Starting June 1, 2025, travellers holding Mastercard and Visa credit cards in the United Arab Emirates will face significant changes to their airport lounge access privileges. These updates, introduced by both payment networks, are designed to streamline the lounge experience and better manage the growing number of passengers at major UAE airports.

The new rules impact eligibility, required registrations, and the number of complimentary visits, making it essential for cardholders to review their benefits and prepare before their next trip.

Key Points:

Mandatory App Registration:

• Mastercard: All cardholders must register on the Mastercard Travel Pass app to access lounges.
• Visa: Lounge access now requires registration on the Visa Airport Companion app, replacing the old method of showing a physical card.

Annual Visit Limits:

Mastercard:

• Platinum: 4 free lounge visits per year.
• World: 8 free lounge visits per year.
• World Elite: 14 free lounge visits per year.

Visa:

• Platinum: Up to 6 free lounge visits per year (some issuers may limit to 2).
• Signature: Up to 10 free lounge visits per year.
• Infinite: Unlimited lounge visits per year.

Spending Requirements:

• Mastercard: Cardholders must make at least one international transaction of USD 1 or more within three months prior to each lounge visit to unlock access.
• Visa: Cardholders must meet specific spending thresholds within 35 days prior to the lounge visit to qualify for access, with the exact amount depending on the card and issuer.

Transition Period:

• For 2025, the calendar year for lounge access caps will run from May 1 to December 31.

Supplementary Cardholders:

• Mastercard: Supplementary cardholders must register separately and meet the same spending requirement. They receive the same lounge access benefits as the primary cardholder.
• Visa: Supplementary cardholders are typically eligible for the same benefits as the primary cardholder, but must also register on the app.

Guest Access:

• Mastercard: Guests (including children over 1 year old) are allowed if traveling on the same flight as the cardholder, but each guest visit is deducted from the annual allowance. Extra guests beyond the allowance are charged USD 32 per person.
• Visa: Similar guest access rules apply, with extra guests charged USD 32 per person in most cases.

Digital Experience:

• Mastercard: Generate and present a QR code or membership number from the app to access lounges.
• Visa: Use the Visa Airport Companion app to check eligibility and access lounges.

Preparation Tips:

• Register Early: Complete your registration on the Mastercard Travel Pass or Visa Airport Companion app well before your travel date to avoid last-minute issues.
• Check Eligibility: Verify your card tier and the number of complimentary lounge visits you are entitled to each year.
• Meet Spending Requirements: Ensure you make the required international transaction (Mastercard) or meet the spending threshold (Visa) before your lounge visit to avoid access denial.
• Review Guest Policies: Confirm how many guests you can bring and what fees apply for additional guests.
• Plan for Supplementary Cards: If you have supplementary cardholders, ensure they also register on the app and meet the same requirements.
• Explore Alternative Access: If you exhaust your free visits, consider purchasing a day pass or annual membership to independent lounge networks like Priority Pass or LoungeKey.
• Check Lounge Availability: Use airport or lounge apps to check lounge locations, hours, and amenities before you arrive.
• Arrive Early: Allocate enough time before your flight to enjoy lounge amenities, as some lounges have peak hours or entry restrictions.
• Dress Appropriately: Dress comfortably but respectably, as most lounges have a smart-casual dress code.
• Maximize Lounge Benefits: Take advantage of food, beverages, Wi-Fi, showers, and relaxation areas—many lounges offer extras like spas and quiet zones.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates from your card issuer or lounge provider, as policies and access rules can change.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable airport lounge experience under the new rules.

As Eid Al Adha approaches, excitement fills the air as many residents of the UAE begin to finalize their plans for the holiday season. This festive occasion, celebrated by millions, not only marks the end of Hajj but also brings families and friends together in joyous gatherings. With the summer heat intensifying, a significant number of residents are choosing to escape to cooler destinations, seeking adventure or simply a refreshing break from daily life.

While some opt for relaxing staycations in luxurious resorts or local getaways, many are eager to explore new cultures and landscapes just a short flight away.

For those still uncertain about their travel plans, there are several enticing visa-free countries within easy reach, perfect for a quick getaway during the holiday. These destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, all while eliminating the hassle of visa applications.

Whether you’re looking for a serene beach retreat, a cultural exploration, or an adventurous trek, these five visa-free countries provide ample options for an unforgettable Eid experience.

Here are five visa-free destinations for your next holiday adventure:

Georgia

One of the most popular choices among UAE residents is Georgia. This captivating country, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The charming capital, Tbilisi, offers a unique blend of history and modernity, characterized by its colorful architecture and vibrant arts scene.

Visitors can explore ancient churches, sample delicious Georgian cuisine, and enjoy wine tasting in the picturesque vineyards of Kakheti. Residents can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days, with a flight time of just 3.5 to 4 hours.

Seychelles

Another paradise to consider is the Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean famous for its breathtaking beaches and lush natural beauty. Ideal for those looking to escape the urban grind, Seychelles promises tranquility and relaxation.

Visitors can spend their days lounging on pristine beaches, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or hiking through lush national parks like Vallée de Mai. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours, and UAE residents can visit without needing a visa.

Maldives

For those yearning for a tropical escape, the Maldives is a quintessential choice. Known for its crystal-clear lagoons and idyllic resorts, this destination is perfect for unwinding by the beach. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, and jet skiing.

The Maldives offers a visa on arrival for all nationalities, making it accessible for UAE travelers. The flight duration is around 4.5 to 5 hours, and many resorts provide all-inclusive packages that cater to various budgets.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan presents another appealing option, situated at the intersection of Europe and Asia. This country boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty, historic towns, and a vibrant cultural scene. Baku, the capital, is known for its futuristic architecture and ancient sites like the Old City (Icherisheher).

Visitors can enjoy traditional Azerbaijani dishes, such as plov and dolma. UAE residents can easily obtain a visa on arrival for stays of up to 30 days, with a flight time of about 3 hours.

Nepal

Finally, for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Nepal is an ideal destination. Home to the majestic Himalayas and Mount Everest, Nepal is celebrated for its trekking opportunities, diverse cuisine, and ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Bhaktapur and Pashupatinath Temple.

Adventurous travelers can embark on treks in the Annapurna or Langtang regions, while those seeking a more leisurely experience can explore the vibrant capital, Kathmandu. Residents can secure a visa on arrival, with travel times of approximately 4.5 hours.

As Eid Al Adha draws near, these five visa-free destinations offer UAE residents the perfect opportunity to explore new cultures and landscapes, all while enjoying a refreshing break from the heat. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, each of these countries has something unique to offer.

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.