the past years.
Mysk Kingfisher Retreat will be housing 20 new luxurious tents, varying between 4-bedroom and 2-bedroom units, and Mysk Al Badayer Retreat will house 15 new tents for an oasis, in addition to an outdoor swimming pool open to all guests at the retreat.
Shurooq has been leading the development of various world-class award-winning hospitality projects across the emirate of Sharjah, in line with its vision to diversify investment opportunities and strategic partnerships in the emirate’s growing eco-tourism, family tourism, cultural tourism and adventure tourism sectors, in addition to other sectors such as hospitality, retail, entertainment and more. Among its top and iconic hospitality destinations include The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah Hotel in the Heart of Sharjah, and four eco-retreats that fall under the “Sharjah Collection” brand developed by Shurooq and managed by “Mysk by Shaza” which are: “Mysk Kingfisher Retreat” in the city of Kalba, “Mysk Al Badayer Retreat” in Al Badayer desert, “Mysk Al Faya Retreat” in Mleiha, and “Mysk Moon Retreat” Set in the shadow of the Fossil Rock, amidst the sand dunes of Mleiha.
Embrace yourself in the tranquillity of India’s hidden gardens and green spaces. Have a picnic in the park or simply uncover its lesser-known beauty with a stroll to indulge in the most enchanting pathways in this oasis.
Local travel has risen to the forefront as it remains an easier, safer, and often more sustainable travel option as a result of the pandemic. Staying closer to home continues to retain its importance on the travel agenda as research by Booking.com reveals that more than half (59 per cent) of Indian travelers are planning to travel within their own country, with 43 per cent want to visit places of interest they normally overlook and 50 per cent look to take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of India. The travel platform shares some tips on how to be a tourist, as travellers demonstrate enthusiasm to explore and experience incredible India with a fresh outlook.
Book a Unique Place to Stay
Boutique stays continue to trend with Indians, as 74 per cent of travelers plan to stay in a unique accommodation for their next trip. Alternative accommodation listings (homes, holiday homes, villas, beach homes, boathouses, etc.) have seen growth in demand last year in the pandemic. While travelling domestically, you can experience the destination uniquely by booking alternative accommodations (for example tree houses) that will complement the destination and enhance the experience it has to offer.
Indulge in a wellness destination
Escapism has always been crucial for travellers. Close to half (47 per cent) of Indian travellers are seeking simple, relaxing trips to get away from it all. If you are looking to get pampered for the day or stay for a wellness weekend and experience pure bliss on your next trip, you should head to Varkala. Varkala is one of the top three most endorsed destinations for wellness by Indian travellers on Booking.com. This town located along the coast of Kerala, with palm-covered red cliffs and golden beaches, instills a sense of calmness for you to unwind. You will find several wellness studios, and ashrams throughout the destination, including on the beach, where you can spot several impromptu classes being organized. The destination’s hot springs are believed to provide mineral water that has medicinal properties, which add to its wellness appeal. Varkala has also become popular for the growing ‘Naturopathy’ practised in several of its Ayurvedic centres. So you can add ayurvedic massages to your to-do list to de-stress your mind and body.
Visit Lesser-Known Markets
India is full of charming markets you should visit at least once. Skip the beaten track and discover the hidden gems and authenticity of India by travelling to not-so-known markets often overlooked by tourists and coveted by locals. West Bengal is home to several lesser-explored wonders. But one of the unexplored gems you could consider is Mandarmani, a seaside village offering captivating views of rural Bengal. Along the way, you will find plenty of local markets that trade in fish, cashew nuts, vegetables and oils. Some of these markets include Digha Mohana, Radhamoni and Ramnagar fish market. While in Mandarmani you can also make your way to Mandarmani beach and indulge in authentic seaside Bengali cuisine and photography. And if you are looking for some adventure, you can also explore jet ski rides, banana boat rides and parachute rides along the beach.
Travel Through Time and Shop Vintage
Step back in time with a visit to this vintage shopping district in India and get a glimpse of its fashion and style through the decades. With its great value, rare finds and the possibility to uncover the hidden tales of the past, you never know what you may discover. Jew Town in Kerala is a narrow street between Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue famous for its antiques. If vintage interests you, then you will find abundance in the antique shops on this popular street. The artefacts you will come across date back to the colonial period in the relic shops. Even the houses in the area are inspired by medieval Portuguese-style architecture.
Discover Secret Gardens
Embrace yourself in the tranquility of India’s hidden gardens and green spaces. Have a picnic in the park or simply uncover its lesser-known beauty with a stroll to indulge in the most enchanting pathways in this oasis. Aaraku Valley in Andhra Pradesh is an unexplored cove of biodiversity, full of captivating flora and fauna. Padmapuram Gardens, located 2.5 km from Aaraku Valley is 26 acres of natural beauty that dates back to World War II. The rose gardens and jackfruit trees in this place are among the most visited spots. The entire garden can be explored in a special train operated by the place. And if you wish to spend a night among all the plants, you can book a stay in the hanging cottages in this botanical garden.
And finally, act like a tourist
Visit the local Welcome/Information Center, take a city pamphlet from the hotel lobby, embrace a bit of history and culture and join a museum tour, take silly photos of yourself in front of tourist spots, eat at a popular restaurant, and visit the most well-known attractions that people travel the world to see.
This policy only applies specifically to direct flights to Bali and Riau Islands…reports Asian Lite News
Indonesia has allowed international visitors from 19 countries, including India, with a Covid-19 positivity rate of less than 5 per cent to enter the country, Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said.
Indonesia allows int’l visitors from 19 countries
Besides India, the other 18 countries are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), New Zealand, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, China, Japan, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Italy, France, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Poland, Hungary and Norway, reports Xinhua news agency.
“This policy only applies specifically to direct flights to Bali and Riau Islands,” Pandjaitan added.
They are allowed to enter Indonesia if they test negative for Covid-19, have been fully vaccinated, and have health insurance as well as proof of booking accommodations for a five-day quarantine.
Bali is an Indonesian province with the most international visitors, while Riau Islands, in the west of the country bordering Singapore, is in the second position of foreign tourist arrivals.
Indonesia resumed flights for international visitors in the two provinces from Thursday as the Covid-19 pandemic has been under control.
The 400-kilometre section of the ancient Roman border fortifications runs along the North Rhine-Westphalia to Katwijk Rhineland-Palatinate through the Dutch North Sea coast…writes Siddhi Jain.
Germany’s rich cultural heritage has been further recognised by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), after seven new locations in the country were awarded World Heritage Site status during the 44th UNESCO meeting in China. With the updated official UNESCO list counting more than 1,000 sites in 167 countries around the world, Germany now boasts 51 recognised World Heritage Sites, the third-highest of any nation globally after Italy (58) and China (56).
Germany’s World Heritage Sites comprise three natural locations and 48 cultural locations. As a key destination to experience natural and cultural treasures, Indian visitors can discover a plethora of diverse World Heritage Sites along eight routes in Germany, which begin and end near international airports, making them easily accessible from regional gateways. Due to their uniqueness and authenticity, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Germany are considered significant for humanity therefore under special protection.
Mathildenhohe artists’ colony in Darmstadt
Founded in 1899 by the Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig, Mathildenhohe artists’ colony has been noted as a historic centre of modern-day architecture and art in Europe. Prior to the turn of the century, aspiring architects and artists had the opportunity to turn their ideas into experimentation, inspiring what is now known as the Bauhaus art movement. The infamous location includes a wedding tower designed by the architect Joseph-Maria Olbrich, seen as a landmark of the city and an excellent vantage point over the RhineMain plain. The Lower Germanic Limes
The 400-kilometre section of the ancient Roman border fortifications runs along the North Rhine-Westphalia to Katwijk Rhineland-Palatinate through the Dutch North Sea coast. The Lower Germanic Limes is now noted as a World Heritage Site as part of the ‘Borders of the Roman Empire’ series. The river formed a natural border between the Roman province, where life across 44 towns, forts, legionary camps and temples formed the roots of today’s large cities, including Bonn and Cologne.
The Danube Limes
The Danube Limes follow the course of the Danube River from what is known today as Bad Gogging in Bavaria, through Austria and Slovakia. As the second-longest river in Europe, the Roman military frontiers stretch approximately 600-kilometre and has contributed to the development of the cultural landscape. Parts of the earlier facilities are still visible today and are carefully developed for tourists to visit, the archaeological sites ‘document niedermunster’ and the ‘Porta Praetoria’ in Regensburg are key examples of popular destinations.
Significant spa towns in Europe
With European spa culture peaking between the 1700 and the 1930s, Germany’s abundant spa towns around mineral springs have far more than historic and medical significance; these major urban developments created an architectural framework for recreation, cultural and social life. Not only have the German spa towns of Baden-Baden, Bad Ems and Bad Kissingen been recognised by UNESCO, eight additional European spa towns have been awarded listings Germany began welcoming European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved, fully vaccinated travellers on June 25. All travellers are advised to check individual German states entry requirements before travel.
Meanwhile, tourism received a major boost when flights were started from Agra to Lucknow on October 1…reports Brij Khandelwal
As the number of visitors to the 17th century monument of love Taj Mahal increased slowly from a trickle to more than 30,000 on Sunday, there were discernible signs of relief and hope in Agra’s tourism sector which had seen an unprecedented lean phase due to the Covid-19 pandemic for nearly two years.
Agra has already been declared Covid-free as there are zero cases reported in the past two weeks and all active cases have been discharged. The only element of worry now is an alarming rise in dengue cases which has taken a heavy toll in Agra, Mathura and Firozabad districts.
Children have been the worst-hit by dengue but Health Department officials said the overall situation was under control. The Agra administration has taken a series of measures to provide prompt medical care in rural areas.
Meanwhile, tourism received a major boost when flights were started from Agra to Lucknow on October 1.
Flights are now available for Bengaluru, Nagpur, and Ahmedabad, and those from Bhopal and Mumbai will soon begin, officials said.
The construction of a new terminal and an independent road access outside the Air Force area continues at a brisk pace. Former state Aridaman Singh and local MP and Union Minister S.P. Singh Baghel have urged Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to connect Agra with several other cities.
The tourism industry in Agra is hoping for return of “business as good as before” once international flights resume operations. Right now, the number of tourists from abroad is negligible, said tourist guide Ved Gautam.
“But before international tourists start arriving, the UP Police has to streamline its functioning outside the Taj Mahal, particularly at the ticket counters. Every now and then, there is a scuffle or heated argument over machines or scanners not working or identification problems. Tickets are currently available online only,” Gautam added.
The main cause of worry in the tourism trade remains the traffic jams in the city. Tourist vehicles get stranded for hours on the Yamuna Kinara Road and near Akbar’s tomb at Sikandra.
Senior police officials, after holding meetings with the administration, have assured action to address traffic issues. Due to laying of the Ganga water pipeline on the banks of Yamuna and construction work for the Metro services on the Fatehabad Road, long stretches have been dug up which has affected traffic movement.
However, Agra Mayor Navin Jain has promised to fill up all potholes on the roads and widen some stretches to ease traffic congestion. With the festival season around the corner, local hotels and ‘petha’ as well as handicraft industries are quite optimistic.
“These two years have been disastrous for business, we are now hoping for a turnaround. With elections in Uttar Pradesh early next year, there should be plenty of money in circulation along with business swing,” said Rajiv Gupta, a businessman and former President of the National Chamber of Industries and Commerce.
The active caseload is presently 2,73,889, which is the lowest in 197 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.81 per cent of the country’s total positive cases….reports Asian Lite News
International tourists may be able to travel to India by October 15 and an announcement is likely to be made by the Central government soon, Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Naik said on Saturday.
“As corona decreases, we will start national and international tourism. The announcement will be made soon and there is a possibility of it beginning after October 15,” Naik told reporters on the sidelines of a Gandhi Jayanti function here.
“International flights have started and we have requested for charter flights to resume by a particular date so that people can book trips to India and nowhere else,” he added.
International charter flights account for a bulk of the foreign tourist footfalls to Goa.
Earlier this month, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had forwarded a request made by travel and tourism industry stakeholders to the Union Home Affairs Ministry urging the latter to grant permissions to international charter flights at the earliest.
World Tourism Day: Jaipur, Goa, Kochi to be most popular leisure destinations.
Recoveries outnumber new cases
The total number of recoveries from Covid on Saturday outnumbered the fresh cases in the last 24 hours. India reported a total of 24,354 fresh Covid cases, while recovery in the last 24 hours went up to 25,455 across the country. According to Union Health Ministry’s report on Saturday morning, as many as 234 Covid deaths were reported in the same time span, pushing the total death toll to 4,48,573 so far.
The recovery of 25,455 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally of recovered patients to 3,30,68,599. Consequently, India’s recovery rate stands at 97.86 per cent which is at its highest peak since March 2020.
The active caseload is presently 2,73,889, which is the lowest in 197 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.81 per cent of the country’s total positive cases.
With the administration of 69,33,838 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India’s Covid vaccination coverage exceeded 89.74 crore as per provisional report till 7 a,m. on Saturday.
Kerala to open theatres
The Kerala government on Saturday during a Covid analysis meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan decided to announce more relaxations including opening the cinema halls from October 25.
It was also decided during the meeting that from next Monday, all colleges will open for final year students while the regular classes for all students will start from October 18.
Those who will come to attended the classes should be vaccinated with both the doses.
Theatres will, however, be allowed to function with 50 per cent seating capacity and all employees, and those coming to watch the movies should be vaccinated with the two doses.
With regards to marriages, it has been decided to increase the number of guests from 20 to 50, and grama sabhas also can be convened, but will have to follow the Covid protocols.
On Saturday, 13,217 people tested Covid positive after 96,835 samples were tested in the past 24 hours and the test positivity rate was 13.64 per cent, said a statement.
The day saw 14,437 people turn negative, while there were 1,41,155 active cases with 11 per cent of the patients admitted in hospitals.
There were also 121 Covid deaths taking the total death tally to 25,303.
On the vaccination front, 92.6 per cent (2.47 crore) of the population above 18 years have received one dose, of which 41.5 per cent have got both the doses.
The Central government had banned the operation of international flights on March 23 last year to contain and control the spread of Covid-19…reports Asian Lite News.
The Directorate General of Central Aviation (DGCA) has decided to extend the ban on scheduled international commercial flights till October 31, considering the Covid-19 scenario.
In a notification issued on Tuesday, the DGCA, however, said: “This restriction will not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the regulator.”
The aviation regulator added that scheduled international flights might be allowed on selected routes on a case to case basis.
The Central government had banned the operation of international flights on March 23 last year to contain and control the spread of Covid-19.
Flight restrictions, however, were later eased under air bubble arrangement with certain countries. India has formed air bubble pacts with about 25 countries.
The country has been operating Vande Bharat flights to many countries over the last one year.
The Museum experience at Sharjah’s Mleiha Archaeological Centre is such an opportunity, that a travel enthusiast should never miss…reports Asian Lite News
It might be still summer. But in UAE, there is always a way to get a little culture, adventure, and education without going out to the scorching sun. The Museum experience at Sharjah’s Mleiha Archaeological Centre is such an opportunity, that a travel enthusiast should never miss.
Mleiha Archaeological Centre
The museum tour at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre will give visitors a first-hand glimpse into the golden past of the region. Located inside the visitors centre which is built around a massive tomb from the Bronze Age Umm An Nar culture, the museum hosts plenty of multimedia displays, exhibits, interactive displays, artifacts, and information points that bring history to life that goes a long way to explain Mleiha’ s historic importance.
The visitors will be able to see for themselves what it was like to live in the region thousands of years ago and to learn about the unique archaeological environment of Mleiha and the pre-historic sites in the Mleiha, Jabal Bu’hais, and Jabal Faya regions of Sharjah.
Umm Al Nar Tomb Mleiha
For kids and adults who want to engage further in archaeological learning, the destination offers specially designed educational packages like ‘The Fossil Hunt Expedition’ and ‘Sounds of the past’, which teaches the art of making fossil casts using actual fossils found in Mleiha and of making stone tools just as humans did thousands of years ago. The ticket price of packages, which includes the museum entry, starts from AED 25 for children (6-15 Years) and AED 40 for adults.
The heritage and cultural destination, operated by Sharjah Investment and development authority (Shurooq) also provide visitors an opportunity to enjoy unique desert experiences; including archaeological tours, stargazing, trekking, camping, dune bashing, and thrilling buggy adventures.
Dubai Tourism welcome continued support of Global hospitality partners
Dubai was one of the first cities globally to reopen its markets and businesses and continues to stay open…reports Asian Lite News
As Dubai further consolidates its strategic partnerships in the domestic and international markets in the post-pandemic period, Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) has highlighted the pivotal role played by global hospitality partners in accelerating the city’s tourism recovery.
Dubai Tourism welcome continued support of Global hospitality partners
At a meeting with the General Managers of Marriott International hotels in Dubai, Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Tourism referred to the critical support provided by Marriott in showcasing the city as a safe must-visit destination, further instilling confidence among global travellers.
During the meeting, Mr. Kazim recapped the efforts made by stakeholders and partners like Marriott International to help bring about industry stabilisation, and also shared a positive industry overview underlined by the steady growth in international visitation and high occupancy levels in the first seven months of 2021. He highlighted the fact that Dubai was ranked second globally ahead of London and Paris in terms of hotel occupancy with hotels enjoying 61% average occupancy levels from January – July 2021.
Mr. Kazim also emphasised the importance of leveraging all efforts to attract more international visitors, especially benefiting from the Expo 2020 Dubai and the UAE Golden Jubilee celebrations. With the hospitality sector employing a local and expatriate workforce that boasts unrivalled service excellence, Dubai Tourism also stressed the need for hotels to use the Dubai Way online platform created by the Dubai College of Tourism, which is aimed at ensuring that hotel staff impart standardised information and instructions and provide exceptional guest relations.
ISSAM KAZIM, CEO, DUBAI TOURISM: “The growing industry momentum is the result of a robust strategy that was developed to manage the pandemic under the visionary leadership and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. We are also heartened by the commitment of our stakeholders and partners like Marriott International to stay the course and convey to the world that Dubai remains open and safe for global travellers. We are proud of the enormous contribution hotels have made with their own strategies and initiatives in the true spirit of collaboration during these extraordinary circumstances, and we are also grateful to their support in ensuring that the industry enjoys continued success.”
Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Marriott International said, “Under the guidance of its visionary and inspiring Leaders and the efforts of Dubai Tourism, Dubai has done a remarkable job in building the confidence of travellers and continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. The demand trends in Dubai have been positive and we’ve seen our hotels in this market perform particularly well over the past year. We know that all signs show there is a huge pent-up demand for travel and we believe Dubai will continue to be a top destination for tourism, especially with the upcoming Expo 2020. We are honored be a part of the growth of this amazing destination and remain committed to supporting the efforts of Dubai Tourism.
Dubai Tourism welcome continued support of Global hospitality partners
Dubai was one of the first cities globally to reopen its markets and businesses, and continues to stay open. This was achieved through a prudent and staggered approach to the reopening of sectors while ensuring strict compliance with globally benchmarked health and safety protocols. The UAE also has one of the world’s highest per capita vaccination rates.
Participants at the meeting were also provided a brief overview of the marketing initiatives launched by Dubai Tourism in international markets including the latest global campaign, Dubai Presents featuring Hollywood stars Jessica Alba and Zac Efron, which was screened at the meeting. Following the launch of the first two cinematic trailers, Spy Action and RomCom, the campaign generated over 200 million views.
