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Saudi Arabia Showcases Strategic Tourism at IHIF Asia

Published

2 years ago

September 10, 2024

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Saudi Arabia is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in tourism, with the Kingdom’s remarkable achievements in 2023 setting a new benchmark for the industry. This progress was on full display at the IHIF Asia International Hospitality Investment Forum in Hong Kong, where the Saudi Ministry of Tourism highlighted the vast potential for international investors to capitalize on the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding and diverse tourism sector.

Saudi Arabia’s strategic location at the crossroads of three continents and its strong economic ties with Asia underscore its potential as a global tourism hub. In 2023, the Kingdom welcomed over 20.9 million tourists from Asia, who collectively spent $25.7 billion. This significant influx highlights the increasing confidence Asian markets have in Saudi Arabia’s tourism potential and the lucrative opportunities it presents for investors. The Kingdom’s appeal to Asian travelers is further evidenced by the substantial growth in tourism receipts, reflecting the strong demand for Saudi Arabia as a diverse and culturally rich destination.

To capitalize on this momentum, the Kingdom has introduced the Tourism Investment Enablers Program (TIEP), with the Hospitality Investment Enablers (HIE) initiative serving as a cornerstone. HIE is designed to significantly boost accommodation capacity in key tourism areas, driving private investments up to $ 11 billion and increasing the annual GDP by $4.3 billion by 2030. The initiative also aims to create 120,000 new jobs, supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification goals. Key incentives include corporate tax exemptions, VAT reductions, and access to government-owned land under favorable terms, making it easier and more cost-effective for investors to enter the market.

A highlight of Saudi Arabia’s participation at IHIF Asia was the panel discussion titled “Invest, Enable, Prosper: Empowering Tourism Destinations.” This fireside chat, led by Mr. Tareq Al-Shaghrood, General Manager of Investment Planning & Attraction at the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, explored the Kingdom’s strategic approach to developing a world-class, diverse tourism ecosystem. “Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating a wide array of tourism experiences—from cultural heritage and adventure tourism to luxury and eco-tourism—is underpinned by a robust framework of incentives and support for investors. Our vision is to enable and empower those who join us in this transformative journey, ensuring prosperity for all stakeholders,” Al-Shaghrood stated.

Saudi Arabia’s international tourism performance in 2023 was impressive, ranking 14th globally in international arrivals—an improvement of 11 positions since 2019. The Kingdom also ranked 12th globally in international tourism receipts, moving up 15 positions compared to 2019. According to the UN Tourism Barometer (May 2024), Saudi Arabia ranked first among the best-performing large tourism destinations in terms of the growth rate of international arrivals and tourism receipts compared to pre-pandemic levels.

As Saudi Arabia continues its ascent as a leading tourism destination, the Kingdom invites investors worldwide to seize the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary transformation. With its robust infrastructure, strategic location, and unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, Saudi Arabia offers unmatched prospects for those looking to invest in a rapidly evolving and highly rewarding market.

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UAE electric vehicle drivers get relief as Tesla rolls out free charging stations across the country

Published

8 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Tesla has rolled out free Supercharging across key locations in the UAE and wider Gulf, offering immediate relief to electric vehicle (EV) users during a period of regional uncertainty.

The initiative, which took effect at midnight local time, covers more than 30 charging stations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

The decision came after an appeal from an Emirati Tesla owner and reflects the company’s broader approach during crises, providing free charging support to affected communities.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously stated that the company enables free Supercharging during challenging times to help drivers stay mobile without added cost.

UAE coverage

The UAE has the largest number of activated stations, spanning major cities, highways, and residential areas.

Abu Dhabi

Al Dhanna, Al Maryah, Al Mirfa, Masdar Central Park, Masdar City Centre, Yas Mall (Hypermarket LG & Main Entrance)

Dubai

Abu Hail, Al Habtoor City, Dubai Hills (Grand Atrium & Storm Coaster), Dubai Mall Za’abeel, Mall of the Emirates, Meadows Village, Wadi Al Safa, Wafi City

Northern Emirates

Ajman City Centre, Al Ain, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Fujairah, Hatta

Key Highways

Jebel Ali corridor (both Abu Dhabi-bound and Dubai-bound)

Sharjah

City Centre, Rahmania Mall, Suyoh Mall

Ras Al Khaimah

Al Naeem Mall

Other parts of the Gulf

Saudi Arabia

Dammam, Riyadh, Jeddah (including Al Ajawad Street and Al Amir Sultan), Taif

Qatar

Doha Festival City

Tesla’s move highlights how EV infrastructure can play a critical role during disruptions, ensuring mobility, reducing costs, and supporting communities when it matters most.

With the UAE already leading EV adoption in the region, the expanded free charging network is expected to benefit a growing number of drivers during the Eid travel period and beyond.

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UAE announces Eid prayer timings, bans open-air prayer grounds

Published

12 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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As the UAE prepares for Eid Al Fitr, authorities have confirmed that prayers will be held exclusively in approved mosques across the country, with no arrangements for open-air prayer grounds this year.

The move comes as part of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring the safety and smooth flow of worshippers during one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar.

Mosque-only prayers for safety

Authorities clarified that Eid prayers will not take place in outdoor spaces or traditional Eid prayer grounds. Instead, worshippers are advised to attend designated mosques, where entry and exit will be carefully managed.

Teams of officials and volunteers will be deployed to oversee crowd movement and prevent congestion, ensuring an orderly and safe prayer experience.

Prayer timings across the UAE

The official prayer timings for Eid Al Fitr in the seven emirates are as follows:

Abu Dhabi: 6:43am
Dubai: 6:40am
Sharjah: 6:39am
Ajman: 6:39am
Umm Al Quwain: 6:39am
Ras Al Khaimah: 6:37am
Fujairah: 6:36am

Residents are encouraged to arrive early and follow guidance from authorities.

Preparing for a smooth Eid

Authorities say preparations are underway to ensure the holiday is observed safely and smoothly, with a focus on public safety and community well-being.

With clear guidelines, set timings, and coordinated efforts in place, residents across the UAE can look forward to a peaceful and well-managed Eid celebration.

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Eid Al Fitr begins on Friday in UAE as crescent moon not sighted

Published

12 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Friday, March 20, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Wednesday evening.

The decision was made by the country’s Moon-sighting Committee, confirming that Ramadan will complete 30 days this year before the festive celebrations begin.

30 days of Ramadan

The sighting of the Shawwal crescent marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. As the moon was not sighted, the holy month will run its full course, with Eid commencing the following day.

Public sector holidays

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced that public sector employees will observe the Eid break from Thursday, March 19, through Sunday, March 22. Work will resume on Monday, March 23.

Private sector holidays

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that private sector employees will begin their Eid holidays on Thursday, March 19, lasting until Sunday, March 22.

Time for celebration

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and community, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

With the official dates confirmed, residents across the UAE can now prepare for the festivities and holiday period.