According to preliminary statistics from the Saudi Arabian Central Bank, the expenditure of foreign tourists in the country reached a new record in 2023, totaling $35.95 billion. This figure indicates a growth of 42.8 percent compared to 2022 and marks the highest level of foreign tourist spending in the country's history. Furthermore, the World Tourism Organization's Tourism Barometer report in January 2024 showed that tourist arrivals in Saudi Arabia in 2023 increased by 156 percent compared to 2019. These achievements demonstrate Saudi Arabia's efforts to develop its tourism industry and become an attractive global destination for tourists.
Create: two days ago Edit: two days ago International NewsIn a move to facilitate tourist entry, Japan has launched its Electronic Visa (eVISA) system. Implemented since April 1st, 2024, this initiative allows citizens of India and other eligible countries to apply online for short-term visas. In this process, applicants receive a digital visa issuance notification upon completion of the electronic application form. The aim of this scheme is to streamline travel procedures and enhance tourism exchanges between Japan and its global partners.
Create: two days ago Edit: two days ago International News; I wish everyone celebrating a joyous and peaceful Easter.And safe travels to all those experiencing the pleasures of tourism during this season.
Create: Apr 3, 2024 Edit: Apr 3, 2024 International NewsThe Spanish Tourism Board in the GCC region has reported a significant increase in tourist arrivals from this area in 2023, indicating Spain's growing popularity as an attractive tourist destination for GCC residents. The notable surge mainly stemmed from countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Spain's allure lies in its cultural diversity, historical attractions, stunning beaches, and favorable climate, with expectations for increased demand for travel to Spain from the GCC in 2024. The lifting of travel restrictions, the increase in direct flights, and the introduction of new attractions are expected to contribute to this upward trend.
Create: Apr 2, 2024 Edit: Apr 2, 2024 International NewsDan Company, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund specializing in agritourism, ecotourism, and adventure tourism, has signed a memorandum of understanding with AMATC company. This collaboration includes the development and enhancement of ecotourism lodges, tourist farms, and other unique accommodation options in various regions of Saudi Arabia. The two companies will collaborate to provide diverse tourism services to travelers, including specialized tours, recreational and educational programs, and support services. Additionally, joint investment in the development of tourism infrastructure, such as building tourist camps, hiking and biking trails, and other recreational facilities, is another provision of this memorandum of understanding.The signing of this memorandum is considered a significant step towards the development of Saudi Arabia's tourism industry and the realization of the country's Vision 2030.
Create: Apr 2, 2024 Edit: Apr 2, 2024 International NewsRecent studies indicate a shifting trend among summer tourists, as they move from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea coasts due to climate changes. Rising temperatures and decreasing comfort in tropical regions are driving this change. Certain northern regions are poised to become new tourist destinations, offering year-round appeal. Weather plays a pivotal role in destination selection, impacting travel patterns and tourism demand. Climate variations significantly influence travel preferences and behaviors.
Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024 International NewsThe tourism sector, contributing 7.6% to the country's gross domestic product, plays a vital role in economic growth. Despite these successes, inadequate road infrastructure and accessibility issues to tourist attractions have hindered the industry's growth. Investing in regional airport infrastructure and improving access routes can significantly boost domestic tourism.Moreover, better collaboration between the government and the hospitality industry can lead to the creation of numerous jobs and help reduce unemployment.
Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024 International NewsThe Association of Tour Operators of Russia has reported an 8.1% increase in the number of tourists from this country traveling to the Caspian Sea coast in 2023 compared to the previous year. Popular destinations in Turkey on the Caspian Sea coast, including Dalaman, Marmaris, and Fethiye, hosted 391,000 tourists in 2023, indicating significant growth in the tourism industry in this region. Russian tour operators predict that demand for travel by Russian tourists to the Caspian Sea coast will continue to increase in 2024, despite the potential shortage of accommodation in quality five-star hotels.
Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024 International NewsA new report from the World Travel and Tourism Council and Microsoft predicts the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the tourism and travel industry, promising an unparalleled experience for customers. This report redefines travel and tourism standards and calls for greater integration of these technologies into the industry.According to the report, tourism and travel businesses are encouraged to prioritize artificial intelligence as a strategic priority and make significant investments in fostering collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence. The World Travel and Tourism Council believes that artificial intelligence can play a pivotal role in providing personalized and advanced experiences for travelers both now and in the future.By analyzing traveler data, optimizing pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and providing instant responses and precise interactions through advanced chatbots, this technology can enhance personalized recommendations and marketing strategies.
Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024 International NewsWith a forecast of significant growth, the outbound travel market of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is expected to reach $57.5 billion by 2028. This increase is primarily due to rapid growth in outbound tourism in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, indicating an increasing inclination of people in this region to travel abroad. Moreover, Generation Z is recognized as the vanguards of this growth. This generation increasingly utilizes the "Bleisure" trend, a combination of business and leisure, to create a balance between their personal and professional lives.
Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024 International NewsIn 2024, Qatar will transform into a global focal point by hosting 80 significant cultural, sports, and scientific events.Organized by the Qatar Tourism Authority, these events provide a unique opportunity for visitors from around the world to experience Qatar's cultural diversity, creativity, and innovation. The comprehensive calendar for the year 2024 in Qatar, recently released by the Qatar Tourism Authority, encompasses a wide spectrum of events in various fields.Hosting these events provides Qatar with an unparalleled opportunity to emerge as a global tourist destination and showcase its cultural diversity, creativity, and innovation to the world)
Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024 International NewsEnto Capital, an investment firm managed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority and with a track record of managing $4.6 billion in assets, has reached an agreement with Al Amal Investment Company to lead the development and management of Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts in Morocco. The total value of the project is estimated to be over $220 million and includes the construction of a Ritz-Carlton hotel with 200 rooms and 100 luxury residences in Morocco.This project will contribute to the growth of Morocco's tourism industry and is expected to attract annually 100,000 tourists.
Create: Feb 23, 2024 Edit: Feb 23, 2024 International News