United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong Tourism Boards Unite to Boost Leisure Travel from Dubai to Asia’s World City with Exclusive Travel Deals

Published on May 12, 2025

In a strategic effort to invigorate outbound travel from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Wego, the region’s leading travel app and largest online travel marketplace, has partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to promote Hong Kong as a dynamic, must-visit destination.

This landmark collaboration aims to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and diverse tourism experiences to MENA travelers—marking a significant move in regional tourism marketing for East Asia.

Inspiring MENA Travellers to Rediscover Hong Kong

With a dramatic rise in post-pandemic travel across the MENA region, destinations that offer a compelling mix of urban excitement and cultural authenticity have become highly sought-after. Hong Kong, often referred to as Asia’s World City, stands out for its:

• Iconic skyline and modern infrastructure
• Legendary street food and culinary diversity
• Blend of Eastern tradition and Western modernity
• Rich cultural and historical attractions
• Accessible natural trails and green escapes
• Family-friendly attractions like Disneyland Hong Kong
• World-class shopping, luxury hospitality, and wellness

The Wego-HKTB partnership aims to capitalize on these features and present Hong Kong as the ultimate hybrid destination, catering to leisure seekers, families, luxury travelers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Executive Insights on the Collaboration

Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego:
“We’re excited to join forces with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to introduce the magic of Hong Kong. From its dynamic skyline and legendary street food to peaceful nature trails and shopping havens, Hong Kong offers something for every type of traveler. As travel demand from the MENA region surges—especially during summer and holiday periods—this partnership enables us to inspire more travelers through tailored content, exclusive deals, and seamless planning.”

Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of HKTB:
“The Middle East is a key market for us. With visa-free access for GCC nationals, effortless connectivity, and a diversity of experiences, Hong Kong is perfectly positioned as both a gateway to Asia and a luxury leisure hub.”

Key Highlights of the Strategic Partnership

The collaboration will focus on engaging and influencing regional travelers through highly targeted marketing campaigns and digital experiences.

Co-Branded Digital Campaigns

• Customized marketing tailored to MENA travel preferences
• Social media storytelling and video content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
• Geo-targeted ads showcasing travel itineraries, exclusive offers, and booking options

Influencer Collaborations

• Middle Eastern content creators to share personal travel stories
• Authentic cultural experiences in Hong Kong
• Curated luxury, culinary, and adventure itineraries

Travel Technology Integration

• Real-time deals on Wego’s app and website
• AI-powered search for comparing airlines, hotels, and packages
• Instant booking features with price alerts and trip customization

Why Hong Kong Appeals to MENA Tourists

Hong Kong offers a unique fusion of attractions that cater to the distinct tastes of travelers from the Middle East:

• Visa-Free Entry: Easy access for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals
• Luxury Shopping: From heritage brands to modern malls
• Family-Friendly Activities: Disneyland, Victoria Peak, Ocean Park
• Halal-Friendly Options: Dining and accommodations tailored for Muslim travelers
• Climate and Connectivity: Year-round appeal and direct flights from MENA hubs

Driving Tourism with Data-Backed Strategy

Wego, known for its user-first travel search experience, will utilize its real-time consumer insights and booking trends to guide campaign content. This data-centric approach ensures that Hong Kong’s offerings resonate with the preferences of travelers from cities like Dubai, Riyadh, Doha, and Cairo.

The HKTB’s participation guarantees accurate cultural representation, diverse experiences, and alignment with sustainability and modern tourism values. The goal: elevate Hong Kong from a stopover city to a primary leisure destination for the MENA region.

Economic and Cultural Impact

This initiative is expected to:

• Drive substantial tourism revenue from high-spending travelers
• Encourage longer stays and repeat visits
• Promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding
• Increase flight bookings and hotel occupancy across Hong Kong
• Support local businesses and tourism service providers

About Wego

Wego is the number one travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the MENA region. Founded in 2005, the company is headquartered in Dubai and Singapore, with additional operations in Bangalore, Riyadh, Cairo, Lahore, and Kuala Lumpur.

Wego provides award-winning travel search websites and mobile apps for consumers in Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Its advanced technology offers travelers:

• Comprehensive price comparison across airlines and hotels
• Seamless booking directly with airlines, hotels, or third-party platforms
• Access to both global and local travel deals in real time

Conclusion

As the MENA region’s appetite for travel continues to rise, the Wego-HKTB partnership stands as a powerful example of cross-regional cooperation in tourism marketing. By presenting Hong Kong as a city of contrast and connection, Wego and HKTB are set to redefine travel experiences for Middle Eastern audiences and drive a new wave of culturally enriching, meaningful tourism.