Browsing Category: News Middle East

Saudi Arabia, long known for its strict cultural codes, is redefining its entertainment landscape. After initially opening its doors to Western-style raves and large-scale music festivals, the kingdom is now turning its attention to homegrown traditions to attract tourists and reshape its national identity. A prime example is Terhal, a spectacular stage production in Riyadh that celebrates the kingdom’s heritage. On stage, an actor dressed in a traditional red-and-white headdress rides a...

The Middle East is preparing to welcome a landmark event for the turf industry with the launch of The MENA Turf Show on 17th April 2026 at the prestigious Park Hyatt Dubai. Backed by VIYA GOLF, this event marks the region’s first dedicated platform focused on golf, sports turf, and landscaping innovations. Designed to cater to a wide range of professionals—from golf course superintendents and sports venue managers to golf course architects—the...

January 2010 in Manama, Bahrain, evokes memories for those who lived, worked, or visited the city during that time. Nestled in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain’s capital has long been a crossroads of culture, commerce, and modernity. The cityscape of Manama, with its blend of traditional markets, modern skyscrapers, and bustling streets, offers a unique snapshot of life in the early 2010s. For residents, the city was a vibrant hub...

Kuwait has recently announced a new visa-on-arrival program aimed at residents of GCC countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain. This initiative is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to simplify travel procedures and boost tourism and business visits. To be eligible, travelers must hold a valid residency permit from their home country with at least six months remaining before expiration. Applicants should also belong to specific professional categories,...

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has been nominated as the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the 2026–2029 term, with the official confirmation expected in November. This appointment marks a significant milestone in the global tourism sector, highlighting the growing influence of leaders from the Middle East in shaping international travel and hospitality standards. Currently, Al Nowais serves as the Corporate Vice President of Owner Relationship Management at Rotana,...

Dubai is set to experience a fresh wave of culinary excitement as Rodeo Drive Ibn Battuta Gate, the city’s highly anticipated all-American dining and entertainment hub, prepares to open its doors in August 2025 at the Oaks Hotel. The venue promises a lively fusion of food, fun, and entertainment, and at the heart of this bold concept is newly appointed Head Chef Walter Melo. With more than 20 years of international culinary...

The Middle East’s travel and tourism sector is set to make a significant economic impact in 2025, contributing an estimated $367.3 billion to the regional economy and supporting approximately 7.7 million jobs. This growth underscores the region’s resilience and its pivotal role in the global tourism landscape. Key Drivers of Growth Saudi Arabia stands out as a major contributor, with its tourism sector expected to inject SAR 447.2 billion into the economy,...