Al Ain Named Arab Capital of Tourism for 2026
The Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism has selected Al Ain Region as Arab Capital of Tourism for 2026, adding to its renown as a premier regional destination and building on its success as GCC Capital of Tourism 2025. It is the first time a destination has earned the Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism titles in consecutive years. The decision was made during the 36th session of the Executive Office of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism in Baghdad, Iraq, with a UAE delegation led by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, representing Minister Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri.
In support of the recognition, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will collaborate with partners to deliver a year-long programme in 2026 of cultural events, festivals, community initiatives and promotional campaigns. The winning nomination highlighted Al Ain Region's modern and sustainable infrastructure, digital readiness, integrated mobility systems, accessibility for People of Determination, environmental stewardship, and its mix of heritage, cultural, nature-based and family-oriented attractions. Al Ain Region follows Manama, Bahrain as the GCC's annual tourism capital, and follows Baghdad, Iraq as the Arab Ministerial Council's appointed capital.
Oasis City Sees Sharp Rise in Visitors
Al Ain Region's rising appeal as a destination is reflected in its first-half 2026 hotel visitation figures, which rose 12% year-on-year to 228,000 guests. Among specific attractions, Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a centuries-old falaj irrigation system, recorded a 40% increase in visits during the first half, the historic fort Qasr Al Muwaiji gained 49%, and Al Qattara Arts Centre was up 42%. DCT Abu Dhabi also reopened the Al Ain Museum after an extensive renovation.
Known as the "Garden City" for its lush oases at the foot of Jebel Hafeet mountain, Al Ain is one of the UAE's oldest cities, home to historic forts including Al Jahili Fort, the hot springs atop Jebel Hafeet, and the family-friendly Al Ain Zoo. Full details of the events and programming set to mark Al Ain Region's year as Arab Capital of Tourism 2026 are expected to be announced in due course.
