1. Growth in GCC Tourism to Moscow

Q: How has Moscow experienced growth in tourist inflow from the UAE and GCC in recent years?
Over the past few years, Moscow has seen consistent growth in inbound tourism from the Gulf region. In fact, in 2024 alone, the city welcomed 337,400 visitors from the Middle East — a 1.4-fold increase compared to the previous year. Notably, the UAE is among our fastest-growing markets, with arrivals rising from 18,200 in 2019 to over 62,100 in 2024.

This upward trend is no coincidence. It is supported by improved air connectivity, simplified entry procedures, and tailored travel experiences. Moreover, satisfaction levels are high, with Middle Eastern visitors giving Moscow an average rating of 8.2 out of 10, according to our research. Clearly, we are moving in the right direction when it comes to accessibility, comfort, and hospitality.

2. Why GCC Travelers Should Visit Moscow

Q: Why should travellers from the UAE and GCC consider Moscow as their next holiday destination?
Moscow offers a compelling mix of centuries-old landmarks and modern flair. For example, Red Square, the Kremlin, the Bolshoi Theatre, and the Tretyakov Gallery are iconic sites that continue to attract Emirati and GCC visitors.

In addition, families enjoy attractions such as Dream Island Park, the Moscow Zoo, and the Central Children’s Store. Meanwhile, art lovers are increasingly drawn to the GES-2 House of Culture and the Museum of Russian Impressionism. Furthermore, Moscow City, with its skyscrapers and luxury shopping, provides a distinctly contemporary experience. Additionally, green urban spaces like Zaryadye Park and VDNH showcase ecological design and interactive museums.

Ultimately, the diversity of experiences — whether it’s exploring historic estates, cruising along the Moskva River, or enjoying panoramic views from Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel — makes Moscow a destination that appeals to all ages and travel styles.

3. Initiatives for Middle Eastern Tourists

Q: What initiatives has Moscow introduced to cater to Middle Eastern tourists?
To better serve Middle Eastern visitors, we’ve launched several targeted initiatives. These include regional marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships with tour operators, and active participation in key travel industry events.

For instance, in 2024, we hosted UAE Culture Days in Moscow, which welcomed more than 300,000 attendees and celebrated cultural exchange. Additionally, we developed the Muslim-Friendly Guide to Moscow, offering information on halal restaurants, prayer facilities, and cultural points of interest.

Moreover, five major tourist centres across the city now assist in Arabic and English. Over 100 certified guides are available in multiple languages. We also introduced a Welcome Pack for Middle Eastern guests, featuring discounts on accommodation, wellness, restaurants, and local experiences.

Thanks to the Discover Moscow portal and our official Snapchat account, visitors can easily access up-to-date tips and recommendations in both English and Arabic. As a result, planning a trip to Moscow has never been more convenient for GCC travelers.

4. Family-Friendly Experiences in Moscow

Q: How does Moscow cater to family experiences?
Moscow is increasingly recognized as a family-oriented destination. The city offers a wide variety of experiences for all ages — from nature-filled eco-parks and green boulevards to aquaparks, interactive museums, and amusement parks like Dream Island.

One of the highlights is the ‘Summer in Moscow’ festival. Designed with families in mind, it includes open-air theatre, live music, creative workshops, and cultural markets. These events are held in parks, estates, and central boulevards, encouraging families to explore the city together in a festive atmosphere. Best of all, most events are free and open to everyone — from Muscovites to international guests.

Consequently, with its safe infrastructure, welcoming hospitality, and child-friendly programming, Moscow continues to position itself as a top choice for families from the UAE and the broader GCC.

5. New Attractions in Moscow This Summe

Q: What are the newest attractions or experiences that Moscow is offering this summer season?
Summer is the perfect time to visit Moscow. From June to August, the city hosts the annual ‘Summer in Moscow’ festival, featuring over 1,000 outdoor events across parks, cultural venues, and heritage sites. Key highlights include:

• Moscow Estates Festival – Over 40 historic estates host theatrical performances and immersive heritage activities.
• Theatre Boulevard – A 92-day cultural season with more than 600 live shows across 14 open-air stages and over 3,000 performers.
• Gardens and Flowers Festival – Rare botanical installations and vibrant floral displays transform city parks and public spaces.
• Music in the Parks – Live jazz, rock, electronic, and acoustic music in iconic venues like Gorky Park and VDNH.
• Forum Moscow 2030 – A citywide forum-festival designed to immerse youth and families in the technologies, culture, and lifestyles of tomorrow’s world.

In conclusion, these seasonal events allow visitors to enjoy Moscow’s artistic and cultural energy in a refreshing and engaging environment. For those looking beyond the summer months, Moscow in winter is equally enchanting — with snow-covered streets, sparkling decorations, festive markets, and traditional seasonal events. Therefore, whether in summer or winter, Moscow is a year-round destination offering unforgettable experiences.

Coop House weekly offers: Seafood Nights (Fridays)

Fridays from 3 PM, the kitchen leans into seaside comfort. The Seafood Linguine is generously tossed with prawns, calamari, and mussels in a light cherry-tomato sauce. Meanwhile, the Pan-Seared Salmon with herbed roast vegetables keeps things wholesome. For bolder palates, Chargrilled Prawns with lemon butter or Grilled Calamari with spicy salsa deliver a satisfying kick. Naturally, each seafood dish with a soft drink is AED 79, turning Friday into your coastal reset.

Business Lunch that feels special (Mon–Thu)

Weekdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, the Business Lunch brings a three-course menu that’s anything but routine. Start with Figs & Walnut Salad or creamy Tomato Burrata, then move to Rotisserie Chicken with velvety hummus and freshly baked fuchsia bread, or Basil Pesto Linguine. To finish, pick a rich Chocolate Fondant or a light Tiramisu. Thoughtfully portioned and swiftly served, the set menu lands at AED 79—perfect for colleagues, client catch-ups, or a solo upgrade to your workday.

Happy Hours, happier afternoons (Mon–Wed)

From Monday to Wednesday, 4 PM to 6 PM, take a well-earned pause. With 40% off the total bill, you can graze on crispy Dynamite Prawns, Feta & Beetroot Salad, golden Fried Calamari, or indulgent Truffle Fries topped with cheese and herbs. Pair your picks with an iced tea, a classic mocktail, or a freshly brewed coffee. Because the window sits before dinner, it’s an easy meet-up slot for friends and families alike.

Breakfast Tray for Two (daily)

From 9 AM to 1 PM, mornings start strong. The Breakfast Tray for Two blends Mediterranean and Arabic favourites: fluffy scrambled eggs, warm shakshouka, creamy labneh, hummus, foul medames, mini croissants, soft breads, jams, and marinated olives. It arrives with freshly brewed coffee or signature iced tea—all for AED 99. It’s abundant, shareable, and perfect for a relaxed start.

Spin the Wheel surprises (select days)

Plan your visit

You’ll find The Coop House at Mirdif City Centre, an easy stop for families and after-work diners. Because the venue is equally suited to quick lunches and long catch-ups, it works for almost any plan. And since the Coop House weekly offers run across multiple dayparts, you can pick the moment that fits—Thursday pasta theatre, Friday seafood, a weekday power lunch, or a leisurely breakfast.

Ultimately, the new offers are about more than price points. They’re about rhythm—adding dependable moments of flavour to your week. Come for the pizzas and pastas; stay for the seafood and sweets; return for the service and the way the room feels when the plates hit the table. That’s how regulars are made.

Check out our previous post, DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan: Hilton’s first hotel

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan: Hilton’s first foothold

The debut signals clear confidence in Pakistan’s tourism trajectory. As Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, notes, destinations with rich heritage and natural charm are primed for growth. Therefore, placing Hilton’s first flag in Nathiagali feels both strategic and guest-centric: travelers gain access to an international hospitality standard, while local tourism benefits from global visibility and jobs.

Where alpine scenery meets warm hospitality

Steps from Lalazar Park, the hotel sits within easy reach of Mushkpuri Top, Miranjani Peak, Ayubia National Park, the Dunga Gali Pipeline Track, and St. Matthew’s Church—many within five kilometers. Consequently, guests can plan mellow strolls, scenic drives, or summit days without long transfers. Meanwhile, pine forests and rolling meadows frame the property, creating postcard views in every season—from crisp summers to snow-blanketed winters.

Rooms, dining, and wellness for every season

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan features 110 rooms, including 14 suites that look toward the Mushkpuri and Miranjani hills. Thoughtful layouts, plush bedding, and mountain-view nooks make downtime feel restorative after a day outdoors. For dining, the lobby-level Coffee Shop serves fresh brews and gourmet bites; Shogun brings a refined Pan-Asian menu; and Zareen on the third floor spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a global touch. At the Lalazar Terrace Café, guests can linger over specialty teas, high tea, or a barbecue buffet under an open sky.

Wellbeing is central here. A curated spa menu covers soothing massages and holistic therapies, while a fully equipped fitness center supports daily routines. Additionally, the indoor infinity pool—with floor-to-ceiling panoramas—turns every swim into a viewpoint.

Meetings, celebrations, and memorable gatherings

Whether you are planning a board meeting or a mountain wedding, the property offers flexible venues and experienced support. Two signature banquet halls—Mushkpuri and Miranjani—each host up to 200 guests, ideal for receptions, conferences, or gala dinners. For more intimate sessions, Sohni and Nouri provide smaller meeting rooms. Moreover, tailored catering, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and in-house audiovisual support help events run smoothly from first brief to final toast.

New experiences on the horizon

DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan will soon introduce the country’s first mountain padel court, a private-cinema lounge, a children’s zone, and beauty salon services—enhancing the “all-ages, all-seasons” profile. Additionally, the on-site helipad simplifies arrivals and departures, particularly for celebratory occasions or executive retreats that benefit from time-saving transfers.

Partnerships shape successful openings. Owned and managed by The Baron Pakistan (Pvt) Limited, the hotel aligns international brand standards with local stewardship. As Managing Director Imtiaz Muslim underscores, the collaboration supports regional tourism while delivering lasting value to guests and communities. In practice, that means more training, broader career pathways, and a hospitality experience that honors place as much as it embraces polish.

Hilton Honors benefits, made simple

Members of Hilton Honors can unlock familiar advantages when booking directly via Hilton’s preferred channels. Because the app streamlines check-in, room selection, and Digital Key access, guests can move from arrival to relaxation quickly. Furthermore, the flexible Points-and-money slider helps members tailor stays to their budget—useful for families or groups planning longer mountain breaks.

Plan your Nathiagali escape

The Galiyat hills combine fresh air, pine scent, and sweeping viewpoints with easy access from Islamabad. Therefore, DoubleTree Nathiagali Pakistan makes a compelling base: mornings can start with a summit walk; afternoons might drift into spa time; evenings can stretch over terrace tea as the valleys glow. With new activities debuting soon, travelers will find more reasons to return—across seasons and occasions.

Check out our previous post Atlantis Dubai Executive Director of Sales: Dean Walsh Appointed

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Atlantis Dubai has named Dean Walsh as its new Executive Director of Sales, a promotion that reflects his proven leadership and impressive track record. In this role, he will spearhead global leisure market growth for both Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, two of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations.

Driving Leisure Market Growth for Atlantis Dubai

Since joining Atlantis Dubai in August 2023, Dean Walsh has enhanced the resort’s presence in key markets such as the UK, Europe, and Australasia. By aligning sales strategies with the brand’s commercial vision, he boosted market share across major leisure segments. Leading a global team of 15, he drove strong revenue growth while fostering collaboration and ensuring sales execution stayed aligned with broader business goals.

Expanding Responsibilities as Executive Director of Sales

In his new position, Walsh will direct and oversee Atlantis Dubai’s leisure sales strategy across both domestic and international markets. He will also manage Directors and Managers responsible for leisure segments worldwide, reporting directly to Kyp Charalambous, Vice President of Sales.

Charalambous praised the appointment, stating: “Dean’s proven track record, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to guide our sales team through its next chapter of growth.”

Experience Across Global Luxury Hospitality

With nearly 20 years of hospitality experience, Dean Walsh brings extensive expertise to Atlantis Dubai. He has held senior sales roles at leading brands such as InterContinental, One&Only Resorts, Viceroy, W Hotels, and Jumeirah. Throughout his career, he has built high-performing teams, forged strong partnerships, and consistently delivered revenue growth across competitive markets.

Strengthening Atlantis Dubai’s Global Position

The appointment underscores Atlantis Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its commercial success while continuing to deliver world-class guest experiences. By placing Walsh at the helm of its leisure sales strategy, Atlantis Dubai is preparing to expand further into international markets and attract a new wave of travelers to its extraordinary resorts.

Check out our previous post on Kempinski Hotels Guest Experience Elevated with New Leadership

Indoor Wellness, Accessible to All

Running from 1 to 31 August, the BurJuman Summer Walk transforms Level 1 of the mall into an early-morning walking route. This air-conditioned environment offers a welcome escape from Dubai’s summer heat. Residents and visitors can stay active without battling high outdoor temperatures.

The initiative supports those building daily movement habits, whether to reach step goals, clear the mind, or socialise. The safe, inspiring environment makes it easy for people of all ages to take part.

Easy Access and Added Comfort

Early entry is available through the Metro Entrance, Mankhool Entrance, or Parking Lobby E. Clear wayfinding helps walkers navigate Level 1. Several cafés also open early, serving coffee and light snacks for post-walk refreshment.

This combination of easy access, cooling comfort, and refreshments makes the BurJuman Summer Walk an attractive option for both residents and tourists.

From Shopping to Lifestyle Destination

BurJuman Mall’s transformation from a retail hub to a lifestyle destination is clear. Initiatives like B Hive, B Hub, and #ChaloBurJuman have introduced new experiences. The BurJuman Summer Walk now adds a wellness dimension to this evolution.

“We’re committed to creating experiences that enhance the daily lives of our diverse community,” says a BurJuman Mall spokesperson. “The Summer Walk is more than a wellness activity—it’s an opportunity to connect, unwind, and start the day positively.”

More Than Just Movement

The BurJuman Summer Walk promotes both physical activity and mindfulness. Walking in a calm, indoor space helps participants slow down, breathe, and prepare for the day ahead. Families can enjoy quality time together, while solo walkers can reflect or get light exercise before work.

After the walk, visitors can explore cafés and breakfast spots across the mall. From quick grab-and-go to sit-down options, there’s something for every taste.

Visit and Take Part

The BurJuman Summer Walk is open daily until the end of August, welcoming everyone from seasoned fitness enthusiasts to casual walkers. With easy metro access, plentiful parking, and a thoughtfully designed walking route, participation is effortless.

Check out our previous post on LEGOLAND Dubai Neon Nights Lights Up Summer Splash Fest

The LEGOLAND Dubai Neon Nights experience is ready to brighten family weekends this August and September. As part of the popular Summer Splash Fest, the after-hours event mixes music, lights, and water fun for a spectacular evening out.

Every Saturday and Sunday, the park stays open until 8:00 PM. From 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the Wave Pool transforms into a glowing dance zone with lasers, neon lights, and the high-energy Summer Splash Squad leading the show. It’s the perfect way to end a day of slides and splashes.

More Than Just a Night Swim

The new Neon Nights experience is more than an extended closing time. It’s designed to create lasting memories for families. Guests can enjoy the party at no extra cost, with a regular day ticket priced at AED 330 at the gate or AED 295 online.

Neon Nights Highlights:

• -Live dance shows from the Summer Splash Squad
• -Neon and laser light displays
• -Extended hours for extra fun

“LEGOLAND has always been about interactive, family-first experiences, and Neon Nights adds a new dimension to our Summer Splash Fest,” said a park representative. “It’s a way for guests to enjoy the park in a whole new light—literally.”

The Daytime Magic of Summer Splash Fest

Before the neon lights switch on, Summer Splash Fest runs daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM until 24 August 2025. Families can enjoy live DJ sets, meet LEGO® characters, and take part in creative challenges.

Highlights include:

• -Splash N Grab Build-A-Raft River challenge with prizes
• -Build-A-Boat Championship
• -Kids Eat Free at Waves Bistro from 4:00 PM
• -AED 12 ice cream scoops at Ice Factory from 3:00 PM
• -Private cabanas for a cool retreat

Food lovers can also enjoy the Sports Menu. It features golden brown Dutch veal croquettes, chicken wings with peri-peri or barbecue sauce, and crispy breaded shrimps with sweet chili lime.

Hotel Perks for the Full LEGOLAND Experience

Families can extend the fun with a stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel. The Summer Splash Fest After Party at the hotel pool features a live DJ and LEGO® character appearances.

Until 31 August 2025, the Kids Go Free offer makes it easier to enjoy a LEGO-themed getaway. The hotel also offers creative workshops, colouring competitions, and themed entertainment every day.

Why LEGOLAND Dubai Neon Nights Matters for Families

With Dubai’s summer heat making daytime activities challenging, Neon Nights offers a cooler, more vibrant way for families to enjoy the outdoors. The combination of water fun, live entertainment, and neon spectacle turns a regular park visit into a festival-like experience.

Are you convinced yet? Then plan your visit.

–When: Every Saturday & Sunday in August and September (Neon Nights), 28 June–24 August (Summer Splash Fest)

–Where: LEGOLAND Water Park, Dubai Parks and Resorts

–Price: AED 330 at the gate | AED 295 online | Included in day ticket price

–Hotel Offer: Kids Go Free until 31 August at LEGOLAND Hotel Dubai

For more details and booking, visit the LEGO Land website here.

A Bright End to Summer

As the sun sets, the LEGOLAND Dubai Neon Nights experience turns the water park into a neon dreamscape, complete with music, lights, and family laughter echoing through the night. It’s the perfect send-off to summer—a celebration of colour, creativity, and connection that lives up to LEGOLAND’s promise of delivering unforgettable family fun.

Make sure to read our previous feature on Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah with Shadi Refai.

Hyatt Africa Rooms Growth Overview

First, Hyatt achieved 51% room growth in Africa through key openings: Park Hyatt Marrakech (Morocco), Hyatt Centric Cairo West (Egypt), Hyatt Regency Harare – The Meikles (Zimbabwe), and Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands (Kenya).

Dual-Branded Launch in Nairobi

In March 2025, Hyatt Place Nairobi Westlands and Hyatt House Nairobi Westlands debuted as the brand’s first dual-branded development in Africa. Consequently, guests can enjoy two distinct stay experiences under one roof near Westgate Mall and Karura Forest.

Upcoming Markets: Lagos & Johannesburg

Next, Hyatt Regency Lagos Ikeja (Nigeria) is slated to open, followed by Park Hyatt Johannesburg later this year. Furthermore, the latter will occupy the renovated Winston Hotel, offering 31 luxury guestrooms and personalized service.

Expanding the Hyatt Portfolio Across Africa

Moreover, Hyatt hotels now operate in South Africa, Algeria, Morocco, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Egypt. Notable properties include Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam The Kilimanjaro, and Hyatt Centric Cairo West.

What’s Next for Hyatt in Africa

Finally, additional openings are planned in growing leisure and business hubs through 2030. Therefore, World of Hyatt members can look forward to even greater choice and authentic local experiences across the region.