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Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opens

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi announces the inauguration of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, a landmark institution designed to strengthen the emirate’s global leadership in science-led culture, education and research. The museum opens its doors to the public on 22 November in Saadiyat Cultural District. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: "The opening of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in our journey to shape the emirate’s cultural landscape. The museum offers an immersive look at the story of life on Earth, framed for the first time through an Arabian lens, with the fauna, flora, and geological history of the region forming a prominent part of the visitor journey. The museum’s research and educational institution supports scientific knowledge and undertakes innovative scientific studies in zoology, palaeontology, marine biology, molecular research and earth sciences. By fostering engagement with the natural sciences, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi inspires future generations and contributes to a more sustainable future." A defining feature of the museum is its focus on the natural history of the Arabian Peninsula. The narrative foregrounds the region’s geological evolution, ancient landscapes and long-lost species, offering visitors insight into the Gulf’s unique ecological past and its relevance to future environmental stewardship. These stories place Arabia’s natural heritage on the global natural-history stage in an unprecedented way. Designed by renowned architects Mecanoo, the museum’s building rises from the Saadiyat Island landscape like a natural formation. Its silhouette echoes natural rock formations, reflecting the museum’s mission to connect people with the natural world and inspire the next generation to question, discover, and take part in shaping a more sustainable future. Inside, the museum features a series of permanent galleries and exhibitions that take visitors on a journey through time. The main galleries include: The Story of Earth, The Evolving World, Our World, Resilient Planet, and Earth’s Future, alongside side galleries such as The PalaeoLab, The Life Sciences Lab, Arabia’s Climate, Beyond the Horizon, and The Human Story. Visitors can also explore the Interactive Theatre, which offers immersive visual experiences that transport them through time. To mark its opening, the museum also unveils two major temporary exhibitions: The March of the Triceratops, showcasing the world’s only touring Triceratops herd, and the 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year, one of the most prestigious global showcases of nature photography. Together, these exhibitions will launch the museum’s international program and pave the way for a new era of scientific and cultural collaboration at both local and global levels. The museum joins a community of institutions including Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, reinforcing Saadiyat Cultural District as a global centre for knowledge, creativity, and cultural exchange – a place where the past, present and future of humanity come together in one living story.

Abu Dhabi Showcases Expanding Cultural Power and UK Partnerships at WTM 2025

Abu Dhabi used this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London to underline its growing influence as a year-round destination, unveiling major cultural developments and signing a series of strategic agreements aimed at strengthening ties with the UK travel trade. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) confirmed that eight new sales incentive partnerships were sealed during WTM 2025, reinforcing the UK’s position as one of the emirate’s most significant international markets. The agreements were concluded with Southall Travel, Luxury Holidays, Best At Travel, Destination2, Kenwood Travel, Elevate, DialAFlight, and loveholidays. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The new strategic partnerships signed by DCT Abu Dhabi with eight travel and tourism sector companies based in the UK is another step forwards in our long-term strategic goal to reach an even wider audience – first time visitors, returning guests, and potential travellers – from one of our most important international markets.” Cultural Momentum on Saadiyat Island Much of Abu Dhabi’s pitch at WTM focused on its rapidly developing cultural landscape. The emirate is preparing for the openings of several world-class institutions, including the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum, marking what officials describe as a new era of cultural discovery for Saadiyat Island. These landmark attractions will join the Louvre Abu Dhabi in transforming the district into a global hub of creativity and heritage. High-profile cultural events such as NOMAD and Frieze are also set to launch their first Abu Dhabi editions in the months ahead. Close to these cultural venues, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island continues to position itself as a serene beachfront base for travellers seeking immediate access to the district’s offerings. The newly signed agreements aim to widen access to Abu Dhabi’s hotels, attractions, and experiences for both new and returning UK visitors. By aligning with operators across diverse specialist markets, DCT Abu Dhabi is reinforcing its long-term Tourism Strategy 2030 and expanding the emirate’s reach within a competitive global travel landscape. Looking Ahead to M&I Expo 2026 DCT Abu Dhabi also highlighted its upcoming role as host of the inaugural M&I Expo, scheduled for 14–16 April 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Announced earlier this year, the event is being delivered through a strategic partnership with Worldwide Events and will welcome the MICE 1,000 — a curated group of leading international buyers and suppliers in the meetings and events sector. Over three days, delegates will take part in tailored one-to-one meetings, networking sessions, and immersive destination experiences, further elevating Abu Dhabi’s profile in the global MICE market. With an expanded cultural offering, increased UK collaboration, and a robust pipeline of strategic events, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a destination capable of catering to a wide spectrum of traveller interests. As the emirate continues moving towards its Tourism Strategy 2030 goals, WTM 2025 offered a timely platform to signal its ambitions — and its readiness to welcome more visitors year-round.

Jumeirah is NOMAD’s official hospitality partner in Abu Dhabi for 2025

Dubai Holding’s global luxury hospitality brand Jumeirah was announced as the official hospitality partner of NOMAD, the collectible design fair celebrated for curating intimate encounters between contemporary art, architecture, and cultural heritage. This collaboration underscores Jumeirah’s commitment to supporting the region’s cultural landscape, as NOMAD prepares to make its highly anticipated debut in Abu Dhabi from Wednesday, 19th November, to Saturday, 22nd November. Speaking on the partnership, NOMAD founder Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte said: “Our collaboration with Jumeirah on Saadiyat Island extends NOMAD’s vision beyond the fair grounds, creating a dialogue between design, place, and the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi.” An ideal location As NOMAD and Abu Dhabi Art bring the city to life with creativity and culture, Jumeirah invites collectors, curators, and enthusiasts to converse and connect at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island. Ideally located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island places guests at the doorstep of Abu Dhabi’s most renowned cultural landmarks. A stunning beachfront retreat infused with artistic spirit, the resort offers the perfect base for art and design lovers visiting the capital. The fair will take place at the decommissioned Terminal 1 Zayed International Airport, coinciding with the Abu Dhabi Art Fair, and arrives at a time of significant creative momentum for the capital ahead of the upcoming openings of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. All of these reinforce the Saadiyat Cultural District’s position as a world-class destination for arts and culture. Culture is at the heart of Jumeirah hospitality Across its destinations, Jumeirah continues to serve as a cultural crossroads, contributing to the artistic fabric of the cities it touches. Earlier this year, Jumeirah launched its first Jumeirah Art Journey across its Madinat Jumeirah properties in Dubai, and more recently partnered with Christie’s London for an exhibition honouring the life and legacy of Syrian artist Marwan Kassab-Bachi. In August, Jumeirah Capri Palace hosted the inaugural edition of its Contemporary Art Prize, launched in conjunction with the ninth Festival del Paesaggio Anacapri, awarding two artists selected by a distinguished jury of leading figures from the international art and culture scene. As the official hospitality partner of NOMAD, Jumeirah will welcome international collectors, designers, cultural leaders, and creative advocates to Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, offering an immersive gateway into the region’s vibrant design scene. Select guests will enjoy exclusive access to NOMAD’s collectors’ previews, private events and panel discussions during Abu Dhabi Art Fair, reaffirming Jumeirah as a global Majlis of culture, conversation, and creative exchange. Further enhancing the guest experience, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island will also host an original design showcase, Shifting Terrains, as part of NOMAD’s off-site program from today, 18th November, to the 22nd. The showcase traces the evolving creative landscape of the United Arab Emirates, featuring the work of pioneering regional contemporary designers and studios: Datecrete (Palestine/Lebanon), KAMEH (UAE), Mary-Lynn Massoud (Lebanon), Georges Mohasseb (Lebanon), and Neda Salmanpour (Iran). Through contemporary practices at the intersection of design, architecture, and visual art, the exhibition unfolds a dialogue between material experimentation, spatial perception, and the cultural narratives shaping the region’s creative scene. Grounded in a sensitivity to place and community, these works explore how the built and the natural continuously inform one another. Set along Saadiyat’s shoreline, between the natural and the constructed, the ephemeral and the enduring, Shifting Terrains reflects a generation of regional artists and designers redefining notions of place through material, process, and imagination.

Liwa International Festival 2026: Abu Dhabi’s Winter Festival in the Heart of Al Dhafra Region

From thrilling motorsports and family fun to cultural discoveries and drone shows, the desert comes alive from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026 — don’t miss a moment of Abu Dhabi’s ultimate winter festival ‘The Desert’s Grand Stage’, the Liwa International Festival, will return from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, bringing 23 days of culture, adventure, motorsports, music, and family fun to the golden dunes of the Al Dhafra region. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the soaring, 300-metre Tal Moreeb – the UAE’s tallest dune – the festival has become one of the country’s most anticipated annual events, where heritage and adventure blend with the warmth of quality time with family and friends. Since its debut in 2001, the Liwa International Festival has grown into Abu Dhabi’s ultimate winter experience, offering something for everyone – from world-class racing and dune sports to immersive cultural moments and lively entertainment. This year, the festival opens with the Forsan Al Emarat show – the official aerobatics demonstration team of the United Arab Emirates Air Force – and a captivating display of fireworks set to light up the desert sky. Motorsports and Adventure Each winter, Liwa becomes the beating heart of motorsport in the region, and this year’s edition promises even more action and excitement. The festival kicks off with Freestyle Drift on 12–13 and 22–23 December, followed by the Spartan Race Liwa on 13 December and Bike Drag Racing on 14 December. The excitement continues with Falconry from 15–17 December, showcasing precision and heritage, and the Car Stunt Championship on 19–20 December, alongside the highly anticipated Mud Fest. The Liwa Running Challenge follows on 20 December, together with the Liwa Cycling Race and Liwa UTV on 21 December. Next, we’ll lead into the high-energy Liwa Burnout Championship on 25 December. On 26 and 27 December, the desert will roar to life with Liwa Drift, Monster Jam, and the Tal Moreeb Running Challenge (26 December), while the Liwa Padel Championship and Liwa Cycling Challenge run from 26–28 December and on 27 December, respectively. Motorsport fans can also enjoy the Sand Wrestling Championship on 26–27 December, followed by the return of the Car Stunt Championship on 28–29 December. The festival continues with the Electronic Freestyle Championship on 30 December, and the Tal Moreeb Car Championship from 31 December to 3 January, featuring multiple racing categories. The lineup also includes Football and Padel every weekend, as well as Boxing from 15–21 December, ensuring there’s never a dull moment until the very end. The Jetour Travel Conference will also take place on 19, 20, and 21 December. Throughout the festival, visitors can also enjoy daily Dune Projection Shows and Drone Shows and Hot Air Balloons every weekend, transforming the Liwa desert skyline each evening into a spectacular display of light, sound, and motion. Water Karting and Mini Tank Paintball will also be available daily from 12 December to 3 January, offering a thrilling experience for visitors looking for some action. Fireworks will illuminate the desert sky during the opening ceremony, weekends, New Year’s Eve and the closing ceremony, creating memorable moments throughout the festival. Family Fun for Everyone At the heart of the festival lies Liwa Village, a lively hub of entertainment and discovery designed for all ages. Families can enjoy water karting, carnival rides, skill games, pony rides, and two exhilarating ziplines (one for children and one for adults). The Classic Car Museum, Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, and Smash Room add extra excitement, while younger visitors will love the Pony Grove and petting zoo. Attractions this year include the Souk Zone and Pop-Up Heritage Shops for handmade crafts and local treasures, while the Performance Stage hosts live music, cultural acts, and daily entertainment. Food lovers can savour both Emirati favourites and global cuisines across the festival’s many F&B and retail outlets. A New Year’s Celebration To Remember The grand finale of the Liwa International Festival is set to be unforgettable. On 31 December, the Tal Moreeb Car Championship begins its three-day run, setting the stage for thrilling motorsport as 2025 turns to 2026. Visitors can enjoy a special New Year’s Eve concert, followed by a magnificent fireworks show lighting up Liwa’s vast desert sky. This celebration invites visitors to welcome the new year surrounded by music, adventure and the breathtaking landscape of Al Dhafra. Beyond the thrills, Liwa International Festival celebrates the UAE’s proud heritage and traditions. From falconry and handicrafts to Souk, the festival connects the spirit of the desert to the nation’s enduring love for culture, community, and innovation. Plan Your Visit Join the UAE’s must-do winter event and create lasting memories with family and friends at the Liwa International Festival 2026 – where adventure, culture, and connection meet in one extraordinary setting. Visitors can pre-book glamping tents or local accommodation, or bring their own RVs and tents to camp under the stars in the heart of Liwa, surrounded by the golden dunes of the Al Dhafra region.

Jumeirah Named Official Hospitality Partner of NOMAD in Abu Dhabi 2025

Jumeirah, the global luxury hospitality brand and a member of Dubai Holding, has been named the official hospitality partner of NOMAD, the collectible design fair celebrated for curating intimate encounters between contemporary art, architecture, and cultural heritage. This collaboration underscores Jumeirah’s commitment to supporting the region’s cultural landscape, as NOMAD prepares to make its highly anticipated debut in Abu Dhabi from 19-22 November 2025. The fair will take place at the decommissioned Terminal 1 Zayed International Airport, coinciding with Abu Dhabi Art Fair, and arrives at a time of significant creative momentum for the capital ahead of the upcoming openings of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi – reinforcing Saadiyat Cultural District’s position as a world-class destination for arts and culture. Across its destinations, Jumeirah continues to serve as a cultural crossroads, contributing to the artistic fabric of the cities it touches. Earlier this year, Jumeirah launched its first Jumeirah Art Journey across its Madinat Jumeirah properties in Dubai, and more recently partnered with Christie’s London for an exhibition honouring the life and legacy of Syrian artist Marwan Kassab-Bachi. In August, Jumeirah Capri Palace hosted the inaugural edition of its Contemporary Art Prize, launched in conjunction with the ninth Festival del Paesaggio Anacapri, awarding two artists selected by a distinguished jury of leading figures from the international art and culture scene. As the official hospitality partner of NOMAD, Jumeirah will welcome international collectors, designers, cultural leaders, and creative advocates to Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, offering an immersive gateway into the region’s vibrant design scene. Select guests will enjoy exclusive access to NOMAD’s collectors’ previews, private events and panel discussions during Abu Dhabi Art Fair, reaffirming Jumeirah as a global Majlis of culture, conversation, and creative exchange. Further enhancing the guest experience, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island will also host an original design showcase, Shifting Terrains, as part of NOMAD’s off-site program from 18-22 November. The showcase traces the evolving creative landscape of the United Arab Emirates, featuring the work of pioneering regional contemporary designers and studios: Datecrete (Palestine/Lebanon), KAMEH (UAE), Mary-Lynn Massoud (Lebanon), Georges Mohasseb (Lebanon), Neda Salmanpour (Iran). Through contemporary practices at the intersection of design, architecture, and visual art, the exhibition unfolds a dialogue between material experimentation, spatial perception, and the cultural narratives shaping the region’s creative scene. Grounded in a sensitivity to place and community, these works explore how the built and the natural continuously inform one another. Set along Saadiyat’s shoreline, between the natural and the constructed, the ephemeral and the enduring, Shifting Terrains reflects a generation of regional artists and designers redefining notions of place through material, process, and imagination. Speaking on the partnership,Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte, Founder of NOMAD, said: “Our collaboration with Jumeirah on Saadiyat Island extends NOMAD’s vision beyond the fair grounds, creating a dialogue between design, place, and the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi.” Ideally located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island places guests at the doorstep of Abu Dhabi’s most renowned cultural landmarks. A stunning beachfront retreat infused with artistic spirit, the resort offers the perfect base for art and design lovers visiting the capital. As NOMAD and Abu Dhabi Art bring the city to life with creativity and culture, Jumeirah invites collectors, curators, and enthusiasts to converse and connect at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island.

Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Pickyourtrail collaborate for First-Ever AI–Human Influencer Collaboration

Yas Island in partnership with Pickyourtrail, unveils “Smash the Ordinary”, featuring Bollywood actress Sahher Bambba and digital AI influencer Naina. This marks the first time a human and AI influencer jointly explore the wonders of Yas Island, blending technology and human emotion to redefine travel storytelling in the digital age. A series of Instagram reels showcase Sahher and Naina experiencing the island’s world-class attractions, including world of Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the thrill-packed Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, experience the marine animals at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Sahher conveys authentic human enjoyment while Naina offers a perspective rooted in exploration and understanding of human sensations. It explores the intersection of human adventure and artificial intelligence, presenting travel narratives that reflect both real-world enthusiasm and AI’s curiosity about human experiences. Smash the Ordinary’ showcases Yas Island’s spirit of innovation, a destination that delivers unique experiences and sparks genuine emotion. By bringing an AI influencer into real-world adventures, we’re redefining tourism storytelling through the perfect blend of innovation and human connection,” said Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations. Hari Ganapathy of Pickyourtrail, added, “In today’s travel landscape, innovation and authentic experiences go hand in hand. The ‘Smash the Ordinary’ campaign beautifully demonstrates how AI can deepen our understanding and appreciation of human adventures. At Pickyourtrail, we love customising “sooper” hit holidays that encourage travellers to see the world in new ways. It’s all about making travel more personal, meaningful and exciting." The “Smash the Ordinary” campaign represents a pioneering blend of AI and human storytelling that challenges conventional travel narratives. As destinations and brands seek innovative ways to capture the imagination of modern travelers, Yas Island’s approach offers a compelling case study in connecting technology with authentic experience.

Best of Abu Dhabi This November

From headline concerts, vibrant food festivals and art showcases and sport events, the months ahead bring countless things to see, do and discover in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie or culture seeker, Abu Dhabi’s calendar continues to be packed with experiences to enjoy and moments to remember. 1. Step into heritage at the Traditional Handicrafts Festival From 1 to 10 November, explore Emirati crafts and heritage at the 11th Traditional Handicrafts Festival at Souq Al Qattara in the Al Ain region. The festival celebrates age-old craftsmanship through live demonstrations, workshops, and cultural showcases. From Al Sadu weaving and Talli embroidery to pottery, palm frond weaving, and boatbuilding, visitors can meet artisans keeping centuries-old traditions alive in a lively, family-friendly setting. Feel the beat and move your feet at major live concerts Abu Dhabi turns up the volume this November with two global acts lighting up Etihad Arena. On 1 November, pop sensation Enrique Iglesias performs his chart-topping hits, followed by Travis Scott on 15 November, bringing his signature high-energy show and immersive visuals. Fire up your appetite at the Open Fire Food Festival On 7 and 8 November, fire meets flavour at the Open Fire Food Festival at Etihad Park on Yas Island. Chefs from across the region will showcase the art of live-fire cooking with smoky barbecue favourites and bold outdoor creations. With family-friendly entertainment, music, and relaxed open-air dining, it’s a weekend that captures Abu Dhabi’s welcoming, social spirit. Tee off by the sea at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship From 6 to 9 November, watch the world’s best golfers compete as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship returns to Yas Links Abu Dhabi. The tournament brings together top international players in a scenic coastal setting, combining on-course drama with relaxed fan zones and premium hospitality. It’s one of the most picturesque sporting experiences of the season — a must for fans and first-time spectators alike. Taste your way through the city at Taste of Abu Dhabi From 14 to 16 November, Gateway Park South on Yas Island transforms into a lively celebration of food, music and good company. Sample signature dishes from celebrity chefs, enjoy live entertainment and unwind with family-friendly activities in a relaxed outdoor setting. It’s the perfect weekend to savour Abu Dhabi’s diverse culinary scene and vibrant community spirit. Ride strong at the Hudayriyat Women’s Cycling Series On 16 November, Al Hudayriyat Island will welcome the third race in this inclusive women’s cycling series. Designed for all levels, it celebrates fitness, community, and the joy of the ride — with a scenic coastal route and a spirited atmosphere that captures Abu Dhabi’s active lifestyle. Experience artistic brilliance at Manar Abu Dhabi From 15 November to 4 January, explore a city-wide light art exhibition that transforms the emirate into a glowing canvas. The festival takes place across Abu Dhabi’s islands and mangroves — including the Corniche, Jubail Island, the Al Ain region and Al Dhafra region— and brings together immersive installations from over 35 artists. Expect interactive sculptures, mesmerising projections, and an experience that invites you to see the capital’s coastline in a new light. Celebrate creativity at Abu Dhabi Art Fair From 19 to 23 November, explore the Abu Dhabi Art Fair at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island. The fair will bring together more than 140 galleries from 35+ countries, featuring modern and contemporary works alongside site-specific commissions and city-wide installations. It invites you to dive into creativity, meet artists, join conversations, and discover new perspectives within Abu Dhabi’s growing cultural landscape. Dine with distinction at the MICHELIN Guide Food Festival Abu Dhabi 2025 From 21 to 23 November, dive into a world of flavour at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, where the MICHELIN Guide Food Festival returns for its third edition. The weekend brings together chefs from 20 MICHELIN-recommended restaurants who will present exclusive menus and special dishes and host interactive masterclasses. A vibrant marketplace featuring local producers, live music and family-friendly fun completes the experience, inviting guests to savour Abu Dhabi’s evolving culinary identity. Plan your perfect end-of-year escape and explore

DCT Abu Dhabi extends partnership with Expedia Group at WTM 2025

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Expedia Group, one of the world’s leading online travel agencies, have announced a significant expansion of their strategic partnership, formalised at World Travel Market (WTM) 2025. This multi-year agreement, signed by HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi and Jennifer Andre, VP of Business Development, Expedia Group Advertising, will implement targeted consumer advertising campaigns and initiatives across 15 key source markets across Expedia Group brand sites and apps, including Expedia, Vrbo and Hotels.com. The partnership aims to significantly boost awareness and inspire global traveller interest in Abu Dhabi’s diverse and unique tourism offerings. Building on the success of the Sunshine Pass campaign launched by DCT Abu Dhabi and Expedia earlier this year at Arabian Travel Market, this expanded collaboration will intensify promotional efforts, and further position Abu Dhabi as a premier year-round destination, encouraging deeper exploration of its rich cultural heritage, activities, and attractions. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Strategic partnerships with global travel leaders like Expedia Group are fundamental to our long-term vision for sustained tourism growth across diverse markets. This expanded collaboration will significantly strengthen Abu Dhabi's global promotion, highlighting our unique cultural and tourism attractions. We are committed to showcasing Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a year-round destination, creating lasting value for our tourism sector and welcoming every type of visitor.” By ensuring prominent visibility across Expedia Group’s expansive network of brands, this partnership will maximise Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a vibrant, world-class destination for holidaymakers. Planned initiatives will strategically target visitors for the upcoming winter sun holiday period and beyond. These campaigns will not only showcase Abu Dhabi's diverse attributes across Expedia Group's popular brands but also provide seamless access to essential booking services for flights, hotels, cruises, and tours. Jennifer Andre, VP of Business Development, Expedia Group Advertising, said: “We’re thrilled to deepen our partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi and bring the emirate’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and year-round appeal to travelers across the globe. By creating a campaign that’s shown on Expedia Group’s full suite of brands, we’re not only driving visibility for Abu Dhabi on the global tourism stage, but also making it easier than ever for travelers to discover and book experiences in this extraordinary destination on our sites.”

Thailand welcomes Etihad Airways’ inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) welcomed the inaugural Etihad Airways’ Abu Dhabi–Chiang Mai flight earlier today, 4th November. This initial flight marks a milestone in TAT’s Airline Focus strategy to strengthen Thailand’s international air connectivity. At the same time, this new route adds momentum to Thailand’s high season and reflects the success of TAT’s partnerships with leading global carriers in positioning Thailand as a quality destination and regional aviation hub. Flight EY426 landed at Chiang Mai International Airport at 06.05 Hrs. and was greeted with a water salute and Thai-style cultural welcome ceremony. The event was led by TAT deputy governor for policy planning Chuwit Sirivajjakul and Chiang Mai’s deputy governor Weerapong Ritrod, together with TAT executives and local partners from the public and private sectors. Passengers received souvenirs as part of the warm hospitality extended to mark the occasion. A notable achievement for the Airline Focus strategy According to Sirivajjakul, the launch of Etihad Airways’ Abu Dhabi–Chiang Mai service represents a key achievement under TAT’s Airline Focus strategy and demonstrates the strength of Thailand’s aviation partnerships. He explained: “This connection enhances access to Northern Thailand for travellers from the Middle East, while also enabling long-haul visitors from Europe and the Americas to experience the region’s rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. It underscores our Value over Volume approach, focusing on quality tourism and high-spending markets.” The new service expands TAT’s partnership with Etihad Airways, following the successful launch of the airline’s Abu Dhabi–Krabi route in early October. Operating four flights per week with an Airbus A321LR offering 160 seats, the route provides travellers from the Middle East and beyond with greater convenience and seamless access to Thailand’s northern region. It also supports time-efficient multi-destination itineraries such as Krabi–Bangkok–Chiang Mai or Chiang Mai–Phuket–Dubai. The service marks a milestone for Chiang Mai International Airport as its longest direct route to date at 4,612 kilometres, surpassing the previous record held by the Chiang Mai–Kansai service at 3,979 kilometres. A link to one of the country’s biggest source markets The Middle East remains one of Thailand’s fastest-growing source markets, comprising travellers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries which are known for high income levels and a preference for family, wellness, and luxury travel. Between 1st January and 31st October of this year, Thailand welcomed over 679,924 visitors from the region, with arrivals projected to exceed 850,000 by year-end. Middle Eastern travellers have an average stay of ten days and spend around 100,000 Baht per trip, underscoring the region’s importance to Thailand’s quality tourism strategy.

Discover Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning cultural scene with a stay at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island

As Abu Dhabi’s star continues to rise – the emirate welcomed 1.4 million overnight guests in the first quarter of 2025 alone* - a flurry of exciting new openings in the Saadiyat Island cultural district is set to further launch the city to stratospheric new levels of popularity. For guests looking to explore Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning cultural scene, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island is ideally located within easy reach of cultural landmarks both old and new, making it the perfect choice for any culture vultures seeking a luxurious stay. In the coming months, Abu Dhabi will welcome the highly anticipated Guggenheim Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island - set to open in 2026 – as well as the new Zayed National Museum, which will open its doors this December, marking a new era of cultural discovery for the emirate’s exclusive Saadiyat Island district. These major new openings join the Louvre Abu Dhabi in making Abu Dhabi a prime destination for creativity and heritage, with high profile events such as NOMAD and Frieze also set to launch their debut Abu Dhabi editions in the coming months. Located moments away from these iconic new landmarks, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island offers a serene beachfront escape for those visiting the emirate, offering unrivalled access to the heart of the cultural district. Offering understated luxury on the sun-drenched coastline, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island resembles a perennial summer house where island life is enjoyed in quiet sophistication. Serene spaces with thoughtfully curated design and floor-to-ceiling views of the Gulf make the hotel the perfect destination for those seeking a short cultural escape. Visitors can relax after a day of exploring Abu Dhabi at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island’s award-winning spa, where the Saadiyat Signature Hammam treatment offers the perfect way to unwind and restore balance after a day of cultural discovery.

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