May 2024
Greetings Partners! Welcome to the Dakkak Newsletter, a curated resource crafted exclusively for our valued partners to explore updates, gain insights, and embark on extraordinary journeys through our exceptional destinations.
Dakkak Jordan
News & Events:
– ATM 2024: The Dakkak Team will be attended the Arabian Travel Market 2024 in Dubai.
– Luxury Travel Market Growth: The luxury travel market is estimated to reach $1650.5 billion by 2031.
– Featured Destination & Activity: This month we highlight for you Wadi Mujib “The lowest Biosphere Reserve in the world”
ATM Dubai 2024
Arabian Travel Market, known as ATM, is a travel and tourism event, organized annually in Dubai to provide a platform for inbound and outbound tourism professionals in the Middle East and gives information on tourism destinations, accommodation options, tourism attractions, and aviation industry in the Middle East and around the world.
Dakkak DMC’s stand (ME1014) witnessed a very busy 3 days full of meetings with partners and new interested partners that appreciate Dakakk DMC’s strong presence in the region.
We look forward to seeing you all next year at the ATM 2025!
Luxury Travel Market Growth
Market Growth Projection: The luxury travel market is set to skyrocket, reaching an estimated $1650.5 billion by 2031, with a staggering CAGR of 8.9% from 2022 to 2031.
Current Valuation: In 2021, the market was valued at $638.2 billion, showcasing robust growth potential.
Rapid Expansion Factors: The surge in interest for unique and exotic holiday destinations has been a driving force behind the market’s rapid growth. Moreover, the increasing number of high-net-worth individuals, particularly in emerging markets, is bolstering market expansion.
Technological Advancements: Luxury travel companies are embracing cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, wearable tech, and 3D printing to enhance the travel experience and elevate luxury status.
Demographic Impact: Aspirations of young, affluent millennials and the growing number of HNIs are expected to fuel market growth, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where baby boomers and Generation X are significant contributors.
Cultural Connection: Market players are offering trips designed to immerse travelers in local cultures and explore unique facets of destinations, catering to the rising interest in authentic travel experiences.
Segmentation Insights: The luxury travel market is segmented by tour type, age group, types of travelers, and region, providing tailored experiences for various demographics across the globe.
Celebration and Special Events: This segment holds a notable share of the luxury travel market and is expected to grow at a considerable CAGR of 9.5%, driven by the increasing desire to celebrate milestones and events in unique settings.
Market Analysis: Despite socio-economic challenges, market players are innovating with customized travel plans to meet evolving traveler needs and sustain market growth.
Featured Destination & Activity
Wadi Mujib
The Mujib Biosphere Reserve is the lowest nature reserve in the world, with a spectacular array of scenery near the east coast of the Dead Sea. The Reserve is located within the deep Wadi Mujib gorge, which enters the Dead Sea at 410m below sea level. The Reserve extends to the Karak and Madaba mountains to the north and south, reaching 900 metres above sea level in some places. This 1,300m variation in elevation, combined with the valley’s year- round water flow from seven tributaries, means that Wadi Mujib enjoys a magnificent bio-diversity that is still being explored and documented today.
Over 300 species of plants, 10 species of carnivores and numerous species of permanent and migratory birds have been recorded. Some of the remote mountain and valley areas are difficult to reach, and thus offer safe havens for rare species of cats, goats and other mountain animals. Mujib’s sandstone cliffs are an ideal habitat for one of the most beautiful mountain goats in the world, the horned Ibex.
What’s Wadi Mujib most famous for is the Siq Trail that starts from its south gate (Mujib Adventure Center) located just a few meters away from the waters of the Dead Sea and takes you into the cantilevered walkway and then follows the course of the river between the towering colored sandstone cliffs to the base of a large waterfall.
Depending on seasonal rainfall levels, the gorge may contain pools deep enough for swimming. This trail is truly magical and fun.
Here are the different Trails available:
- Siq Trail (Mentioned above)
- Canyon Trail
- Malaqi Trail
- Ibex Trail
- Al-Hidan Trail
For interested people and want to know about the different trails and experiences in addition to combination with other tours please contact us and our Tour Managers will be more then happy to design an itinerary that truly showcases the wonders of Jordan!
Dakkak UAE
News & Events:
– Dubai to build world’s largest airport terminal
– Beond launches Zurich-Dubai route: Launched May 3 2024
– Etihad inks reciprocal interline deals with five airlines: The airline has agreed partnerships with Kam Air in Afghanistan, SKY express in Greece, Rex Airlines in Australia, Jeju Air in Korea and Myanmar Airways International.
– Hans Zimmer: To perform at the Coca-Cola Arena on May 31st to June 1st.
Dubai to build world’s largest airport terminal
Dubai embarks on the construction of a groundbreaking US$35 billion airport terminal, set to become the world’s largest upon completion, dwarfing the current DXB. Situated at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), the terminal will serve as the new hub for flagship carrier Emirates, boasting five parallel runways and an impressive 400 aircraft gates.
DXB, Dubai’s existing airport, continues to break records, welcoming a staggering 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023, marking a nearly 20% increase from the previous year. Holding the title of the world’s busiest airport for international travel for a decade, DXB remains a vital component of Dubai’s aviation landscape.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s ruler and prime minister of the UAE, envisions the new terminal as a cornerstone for future generations, capable of accommodating up to 260 million passengers annually. With ambitions to position Dubai as a global aviation, trade, and urban hub, the project symbolizes the city’s commitment to sustained growth and development.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, emphasizes the inseparable relationship between Dubai’s growth and its aviation infrastructure. The launch of the new terminal represents another bold stride in Dubai’s journey towards becoming a world-leading aviation destination.
Beond launches Zurich-Dubai route
This month, new all-business-class boutique airline Beond will launch direct flights between Zurich in Switzerland and Dubai in the UAE.
Launching in May 3rd 2024, from Dubai World Central (DWC), the service offers all-lie-flat seat configurations and gourmet in-flight dining.
This new route complements the airline’s existing route from Dubai to the Maldives, which was launched in early April 2024.
Beond will operate up to two flights per week between Dubai and Zurich with prices starting from AED7,600 for a return ticket.
Beond CEO and chairman Tero Taskila said: “Linking Zurich with Dubai reflects our vision to enhance our network in alignment with our passengers’ preferences. Europe’s interest in Dubai as a leading resort and tourism hub is met with equal enthusiasm by those in Dubai for Europe’s unparalleled cultural, shopping and leisure offerings.” -ConnectingTravel News
For more information, visit www.flybeond.com
Etihad inks reciprocal interline deals with five airlines
Etihad Airways has launched reciprocal interline partnerships with five new airline partners, further expanding travel options for guests across its expanding global network.
The airline has agreed partnerships with Kam Air in Afghanistan, SKY express in Greece, Rex Airlines in Australia, Jeju Air in Korea and Myanmar Airways International.
The interline agreements give customers of all airlines involved enhanced connectivity to destinations across each other’s networks, enabling guests to book their entire journey on a single ticket and have their baggage checked through seamlessly to their end destination.
Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: “We continue to broaden our network reach enabling seamless connection across our network, giving our guests a broader range of travel options. These five interline agreements make life easier for guests of all the airlines involved.”
At Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport guests from all over the world can connect to the Kam Air flight to Kabul and travel onward into Afghanistan.
Guests flying on Etihad’s twice daily flights to Athens, can connect onwards with SKY express to 28 destinations in Greece and its beautiful Mediterranean islands.
Rex Airlines provides travellers with effortless access from Etihad’s gateways in Sydney and Melbourne to 22 destinations in Australia, including Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast.
With Jeju Air guests can continue their journey from Seoul to 27 destinations across seven countries in Northeast Asia.
Links with Myanmar Airways International will give enhanced access to Yangon and Mandalay through Etihad’s gateways in South Asia.
Etihad now has 123 interline, codeshare and strategic partnerships with airlines across the world. – TradeArabia News Service
Hanz Zimmer
The man, the myth and the legend – Hans Zimmer is ready to set the stage ablaze in Dubai with his live orchestra. Featuring original singers and dance performances, the musician will bring to you scores from highly acclaimed movies like The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean and The Dark Knight!
Dates: May 31 to June 1, 2024
Location: Coca-Cola Arena
Beach Festival
Looking for a fun day at the beach? Head to the Beach Festival! Experience the excitement of the Beach Festival by Octomad and Vija Vibes at Soul Beach in Dubai! Featuring acclaimed artists making their debut in the UAE, alongside exceptional local talent. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the exciting music, beach games, food, and drinks at this stunning location.
Dates: May 11, 2024
Location: Soul Beach Dubai, JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel
Dakkak Saudi Arabia
News & Events:
– 320,000 new hotel rooms expected in Saudi Arabia by 2030
– Saudi group Aroya to showcase its ‘floating resort’ at ATM 2024
– The Ritz-Carlton Reserve is coming to Trojena, Neom
320,000 new hotel rooms expected in Saudi Arabia by 2030
Data analyzed by Knight Frank indicates a significant rise in luxury and upscale properties, projected to comprise over 70% of the market. Saudi Arabia anticipates a surge in tourism, aiming to accommodate 150 million visitors by 2030 through the addition of 320,000 hotel rooms.
Currently, 66% of existing hotel supply in the kingdom falls within luxury and upscale categories. By 2030, this segment is expected to expand to 72%, totaling 251,500 hotel rooms. With nearly 100 million tourists welcomed by the end of 2023, the tourism sector contributed to almost 6% of the kingdom’s GDP, aligning well with the government’s 10% target by the decade’s end.
Tourism spending in the first half of 2023 rose significantly, marking a 132% increase compared to 2022, with international visitor numbers soaring by 142%. Riyadh’s winning bid to host the 2030 World Expo is projected to inject a substantial economic boost, with an estimated 40 million visitors expected during the exhibition.
The Holy Cities of Mecca and Medina are set to witness substantial hotel development, with a projected 221,000 hotel rooms planned or under construction. This development accounts for approximately 25% of the total nationwide hotel supply expected by 2030.
Saudi group Aroya to showcase its ‘floating resort’ at ATM 2024
Aroya Cruises, a new addition to Cruise Saudi’s portfolio, is introducing its unique cruise line at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2024) expo in Dubai, promising a reinvented holiday experience tailored to Arabian preferences. With 18 decks featuring 28 dining options, 20 entertainment venues, and wellness facilities, Aroya Cruises celebrates Saudi’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality.
At the ATM expo, visitors can preview life onboard through interactive displays and engage with Aroya Cruises delegates in strategic discussions about the Middle East’s cruise industry potential. Turky Kari, Aroya Cruises’ Executive Director, will participate in a panel discussion focusing on the region’s cruise prospects.
President Joerg Rudoph looks forward to showcasing Aroya Cruises’ exceptional facilities and authentic Arabian experiences at ATM, marking the cruise line’s commercial debut. Launched under Vision 2023 and Saudi Arabia’s tourism goals, Aroya Cruises aims to provide tailored experiences to Saudi and GCC nationals, contributing to the country’s vision of becoming a global tourism hub by 2030.
The Ritz-Carlton Reserve is coming to Trojena, Neom
Marriott International has joined forces with NEOM to introduce The Ritz-Carlton Reserve to the picturesque mountains of Trojena in northwestern Saudi Arabia. This exclusive resort will feature 60 luxurious villas ranging from one to four bedrooms, complemented by a lavish spa, pools, and multiple upscale dining options.
Nestled in the secluded corners of Trojena, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Trojena promises a private haven of luxury, blending seamlessly with the destination’s natural surroundings. Each villa is meticulously crafted to harmonize with the landscape, offering guests an immersive retreat.
As one of only six Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties worldwide, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Trojena will boast a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pools, and culinary venues, all designed to provide an idyllic escape with panoramic views of the desert and mountains.
Guests can anticipate highly personalized service focused on human connection, characteristic of Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties known for their intimate and transformative experiences. This marks Marriott’s seventh venture in NEOM, reflecting a commitment to luxury development in the region.
Trojena, developed by NEOM, offers year-round adventure sports, including skiing, water sports, hiking, and mountain biking. The destination encompasses apartments, chalets, retail spaces, entertainment facilities, and hospitality offerings, including a W Hotel and JW Marriott Hotel.
The partnership between NEOM and Marriott aims to strengthen ties and bolster luxury development in the region. Further initiatives expected later this year are poised to enhance the region’s tourism and hospitality industry, making Trojena a sanctuary capturing the magic of Saudi Arabia for visitors and residents alike.
We hope you enjoyed our newsletter & Thank you for choosing Dakkak DMC as your partner!
Dakkak DMC Previous Newsletter (April 2024): https://www.dakkakjordan.com/April-2024-newsletter