Latest news with #H.E
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais meets with leading French travel and tourism tech companies to promote innovation in the sector
H.E. underlines importance of technology in her vision to develop a sustainable and responsible tourism sector H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General elect of the United Nations Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, held a series of meetings with representatives of leading French travel and tourism technology companies. The discussions focused on advancing innovation and integrating cutting-edge technologies in the sector. Participants emphasized the critical role of digital solutions in improving service efficiency and strengthening the sector's readiness to adapt to rapid technological shifts. The meetings were held on the sidelines of Her Excellency's participation in VivaTech 2025 in Paris, held under the theme 'The New Frontiers of Innovation.' The meetings are part of Her Excellency's ongoing efforts to foster dialogue with the private sector in the tourism industry, in preparation for her assumption of office as UN Tourism Secretary-General early next year. Her Excellency said: 'Technology is a key pillar in my vision to develop a sustainable and responsible tourism sector both regionally and globally, given its vital role in creating innovative tourism models based on global best practices. It further improves quality of life while maintaining privacy and offering outstanding tourism experiences to visitors and tourists around the world.' H.E. emphasised the importance of increasing private‑sector investment in digital solutions that support tourism sustainability and building an integrated digital infrastructure that enhances operational efficiencies in tourism. During the discussions, Her Excellency underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships between the UN Tourism and private tourism companies to develop new initiatives and projects that facilitate mobility and communication across countries, and improve tourism destinations, particularly in light of challenges such as climate change and evolving travel and tourism trends.
Web Release
a day ago
- Business
- Web Release
Hospitality Advisory Council discusses new national initiatives to boost growth and employment opportunities in the sector
The Hospitality Advisory Council convened its second meeting of 2025 under the chairmanship of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council. The session brought together 16 Council members, including CEOs and senior executives from leading national and international hotel groups. Discussions focused on a range of new national initiatives developed in partnership with the private sector to accelerate the growth of the UAE's hospitality sector. The initiatives also aim to generate employment opportunities across all sectors of this vital industry. H.E. Bin Touq said: 'Thanks to the vision and guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE's tourism and hospitality sectors continue to thrive. In the first quarter of 2025, hotel revenues reached AED 13.5 billion, with over 8.4 million guests recorded, a two per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Total hotel nights reached 29.3 million, and the national hotel occupancy rate stood at 81.3 per cent during the same period.' H.E. added: 'These impressive figures reflect the UAE's strong commitment to advancing its hospitality industry in line with global best practices. We have invested heavily in developing hotel and entertainment infrastructure across all seven emirates, organizing major international events, and delivering exceptional hospitality experiences that reflect authentic Emirati heritage and culture. As a result, the UAE has become one of the world's leading hospitality destinations today.' The Minister of Economy continued: 'The year 2025 marks a major milestone for UAE tourism, marked by the election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first woman globally to serve as Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization for the term 2026-2029. This achievement reinforces the UAE's prominent role in supporting international efforts to advance the global tourism industry.' The meeting's discussions covered a comprehensive array of key files and initiatives that support the UAE's efforts to enhance the growth and competitiveness of its hospitality sector. Participants emphasized the importance of promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors to meet the objectives of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to establish the UAE as the top global tourism brand by the next decade. The Council also reviewed the newly launched 'Summer Hospitality Camp' program by the Ministry of Economy. It is designed to support Emiratization across hospitality-related sectors by offering hands-on training to school and university students in real-world environments such as hotels and tourism facilities, in addition to its structured learning tracks. Established by the Emirates Tourism Council, the Hospitality Advisory Council serves as a strategic advisory body to the Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council on matters specific to the hospitality sector. It provides insights and data on industry developments, recommends private-sector initiatives to drive sector growth and reinforce the UAE's position as a leading global tourism destination, and offers feedback on government tourism policies and initiatives.
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Hospitality Advisory Council discusses new national initiatives to boost growth and employment opportunities in the sector
Tourism and hospitality sectors see sustained growth as hotel occupancy rates reach 81.3% in Q1 2025 The Hospitality Advisory Council convened its second meeting of 2025 under the chairmanship of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council. The session brought together 16 Council members, including CEOs and senior executives from leading national and international hotel groups. Discussions focused on a range of new national initiatives developed in partnership with the private sector to accelerate the growth of the UAE's hospitality sector. The initiatives also aim to generate employment opportunities across all sectors of this vital industry. H.E. Bin Touq said: 'Thanks to the vision and guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE's tourism and hospitality sectors continue to thrive. In the first quarter of 2025, hotel revenues reached AED 13.5 billion, with over 8.4 million guests recorded, a two per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Total hotel nights reached 29.3 million, and the national hotel occupancy rate stood at 81.3 per cent during the same period.' H.E. added: 'These impressive figures reflect the UAE's strong commitment to advancing its hospitality industry in line with global best practices. We have invested heavily in developing hotel and entertainment infrastructure across all seven emirates, organizing major international events, and delivering exceptional hospitality experiences that reflect authentic Emirati heritage and culture. As a result, the UAE has become one of the world's leading hospitality destinations today.' The Minister of Economy continued: 'The year 2025 marks a major milestone for UAE tourism, marked by the election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first woman globally to serve as Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization for the term 2026-2029. This achievement reinforces the UAE's prominent role in supporting international efforts to advance the global tourism industry.' The meeting's discussions covered a comprehensive array of key files and initiatives that support the UAE's efforts to enhance the growth and competitiveness of its hospitality sector. Participants emphasized the importance of promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors to meet the objectives of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to establish the UAE as the top global tourism brand by the next decade. The Council also reviewed the newly launched 'Summer Hospitality Camp' program by the Ministry of Economy. It is designed to support Emiratization across hospitality-related sectors by offering hands-on training to school and university students in real-world environments such as hotels and tourism facilities, in addition to its structured learning tracks. Established by the Emirates Tourism Council, the Hospitality Advisory Council serves as a strategic advisory body to the Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council on matters specific to the hospitality sector. It provides insights and data on industry developments, recommends private-sector initiatives to drive sector growth and reinforce the UAE's position as a leading global tourism destination, and offers feedback on government tourism policies and initiatives.
Filipino Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Filipino Times
UAE ambassador to the Philippines extends Independence Day greetings, praises Filipinos
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Mohamed Alqataam Alzaabi, extended his congratulations to Filipinos on the 127th Philippine Independence Day, calling it a symbol of courage, resilience, and a shared pursuit of peace and prosperity. In a message released during the celebration, Ambassador Alzaabi highlighted the strong ties between the UAE and the Philippines, noting the contributions of the Filipino community to the UAE's development and society. 'On behalf of the United Arab Emirates, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and the esteemed people of the Republic of the Philippines on the celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day – an enduring symbol of the nation's courage, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of peace and prosperity. On this momentous occasion, we convey warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Republic of the Philippines,' H.E. Alzaabi began in his letter. 'The UAE proudly joins in commemorating this significant occasion, reflecting the deep-rooted and enduring bonds of friendship between our two nations and peoples,' the envoy said. He also emphasized the important role of Filipinos in the UAE, recognizing their presence and work as vital to the country's social and economic fabric. 'The strong bilateral ties that unite our countries are further enriched by our dynamic cooperation and the valuable contributions of the Filipino community to the social and economic fabric of the UAE,' H.E. Alzaabi said. 'We look forward to further strengthening the cooperation that continues to flourish between our countries, rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for the future,' he added. 'Our commitment to building an even more robust partnership remains steadfast, and we are confident that the years ahead will bring greater achievements in our collaborative efforts across various fields.' Ambassador Alzaabi expressed confidence that the bilateral partnership will continue to grow in the coming years, and gave special mention to Filipinos living in the UAE for their continued contributions and excellence.
Daily Tribune
3 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Tribune
Iraq offers free one-week transit visas to GCC nationals leaving Iran
GCC nationals travelling out of Iran will be granted oneweek transit visas to enter Iraq without charge or the need to apply in advance, MP Mamdouh Al Saleh has said. The arrangement comes amid efforts to help GCC visitors currently in Iran following recent unrest. Al Saleh described the move as a response grounded in regional goodwill and cooperation, aimed at easing the return of those affected. He sought to reassure families, saying the situation on the ground remains calm. According to travel offices, campaign organisers and those directly involved, conditions are stable and preparations are ongoing to arrange the return of Gulf nationals as soon as possible. Attention Al Saleh noted that the matter is receiving attention from senior figures. He urged all travellers to follow official guidance and ensure their details are updated with the Foreign Ministry to help with coordination and safe return. The lawmaker also acknowledged the efforts of Bahrain's Foreign Ministry in tracking the situation closely. He singled out H.E. Ambassador Khalid Ahmed Al Mansour in Iraq and H.E. Ambassador Salah Ali Al Maliki in Kuwait for their round-theclock work supporting Bahraini citizens.
