Abu Dhabi has just witnessed a milestone in global tourism partnerships as the China Visitors Summit (CVS) brought together the world’s largest gathering of Chinese travel industry professionals ever held outside of China.

The summit, which unfolded across Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, welcomed nearly 160 prominent Chinese buyers, including travel agencies, tour operators, luxury travel specialists, MICE managers, and corporate planners. Their mission was clear, to connect directly with UAE tourism suppliers such as hotels, attractions, cultural venues, inbound tour operators, and shopping destinations.

Over two days at the Rotana Hotel and Conference Center in Al Ain, the energy was intense. More than 3,000 one-to-one business meetings took place, setting the stage for fresh collaborations. The combined market strength of these Chinese buyers is staggering  together, they delivered almost $1 billion in outbound travel business last year, representing over 1.5 million international travelers, many with an eye on the GCC, particularly the UAE.

China today stands as the world’s largest source of outbound tourists, with nearly 200 million passport holders and a similar number of annual trips. Their global travel spending has soared past $300 billion annually, underlining why destinations like the UAE see the Chinese market as vital for long-term growth.

The CVS provides a unique advantage for UAE suppliers. Companies can handpick the buyers they meet, whether their focus is luxury leisure travel, business trips, or MICE opportunities.

Highlighting the purpose of the summit, Alexander Glos, CEO of the China i2i Group, the organizer of CVS, said, “The China Visitors Summit is not just about meetings – it’s about building long-term partnerships between the UAE and China’s most powerful travel industry leaders. Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE are now firmly positioned as must-visit destinations for Chinese travelers, and the CVS provides the direct access, insights, and opportunities that suppliers need to succeed in this market.”

Since its launch in 2008, the China Visitors Summit has been staged more than 40 times across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, North America, and China, cementing its place as the leading B2B matchmaking platform connecting Chinese buyers with global suppliers.

With the UAE firmly on the radar of Chinese travelers, the latest edition of CVS has further strengthened Abu Dhabi’s image as a top-choice destination for one of the world’s most influential travel markets.

 In a move that promises easier travel, Argentina has eased entry rules for Indian citizens who already hold valid US visas. With this policy, Indians travelling on US tourist visas can now visit Argentina without the need for an additional Argentine visa.

The announcement was made by Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, who described it as “wonderful news for both Argentina and India.” Sharing the update on X, the ambassador added that Argentina is ready to welcome more Indian tourists to explore its rich culture and natural beauty.

“This is wonderful news for both Argentina and India. We’re ready to welcome more Indian tourists into our wonderful country,” he said.

The change in visa policy comes as India and Argentina continue to strengthen their bilateral relationship. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina’s President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires, underscoring growing cooperation between the two countries.

Agriculture has been a key focus of this partnership. In July, the second Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on agriculture was held in New Delhi, with both sides exploring collaboration in areas such as mechanisation, pest management, climate-resilient farming and joint research.

With smoother travel access now in place, the move is expected to encourage more Indian visitors to consider Argentina as a destination, while also furthering cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

Al Habtoor Hospitality has unveiled “The Rewarding Escape”, a one-of-a-kind experience that connects the timeless grandeur of Europe with the vibrant luxury of the Middle East. The offer allows guests to enjoy Budapest’s regal Al Habtoor Palace and Dubai’s modern hospitality landmarks in a seamless journey across continents.

The program invites travelers to begin their escape in Budapest, where the Al Habtoor Palace epitomizes imperial elegance with its ornate architecture, regal suites, and views of the Danube. Guests can then continue their adventure in Dubai, where sunlit suites overlook the Arabian Gulf and a skyline of futuristic marvels.

Under this initiative, travelers who book a suite for three or more nights at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest receive a complimentary one-night suite stay including breakfast at participating hotels in Dubai or vice versa. This distinctive offer creates a bridge between two worlds, combining Europe’s cultural heritage with Dubai’s cosmopolitan energy.

“The Rewarding Escape is our promise to deliver more than just a stay, it’s an invitation to experience the full spectrum of our hospitality,” said Sunder Iyer, Chief Operating Officer of Al Habtoor Hospitality. “Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a jewel in our European portfolio, and we are delighted to connect its imperial grandeur with the dynamic spirit of Dubai.”

Offer Details

• Valid for suite reservations made directly with the hotels until December 31, 2025
  

• Stays must be completed by May 31, 2026
  

• Complimentary night voucher issued after initial stay
  

• Subject to availability and blackout dates
  

Participating Hotels in “The Rewarding Escape”

Budapest:

• Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
  

Complimentary stay options in Dubai when booking Budapest:

• Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
  

• Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
  

• Al Habtoor Polo Resort
  

• Imperial Hotel Vienna
  

Dubai:

• Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
  

• Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
  

• Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
  

• Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City
  

• V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
  

• Al Habtoor Polo Resort
  

Complimentary stay redeemable at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest when booking Dubai.

With this initiative, Al Habtoor Hospitality aims to transform luxury travel into a multi-destination experience, allowing guests to embrace two worlds in one journey.