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Time Out Abu Dhabi
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
All the new attractions coming to Abu Dhabi that we can't wait to visit
You can sense it in the air, but most importantly, you can see it from the multiple cranes and construction sites. Abu Dhabi is going through a transformation like no other, adding even more attractions to its already impressive arsenal. It's all part of the Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to boost the number of annual tourists visiting the capital to 39.3 million by 2030. To put things into perspective, the capital received 3.2 million international overnight visitors in 2024, which was already a 28 per cent year-on-year increase – but that number is about to rise, and fast. Enter all the new attractions. Even if you live in the capital, it's easy to lose track with so many announcements. But fear not, because we've been keeping score. From the much-awaited completion of the Saadiyat Cultural District to the massive Disney announcement no one saw coming, we have the ultimate guide to all the new attractions coming to the city. So sit tight, because we're in for a wild ride. All the new attractions coming to Abu Dhabi Opening date: predicted 2030-2032 (Credit: Supplied) Grab your Mickey ears and start practising your 'Hakuna matata' because something seriously magical is coming to Yas Island – and it's not a mirage. The Walt Disney Company has officially announced that it's bringing a full-scale theme park resort to Abu Dhabi, and it's already shaping up to be a regional game-changer. This isn't just another Disneyland. It's Disney's first-ever park in the Middle East and only the seventh destination worldwide, which puts Abu Dhabi in the same chat as Orlando, Paris and Tokyo – not too shabby. So, what can we expect? For starters, location, location, location – the new park is landing on Yas Island, already home to blockbuster attractions like Ferrari World, SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World. With Disney joining the party, Yas is quickly becoming the entertainment capital of the capital. Think of it as a theme park dream team and Disney is the star player. But this won't be just about rehashing old fairytales. Disney Abu Dhabi is being billed as the most technologically advanced Disney park ever created. According to Disney Experiences chairman Josh D'Amaro, the project will 'push the boundaries of theme park design', blending next-gen tech, visionary architecture and even a reimagined castle that leans more towards Frozen than Sleeping Beauty. And here's where it gets really interesting – this isn't a copy-paste Disneyland. Disney Abu Dhabi will celebrate Emirati culture and heritage, weaving local stories into the rides, architecture and overall design. Expect sand dunes, souks and pearl divers mingling with Mickey and Moana. It's a true fusion of storytelling styles and we're here for it. Beyond the thrills and fairy dust, the project is also tipped to deliver a serious economic boost to the capital. Thousands of jobs will be created across the hospitality and tourism sectors, and the surrounding areas of Yas Island are already seeing property values start to rise. Own a villa nearby? Consider yourself lucky – this is the Disney effect in full swing. Tourism-wise, it's a slam dunk. With Abu Dhabi becoming the newest go-to destination for families across the UAE, GCC, India and Africa, the park is expected to lure in millions of visitors. Why endure a 15-hour flight to Disneyland California when the magic is arriving in your backyard? The only catch? You'll need to wait a few years. The park is still in the early design phase, with a projected opening date set for sometime between 2030 and 2032. But when it arrives, it's promising to combine indoor comfort and outdoor spectacle in a way that lets you beat the heat and still feel the breeze. Plus, it'll sit right by the water – and may even feature a castle that brings the sea right into the story. So hold onto your mouse ears – because the magic is about to get very, very real. Opening date TBA. Yas Island. Guggenheim Opening date: TBA We've waited. And waited. And… well, waited some more. But now, after years of watching the cranes swing over Saadiyat Island like slow-motion ballet dancers, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is finally nearing its grand debut. While the opening date is still under wraps, the building is set to be completed by the end of 2025. The long-anticipated cultural titan will be the biggest Guggenheim museum in the world (12 times bigger than the one in New York), sprawling across 42,000 square metres. That's a lot of art – and a lot of gallery space to get lost in. Let's start with the architecture. Because, naturally, you can't mention a Guggenheim without swooning a little over the building itself. This one is the work of legendary architect Frank Gehry (you know, the man behind the Guggenheim Bilbao), and it's as bonkers-brilliant as you'd expect. Inspired by traditional Emirati wind towers, the building fuses Gehry's signature curves with cultural nods to the UAE's landscape, creating an unmissable icon in the making. And inside? Well, if you thought the outside was impressive, just you wait. Expect a mix of gallery clusters of different heights and shapes, plus a centre for art and tech, a kids' educational zone, conservation labs, a library, and archives. No biggie. But this isn't just about blockbuster architecture or name-dropping Guggenheim – this is a museum with purpose. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is set to showcase an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world, with a special focus on West Asia, North Africa and South Asia (WANASA, if you're in the know). There'll be big-name pieces, rising stars, and bold, cross-cultural dialogues that spark fresh perspectives. It's not just a static collection either. Over 500 works have already been acquired over the last 15 years, and new commissions from both regional and international artists will be created specifically for the museum. Add to that a packed programme of rotating exhibitions and educational initiatives, and you've got yourself a world-class cultural powerhouse in the making. While Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will be operated by the famed Guggenheim Foundation (alongside their museums in New York, Venice and Bilbao), it's owned by Abu Dhabi's Tourism Development & Investment Company – marking a serious investment in the capital's creative future. Opening date TBA. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island. Harry Potter Themed Land Opening date: TBA Wizards, witches and muggles, get ready to board the Hogwarts Express from the desert. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is bringing Middle East's very first Harry Potter-themed land to Yas Island and yes, it's going to be as magical as it sounds. The park – already famous for its climate-controlled, fully indoor setup – is conjuring up a whole new land dedicated to J.K. Rowling's beloved Wizarding World. That's right: you'll soon be able to stroll down Diagon Alley, sip a frothy butter drink in Hogsmeade and maybe even catch a glimpse of Hogwarts Castle, all without leaving the city. A collaboration between Miral (the masterminds behind much of Yas Island's epic growth) and Warner Bros. Discovery, this enchanted expansion will be the latest jewel in Abu Dhabi's entertainment crown. Expect intricate set pieces, themed dining spots, magical merchandise and – if we're lucky – a few surprise encounters with Hippogriffs, house elves and maybe even He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named. The new magic world joins Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi's other six incredible lands, including Gotham City, Metropolis and Bedrock. Whether you're a Gryffindor with a thirst for heroics, a Ravenclaw on a trivia quest, or just really, really into chocolate frogs, there's going to be something here for every type of Potterhead. So, grab your cloaks and polish your wands because when this opens, it's going to be a must-visit, whether you're eight or eighty. Opening date TBA. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island. Natural History Museum Opening date: TBA Calling all curious minds, fossil fanatics and stargazers – the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is officially landing in the city, and it promises to be one of the capital's most exciting cultural attractions yet. Set in the ever-evolving Saadiyat Cultural District, this mega-museum will whisk you through 13.8 billion years of Earth's epic story. From prehistoric predators to alien stardust, this place is going to be anything but boring. One of the stars of the show? Meet 'Stan', the 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton that's among the most complete and best-preserved in the world. He's fierce, fossilised, and no doubt about to become Abu Dhabi's most Instagrammed resident. But dinos are just the beginning. The museum will also showcase the legendary Murchison Meteorite, which crash-landed in Australia over four decades ago and casually carries pre-solar grains that are seven billion years old. That's older than our entire solar system – talk about perspective. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Mecanoo, the building itself is something to marvel at. Think rocky outcrops, greenery-covered rooftops, and water features that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape of Saadiyat. It's giving Jurassic Park meets futuristic desert oasis, and we're here for it. This Natural History Museum won't just be about staring at ancient relics in glass boxes. It's designed to be interactive, educational and wildly inspiring. Through immersive galleries and cutting-edge storytelling, visitors will journey from Earth's fiery formation to the ecosystems of today and even glimpse into what the future might hold. There's a strong sustainability and conservation message running through it all, aimed at igniting a lifelong passion for the planet in younger generations. What sets this museum apart? It's the first of its kind in the region to tell the story of Earth's natural history through an Arabian lens, with a spotlight on the local flora, fauna and geological wonders of the region. Alongside exhibitions, the museum will house a full-fledged scientific research and teaching institute, diving deep into palaeontology, zoology, marine biology, molecular research and earth sciences. Opening date TBA. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island. Sphere Abu Dhabi Opening date: TBA Credit: Supplied The masterminds behind the legendary Sphere in Las Vegas (you know, that insane 20,000-seat, next-gen venue that blew everyone away in 2023?) are bringing their magic over to Abu Dhabi with our very own Sphere. Pretty cool, right? We don't yet know where it will be built, but rest assured it's going to be in a prime location for an insane line-up of concerts, shows and events, all housed in a mega venue that looks straight out of the future. We're talking jaw-dropping visuals, mind-melting sound and immersive experiences that'll leave you saying, 'How did they even do that?' With its massive 20,000-seat capacity, the Abu Dhabi Sphere is set to be the place to be for unforgettable entertainment (in case you can't tell, we're a little bit excited about it). While the exact opening date is still under wraps, we can definitely already feel the buzz. Opening date and location TBA. Opening date: Open now If you thought art was something to be observed from a distance, think again. teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the latest addition to the Saadiyat Cultural District, is here to shatter those notions. This isn't your typical museum; it's a 17,000-square-meter playground where art, technology, and nature converge to create an ever-evolving, interactive experience. Open since April, this permanent exhibition is the brainchild of the Tokyo-based art collective teamLab, known for their immersive digital installations worldwide. But this is their most ambitious project yet, featuring over 700 high-brightness projectors that transform the space into a dynamic landscape reacting to your every move. From the moment you step inside, you're not just a visitor – you're a participant. The artworks here don't exist independently; they come alive through your interaction. In the Levitation Void, a glowing sphere hovers in a red chamber, responding to touch with subtle movements. One of the most physically engaging installations is Biocosmos, where you traverse a suspended mesh net surrounded by 360-degree projections of flowers, coral and flocks of birds. As you move, the environment responds, creating a sensation of being part of a living ecosystem. The museum is divided into two zones: the Wet Zone and the Dry Zone. In the Wet Zone, you'll wade through shallow pools filled with glistening ovoids that emit light and sound upon touch, creating a symphony of interaction. The Dry Zone offers equally mesmerising experiences, like the Circulating Universe of Water Particles, where digital waterfalls cascade around you, altering their flow as you move. So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in a world where art breathes, evolves and responds to you, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi awaits. Just remember to bring your curiosity and maybe a towel. Dhs150 for adults (18 and above), Dhs115 for teenagers (13-17) and Dhs50 for children (four-12). Open Sun-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-8pm. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Velodrome Abu Dhabi Opening date: TBA This one is for all the cyclists out here. Abu Dhabi is set to make a significant mark on the global cycling map with the upcoming Velodrome Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island. This state-of-the-art facility will feature the region's first Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Category 1 indoor cycling track, making it a hotspot for international championships and events. The Velodrome isn't just about indoor racing; it boasts a unique architectural design that includes a rooftop track connected to the ground by a 600-meter cycling ramp. This feature offers cyclists panoramic 360-degree views of Hudayriyat Island and the Abu Dhabi skyline, blending athleticism with breathtaking scenery. Beyond professional competitions, the Velodrome aims to be a hub for community engagement, hosting events that cater to cyclists of all ages and skill levels. This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's recognition as the first city in the region to be designated a 'Bike City' by the UCI, highlighting the emirate's commitment to promoting cycling as a sustainable and inclusive mode of transportation and recreation. Pretty cool. The Velodrome is a key component of the broader Hudayriyat Island masterplan, which encompasses a range of sports and leisure facilities. There's Surf Abu Dhabi, the world's largest artificial wave facility, and a planned sprawling urban park that will be the largest in the UAE, complete with elevated cycling paths, eco-tourism platforms and mangrove walks. With the addition of the Velodrome, Hudayriyat Island is poised to become a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike. Opening date TBA. Hudayriyat Island. Zayed National Museum Opening date: December 2025 If you haven't spotted this one in the Abu Dhabi skyline – where have you been? The Zayed National Museum will be the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Island Cultural District, honouring the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, the museum's structure features five soaring towers inspired by falcon wings, reflecting Sheikh Zayed's passion for falconry and symbolising the nation's cultural heritage. The museum's design incorporates sustainable features, including solar thermal towers that function as chimneys to naturally cool the building, demonstrating a commitment to environmental consciousness. Inside, visitors will find six permanent galleries, a temporary exhibition space, and an outdoor gallery. They will all narrate the rich tapestry of the UAE's history, culture and social and economic transformation from the beginning. Exhibits will showcase artefacts dating back as far as 300,000 years and evidence of early human life in the region. The museum aims to highlight the UAE's role as a crossroads of the world, emphasising themes of education, conservation, sustainability, cultural heritage, humanitarianism and faith. The museum, opening in December 2025, will also serve as a centre for learning and cultural exchange, with educational programs designed to deepen the understanding of Emirati culture and values. As a tribute to Sheikh Zayed's vision and the UAE's journey, the museum stands as a beacon of national pride and proof of the commitment to preserving and sharing its rich heritage with the world. Opening December 2025. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island. Yas Waterworld's massive expansion Opening date: Open now Summer in Abu Dhabi is about to get seriously soaked. Yas Waterworld is turning up the thrills with a major new expansion, and we've got the lowdown on all the slides, rides and splashes heading your way. With 12 brand-new attractions dropping this season, it's clear the capital's favourite waterpark is making waves in all the right ways, just in time to cool us down. The buzz? A family-friendly, thrill-filled upgrade that dives deeper into the park's legendary Legend of the Lost Pearl story. The new zone is styled like a forgotten city – think ancient ruins, mysterious treasure chambers, and secret passageways – with a whole line-up of attractions that promise non-stop adventure. One of the most exciting additions is Dawwama Junior – the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Inspired by the park's iconic tornado ride, this pint-sized version lets little ones experience their first taste of whirlwind water fun in a perfectly kid-safe package. It's just one of several rides created especially for younger adrenaline junkies. Also making a big splash: Al Sahel Junior, the region's first mini zero-gravity boomerango. That's right – kids can now get their kicks with gravity-defying drops and twists tailored just for them. Over at Rimal Racer, mini daredevils can race side-by-side down thrilling slides for the ultimate playground bragging rights. But it's not just for the kiddos. Whole families can buckle up for Mataha Madness, a labyrinth-style maze of watery twists and disorienting turns. Want something a little more spin-tastic? Sadaf Swirl will have you whirling through high-speed excitement. And the big crowd-pleaser might just be Bahamut's Rage – a log flume-style ride with drops that'll have everyone screaming (in a good way). Need something for a mid-afternoon cooldown? Bandit's Playground in Bandit's Village is packed with splash zones, interactive water surprises, and laid-back family fun for all ages. Opened since July 1, the new attractions will bring even more excitement to a park already packed with award-winning rides. Whether you're racing your mates, navigating watery mazes, or discovering lost treasures, Yas Waterworld's newest additions are guaranteed to keep the fun flowing all season long. So grab your goggles, slap on some SPF, and get ready – the next chapter in Abu Dhabi's ultimate waterpark adventure is about to begin. From Dhs295. Open daily 10am-7pm. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, New hotels in Abu Dhabi Mondrian Known for its spectacular (and photo-friendly) interiors, the new opening is the brand's first hotel in the UAE. Located Downtown along the canal, you'll get Reem Island and Al Maryah Island views from the 221 rooms and 80 serviced apartments. There's also a spa, a kids club, a gym, a roof deck pool and a chic crystal-clear lagoon, with ocean views and an infinity pool design. Dreamy. Opening in 2025. Downtown Abu Dhabi. Nobu The Nobu brand is landing in Abu Dhabi with a restaurant, branded residences and… a hotel. Located on Saadiyat Island, we're expecting the five-star luxury vibes that's made Nobu a celebrity favourite. Opening TBA. Saadiyat Island. New Islands in Abu Dhabi Fahid Island Set to open in 2029, Fahid Island will feature a beach club, a five-star resort, 4.6km of beaches and Berm Park, a 10km wellness and fitness corridor with running tracks and three cycling routes. It will have Abu Dhabi's answer to LA's Rodeo Drive – Coral Drive – a shopping destination meant to be walked, not driven through. No shops have been announced yet but we're expecting a high-low mix of big names. Jubail Island Nestled between Yas and Saadiyat Islands, Jubail Island is Abu Dhabi's serene sanctuary where luxury meets nature. Spanning over 4,000 hectares, this eco-conscious development boasts six distinct villages, offering a harmonious blend of Mediterranean-inspired villas, waterfront apartments, and townhouses, all designed to complement the island's lush mangroves and tranquil beaches. Residents will enjoy access to private marinas, cycling tracks, wellness centres and community hubs, fostering a lifestyle centred on wellbeing and connection to nature. With its commitment to sustainability and community living, Jubail Island redefines upscale coastal living in the UAE capital. Ramham Island This 400-hectare island is set to feature 1,800 standalone villas, 900 marina residences, a luxury hotel and a retail promenade, all designed to provide residents with a resort-style lifestyle. Located between Saadiyat and Yas Islands, Ramhan Island will also boast pristine beaches, mangrove forests and serene bays. With amenities like a world-class marina, wellness centre and gourmet dining options, Ramhan Island is poised to become a premier destination for those seeking an exclusive and tranquil living experience. Novikov Get ready for a serious flavour fusion, because Novikov Abu Dhabi has officially landed. Originally launched in 1991 by Arkady Novikov, this sleek global brand is best known for its unique mashup of Asian and Italian dishes – think sushi one minute and handmade pasta the next. Dubai foodies will remember its stylish DIFC venue fondly, and now it's Abu Dhabi's turn to dine in style with a Mediterranean concept. Open Sun-Thu 12pm-1am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, reservations@ (02 563 2937). Time Out Market Yep, it's official: Time Out Market is coming to Abu Dhabi. Set to be a new destination for food and culture in the capital, expect all your faves under one roof, expertly curated by the Time Out team. Located on Saadiyat Island, it will span over 35,000 square feet and include 15 of Abu Dhabi's best restaurateurs, 3 bars and a cultural and entertainment space. Opening date TBA. Saadiyat Island. You might also like… Abu Dhabi's Best Restaurants: All the places you should try at least once All the top places in one read Eat here next: 20+ new restaurants in Abu Dhabi for your dining agenda Time to try something new? 19 top attractions and beautiful places to visit in Abu Dhabi So much to see and do
Tourism Breaking News
30-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
DCT Abu Dhabi hosts Designer Travel UK Annual Conference in the Emirate
Post Views: 57 The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted the Designer Travel UK Annual Conference at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental hotel. The event brought together travel agents and trade partners from the UK to experience the diversity of Abu Dhabi as a premier tourism destination. As part of the conference programme, DCT Abu Dhabi welcomed over 100 agents and executives from Designer Travel for a curated itinerary, including a gala dinner and immersive experiences across the emirate, introducing them to Abu Dhabi's rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions and renowned hospitality. Established in 2008, Designer Travel is one of the UK's leading bespoke travel specialists, with a network of 170 expert travel advisors across the country. The renowned travel agency has gained recognition for crafting highly personalised, tailor-made holiday experiences for discerning clients. Hosting the annual conference in the emirate aligns with Abu Dhabi's strategic focus on the UK as a key source market. As of year-to-date 2025, the emirate has welcomed over 219,000 UK hotel guests, marking a 46% year-on-year increase. UK visitors are also staying longer, with an average stay of 4.2 days, and are showing increased engagement with Abu Dhabi's growing portfolio of cultural and leisure experiences. DCT Abu Dhabi remains committed to building strong industry partnerships through continuous engagement with the UK travel trade. The Designer Travel UK Annual Conference, alongside initiatives such as the Experience Abu Dhabi Roadshow and the Experience Abu Dhabi Experts digital training platform, reflects this commitment. These efforts support the emirate's Tourism Strategy 2030, fostering long-term tourism growth by introducing new initiatives and expanding offerings that deliver shared value across the sector.
Tourism Breaking News
06-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
DCT and Rotana unveil summer campaign to drive regional tourism and cement Abu Dhabi's year-round appeal
Post Views: 201 The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Rotana unveiled the first phase of their joint initiative to boost summer tourism to the emirate. This partnership aims to address seasonal travel lulls and strengthen Abu Dhabi's positioning as a dynamic, year-round destination. With Rotana's strong regional appeal and global loyalty network, the collaboration is primed to drive bookings across Abu Dhabi's diverse source markets, particularly the GCC. From June through August, guests staying at Rotana properties in Abu Dhabi can enjoy an exclusive 'Stay 3, Pay 2' summer offer. This campaign is a key activation of the DCT-Rotana partnership, designed to stimulate travel during the traditionally quiet summer months, reinforce Abu Dhabi's appeal as a family-friendly destination, and encourage direct bookings through exclusive incentives. Eddy Tannous, COO, Rotana said: 'As a homegrown brand deeply rooted in the region, we are proud to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi on a campaign that supports the broader vision of positioning Abu Dhabi as a year-round destination. Through this initiative, we are combining strengths to deliver both economic impact and exceptional guest value, reaffirming our commitment to driving tourism growth in the emirate.' As part of DCT Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030, the partnership with Rotana underscores the emirate's commitment to sustained, collaborative growth. It is one of several recent alliances formed to enhance Abu Dhabi's global profile, increase visitor numbers, and deliver seamless, tailored experiences across key international and regional markets. For every three consecutive nights booked, the third night is free. For longer stays, the offer continues (e.g., stay 6, pay 4), creating greater value the longer guests stay. The summer promotion also includes: • Free stays and dining for children across all room categories • Complimentary extra beds for kids, making it ideal for families • Access to curated leisure experiences at participating Rotana hotels in Abu Dhabi
Campaign ME
22-05-2025
- Campaign ME
How the media is helping drive sustainable tourism in the UAE
The UAE is known for its unique skyline, luxury resorts and larger-than-life attractions. But recently, the country has been shifting gear, putting sustainable tourism at the heart of its hospitality and travel industries. Abu Dhabi, in particular, is leading the charge with big plans to grow its visitor numbers while keeping things eco-friendly. And the media has a role to play in making sure these efforts don't go unnoticed. Abu Dhabi isn't just looking to bring in more tourists; it wants to do so in a way that benefits both the environment and the local community. The Emirate's Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to increase visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030 – an impressive 7 per cent growth each year. But instead of only building more hotels and attractions, the focus is on sustainable tourism, ensuring that visitors experience Abu Dhabi in a way that preserves its natural beauty and culture for generations to come. A great example is Etihad Airways' new complimentary Abu Dhabi pass for its passengers. Not only do visitors get a free tourist SIM card with 10GB of data (perfect for Google Maps and Instagram), but they also get unlimited access to public buses and a 24-hour hop-on-hop-off bus pass. This makes it easier for tourists to explore Abu Dhabi without relying on taxis or rental cars, helping reduce carbon emissions in the process. Sustainable initiatives like these are fantastic – but only if people know about them! That's where the media comes in. From highlighting eco-friendly hotels and restaurants to covering government policies on sustainability, media outlets play a crucial role in making sustainable tourism something that both businesses and travellers actually care about. Spreading the word When major publications cover sustainability efforts, it puts the pressure on tourism operators to step up their game. It also helps educate tourists – because let's be real, most of us don't always think about how much water a hotel uses or whether an attraction is harming local wildlife when we're planning a trip. But the more we talk about these things, the more they become part of everyday travel decisions. A few hotels in the capital have been instrumental in the change to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, Jumeriah Saadiyat Island Resort, the first hotel in the capital to install filtered water stations (still and sparkling, no less!), provides every guest who checks in with a reusable bottle to drink from as opposed to using disposable plastic bottles. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr was the first in the city to have its own filtered water bottling plant within the resort, offering filtered (essentially, tap) water to guests in the hotel, reducing plastic waste and offering guests better value (not having to pay for bottled water is a huge saving). At Abu Dhabi Review, we've made it a point to showcase eco-conscious tourism in the UAE. Whether it's covering hotels that are going plastic-free, restaurants sourcing local ingredients, or new transport initiatives that make the city more accessible without a car, we're always looking for ways to shine a light on sustainable activations in the city. We also love talking to the people behind the change – whether on the website, or on our Podcast, The ADR Chat – from chefs using farm-to-table concepts, to sustainable fashion advocates creating spaces for people to recycle their clothes. The more we can share these stories, the more we can inspire both visitors and businesses to make sustainable choices. The UAE's tourism industry is evolving, and sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it's a real part of life. The 2025 Hilton Travel Trends Report reveals 84 per cent of respondents are actively looking for eco-friendly travel options and sustainable practices. And a recent Fast Company article, citing research from the Marriott Bonvoy hotel group, says 'Sustainability is gaining prominence, with 87 per cent of UAE travellers and 82 per cent of Saudi Arabian travellers factoring in the environmental impact of their travel plans.' Clearly, with more travellers looking for eco-friendly experiences, Abu Dhabi is proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. And with media platforms helping amplify these efforts, we're helping ensure that responsible tourism isn't just an option; it's the future. By Asha Sherwood, CEO & Founder, Abu Dhabi Review
Arab News
22-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Qatar tourism sector accounts for 8% of GDP, official says
RIYADH: Qatar's tourism industry contributed 55 billion Qatari riyals ($15.1 billion) to the country's gross domestic product in 2024, accounting for 8 percent of total economic output, according to a senior official. The figure marks a 14 percent increase compared with 2023, Chairman of Qatar Tourism Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji said during a high-level business forum in Doha, the country's news agency reported. The uptick aligns with the Gulf nation's broader Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to boost the sector's contribution to 12 percent of GDP and attract 6 million visitors by the end of the decade. The report stated: 'His Excellency highlighted some of 2024's achievements, which saw international visitor arrivals reached 5 million, a 25 percent year-on-year increase, with in-destination spend totaling nearly QAR 40 billion.' It added: 'The hospitality sector also achieved a key milestone, recording 10 million room nights sold during the year.' Speaking during a panel discussion titled 'Tourism in Focus' at the 5th edition of the Qatar Economic Forum, Al-Kharji emphasized the global shift in travel demand toward lifestyle-oriented and purpose-driven experiences, such as wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and luxurious nature-based getaways. He further noted that travelers are increasingly prioritizing experiences like personalized accommodations, culinary adventures, and curated cultural activities over traditional material purchases. 'Qatar's strategy aligns with these trends, focusing on six high-potential demand spaces and delivering 54 strategic projects across product development, regulation, and visitor experience enhancement,' the QNA report stated. The chairman highlighted that his organization is working closely with the Ministry of Public Health to develop a dedicated health tourism strategy, with several plans already approved. The Gulf nation ranks among the highest spenders on healthcare, allocating up to 12 percent of its annual budget to the sector, and Al-Kharji added further investments will boost tourism related to the industry. Qatar is also gearing up to host several major international sporting events in the coming years, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup annually from 2025 to 2029, the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027, and the 2030 Asian Games. The chairman underscored Qatar's commitment to combining luxury with sustainability across all projects, citing examples such as the Ras Abu Aboud Resort and the Qatar National Convention Centre. The center was the first venue in the region to be certified for both luxury and sustainability, alongside Msheireb Downtown Doha, which was developed to embody both eco-consciousness and upscale living. According to figures released in May, Qatar welcomed over 1.5 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, as the country continues to advance its tourism strategy built on major events, strategic partnerships, and diverse travel experiences. While slightly below the 1.6 million visitors recorded during the same period in 2024, the latest figures underscore Qatar's sustained momentum in attracting global travelers.
