As per ‘India Accommodation Barometer 2024’ report by Booking.com, online travel platforms are a crucial tool for Indian hoteliers, with 77 per cent leveraging them to increase visibility and attract international visitors. Indian hoteliers see the use of online platforms as an opportunity to increase visibility to a global audience.

Kinjal Shah, Senior Vice President, Co-Group Head, ICRA has estimated a rise in domestic air passenger traffic to 164-170 million in FY2025, reflecting year-on-year growth of 7-10 per cent, while the international passenger traffic for Indian carriers will reach 34-36 million for the full year, representing a YoY growth of 15-20 per cent.

Officials from the Ministry of Tourism informed that Indians recommending a visit to India to their non-Indian friends will be rewarded if the trip gets materialised. Such Indians on their return may be received at the airport by the ministry representatives. Now, Indians abroad can register and claim rewards at ‘Chalo India’ portal.

Al Batinah, home to 12 wilayat is a vibrant region along the Gulf of Oman. Stretching 270 km along the Gulf, from Muscat to the UAE border, Al Batinah is nestled between the Western Hajar Mountains and the sea. It is called Oman’s “belly” for its rich agricultural landscape, brimming with date palms and banana plantations. One of the greenest regions in the country, Al Batinah’s lush scenery contrasts beautifully with its coastal charm, making it a vital cultural and economic hub. Travellers can explore: Barka Castle: Nestled in Barka’s heart, an 18th-century fortress which was once a key defensive stronghold. Rising across multiple levels to an octagonal tower, it still watches over the bustling coastal souq. Unique for its two gates—Yarubi and Al Bu Said—the castle stands as a majestic reminder of Oman’s storied past. Nakhal Fort:  The town of Nakhal is home to a large fort perched on top of a rocky outcrop. Built to protect the oasis and trade routes through to the coast, this fort holds a commanding position in the town with stunning views out across the wadi (valley) and palm plantations as far as the eye can see. Of particular interest are the family rooms furnished with traditional items as they would have been originally used. Ayn Al Thawarah: Nestled amid lush date palm groves, Ayn Al Thawarah is a natural spring famed for its crystal-clear waters. Flowing into the falaj irrigation system, it nourishes the surrounding plantations. A favourite retreat for locals and tourists, weekends buzz with visitors soaking their feet and enjoying shisha—while weekdays offer peaceful solitude. Al Sawadi Beach and Islands: Al Sawadi Beach is perfect for family fun, offering picnic …

Speaking at UP Tourism’s ‘Mahakumbh 2025 Prelude’ event, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, GoI, said, “We see the Mahakumbh as an opportunity for cultural exchange.” He invited global tourists to experience world’s largest spiritual gathering, scheduled to be held from 14 January-26 February 2025 in Prayagraj.

Under the budget announcement’s special assistance programme for states, the Centre has approved 40 projects totalling ₹3,295 crore to turn tourist destinations into iconic hubs, with the primary aim being the decongestion of known and traditional tourist destinations. The focus of the exercise is to tap the future potential of these sites.

PA Mohamed Riyas, Tourism Minister, Kerala, said, “The govt plans to introduce a new policy to enhance the tourism sector by making it more women-friendly & safest global destination.” An audit report has been prepared on the prevaling women-friendly environment & is being presented at the Global Women Conference.

Department of Culture and Tourism-Abu Dhabi won the ‘Fastest Growing Leisure Destination’ award at the ITA. On behalf of NTO, Nikhil Jeet, Manager, Country (India), DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “With a team of dynamic professionals, we have ensured that Abu Dhabi’s wide range of tourism offerings reaches every travelling Indian.”

A select group was invited to experience the exceptional dining offerings at both Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. The carefully curated itinerary showcased Atlantis as an exceptional culinary centre in Dubai, offering a diverse range of world-class dining experiences. Guests had the opportunity to explore the resort’s renowned culinary scene, with highlights including Ariana’s Persian Kitchen by Ariana Bundy, La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Nobu, and many other distinguished restaurants, each presenting unique flavours and unforgettable experiences. Atlantis, Dubai stands out as a global gastronomic hub, home to 35 extraordinary restaurants, including Michelin-starred venues like Ossiano, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, and Hakkasan, as well as celebrity chef-led dining experiences such as Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, Estiatorio Milos by Chef Costas Spiliadis, and Jaleo by José Andrés. These renowned restaurants cater to every taste, from cutting-edge culinary concepts to iconic international chefs, offering an unparalleled dining experience in Dubai. The familiarisation trip was a resounding success, introducing guests to a deeper understanding of the resort’s culinary excellence and reinforcing its position as a top-tier destination for food lovers from around the world. Since its pre-opening, Indiva Marketing has built a strong partnership with Atlantis, Dubai focusing on PR, marketing, and sales in the Indian market. The collaboration has contributed to the resort’s growing presence and success in attracting Indian visitors, and it has continued to go from strength to strength.  

The “Greatest Of All Trips,” a unique, out of the box IP that was brought to life with two of the most renowned brands! EaseMyTrip.com and Yas Island, Abu Dhabi – the leading leisure and entertainment destination in the Middle East region are teaming up to deliver an unparalleled travel experience. This innovative campaign features 30 of India’s top content creators engaging in thrilling challenges across Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks. These creators explore the destination’s exceptional attractions, while creating compelling content and facing challenges to inspire Indian travellers to explore the destination as a memorable experience. By combining EaseMyTrip’s expertise in travel with Yas Island’s premier offerings, this partnership presents exclusive packages designed to elevate the Yas Island adventure. Designed to offer an unforgettable journey blending excitement with adventure, the campaign is set to redefine destination marketing! The challenges undertaken by the creators will be presented in an engaging episodic series on the YouTube page of Yas Island, which will inherently build audience interest, excitement and engagement over time. Each episode will showcase the participants’ originality, skills, and experiences as they navigate through Yas Island’s thrilling attractions, one activity at a time. The series will end with crowning one ultimate winner who would showcase exceptional content creation abilities, creativity, talent, problem solving skills and would best capture the essence of Yas Island’s world-class offerings. Adding star power to the campaign is celebrity host Sonu Sood, an acclaimed actor known for his significant contributions to Indian cinema and charitable efforts. Truly matching the superhero identity, his participation adds considerable prestige and appeal, enhancing the campaign’s reach and impact among Indian audiences. The series invites viewers on an exhilarating adventure through …