Experience the UAE’s Coolest Winter Yet: How Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Other Emirates Are Leading in Innovation and Eco-Tourism – Here’s What You Need to Know About Its Impact on Tourism and Local Entrepreneurs

The UAE has launched the sixth edition of its popular World’s Coolest Winter campaign, this time under the theme, “Our Winter is Entrepreneurial.” This campaign, which kicked off on December 16, is designed to spotlight the country’s tourism industry, highlighting its unique winter offerings and celebrating local entrepreneurship and innovation. For six weeks, the UAE will be showcasing a range of eco-friendly destinations, green spaces, and experiences created by local startups and entrepreneurs, integrating their services into the broader tourism landscape.

Running until the end of January 2026, the initiative seeks to combine the nation’s rich cultural heritage with modern entrepreneurial innovations, providing tourists with unique and sustainable travel experiences. The campaign is a key part of the UAE Strategy for Domestic Tourism, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and supports the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031.

This major initiative is expected to boost the UAE’s tourism sector and create new investment opportunities, aligning with the country’s vision of becoming a global tourism leader. With its emphasis on sustainability and innovation, the campaign aims to reach new international audiences while enriching the domestic tourism market.

Promoting Local Entrepreneurs and Eco-Tourism Ventures

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign not only focuses on celebrating winter tourism but also highlights the importance of local entrepreneurship in the UAE’s tourism development. This year’s edition underscores the entrepreneurial spirit of UAE-based startups that are making waves in the tourism sector by offering sustainable and eco-conscious travel experiences. Through these initiatives, visitors can explore green spaces, visit eco-tourism destinations, and take part in experiences that promote environmental sustainability.

A significant feature of the campaign is its collaboration with local businesses that have been instrumental in offering unique experiences to tourists. From innovative eco-tourism ventures to locally-run winter festivals, these efforts align perfectly with the country’s goals to create a more diversified and sustainable tourism economy.

Moreover, the UAE’s well-maintained green spaces and innovative eco-friendly projects are featured prominently, offering travelers an alternative way to experience the UAE beyond its bustling urban landscapes. These initiatives reflect the UAE’s commitment to responsible tourism, making it a top destination for those seeking both adventure and sustainability.

The UAE’s Ambitious Tourism Strategy for 2031

The UAE Strategy 2031, a vision for the country’s future growth, is set to be a driving force behind the tourism sector’s development. The strategy aims to generate over AED 100 billion in new tourism investments and attract 40 million hotel guests by 2031. The UAE is also set to significantly boost its tourism GDP contribution to AED 450 billion, increasing its average annual growth by AED 27 billion. This forward-thinking strategy is backed by a wide array of hospitality investments that align with the goals of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign.

As part of these long-term goals, the UAE government is also prioritizing the development of new attractions, investments in smart tourism technology, and building an advanced tourism infrastructure that caters to a diverse range of international visitors. The continued success of initiatives like the World’s Coolest Winter campaign plays a key role in meeting these ambitious targets, showcasing the UAE as both a luxury destination and an innovative hub for sustainable tourism.

Tourism Growth in 2025 and Beyond

In 2025, the UAE tourism sector is already seeing remarkable growth. The first ten months of the year alone saw over 26.1 million guests staying at UAE hotels, which is a 5% increase over the previous year. This surge in tourism resulted in 89 million room nights, with hotel revenues reaching more than AED 40 billion. The country’s hotel occupancy rates have been impressive, rising to 79%, supported by a growing number of international visitors as well as a thriving domestic tourism market.

The ongoing success of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign is expected to further boost these numbers, drawing attention to the unique winter experiences and new entrepreneurial ventures available across the Emirates. As more travelers discover the UAE’s unique blend of culture, innovation, and sustainability, the country is well-positioned to become a leading global tourism destination.

Travel Tips for Visitors

For those planning to visit the UAE during the World’s Coolest Winter campaign, there are several tips to enhance your travel experience:

1. Explore the Eco-Tourism Destinations: Make sure to visit green spaces and eco-friendly resorts that are part of the campaign.
2. Support Local Entrepreneurs: Seek out unique experiences and products created by UAE-based startups to support local businesses.
3. Plan for Winter Adventures: Take advantage of the mild winter weather by participating in outdoor activities like hiking, desert safaris, and visiting the country’s scenic nature spots.
4. Book Early: Due to high demand during the campaign period, it’s a good idea to book accommodations and tours early to ensure availability.

A Winter of Innovation and Sustainability

As the World’s Coolest Winter campaign celebrates UAE’s innovation, entrepreneurial ventures, and sustainable tourism, it’s clear that the country is making significant strides toward becoming a global tourism leader. With a focus on eco-tourism, green spaces, and the rise of local entrepreneurs, the UAE is crafting a future where travel experiences are not only memorable but also sustainable. Whether you’re visiting for the adventure or to support local businesses, this campaign offers something for everyone.

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China’s Harbin Unveils Iconic Giant Snowman As The City Paves The Way To Become A Global Winter Tourism Powerhouse: Everything You Need To Know

Harbin, the ice city of China, has once more mesmerized winter travellers with the reappearance of its famous gigantic snowman, which is usually nicknamed in such a manner. The snowman measuring 19 meters in height, which is still the tallest in the world, is not only a beautiful decoration for the festive season but also a sign of Harbin’s strong desire to compete with other cities for the title of the best winter tourist destination.

As peak season approaches, visitors have already begun gathering around the snowman, posing for photographs beside its familiar red scarf and round, friendly face. For many travellers, this moment marks the emotional start of winter in Harbin, a city that has transformed ice and snow into a signature travel experience.

A Snowman That Signals a Bigger Vision

Carved from more than 3,500 cubic metres of carefully prepared snow, the giant figure was completed after 11 days of work by 64 sculptors and over 100 construction workers. According to local authorities, snow-making machines were used instead of natural snowfall to achieve a smooth, velvety texture that enhances both durability and visual appeal.

What began as a spontaneous creation by local sanitation workers in 2019 has evolved into an annual landmark. Officials have noted indirectly that the snowman’s popularity on social media helped elevate Harbin’s winter image nationwide, turning a grassroots idea into a powerful tourism brand asset.

Harbin’s Rise as China’s Ice and Snow Capital

Harbin’s winter charm extends far beyond a single attraction. As highlighted on the official website of Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China, the city plays a central role in the country’s fast-growing ice and snow economy. Last winter alone, Harbin welcomed more than 90 million visitors, generating over 137 billion yuan in tourism revenue figures that underline its growing international appeal.

Tourism officials have suggested that these numbers reflect not only curiosity, but confidence. Travellers increasingly see Harbin as a destination that combines large-scale spectacles with authentic seasonal culture.

Flagship Attractions Define the Winter Experience

Harbin Ice-Snow World: The Centrepiece

The city’s most anticipated opening is Harbin Ice-Snow World, officially welcoming visitors on 17 December. Recognised as the world’s largest ice and snow theme park, it features monumental ice architecture, illuminated sculptures and its famous super ice slides.

This season, new additions such as hot spring campsites, cross-country ski routes and winter sports zones are designed to encourage longer stays and deeper engagement. Tourism authorities have indicated that these developments aim to position Harbin as not just a sightseeing stop, but a multi-day winter holiday hub.

Sun Island and the Frozen Songhua River

Beyond the main park, travellers can explore the vast Sun Island Snow Expo, spanning 1.5 million square metres of sculpted snow art. Meanwhile, the frozen Songhua River becomes a stage for ice carnivals, folk activities and seasonal leisure experiences.

Officials have been quoted indirectly as saying that these diverse attractions help distribute visitor flow across the city, creating a more balanced and immersive tourism ecosystem.

Infrastructure, Innovation and International Appeal

Harbin’s strategy goes beyond aesthetics. The city has invested heavily in transport links, accommodation upgrades and multilingual visitor services, aligning with national goals to expand high-quality tourism offerings. China’s central economic planning has identified the ice and snow economy as a key growth engine, with its value expected to reach 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030.

Industry experts believe Harbin’s model, combining iconic imagery, large-scale attractions and cultural authenticity could serve as a blueprint for other cold-climate destinations worldwide.

A Destination That Feels Human, Not Just Grand

What sets Harbin apart is its ability to humanise grandeur. The giant snowman, smiling quietly over the city, represents more than engineering skill. It reflects local pride, community creativity and a welcoming spirit that resonates with travellers.

As visitors stroll through illuminated ice streets or sip something warm beside towering sculptures, many describe the experience as surprisingly intimate for such a large-scale destination. Tourism officials have observed that this emotional connection is precisely what turns first-time visitors into repeat guests.

Harbin’s Path to Global Winter Recognition

With its expanding portfolio of winter attractions, strong policy backing and a growing reputation among domestic and international travellers, Harbin is steadily paving the way to become one of the world’s key winter tourism destinations.

With the progression of the season, the huge snowman becomes a welcome and a pledge, that in Harbin, winter is not only survived but also a celebration. For tourists that are looking for a place where ice narrates myths and snow has a living touch, Harbin is not just an option anymore; it is turning into a winter must-have.

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Saudi Arabia Welcomes Winter Wonderland: A New Family Attraction Boosting Jeddah Season Tourism!

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is getting ready to host a new influx of winter travellers as one of the major attractions of Jeddah Season, Winter Wonderland, will be opened on December 19. The winter park is designed to be completely immersive and family-oriented and will attract not only residents but also regional and international visitors looking for a different kind of winter experience at the Red Sea.

According to information shared by the Jeddah Tourism Board through its official channels, the attraction aligns with the city’s wider strategy to position Jeddah as a year-round leisure hub. Winter Wonderland is scheduled to run throughout the peak holiday period, offering travellers an opportunity to combine coastal relaxation with festive entertainment in one destination.

What visitors can expect at Winter Wonderland

Produced and managed by IMG, Winter Wonderland will transform a dedicated area of Jeddah into a snow-inspired playground, complete with winter décor, twinkling lights and themed installations. The attraction brings together entertainment, dining and retail in a single walkable venue, making it particularly appealing for families travelling with children.

Key features include a compact theme park with rides suitable for all age groups, an ice-skating rink designed for both beginners and confident skaters, and interactive snow-based activities that recreate a classic winter atmosphere despite the city’s mild climate. Seasonal markets will showcase crafts, souvenirs and festive treats, while a diverse selection of food and beverage outlets will cater to both local tastes and international palates.

Tourism officials have indicated that the layout has been carefully planned to ensure ease of movement, shaded rest areas and multiple indoor zones, enhancing comfort for guests visiting with young children or elderly family members.

New family-focused attractions and experiences

For families, Winter Wonderland introduces several new experiences not previously seen in Jeddah. Interactive play zones allow children to engage with snow-themed games, while live performances and roaming entertainers add an element of surprise throughout the day. Evening hours are expected to be particularly popular, with light shows and music creating a festive atmosphere after sunset.

Parents can enjoy winter-inspired dining concepts while children participate in supervised activities, making the venue suitable for extended visits. Tourism planners have noted in indirect remarks that the attraction has been designed to encourage repeat visits, with rotating performances and themed days planned across the season.

From London to the Red Sea

Winter Wonderland is a globally recognised concept, first launched in 2005 at Hyde Park, where it quickly became one of Europe’s most visited seasonal attractions. Its expansion to Saudi Arabia began during Riyadh Season in 2019, where it attracted large crowds and set new benchmarks for winter entertainment in the region.

Its arrival in Jeddah marks the first time the concept has been adapted for a coastal city, blending winter traditions with seaside culture. This contrast is expected to be a major draw for international tourists seeking novel experiences that combine familiar festivities with a new destination.

Boosting tourism during the winter months

The launch of Winter Wonderland is widely seen as a strategic addition to Jeddah Season’s growing portfolio of events. Tourism authorities have suggested indirectly that such attractions play a vital role in extending visitor stays, increasing hotel occupancy and supporting local businesses during the winter period.

By offering a family-oriented attraction with broad international appeal, Jeddah strengthens its position on the global tourism map. The event complements existing offerings such as heritage districts, waterfront promenades and cultural festivals, encouraging travellers to explore more of the city beyond the attraction itself.

A warm welcome to a winter escape

As Jeddah continues its transformation into a leading tourism destination, Winter Wonderland represents more than a seasonal event; it reflects the city’s ambition to surprise and delight visitors year-round. For families planning winter holidays, the attraction offers a reason to choose Jeddah as a festive escape, where winter magic meets Red Sea hospitality.

Winter Wonderland, combining leisure, fun and multicultural acceptance, is predicted not only to create unforgettable experiences but also to boost Jeddah’s standing as a top tourist spot in the Middle East.

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