Family focus for Abu Dhabi as tourism vision spelled out

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism will be expanding upon its Tourism Strategy for 2030, which was announced in April. The vision represents a new era of expansion and strategic development for Abu Dhabi, as it seeks to boost visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030 and increase the sector’s GDP from AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 billion by 2030. 

Alongside this, tourism representatives attending WTM London (3-5 November) will be promoting a new e-learning platform for global travel partners. The new platform is designed to equip B2B partners with the required knowledge, skills and tools to effectively promote Abu Dhabi. On completion, they will become certified ’Experience Abu Dhabi Experts.’ 

The family market will be a key driver for growth in DCT Abu Dhabi’s tourism strategy. For a number of years now, Abu Dhabi has rolled out a Kids Go Free summer promotion, which allows one child to stay at selected hotels and dine there for free with each paying adult. Children also enjoy complimentary access to some of the destination’s theme parks.

Abdulla Yousuf, director of international operations at DCT – Abu Dhabi, says: “Abu Dhabi is the perfect family holiday destination, where visitors will find a diverse range of experiences for all ages, from rich cultural heritage to family-friendly adventures and rejuvenation in nature.

“The interactive Children’s Museum at Louvre Abu Dhabi provides children with innovative fun, and with our Kids Go Free deal, families can make the most of all Abu Dhabi has to offer. We are continually elevating and growing our rapidly evolving tourism offering and ensuring sustained success in an increasingly competitive market.”

For families seeking adventure, Surf Abu Dhabi will shortly be launching in Hudayriyat Island, and will have the biggest man-made wave in the world, while Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has 20 exhilarating rides and attractions, including Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental has beefed up its family offering, opening the new Kids Palace, which can be used by both hotel guests and visitors, charged at hourly, half-day and daily rates. The Palace has dedicated spaces where every age can explore, learn and play, including a family room, a baby room (0-3) and a kids’ club.

Manager Marta Marusic explains: “We take pride in being the only Kids Palace in the Emirates, offering an unparalleled, child-centric experience. From competitive camps and bee-keeping activities to birthday parties and interactive cooking classes with our chefs, we create memorable experiences that children and parents will cherish.

“Our unique offerings, like the VR Bird simulator and our thrilling central slide, are designed to ignite our little fans’ imagination and sense of adventure. Meanwhile, parents can relax, confident that their children are immersed in enriching activities.”

At WTM London: The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism will be exhibiting at stand S10-215