The Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) will return from April 9 to 25, 2027 for its sixth edition, featuring gaming, esports, immersive entertainment, family activities and technology experiences across Dubai.
Dubai has welcomed a new family destination with the opening of Lala Little Wonders, an immersive children’s play and creativity venue combining physical activity, imaginative play, workshops and celebrations.
Aleph Hospitality has assumed management of Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan, effective 1 July 2026, expanding its growing Dubai portfolio.
Countries across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are expected to add nearly 126,000 hotel rooms by 2030, increasing regional supply by 25% to about 616,000 rooms, according to real estate advisory and hospitality consultancy Cavendish Maxwell.
Etihad Rail’s Dubai Station was inaugurated on Monday, marking the official launch of the UAE’s national passenger rail network and the beginning of a new phase of expansion connecting more cities and regions across the country.
More than 20 million tourists travelled between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in 2025, marking a 3.6 percent increase from the previous year, according to a statistical bulletin issued by the Statistical Centre for the GCC (GCC-Stat).
Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), a wholly owned subsidiary of Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), has opened Formula E Karting at SEVEN ABHA in partnership with ABB Formula E.
Etihad Airways will increase Abu Dhabi-Sydney services to twice daily from December 15, 2026, adding four weekly flights and more than 5,000 weekly seats to support travel during Australia’s summer holiday period.
Dubai’s tourism market is entering the final quarter of 2026 with rising visitor numbers and hotel occupancy. Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis recorded occupancy growth to 82.3% in August, as travellers increasingly prioritise flexibility, value and business-leisure experiences when booking stays.
Travel Tech Asia and MICE Show Asia will return to Singapore from October 21–23, bringing together travel technology providers, MICE suppliers, destinations, buyers and corporate travel professionals as part of the wider ITB Asia 2026 programme.
