Gulf Countries Approve Unified Visa for Tourism

Since the rise of passenger vessels long ago and commercial airlines more recently, destinations around the world searching for economic salvation have turned to tourism.

Picture it: After years of fantasizing and months of planning, you finally arrive at the destination you've always dreamed about. Except, it's just not how you pictured it.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Krisztina Rakos, Barni's mom. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I grew up in the Midwest, but New York City has been my home for the past decade.

Corporate events have, at times, gotten a bad rep. The same people, in the same grey suits, exchange the same predigested questions and pre-prepared answers. As someone who has attended many such events and conferences over the years, this has remained excruciatingly true.

Under a pilot program, Sri Lanka will be issuing free tourist visas through next March to visitors from seven countries: India, China, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This initiative is part of Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to revitalize its tourism sector and achieve a target of 5 million arrivals by 2026.

The UAE’s minister of economy has said the country’s tourism advisory board is working on new packages that promote travel in all seven emirates. For years, tourism in the UAE has been centered in Dubai, home to Emirates Airline, the world’s biggest mall and a string of ultra-luxury hotels.

The Qatari government has appointed a new chairman for its tourism arm: Saad Ali Al Kharji. Al Kharji is now chairman of Qatar Tourism, succeeding Akbar Al Baker, who yesterday announced his departure from Qatar Airways after 27 years.

The Sunshine State has it all – luminous golden beaches, the Walt Disney World hustle and bustle, alligators sunbathing in the Everglades, roadside orange groves, and everything in between. 

Set your course for a captivating aviation event in Fort Worth, where aviation leaders and visionaries will guide you through the latest trends and game-changing developments in the industry.

Florida is highlighting its nature trails and trail towns in a $5 million marketing campaign.

India is looking to institute a “Swachhata (Cleanliness) Rating Framework” designed to evaluate tourism businesses, such as hotels and homestays, according to Tourism Secretary V Vidyavathi.