Saudi Arabia, a land steeped in history and rich in natural beauty, offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. From the ancient city of Diriyah, with its well-preserved historical sites, to the bustling metropolis of Riyadh, there's a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Beyond these urban centers, the kingdom boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, including vast deserts, majestic oases, and stunning coral reefs. Whether you're drawn to the serenity of nature or the vibrancy of city life, Saudi Arabia is a destination that promises unforgettable moments for every kind of traveler.

Samhan Farm: A Serene Retreat Near the City

About Samhan Farm

Located just 230 kilometers from Wadi Hanifah, Samhan Farm offers a unique blend of ancient charm and modern amenities. This idyllic space is adorned with lush greenery and numerous trees, creating a peaceful rural atmosphere. Visitors often describe the farm as a refreshing escape from urban life.

Ambiance and Services

Samhan Farm has garnered high praise from its guests, thanks in part to its Najdi-style architecture that beautifully complements the surrounding landscape. The farm is versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions—from family gatherings to special events. The management is dedicated to ensuring that all visitors’ needs are met, providing support for event planning and activities. A cozy living room is available, allowing guests to relax amidst nature, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The outdoor seating area is beautifully enhanced by palm trees and illuminated by charming hanging lights, while the service tables, designed to resemble tree logs, offer a unique dining experience.

Accessibility

Entry to Samhan Farm is free, making it accessible for everyone.

Information

• Location: Diriyah
• Ages: All
• Ideal For: Families, Friends
• Opening Hours:
  • Sun to Thu: 12:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Fri to Sat: 7:00 PM - 4:00 AM

 Additional Tips:

• Plan Your Visit: Arrive early to enjoy the serene atmosphere before it gets busy, especially on weekends.
• Pack a Picnic: Bring snacks or a meal to enjoy in the outdoor seating area surrounded by nature.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking around the farm.

Heet Cave: A Geological Wonder

About Heet Cave

Situated 30 kilometers from Riyadh, Heet Cave is a remarkable geological site steeped in history and intrigue. This ancient cave, formed after a celestial impact, features a depth of 390 meters and is surrounded by fascinating stories.

Adventure and Exploration

Heet Cave is not only a geological marvel but also a source of fresh water, perfect for hiking and walking. The cave houses a spring that flows year-round, providing a vital resource for local wildlife and historical figures, including King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud during his early campaigns.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the area, and for those with children, caution is advised as the terrain can be rugged. Adventurous souls may wish to camp nearby, enjoying the rich stories and natural beauty. For swimmers, the refreshing waters of the spring are an inviting opportunity.

Accessibility

No tickets are required for entry, allowing easy access at any time.

Information

• Location: Riyadh
• Ages: All
• Ideal For: Nature Lovers, Families, Friends

Additional Tips:

• Safety First: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Bring a flashlight for exploring darker areas of the cave.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan to hike or spend extended time outdoors.
• Capture the Moment: Bring a camera to document the stunning geological formations and landscape.

Al Kharrarah National Park: Your Natural Sanctuary

About Al Kharrarah National Park

Al Kharrarah National Park, located south of Al Muzahimiyah Governorate, offers a spacious retreat from the busy city life. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in stunning green landscapes, sand dunes, and a seasonal lake.

Adventure Awaits

The park is perfect for thrill-seekers, with opportunities for off-roading on SUVs and kiting with friends. On warm days, the lake provides a refreshing escape, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy nature together.

Accessibility

Entry is free, allowing everyone to experience the park’s beauty.

Information

• Location: Riyadh
• Ages: All
• Ideal For: Nature Enthusiasts, Families, Friends

Additional Tips:

• Timing: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Bring Outdoor Gear: If you plan on off-roading or kiting, ensure you have the appropriate equipment.
• Respect Nature: Keep the park clean by disposing of trash properly and staying on designated trails.

Wadi Hanifa: Nature’s Oasis Under the Stars

About Wadi Hanifa

Stretching 120 kilometers from Al-Haisiyah to Al-Hayer in Southern Riyadh, Wadi Hanifa is a revitalized natural area ideal for outdoor activities. The wadi features recreational facilities along its 57-kilometer water channel, encouraging visitors to explore its scenic beauty.

Recreational Opportunities

Visitors can enjoy walking trails lined with local flora, perfect for reflection and relaxation. The area is equipped with benches and rest spots, providing a serene environment away from city noise. Various parks along the wadi offer diverse experiences, including barbecues, picnics, and leisurely nature walks.

Accessibility

No tickets are needed for entry, allowing for spontaneous visits.

Information

• Location: Diriyah
• Ages: All
• Ideal For: Nature Lovers, Families, Friends

Additional Tips:

• Plan Activities: Consider bringing a barbecue set for a fun outdoor cookout in one of the parks.
• Explore the Trails: Take advantage of the walking trails to fully appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility.
• Check Facilities: Familiarize yourself with the locations of amenities and rest areas along the wadi.

Ghubaira Dam: A Historical Landmark

About Ghubaira Dam

The Ghubaira Dam, built 50 years ago, is a significant part of Wadi Hanifa. With a storage capacity of 900,000 cubic meters, this earth dam plays a crucial role in retaining rainwater.

Scenic Views

The dam creates a picturesque setting, reflecting the sky and surrounding nature, making it a perfect spot for outdoor gatherings. Stargazing at night is particularly enchanting here, providing a tranquil escape under the stars.

Accessibility

Entry is free, inviting everyone to enjoy its natural beauty.

Information

• Location: Diriyah
• Ages: All
• Ideal For: Nature Enthusiasts, Families, Friends

Additional Tips:

• Evening Stargazing: Plan a visit during the evening for a peaceful stargazing experience. Bring blankets and snacks for a cozy night.
• Photography: The reflection of the dam in the water provides great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
• Firewood: If planning a bonfire, ensure you bring firewood and follow local regulations regarding fire safety.

In summary, these natural attractions offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and historical significance, making them ideal destinations for families and friends looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

In 2025, museums have transcended their traditional roles as passive vessels of knowledge. Around the globe, these cultural landmarks are undergoing a stunning transformation — not only housing masterpieces but becoming masterpieces themselves. In an era when visual storytelling and immersive environments dominate the cultural landscape, museum architecture has emerged as an art form, blurring the lines between structure and sculpture, between containment and creativity. This new generation of museums doesn't just protect history; it writes its own narrative in concrete, glass, wood, and steel.

As travelers seek out destinations that offer both cultural depth and visual grandeur, these architectural marvels are rising to the occasion. They're designed not only to inform but to evoke emotion, spark conversation, and deepen human connection to both place and purpose. From reimagined grain silos in Norway to subterranean digital sanctuaries in Saudi Arabia, these awe-inspiring museums are pushing the boundaries of design, sustainability, and spatial storytelling.

In many cases, the buildings themselves rival — or even surpass — the art they house. They challenge the conventional museum experience, inviting visitors to interact with the space as much as with the exhibits. They use light, shadow, texture, and scent to create multisensory journeys. Whether it’s a heritage structure reinterpreted for the modern age or a futuristic concept rooted in local culture, these museums remind us that architecture is not just a backdrop — it's a bold, dynamic protagonist.

1. Grand Palais – Paris, France

The Grand Palais is a masterpiece of architectural grandeur, originally built for the 1900 Paris Exposition by architect Charles Girault. This iconic structure features a vast 17,500-square-meter glass roof that allows natural light to flood the space, enhancing its ornate sculptures and frescoes.

After an extensive restoration by Chatillon Architectes, the Grand Palais now serves as a cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions, fashion shows, and public events. Its preserved upper gallery offers visitors a unique promenade, connecting them with Parisian history and providing panoramic views of the city.

2. Saka Museum – Bali, Indonesia

Opened in July 2024, the Saka Museum is a cultural gem within the Ayana Bali hotel complex, overlooking the breathtaking Jimbaran Bay. This museum reflects the Balinese philosophy of Giri Segara, symbolizing the harmony between mountain and sea. Its design includes a sloping roof that mimics the natural landscape, while a reflective pool enhances the serene atmosphere.

The Saka Museum showcases Bali’s living traditions, including an in-depth exploration of the Nyepi Day of Silence, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Audeum – Seoul, Republic of Korea

Audeum, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, is an innovative museum that engages all five senses. Its façade, adorned with vertical aluminum pipes, reflects the beauty of nature and the play of light. The interior features a fragrant cypress wood entrance, inviting visitors to experience a multisensory journey.

Audeum not only showcases art but also serves as a space for performance and community engagement, creating an immersive environment where art and nature coexist harmoniously.

4. Kunstsilo – Kristiansand, Norway

Kunstsilo, a remarkable transformation of a former grain silo, is now Southern Norway’s largest museum, housing the world’s most extensive private Nordic art collection. Completed in May 2024, this three-story structure offers expansive views of the coastline and features a grand staircase that encourages meditation and reflection.

The museum hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a vibrant center for art and community engagement while celebrating the region’s industrial heritage.

5. Diriyah Art Futures – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Diriyah Art Futures stands as the first museum in the Arabian Peninsula dedicated to digital art. This ambitious project integrates exhibition spaces, research labs, and artist residencies into a cohesive structure that connects with the surrounding landscape of Wadi Hanifah. The design incorporates traditional architectural elements while embracing modern technology, creating an inviting atmosphere for exploration and interaction.

The museum aims to foster a dialogue between contemporary art and cultural heritage, appealing to both local and international audiences.

6. Cleveland Museum of Natural History – Cleveland, United States

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History recently underwent a transformative renovation by DLR Group, reflecting the region's geological history. The redesign features flowing, alluvial forms reminiscent of glacial landscapes, unifying the museum's diverse exhibits.

Set on beautifully landscaped grounds, the museum offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and a planetarium, making it a vital resource for families, students, and researchers alike. Its commitment to conservation and education underscores the importance of natural history in understanding our world.

7. Joslyn Art Museum – Omaha, United States

The Joslyn Art Museum is an architectural wonder that combines historical and contemporary designs. Founded in 1931, the museum features three distinct buildings, including the original Art Deco structure and two modern additions by renowned architects.

The museum's collection spans 5,000 years of art, with a focus on American and European works. It offers educational programs, workshops, and community events, making art accessible to all. The campus also boasts beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy.

8. Louvre Museum – Paris, France

The Louvre, one of the world’s most famous museums, features a glass pyramid entrance designed by I.M. Pei, which revolutionized the visitor experience. The museum houses an extensive collection of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, spanning thousands of years and cultures.

The Louvre regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, and cultural events, making it a dynamic space that connects history with contemporary artistic expressions. Its rich history as a royal palace adds to the allure of this iconic institution.

9. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Spain

Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a landmark of contemporary architecture, known for its flowing, sculptural forms clad in titanium. Since its opening in 1997, the museum has revitalized the city’s industrial landscape and become a cultural beacon.

The museum hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, from modern and contemporary art to immersive installations. Its innovative design enhances the visitor experience, making it a must-see destination for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

10. Museum of Islamic Art – Doha, Qatar

I.M. Pei’s Museum of Islamic Art is a stunning example of modern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design. Rising from an artificial island, the museum features a limestone façade and geometric forms that create breathtaking views of Doha Bay. Inside, it houses one of the world’s finest collections of Islamic art, spanning over 1,400 years.

The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and cultural events, fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic heritage and its influence on global art.

These architectural wonders demonstrate that museums have evolved into destinations that celebrate both art and the human experience. Whether admiring the grandeur of the Grand Palais in Paris or exploring the innovative design of Diriyah Art Futures, visitors are invited to engage with culture in new and exciting ways. In a world where the journey through these stunning structures can be as enlightening as the art they contain, these museums are redefining the experience of cultural exploration.

China is significantly expanding its 30-day visa-free entry policy in 2025 by adding 14 new countries, aiming to facilitate tourism, business, cultural exchanges, and transit travel. This expansion is divided into two main groups of countries with different effective periods.

South American Countries (Effective June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026):

Citizens holding ordinary passports from the following five South American nations will be able to enter Mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days:

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Chile
• Peru
• Uruguay

This visa exemption applies to travel for tourism, business, family visits, cultural exchange programs, and transit, but excludes paid work or study activities.

European and Asian Countries (Effective November 30, 2024 – December 31, 2025):

Nine countries from Europe and Asia, including Japan, are also granted 30-day visa-free access:

• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Estonia
• Japan
• Latvia
• Malta
• North Macedonia
• Montenegro
• Romania

Travelers from these countries can stay visa-free for up to 30 days for similar purposes as above, including cultural exchange.

Full Updated List of 43 Countries with 30-Day Visa-Free Access:

In addition to the 14 new countries, China’s 30-day visa waiver policy already covers 29 other countries primarily from Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America, making a total of 43 countries eligible. The full list includes:

Region	Countries
Europe	Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland
Asia-Pacific	Australia, Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea
South America	Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay

This policy allows stays up to 30 days without a visa for tourism, business, family or friend visits, transit, and cultural exchange activities. Travelers must hold valid passports from eligible countries and may need to show proof of accommodation and return or onward tickets. Paid employment and study remain outside the scope of this visa exemption and require separate visas.

Additional Measures:

China has also signed a reciprocal visa exemption agreement with Uzbekistan, effective June 1, 2025, allowing ordinary passport holders from both countries to stay visa-free for up to 30 days per visit, with a cumulative maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.

This comprehensive visa-free expansion reflects China’s strategic efforts to revive international tourism and business exchanges in the post-pandemic era by simplifying entry procedures and encouraging more global visitors to explore its culture and economy.

The United States, long celebrated as the world’s largest and most influential travel and tourism market, is facing an unprecedented decline in international tourism revenue in 2025, with losses projected at $12.5 billion. This sharp drop will see foreign visitor spending fall to just under $169 billion, compared to $181 billion in 2024, marking a 7% year-over-year decrease and a staggering 22.5% decline from the sector’s previous peak.

Unlike other major economies, the U.S. stands alone among 184 countries analyzed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Oxford Economics as the only nation expected to see a drop in international tourism spending this year.

This downturn is not merely a statistical anomaly but a direct blow to the broader U.S. economy, which relies heavily on tourism for jobs, tax revenue, and community vitality. The travel and tourism sector is valued at nearly $2.6 trillion and supports about 20 million jobs nationwide, while generating $585 billion in tax revenue—about 7% of total U.S. tax income. The effects of this decline are being felt unevenly, with gateway cities and regions near the Canadian border hit hardest.

For example, New York City has revised its 2025 forecasts, now expecting 400,000 fewer international tourists and a $4 billion drop in tourism spending compared to 2024. Upstate New York and northern border businesses are also reporting significant decreases in Canadian bookings, with 66% noting a "significant decrease" and 26% already reducing staff.

Several factors are driving this negative trend. The strong U.S. dollar has made travel to the U.S. more expensive for foreign visitors, while recent political rhetoric, new tariffs, and stricter border enforcement have contributed to a perception of the U.S. as less welcoming. The imposition of tariffs and controversial statements—such as suggestions that Canada should become the "51st state"—have provoked backlash, particularly from Canada, which was previously the largest source of visitors to the U.S..

Canadian leisure bookings to the U.S. dropped 40% in March 2025 compared to the previous year, and European inbound travel fell by 17% in the same period. Overall, international arrivals are predicted to decline by 9.4% in 2025, with air visitors from Mexico down 23% and a 3.3% decrease in overseas visitors during the first quarter of the year.

The situation is exacerbated by travel advisories issued by countries like Canada, the U.K., and Germany, warning their citizens about heightened risks when traveling to the U.S. due to incidents of detentions and refusals at the border. If such advisories spread to more countries, experts warn that the cumulative impact could reach as high as $120 billion in lost tourism revenue, should inbound travel decline by 10%.

Despite robust domestic travel—Americans are expected to spend $1.35 trillion on travel in 2025—the heavy reliance on homegrown tourism cannot compensate for the loss of international visitors, who tend to stay longer and spend more. Industry leaders, including WTTC President Julia Simpson, have called for urgent action from the U.S. government to restore international traveler confidence and reverse the perception of the country as unwelcoming.

Without decisive intervention, the U.S. risks not only prolonged economic damage but also a diminished status in the global tourism landscape, with recovery to pre-pandemic levels potentially taking several more years.

Spain, the world’s second most popular tourist destination after France, has set a new record by welcoming 17.1 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 5.7% increase from the previous year. This robust influx is primarily driven by tourists from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the United States, with the UK alone contributing over 3.1 million visitors, a 4.6% rise year-on-year.

Key regions such as Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Andalusia, and Málaga have seen significant growth, with Catalonia attracting about 3.5 million foreign tourists in just three months. The Balearic Islands recorded a 3.6% increase in arrivals, surpassing 810,000 visitors.

Tourism revenue surged alongside visitor numbers, with international tourists spending €23.5 billion in the first quarter, a 7.2% increase compared to the same period last year. The average spending per trip reached €1,382, highlighting Spain’s growing economic benefit from tourism. Experts forecast that Spain will welcome nearly 98 million foreign tourists in 2025, surpassing the 94 million recorded in 2024.

This surge is expected to generate tourism revenues of approximately €135.8 billion, a 7.5% increase over 2024, reinforcing tourism as a vital pillar of Spain’s economy, contributing up to 15% of GDP and generating around 20% of employment directly and indirectly.

The tourism sector’s rapid growth is supported by recovering European household purchasing power amid falling inflation, economic recovery in key source markets, and Spain’s perceived safety relative to other destinations facing geopolitical instability. Domestic tourism remains historically high but grows more modestly as Spaniards increasingly travel abroad.

The Balearic and Canary Islands, Catalonia, and Madrid are among the most dynamic regions benefiting from tourism-driven growth, contributing significantly to Spain’s solid 2.8% GDP growth forecast for 2025.

However, challenges remain, including the need to diversify tourist offerings, manage tourist flows sustainably, and address local concerns about overcrowding and rising living costs. Authorities aim to balance continued growth with sustainable development to maintain Spain’s competitiveness without compromising its cultural and environmental assets.

Overall, Spain’s tourism sector is on track for another exceptional year, potentially exceeding 100 million international visitors by year-end and solidifying its position as a global tourism powerhouse rivaling France and other leading destinations.

Landing in the UAE comes with more than just a warm welcome and sunny skies. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a family on vacation, or a business traveler extending your trip, your journey begins with instant perks. Tourists flying into Dubai or Abu Dhabi can access a wide array of exclusive benefits—free SIM cards, discount cards, transport upgrades, and hundreds of offers at top attractions—all for simply arriving in the Emirates.

Welcome to Dubai: Start with a Free SIM Card

One of the first surprises awaiting tourists at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a complimentary Tourism SIM card courtesy of du, one of the UAE’s major telecom providers. This SIM, available upon clearing immigration, offers 1GB of data valid for 24 hours, helping new arrivals navigate maps, make bookings, or connect with loved ones back home immediately.

Eligibility includes those arriving on visit visas, transit visas, or with visa-on-arrival, as well as GCC nationals. Tourists can upgrade their plan at du kiosks located at the airport or through Dubai Duty Free counters. Alternatives are also available from other major telecom providers, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile, which offer prepaid SIMs with competitive packages designed specifically for tourists, often bundled with international minutes and longer data validity.

This small but essential service ensures that visitors stay connected, which is especially useful for ride-hailing apps, translation tools, and ticketing platforms widely used across the UAE.

ALSAADA Card: Dubai’s Digital Welcome Kit for Tourists

With the SIM card in hand, visitors gain access to another benefit—a digital ALSAADA Tourist Card, Dubai’s official tourist discount programme run by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD).

To activate this card, tourists simply scan the QR code printed on the SIM card envelope, which directs them to download the ALSAADA mobile app, available on both Android and iOS. After a quick registration process, users can start exploring discounts and promotions available across restaurants, retail stores, wellness centers, leisure attractions, and shopping malls.

Unlike traditional paper coupons, the ALSAADA card is digital and updates in real-time, making it a handy tool for tourists wanting to make the most of their budget without carrying around brochures or discount books.

Chauffeur On Demand: Hire a Driver by the Hour

Exploring Dubai in comfort and style is easier than ever with the Hourly Rental limousine service offered by the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC). This service allows tourists to book a professional chauffeur to drive them around the city in a private vehicle—ideal for sightseeing, business meetings, or shopping tours.

Surprisingly cost-effective, this service starts at AED 400 for two hours and goes up to AED 1,100 for ten hours, with packages tailored to fit a variety of travel needs. Unlike regular taxis, the limousine option does not include waiting time charges, and you only pay extra if you exceed the allotted hours or distance.

Booking is simple via the “DTC” app, which offers real-time scheduling and payment options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Two hours: AED 400

• Four hours: AED 650

• Six hours: AED 800

• Eight hours: AED 900

• Ten hours: AED 1,100

• After package expiry: AED 3/km and AED 1/minute

This service is perfect for tourists planning to visit multiple locations in a single day, offering flexibility, comfort, and the prestige of private transport.

Show Your Boarding Pass, Get a World of Discounts

Perhaps the most surprising benefit of visiting the UAE is how your boarding pass becomes a ticket to savings. Two of the UAE’s flagship airlines, Emirates and Etihad Airways, offer special promotions for passengers who retain their boarding passes.

Emirates: “My Emirates Pass”

Emirates passengers can benefit from the My Emirates Pass, a seasonal discount programme that turns your boarding pass into an access card for offers at over 500 locations. Deals span across:

• Attractions like At The Top – Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, and Museum of the Future

• Amusement parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure and Aquaventure at Atlantis

• Retail outlets and luxury brands at malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates

• Fine dining restaurants, cafés, and spas

Offers are available to those who present a valid physical or digital boarding pass, along with ID, and are usually valid for up to a month from the date of arrival (subject to seasonal dates—check Emirates’ official site for the latest validity periods).

Etihad Airways: “Abu Dhabi Pass”

Etihad passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi can access the Abu Dhabi Pass, offering similar benefits across the capital’s top destinations. Exclusive discounts are available at:

• Yas Island attractions, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld

• Luxury hotels and spas, especially in Saadiyat Island and Corniche areas

• Dining establishments, from gourmet to family-friendly

These perks not only save tourists money but also encourage them to explore both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, enriching their travel experience.

The Bigger Picture: UAE’s Tourism-First Strategy

These offers are part of the UAE’s larger initiative to position itself as one of the most tourist-friendly destinations globally. With streamlined airport experiences, high-speed public transit, visa-on-arrival for over 80 nationalities, and now, digital discount programmes, the UAE is creating an ecosystem that values accessibility, affordability, and convenience for its international visitors.

For tourists, the message is clear: don’t throw away your boarding pass, and be sure to scan everything you receive at the airport. From that moment, the UAE starts paying you back for visiting.

Tip: Before arriving, check the official websites of Visit Dubai, Etihad, or Emirates, as offers and promotions may be seasonal or time-limited.