The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) launched its Tourism Hackathons Programme on April 28, 2026, through TDF Grow, to foster innovative, entrepreneur-led solutions that support Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and contribute to Vision 2030 economic goals.
Türkiye experienced a 4.2% rise in international visitors, totalling 9.2 million in the first quarter of this year. The country also reported an impressive $9.896 billion in tourism revenue for the quarter.
Ras Al Khaimah is pushing ahead with its ambitious projects that meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability in a bid to cement its status as a leading global destination for investment, tourism and quality living, said its Crown Prince after reviewing the projects in Mina Al Arab area.
Syria’s Tourism Ministry and Ezdihar Holding will develop “The Beaumont,” a $250–300 million, 77,000 sqm integrated residential, commercial, and leisure project, aiming to boost tourism, investment, job creation, and talent development in the country.
Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) participates for the first time at the Indonesia Travel Expo (ITE) 2026. The participation marked a key step in engaging Indonesian travelers and promoting Azerbaijan as an appealing “Umrah Plus” pilgrimage extension destination.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reports that Middle East Travel & Tourism grew 5.3% in 2025, surpassing global rates. Strong visitor spending lifted the GDP contribution to $385.8 billion and supported 7.1 million jobs, with Saudi Arabia leading regional growth, accounting for $178 billion in GDP.
Tourist-focused establishments can choose to postpone payment of their Q1 fees to the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). The optional measure applies to hotels, hotel apartments, furnished apartments, and tourist restaurants.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism, hospitality, and events sectors have transformed under Vision 2030. By 2025, tourism contributed 5% of GDP, attracted 123 million visitors, generated SAR300 billion ($80 billion), and supported strong non-oil economic growth.
Oman's tourism sector continued growth in 2025, with gross domestic product (GDP) contribution reaching OMR 1.135 billion ($3 billion), up 3.7% from 2024's OMR 1.095 billion.
Oman signed an MoU with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), with the Ministry joining as a government body representing Omani tourist destinations, aiming to strengthen sustainable tourism practices and international collaboration.
