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Arab News
4 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Majority Saudis use AI tools to make travel decisions: Survey
RIYADH: Saudi travelers are increasingly relying on smart technologies, with 87 percent using generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to plan and manage their vacations, according to a survey. In its latest report, global consumer insights provider Toluna revealed that 46 percent of Saudi travelers are using AI assistants to discover activities, while 43 percent use them for translation purposes. These findings align with the broader trend observed in the Kingdom, where the number of people using AI tools is increasingly rising. In June, a report prepared by Google with UK-based research agency Public First showed that 80 percent of Saudi adults use AI tools, with one in three utilizing them regularly. This is nearly double the share of adults in the US who report using large language model-based chatbots, which stood at 52 percent according to a study by Elon University in North Carolina. 'AI is becoming a trusted travel companion, and not just among younger generations. From finding hidden gems and translating on the go, to getting activity suggestions, young Saudi travelers are making the most of AI to enhance every part of their journey,' said Georges Akkaoui, enterprise account director Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa at Toluna. The survey said 43 percent of Saudi travelers use AI to find the best deals, while 31 percent rely on these technologies to optimize their itineraries, and 38 percent use them for restaurant suggestions. 'What is interesting is that this (use of AI) is not limited to the tech-savvy; we are seeing notable adoption even among older travelers, with over 40 percent of 45–60-year-olds also using AI for deals, activities, and translation,' said Akkaoui. He added: 'In fact, less than 15 percent of respondents are not using AI for their travels. This shows that generative AI is no longer niche, it is becoming mainstream, cross-generational, and it is already reshaping how people prepare for and experience their trips.' These findings also underscore the progress of AI adoption in Saudi Arabia, with the technology emerging as a key component of the Kingdom's post-oil economic development strategy. According to the Global AI Competitiveness Index released in January, the Kingdom ranked 15th globally in research output in the sector, having produced 29,639 AI-related publications. This ranking places it among the top contributors to global research and highlights its emerging role as a regional technology leader. Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, in partnership with Google, launched Project Transcendence in 2024, a $100 billion undertaking, as part of its efforts to advance the growth of AI. The initiative is set to bolster the growth of local tech startups, generate employment opportunities, and foster collaborations with global technology firms, positioning the Kingdom at the forefront of regional innovation. Traditional sources remain strong Despite the significant adoption of AI tools in the travel sector, traditional information sources, along with influencers and online recommendations, continue to play an important role in shaping travel decisions among Saudi travelers. The Toluna survey said 41 percent of the Kingdom's travelers still rely on recommendations from family members and friends. Some 46 percent of Saudi travelers prioritize safety and security when selecting destinations, while 48 percent consider scenery as the decision-making factor. 'Despite having access to more information than they can possibly digest, and probably because of that overload, many still turn to those they trust for inspiration, with family and friends remaining an important source of travel recommendations,' said Akkaoui. 'At the same time, it is not surprising that, as with other aspects of their lives, younger travelers also rely on influencers and online recommendations for ideas and inspiration, showing how digital and personal guidance now shape the travel journey side by side,' he added. Meanwhile, 47 percent of the respondents plan to travel internationally this summer, while 37 percent are opting for leisure trips within the Kingdom. Only 4 percent of respondents reported having no travel plans, highlighting a strong overall appetite for summer travel. Underscoring the growth of domestic tourism in May, Saudi Arabia's Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the Kingdom is placing human-centered travel at the forefront of its tourism strategy, focusing on authentic cultural experiences, meaningful interactions, and community engagement. He added that this people-first approach is designed to balance the nation's rapid infrastructure development with heritage preservation and stronger community connections. The National Tourism Strategy targets 150 million annual visitors by 2030, after surpassing the 100 million milestone ahead of schedule, with official data showing the Kingdom welcomed 116 million tourists in 2024, exceeding its annual target for the second consecutive year. Turkiye, the most preferred destination The survey found that 19 percent of Saudi travelers prefer Turkiye as their favorite destination to visit, followed by Egypt at 15 percent, the UAE at 14 percent, and the US at 10 percent. Additionally, 8 percent of respondents are heading to Switzerland, 7 percent to the UK, France, and Thailand, while 6 percent have chosen Italy as their summer destination. 'While Turkiye remains the top destination across all age groups, younger travelers show a stronger interest in long-haul and East Asian locations. For example, Japan appeals to 14 percent of 18–28-year-olds, compared to just 3 percent of those aged 29–44, and 0 percent among travelers aged 45–60,' said the report. In contrast, 14 percent of older travelers aged between 45 and 60 are planning a trip to the UK, a destination that sees less interest from younger respondents as a summer getaway. In terms of spending, most international travelers are willing to invest significantly in their summer experiences. The report also said 40 percent of Saudi travelers are planning to set aside more than SR10,000 ($2,666.39) per person on their trips, while 22 percent expect to spend between SR7,500 and SR10,000. Some 21 percent of the respondents are ready to spend between SR5,000 and SR7,500, while 15 percent are planning to budget between SR2,500 and SR5,000. The report further said that 40 percent of respondents regularly use eSIM cards while traveling, with 21 percent having tried it before and 20 percent expressing interest despite limited familiarity. 'The evolving travel preferences of Saudi residents reflect broader global shifts toward more connected, experience-driven tourism,' said Akkaoui. 'Whether it is the desire for natural beauty, the pursuit of cultural depth, or the appeal of cooler summer climates, today's travelers from the Kingdom are more informed, digitally empowered, and adventurous than ever before,' he added.
Gulf Today
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
DEWA's Green Charger Initiative powers EVs in Dubai with more than 39,159 MWh of electricity in decade -
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), announced that DEWA's Green Charger initiative has witnessed a 23.6% increase in electric vehicle (EV) charging use at the end of Q1 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. Since the programme's inception in 2015, DEWA has provided more than 39,159 MWh of electricity for EV charging across Dubai, powering a cumulative EV distance of 195 million kilometres. "We support the transition towards green mobility and net zero by reducing the carbon footprint in the transport sector, enhancing the competitiveness of the UAE and Dubai in the electric vehicle sector, in line with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030,' said Al Tayer. Since 2015, Dubai has seen a significant increase in EV adoption, with numbers rising to more than 39,000 by the end of Q1 2025, with 5.41% increase compared to Q1 2024. This growth has greatly advanced the emirate's plans to shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly transport. The number of EV owners registered under DEWA's EV Green Charger initiative has expanded from just 14 in 2015 to 20,903 by the end of the end of Q1 2025. Dubai's EV charging infrastructure now includes over 1,100 charging points across DEWA's network and licensed charge point operators (CPOs). EVs are witnessing an increase in demand in the UAE. In a comprehensive survey conducted by global company Toluna, it was found that 73% of the UAE population prefers to buy EVs. EV Green Charger Stations are available around the clock at key locations across Dubai. Customers can easily find charging station locations through DEWA's website ( smart app and 14 other digital platforms. DEWA offers four types of chargers: ultra-fast, fast, public and wall-box. DEWA enables customers to create an EV account through its website, smart app or interactive voice response (IVR) system at its Customer Care Centre. Once a customer registers their vehicle with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai, DEWA creates an EV Green Charger account, giving them access to its stations where they can charge their vehicles within an hour. Unregistered EV users can also use DEWA EV Green Chargers by using the guest mode feature. WAM
Hi Dubai
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hi Dubai
DEWA Reports 23.6% Surge in EV Charging Use as Dubai's Green Mobility Accelerates
Electric vehicle (EV) charging activity in Dubai rose by 23.6% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). The increase marks a significant milestone in the emirate's push for sustainable transport and its broader Net Zero 2050 goals. Since the launch of DEWA's Green Charger initiative in 2015, over 39,159 megawatt-hours of electricity have powered EVs across Dubai, translating to more than 195 million kilometres driven sustainably. EV ownership has grown in tandem, with more than 39,000 electric vehicles registered by the end of Q1 2025—a 5.41% year-on-year increase. 'Through the Green Charger initiative, we continue to support the transition to green mobility in line with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030,' said Al Tayer. The number of EV users registered under the Green Charger programme has surged from just 14 in 2015 to 20,903 by early 2025. Dubai now hosts over 1,100 EV charging points through DEWA's network and licensed charge point operators, making clean transport more accessible than ever. According to a recent survey by global insights firm Toluna, 73% of UAE residents prefer electric vehicles—reflecting a growing nationwide appetite for sustainable mobility. DEWA's charging stations are available 24/7 at key locations across Dubai. Users can locate stations and manage their accounts through DEWA's website, app, and 14 other digital platforms. Four charger types are available, and both registered and guest users can access the service with ease. As EV demand grows, DEWA's infrastructure and digital accessibility are helping Dubai move steadily towards a cleaner, greener future. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Arab News
06-06-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudis dig deep into their wallets as Eid Al-Adha drives spending surge
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Eid Al-Adha holiday is proving to be a major economic driver, fueling robust growth across the Kingdom's livestock, retail, and domestic tourism sectors. Coinciding with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, the extended public holiday channels billions of riyals into the economy as businesses ramp up operations to meet soaring seasonal demand. Livestock markets are bustling, shopping centers are teeming with eager consumers, and hotels and resorts across the Kingdom are reporting high occupancy rates — all pointing to a dynamic shift in consumer behavior and an increasingly diversified economic landscape. Retail activity, in particular, is experiencing a seasonal boom. From glittering gold souqs and fashion boutiques to thriving e-commerce platforms, shoppers are on the lookout for Eid gifts, festive attire, and high-end products. A recent survey by Toluna and MetrixLab shows that 47 percent of Saudi consumers expect to spend more this Eid than last year. Over half (51 percent) are boosting their shopping budgets, while 44 percent are allocating more for dining out. Among the most in-demand items this season are fashion apparel, gold and diamond jewelry, perfumes, and electronics. In response, retailers are rolling out aggressive promotions, with 49 percent of consumers attracted to price discounts, 40 percent favoring bundled deals, and 33 percent looking for cash-back incentives. The digital retail landscape is also witnessing significant momentum. The survey highlights that 31 percent of consumers now fall into the 'heavy digital shopper' category — individuals who make purchases daily or several times a week. 'Eid gifting remains a core element of celebrations, with 89 percent of KSA residents planning to give gifts in 2025,' the report stated. The report added: 'Luxury gifting continues to rise, with 41 percent opting for fashion cloths, up from 36 percent in 2024, dates, and sweets 45 percent, and major electronic devices gaining popularity, rising from 22 percent to 24 percent.' Fragrances and gourmet items such as dates and chocolates also continue to dominate gifting choices, reflecting cultural values and the desire to present meaningful and luxurious tokens of appreciation. The trend of self-gifting, while slightly down from 2024, remains strong, indicating the growing role of Eid as a moment for personal indulgence. The tourism and hospitality sector stands out as one of the biggest winners during Eid Al-Adha, with hotels, resorts, and travel operators across Saudi Arabia witnessing a surge in demand. JS Anand, founder and CEO of Leva Hotels, told Arab News that the holiday's timing alongside the Hajj pilgrimage makes it a uniquely impactful season, not only for spiritual observance but also for economic momentum driven by both local and international tourism. 'Eid Al-Adha will increasingly serve as a key driver for business and consumption, benefiting both local and regional markets. Beyond its economic impact, the holiday is also a time for spiritual reflection, generosity, and community, while highlighting Saudi Arabia's vibrant culture and hospitality,' Anand said. He added: 'Increased consumer spending during this period benefits industries such as transportation, hospitality, and retail, while the extended holiday period further amplifies economic activity.' Speaking on shifting consumer behaviors, Anand noted that travelers are becoming more discerning and value-conscious. While they are not necessarily looking for the cheapest option, they want to ensure they're getting meaningful value for what they pay. He added: 'Guests increasingly expect hotels to deliver not just a place to stay, but a personalized, experience-rich offering that resonates with their lifestyle and preferences.' Domestic tourism continues to thrive, but international travel has surged in popularity among Saudi residents. According to Wego, 96.12 percent of Eid-related travel searches in the Kingdom are now for international destinations, up from 87.34 percent last year. Top destinations include Egypt, India, and the UAE, as well as Pakistan, Turkiye, and Bangladesh, along with a rising interest in European and Southeast Asian locales such as Italy, Thailand, and Malaysia. Despite the international travel boom, domestic destinations like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Madinah, alongside Dammam and Abha, remain popular for their cultural attractions and spiritual experiences. Wego data suggests that cultural exploration is becoming a primary driver in destination selection, as travelers seek meaningful connections during the holiday. Anand affirmed this trend: 'The hospitality sector must be agile, crafting offerings that cater not only to the loyal domestic traveler but also to the rising wave of international visitors.' He continued: 'For hotels, this means providing thoughtfully tailored packages, seamless digital booking experiences, and culturally resonant, memorable stays that appeal to both local guests and the growing base of inbound international tourists discovering Saudi Arabia during the festive Eid season and beyond.' Businesses are also preparing for the holiday through targeted promotions and operational enhancements. 'Today, it's all about creating value-added, memorable, immersive experiences and curating unique, personalized offerings to meet the surge in demand and deliver exceptional value.' Mohammed Al-Mu'ajil, a tourism expert, told Arab News that Saudi Arabia is seeing remarkable shifts in travel and consumer behavior this Eid season. 'In 2025, Saudi Arabia witnessed a significant rise in consumer spending, with total expenditure reaching approximately SR148 billion ($39.46 billion) in March, the highest level since May 2021, reflecting a 17 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to the Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr seasons, in addition to the Umrah season,' Al-Mu'ajil said. With more people shopping and traveling, businesses are also recalibrating their approach to Eid. Al-Mu'ajil also highlighted the increasing role of technology and digital outreach stating: 'Companies are increasingly relying on digital channels to engage with customers, with 94.03 percent of internet users in the Kingdom active on social media platforms such as X, TikTok, and Snapchat.' He also explained that domestic hotel nights increased by 14 percent, while international hotel nights rose by 13 percent. The Kingdom recorded a 48 percent increase in international visitors during the first quarter compared to the previous year, driven by Vision 2030 initiatives and relaxed visa regulations. International destinations are seeing strong demand from Saudi tourists, particularly Egypt, Turkiye, and Dubai, due to their geographic proximity, cultural similarities, and diverse tourism offerings,' he said. 'Red Sea cruises have also emerged as a new and appealing option, offering luxurious and comprehensive travel experiences.' He added that domestic travel remains a strong draw, stating: 'On the domestic front, cities such as AlUla, Abha, Al-Baha, Jeddah, and Riyadh have become favored destinations for Saudi travelers. These cities are distinguished by their natural and cultural diversity as well as advanced infrastructure, making them attractive to families and holidaymakers during the Eid season.' Al-Mu'ajil added that digital platforms are increasingly central to consumer engagement, noting that the number of e-commerce users in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach 34.5 million by the end of 2025. 'With Internet penetration expected to rise from 66.7 percent in 2023 to 74.7 percent by 2027, digital engagement is reshaping how Saudis prepare for Eid, from online bookings to promotional offers,' he said. Increased spending More than half — 51 percent — of consumers in the Kingdom said they are willing to spend more on Eid gifts this year. According to the Toluna and MetrixLab report, this is driven by a mix of improved financial confidence and a desire to make the holiday more special after years of pandemic-related limitations. About 38 percent of consumers expressed a desire to make this Eid more special to compensate for pandemic-era limitations, while 36 percent noted improved financial standing. In addition, 35 percent plan to expand their gift lists to include more people, and 30 percent expressed a desire to be more generous with their families and friends. These sentiments are reflected in higher spending across multiple categories. Fashion apparel, fragrances, and electronics have seen a significant bump, while gold and diamond jewelry purchases have also increased slightly. The trend underscores Eid's growing role not just as a religious and cultural moment, but as a peak period of emotional expression through gifting and consumer engagement With 89 percent of consumers planning to give gifts, and significant growth in retail and travel expenditures, Eid Al-Adha is proving to be not just a spiritual cornerstone — but a vital pillar of the Kingdom's economy. The economic impact of Eid Al-Adha is particularly evident in the livestock sector, which sees a surge in demand — particularly in sheep and goats. Local farmers, traders, and international suppliers navigate challenges such as rising feed costs and supply chain constraints while ensuring a steady supply. Although the Kingdom's livestock market remains robust, escalating feed prices have put upward pressure on animal prices, prompting some households to consider shared sacrifices or smaller livestock options. Seasonal livestock markets are also set up across major cities to accommodate the peak demand period. The evolving behavior of Saudi consumers — seeking quality, cultural relevance, and immersive experiences — indicates broader societal shifts and economic resilience. As Vision 2030 continues to reshape the Kingdom's economic landscape, seasonal events like Eid Al-Adha serve not only as cultural milestones but also as indicators for consumer confidence and economic diversification.
Korea Herald
18-04-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Over 800 pioneering leaders converge to drive marketing innovation
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 16, 2025, at Vinpearl Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City, the MMA CEO & CMO Summit Vietnam 2025 concluded successfully, bringing together over 800 senior leaders from more than 200 leading brands, 35 international speakers, and 30 strategic partners. The event fostered a dynamic and action-oriented environment to address marketing challenges and promote effective business collaborations in the near future. A Confluence of Visionaries and Innovators The summit served as a nexus for CEOs, CMOs, and industry pioneers to exchange insights on navigating the evolving marketing landscape. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions aimed at shaping the future of marketing in Vietnam and beyond. The event featured 10 compelling keynotes and 6 insightful panel discussions. Notable sessions included: Smarties Unplugged Vietnam: A Guidebook to Win Smarties Awards At the SMARTIES Unplugged Vietnam event, representatives from MMA Global and Mr. Phil Worthington, Senior Client Director at Toluna and Knowledge Partner of SMARTIES Vietnam, provided the latest updates on the awards. They highlighted emerging trends in media planning and advertising budgets, offering valuable insights for award applicants this season. This forum also attracted over 200 brands and agencies, more than 45 official Juries, and over 100 leading industry experts on the Pre-Screening Council, who gathered to share their experiences in winning this prestigious award. Ms. Phan Bich Tam, Country Director of MMA Vietnam, Myanmar, and Cambodia, expressed her gratitude to all participants and emphasized the impact of the conference: "The energy and collaboration at this year's summit have been truly inspiring. We're excited to continue this momentum at MMA Innovate 2025 in August, where we anticipate welcoming 2,500 delegates and showcasing 30 cutting-edge AI and technology solutions in marketing." MMA Global is a leading industry body focused on driving marketing innovation and business growth. Through events like the CEO & CMO Summit, MMA provides platforms for industry leaders to collaborate, share insights, and shape the future of marketing.
