JAPAN SEES SURGE IN GCC TRAVELLERS

Since introducing a full visa waiver for UAE nationals in November 2022, Japan has witnessed an increase in arrivals from the GCC. Visitors have been flocking to the East Asian island nation at levels similar to that recorded before the international decline in travel in 2020.

The number of UAE nationals visiting Japan in December 2022 was 18.6 per cent higher than in December 2019, while January 2023 saw only a 10.7 per cent difference in comparison to the same period in 2019. With the ongoing cherry blossom season, visitation is expected to rise further Daisuke Kobayashi, Executive Director of Japan National Tourism Organisation’s (JNTO) Dubai office, said: “The swift return and strong travel demand to Japan by the UAE and GCC nationals has been heart-warming and encouraging.”

As a result, the country has ramped up its efforts to entice travellers with attractive packages and new promotions highlighting Japan’s natural wonders and culinary delights.

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