logo
Ajman Department of Tourism Development concludes successful promotional tour in Germany

Ajman Department of Tourism Development concludes successful promotional tour in Germany

Zawya19-05-2025

Ajman, UAE: The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) has successfully concluded a high-impact promotional tour in Germany, led by His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director-General of the Department, and with the active participation of an official delegation from the department. The tour aligns with ADTD's ongoing strategy to improve the global standing of Ajman and promote its wide array of tourist attractions in the German market.
The tour, which commenced in Hamburg, passed through Frankfurt and Stuttgart and then arrived in Leipzig. During the visit, the department organised a series of professional meetings, workshops and interactive sessions with a selected group of representatives from German travel agencies and tourism companies as well as senior executives and decision-makers in the European tourism industry.
Furthermore, ADTD highlighted Ajman's rich tourism and cultural assets, which give it a distinctive identity. These include its contemporary infrastructure, advanced hospitality services and integrated tourism experiences that combine authenticity and modernity. These unique features make it an ideal location for tourists from various parts of the world, especially Germany.
As part of its strategic efforts to reinforce international cooperation, the department also signed a collaboration agreement with one of Germany's leading tour operators, DERTOUR Group. Under the terms of the agreement, both parties will launch integrated promotional programmes, including digital campaigns and awareness events, aimed at attracting a diverse group of European visitors and reinforcing Ajman's position on the global tourism map.
H.E. Alhashmi underscored that the tour marks a significant milestone in Ajman's strategic expansion plan. He also pointed out that the high level of engagement and interest during the meeting signifies the emirate's potential as a unique tourist destination providing a comprehensive experience that combines tranquillity, nature, culture and modern services.
H.E. Alhashmi said: 'At the Department, we are committed to building strong bridges of cooperation with global partners and fostering sustainable relationships that open new avenues for growth in the tourism industry. We look forward to transforming the positive results of this into practical, purpose-driven programmes to attract more European tourists to the emirate.'
The tour culminated with vibrant sessions in Leipzig, where industry professionals shared their insights and future ideas for industry growth. These sessions reaffirmed ADTD's unwavering commitment to embracing an approach that supports strategic partnerships and relies on the highest standards of quality and sustainability in developing the tourism sector, in line with the ambitious vision of Ajman.
The tour is regarded as one of the most remarkable external initiatives of ADTD in 2025. It marks a new beginning for expanding the department's network of international partners and enhancing the emirate's competitiveness as a preferred tourist destination in the region.
For further information, please contact:
Orient Planet Group (OPG)
Email: media@orientplanet.com
Website: www.orientplanet.com

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

ADPIC and arbitrateAD to advance dispute resolution practices in Abu Dhabi
ADPIC and arbitrateAD to advance dispute resolution practices in Abu Dhabi

Zawya

time26 minutes ago

  • Zawya

ADPIC and arbitrateAD to advance dispute resolution practices in Abu Dhabi

Implementation of Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Boards (DAABs) across standard contracts aligns with global best practice Reinforces Abu Dhabi's commitment to an investor-friendly, transparent infrastructure ecosystem ADPIC currently oversees a project portfolio exceeding AED 200 billion Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) and the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre (arbitrateAD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to embed world-class dispute avoidance and resolution mechanisms across Abu Dhabi's infrastructure ecosystem. Signed during the inaugural Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit, the MoU reflects both organisations' commitment to advancing dispute management. It further reinforces Abu Dhabi's position as a trusted international hub for investment, public-private partnerships, long-term project delivery, and strategic public-private collaboration. Under the agreement, arbitrateAD will serve as the official appointing authority for adjudicators and the Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Boards (DAABs) across ADPIC's Capital Projects Standard Contracts — ensuring consistency in the deployment of dispute resolution practices and enhancing delivery certainty in major infrastructure developments. DAABs are independent expert panels appointed at the outset of infrastructure projects. Their role is to resolve disputes before they escalate and maintain alignment across complex delivery timelines. As a globally recognised best practice, DAABs contribute to stronger governance, reduced delays, and improved risk-sharing across stakeholders. With oversight of a capital portfolio exceeding AED 200 billion, ADPIC plays a critical role in enabling infrastructure delivery that is timely, sustainable, and globally competitive. The integration of DAABs reflects ADPIC's commitment to building resilient project ecosystems underpinned by accountability, collaboration, and proactive dispute prevention. The MoU also outlines joint efforts to raise awareness around dispute avoidance and support industry-wide training to promote best practice standards. These efforts are particularly relevant to investors and ESG-focused developers seeking transparent, rules-based markets that minimise delivery risk and promote long-term value. His Excellency Dr. Ali Saeed bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of arbitrateAD, said: 'We are proud to collaborate with ADPIC, as we reinforce our commitment to dispute avoidance mechanisms that meet international standards. DAABs are an incredibly smart approach to resolving challenges before they escalate, and this MOU is in line with our shared vision of both improving how projects are managed and strengthening investor confidence across the region. This partnership supports the emirate's broader drive to deliver world-class infrastructure projects through transparency, efficiency, and rule of law — positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading model for effective public-private collaboration.' His Excellency Maysarah Eid, Director General of ADPIC, said: 'This MoU marks a significant step in our efforts to integrate global best practices into the way Abu Dhabi delivers its infrastructure ambitions. By appointing arbitrateAD as the official authority for dispute adjudication, we are strengthening our approach to proactive risk mitigation and effective dispute resolution while ensuring delivery excellence. More importantly, we are sending a clear signal to our partners, local and international, that Abu Dhabi is committed to creating a project environment defined by stability, transparency, and long-term strategic value.' The signing of this MoU also sets the stage for future collaboration as Abu Dhabi continues to scale its infrastructure ambitions in alignment with Abu Dhabi's economic vision and evolving global ESG expectations. About arbitrateAD arbitrateAD is Abu Dhabi's flagship arbitration centre, offering a modern, efficient, and world-class framework for the resolution of commercial disputes for both commercial and governmental entities. arbitrateAD plays a vital role in advancing the emirate's vision to become a leading global legal and financial hub. The establishment of the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre is a testament to the emirate's dedication to excellence in providing a world-class neutral and impartial forum for dispute resolution. The Centre has been awarded the GAR Guide to Regional Arbitration award for 'Arbitral Institution That Impressed' at the 2025 Global Arbitration Review (GAR) Awards. Launched by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2023, and fully operational since 1 February 2024, arbitrateAD has provided successful arbitration services to companies of all sizes doing business in a wide range of industries. About ADCCI The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) is the leading business support organisation in Abu Dhabi. With a focus on enhancing trade and investment, ADCCI plays a key role in supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi's economy, particularly for SMEs and the private sector. Through various initiatives and partnerships, ADCCI aims to promote a business-friendly environment that facilitates investment and economic development in the emirate. About Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC): Established in 2023, ADPIC's vision is to oversee and manage capital projects that enhance the quality of life for every resident in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This involves diverse projects including housing, infrastructure, tourism, community facilities, and education. ADPIC's mandate includes managing contracts, reviewing, approving, planning, and designing capital projects. These are overseen by the Centre in close collaboration with relevant entities and stakeholders to ensure quality is maintained while also facilitating efficient project execution in alignment with Abu Dhabi's strategic goals. Throughout its operations, the Centre is committed to strengthening public-private partnerships and adopting best practices in sustainability globally.

Oman: Turning a seasonal surge into year-round SME growth
Oman: Turning a seasonal surge into year-round SME growth

Zawya

time26 minutes ago

  • Zawya

Oman: Turning a seasonal surge into year-round SME growth

Each year, as the summer monsoon cloaks Dhofar in mist and greenery, the governorate emerges as one of Oman's most iconic seasonal attractions. The Khareef, a three-month period stretching from June to September, transforms the southern landscape into a lush destination that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the Sultanate and the wider Gulf region. Beneath the beauty and climate, however, lies a deeper economic reality. Khareef is not only a tourism season; it is an economic window—one that fuels demand across multiple sectors, from hospitality and transport to food services, retail, and local crafts. Yet this opportunity remains largely untapped when it comes to building long-term, sustainable value for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Dhofar. While Khareef stimulates a flurry of entrepreneurial activity, much of it is fleeting. Dozens of food stalls, mobile cafés, car rental services, and vendors of frankincense, honey, and traditional goods appear during the season—only to vanish as soon as the rains subside. The issue is not the lack of economic activity, but rather the absence of a system to carry these businesses forward. Sustainability remains the missing piece. Without proper financial tools, business training, or integration into the broader tourism value chain, most seasonal enterprises in Dhofar fail to evolve into permanent businesses. This creates a cycle of economic fragmentation: entrepreneurs enter the market enthusiastically during Khareef but are unable to maintain operations or income streams during the off-season. Several challenges hinder the sustainability of these seasonal SMEs. First is the volatility of income. The short earning period leaves little room for reinvestment or recovery from losses. Second, most of these businesses lack formal structures, such as licensing, accounting systems, branding, or strategic planning. They tend to be informal, family-run efforts with minimal business continuity. Third, access to finance remains a critical barrier. Although the Development Bank and the SME Development Authority provide support, the approval cycles and criteria often do not align with the short-term, urgent nature of seasonal ventures. Moreover, these SMEs typically exist outside formal procurement chains. Hotels, tour operators, and large-scale events rarely source from local micro-businesses, missing an opportunity to create inclusive growth. Finally, there are clear gaps in skills, particularly in marketing, digital engagement, and customer service, which limit competitiveness and scalability. Addressing these gaps requires a shift in how we think about Khareef—not merely as a tourism season, but as an economic platform. If designed strategically, Khareef can become a launchpad for business formalisation, local branding, and supply chain integration. What is needed is a multi-layered response that connects finance, digital infrastructure, training, and policy reform. One such initiative could be a dedicated Khareef SME Support Fund—designed to offer short-term loans with flexible repayment terms aligned to seasonal cash flows. Access to this fund should be linked to basic business planning, ensuring that enterprises receiving support have a minimum framework for continuity. Equally important is digital visibility. A unified online platform mapping all Khareef vendors, along with digital payment solutions and booking systems, could greatly expand reach and consumer confidence. When tourists and residents can find, rate, and buy from SMEs online, the market no longer ends with the season. Another priority is integrating SMEs into the formal tourism value chain. Hotels, resorts, and large-scale festivals could partner with local producers and service providers—be it in catering, souvenirs, or logistics—thus creating consistent demand for local products. Municipalities and business chambers can also play a role by designating temporary but well-organised commercial zones—such as Khareef bazaars—equipped with infrastructure, sanitation, and marketing support. These zones can become centres of economic activity and provide an incubator-like environment for microenterprises to test, refine, and scale. Equally, SMEs need support in building brand identities rooted in Dhofari heritage. Products like frankincense, mountain honey, or woven baskets are not just items of commerce—they are cultural artefacts that carry emotional and historical weight. With the right training and packaging, these goods can be transformed into recognisable brands, locally and internationally. These initiatives must not exist in isolation. They must form part of a coherent development framework that brings together key stakeholders: the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the SME Development Authority, Dhofar Municipality, the Development Bank, Invest in Oman, and the Chamber of Commerce. What's required is collaborative governance focused on building a self-sustaining SME ecosystem linked to the Khareef season but not limited by it. This approach aligns seamlessly with Oman Vision 2040, which positions SMEs as vital engines of diversification, job creation, and regional development. Dhofar—rich in culture, biodiversity, and seasonal appeal—has all the ingredients to pioneer a model of 'seasonal entrepreneurship' that balances natural cycles with economic continuity. Ultimately, Khareef Dhofar is more than a misty landscape; it is a living laboratory for sustainable development. Its full economic value will not be measured in hotel bookings or tourist footfall alone, but in the livelihoods it supports long after the rains have passed. If we can transform the seasonal into the strategic, Dhofar will not only thrive in the monsoon—but throughout the year. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (

Parkin's IPO recognised as Best Privatisation in EMEA
Parkin's IPO recognised as Best Privatisation in EMEA

Zawya

time26 minutes ago

  • Zawya

Parkin's IPO recognised as Best Privatisation in EMEA

Parkin Company PJSC ('Parkin' or 'the Company'), the largest provider of paid public parking facilities and services in Dubai, has been awarded Best Privatisation in EMEA, at the 2025 EMEA Finance Achievement Awards in London. The annual awards ceremony recognises standout transactions and institutions shaping capital markets across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The award celebrates Parkin's successful evolution from a government department into a high-performing and profitable listed infrastructure business. The carve-out process and subsequent public-to-private transition in March 2024 resulted in record oversubscription levels achieved on the Dubai Financial Market, with interest from high-quality local, regional and international investors generating AED 259 billion in total demand (US$71 billion), implying an oversubscription level of 165x. The recognition by EMEA Finance magazine reinforces Parkin's position as the benchmark for successful privatisation in the region, reflecting Dubai's leadership in developing investable and future-ready infrastructure platforms. The Best Privatisation in EMEA award follows last month's Best MENA IPO accolade from Euromoney, further enhancing Parkin's growing reputation for excellence in the transportation industry. Eng. Mohamed Abdulla Al Ali, CEO of Parkin, commented: 'Winning Best Privatisation in EMEA is a proud moment for both Parkin and Dubai. From the outset, our goal was to deliver a privatisation that set a new regional benchmark in transaction structure, investor interest and long-term value creation. The response to our IPO was extraordinary and what we have achieved since listing reflects the strength of our capex-light, cash-generative business model, our post-privatisation strategy and the ambitions of our team. This award is a testament not only to our success but also to Dubai's leadership in shaping innovative, world-class mobility infrastructure, demonstrating its ability to attract global investors through visionary privatisation initiatives.' About Parkin Company PJSC With a unique blend of operational excellence, technological know-how and enforcement capability spanning almost three decades, Parkin Company PJSC is the largest provider of paid public parking facilities and services in the Emirate of Dubai, with a portfolio of approximately 206k paid parking spaces, as at year end 2024. Parkin has a dominant position in relation to Dubai's on and off-street paid public parking market and a leading share of the overall paid parking market. Under a 49-year Concession Agreement with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Parkin has the exclusive right to operate a portfolio of public on and off-street parking (c.184k spaces) as well as public multi-storey car parking facilities (c.3k spaces). Parkin also operates certain developer-owned parking facilities through partnership agreements across the Emirate (c.19k spaces) and provides barrierless, ticketless on behalf of Majid Al Futtaim across two malls. Additional revenue streams include enforcement, the issuance of seasonal permits, parking reservations and other commercial activities. By deploying state of the art digital payment solutions and intelligent parking management systems that utilise artificial intelligence and big data analysis, Parkin's customers successfully conducted 132m parking transactions in 2024. Dubai's parking operations were established in 1995 under the Dubai Municipality, before becoming part of the RTA in 2005. In December 2023, Parkin Company PJSC was established through the issuance of Law No. 30 of 2023, successfully completing its initial public offering (IPO) on the Dubai Financial Market in March 2024.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store