Kenya’s healthcare presents a paradox. There is a steady exodus for specialised treatments abroad, at the same time there is an influx of patients seeking Kenya’s specialised skills from the region.

A total of 569 patients were sent abroad for specialised care between 2021 and 2022, with India accounting for most of these referrals. In particular, 462 referrals or four out of every five patients, went to India, accounting for an outstanding 81.2 percent. Singapore, South Africa, and Israel are other markets where Kenyans sought specialised treatment.

The most common treatment sought abroad was open heart surgery (71 patients), followed by stem cell replacements (44) and bone marrow transplants (29). Other notable treatments were kidney transplants (11), liver transplants (21), radiotherapy (26), and arterial switch operations (20). Notably, 19 patients sought medical evaluation for wellness, diagnosis and alternative treatment options, and 17 travelled for chemotherapy.

The wide range of treatments sought highlights the equally diverse needs of people travelling abroad for medical care. Reasons advanced for India as a preferred destination for medical referrals include its perceived professional medical care at more affordable prices when compared to other markets.

While Kenyans seek advanced treatments overseas, Kenya paradoxically enjoys a strong reputation among its East African neighbours, attracting referrals from Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia. Additionally, its expertise draws patients from further afield, with referrals from Nigeria and even the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the Ministry of Health, Kenya gets 3,000 to 5,000 medical tourists from other African countries.

Patients from these countries sought specialised treatment from both public and private hospitals. The Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), for example, received 250 patients from neighbouring countries seeking specialised treatment. Many others were treated in various public and private health facilities.

This demonstrates that Kenya can position itself as a leading regional medical tourism destination in East Africa and beyond, attracting patients from around the world and stimulating growth across multiple sectors. In addition to helping the healthcare sector, the ensuing economic growth would empower communities, generate new employment opportunities, and advance Kenya’s overall development.

The private sector will also play a key role in investing in advancing medical tourism in the country.

As we navigate through 2024, let us accelerate plans for a thriving medical tourism market in Kenya. If successful, a thriving medical tourism market would uplift lives and livelihoods.

Dr Kariuki is the KPMDC CEO.

Source: PD.

DUBAI: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today visited One&Only One Za’abeel, the first vertical urban resort in Dubai.

During the visit, His Highness highlighted the pivotal role of the tourism sector in Dubai’s economic expansion. He noted the significant growth of the sector in recent years, driven by an increasing number of visitors. Strong partnerships between public and private sectors have been key to Dubai’s success in delivering exceptional tourism services and facilities, he said.

Dubai is shaping a bright future brimming with new possibilities, with initiatives and projects that are opening new horizons of growth, excellence and innovation, His Highness noted. The emirate has charted a unique path for sustainable development with a strong focus on creating an exceptional environment for investors worldwide to harness the vast opportunities emerging from the emirate’s rise as a leading global business and tourist destination. Dubai is expanding its world-class infrastructure to realise the vast growth promise of its various sectors, including tourism. His Highness stated that these efforts are accelerating efforts to achieve the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to make the city one of the world’s top three urban economies.

Accompanying His Highness Sheikh Mohammed during the visit were H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; and Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Managing Director, Investment Corporation of Dubai.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was briefed about One&Only One Za’abeel, the first vertical urban resort in Dubai developed by Kerzner International. The latest addition to Dubai’s hospitality offerings features 229 opulent hotel rooms and suites distributed across 15 floors, as well as diverse services and an array of exceptional dining options crafted by a distinguished team of world-class chefs. The resort also has sports facilities and an infinity pool, the longest in Dubai, stretching 120 metres and soaring 100 metres above ground level.

The opening of the urban resort in early January comes at a time when the emirate’s tourism industry is experiencing significant growth, providing visitors with a wide range of choices. Recent statistics from the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai reveal that by the end of November 2023, the city had a total of 149,680 hotel rooms in 820 establishments. This marks a significant rise from the 145,000 hotel rooms in 794 establishments recorded at the end of November 2022.

Source: Zawya.

Dubai has secured the top spot as the No.1 global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards 2024 for the third consecutive year, making it the first city to achieve this remarkable milestone in succession. The recognition comes as the city marks the first anniversary of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, underscoring the success of the visionary strategy launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The ambitious agenda aims to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

Dubai’s top international ranking was announced by TripadvisorⓇ, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, in its Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024: Best of the Best Destinations. These back-to-back accolades for Dubai assume even more significance because the winners are exclusively chosen based on the reviews of millions of global travellers as part of Tripadvisor’s community. The awards look at the quality and quantity of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and experiences in each destination over a period of 12 months between 1 October, 2022 through 30 September 2023.

Commenting on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Dubai’s consistent global accomplishments, especially in the economic sector, stand as a clear testament to the emirate’s progress in translating the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum into tangible successes and realising the ambitious goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three global economic cities within the next decade.

“Dubai has earned the prestigious title of the No.1 global destination in the 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive time, establishing the emirate as the first city worldwide to achieve such recognition. This accomplishment underscores our success and reflects the outcomes of our developmental efforts in this crucial economic sector. Our strategic goal is to prioritise visitor happiness and satisfaction, and we pledge to continue our efforts in ongoing development, supported by a strong partnership with the private sector. Committed to maintaining and surpassing these achievements, we look forward to even greater successes in the future,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

Sheikh Hamdan also commended Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism for its efforts in promoting Dubai’s tourism potential and introducing a range of options to meet visitors’ aspirations. He acknowledged the city’s commitment to providing excellent services, tourism facilities, and world-class infrastructure. His Highness also expressed appreciation for all the sectors and government entities that played a crucial role in Dubai achieving this milestone.

The repeated acknowledgement of Dubai as the world’s favourite destination is a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse offerings, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors. Combining homegrown talent, entrepreneurship and concepts with international investment and partnerships, Dubai’s unique proposition has seen tourism become a vital contributor to overall economic growth, accounting for over 10% of the city’s GDP.

His Excellency, Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), commented: “Dubai’s unprecedented achievement of being named the No. 1 top global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards 2024 for the third successive year has only been possible thanks to the outstanding efforts of stakeholders and partners across the tourism sector, and their strong response to the visionary leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. One year into the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and with the city striving to consolidate its status as a top global destination for business and tourism, the award acknowledges the efficacy of our efforts so far, while also further raising the bar for what we can collectively achieve.

“In an increasingly competitive international tourism ecosystem, Dubai’s consistent leadership in global metrics has been built on robust, ever-evolving infrastructure, a commitment to providing best-in-class services, and effective marketing and outreach that has seen the city identify, reach and satisfy a diverse range of travellers from around the world. Supported by our stakeholders, we will continue to take an agile approach to further elevate Dubai as a destination and meet our ambitious targets.”

The top Tripadvisor award is the latest addition to a series of global accolades bestowed on Dubai, further validating the city’s appeal as a multifaceted destination. In 2023, Dubai was ranked the No.1 city in the world to relocate to, in a report by financial services provider Remitly, and was ranked the best city in the world for remote workers by property consultancy Savills in their top 20 list of the 2023 Executive Nomad Index.

Additionally, Dubai was named the world’s No. 2 city destination in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 and also ranked one of the top 10 cities in the Global Power City Index, in a report issued by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies in Japan. The UAE was also named the second safest country in the world in 2023, according to findings revealed by Numbeo, the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. This recognition has further strengthened Dubai’s attractiveness as a top global liveability hub that provides a unique lifestyle, underpinned by high safety and security standards that allow travellers to visit the city with peace of mind.

His Excellency, Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: “This landmark achievement embodies the incredible spirit of collaboration between Dubai’s public and private stakeholders that has led to countless memorable experiences for our guests. Global travellers in search of a safe, secure, and easily accessible destination have embraced Dubai’s diverse attractions catering to various segments, including families, thrill-seekers, business visitors, and cultural explorers. They acknowledge the city for its distinctive experiences that are exclusive to Dubai.

“We are honoured by the continued appreciation and encouragement of our international visitors, with their reviews and ratings providing ample testimony for their cherished memories that inspire others to explore the exceptional offerings of our destination. As consumer demands and trends further evolve, and aided by the feedback we receive through Tripadvisor and other digital platforms, as well as directly from tourists within the city itself, we will continue to work with our stakeholders to maintain the highest standards across city’s offerings and services, and ensure visitors have an unrivalled experience in Dubai.”

Dubai’s exceptional quality of life, initiatives facilitating easy entry, robust air connectivity, and globally acclaimed culinary scene collectively establish it as the preferred destination for visitors. Dubai’s efforts to stay at the forefront of global tourism involve constant regulatory, infrastructure, and travel initiatives that play a pivotal role in further accelerating tourism momentum. In October 2023, Dubai and Real Madrid announced a landmark global partnership in October to further elevate awareness of the city internationally in line with the D33 Agenda to position Dubai as one of the top three global cities.

According to the latest data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai welcomed 15.37 million international overnight visitors between January and November 2023, a 20% increase over the same period in 2022.

 Source:  Media Office.

Kenya is among 52 places in the world to travel in 2024, according to latest New York Times annual travel list.

The paper’s experts have compiled this year’s list of destinations with sustainable travel and cultural events in mind as many regions realize slow but steady recovery from Covid-19 pandemic which hit international tourist arrivals hard.

The world renowned Tsavo National Park in Taita Taveta County has made it to the list as a favourite for would-be tourists. Africa has four key spots identified by the report in Madagascar, Morocco and Egypt as both captivating and alluring for tourists.

“From supporting local recovery in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Morocco and celebrating Africa’s most successful elephant rehabilitation programme at the Tsavo National Park, Kenya, to exploring textiles and contemporary art in Madagascar and Hurghada’s abundant marine ecosystem, The Times has travel ideas for every type of traveller,” reads an excerpt of the report.

In Kenya, the elephant population has grown by 21 per cent since 2014, to a total of 36,280. Almost half live in Tsavo, home to Africa’s most successful elephant rehabilitation programme, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

The remarkable story of Tsavo has encouraged conservation projects abound, plus eco-lodges which have thereby contributed to the economic mainstay of the communities around through employment with tourists relishing the unique ecosystem.

International tourists

With important components therein like orphanages and clinics, the animals being protected in that enclosure have found a home worthy of note with international organisations engaging in partnerships to rehabilitate and do away with poaching. This in turn is attracting buzzing interest from local and international tourists to come and have a date with the over 40,000 animals total on location.

In 2024, the Trust plans to open the first lodge next to the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, dedicated to saving the critically endangered black rhino. In an effort to support “rhino activities” in the Tsavo West NP rhino areas, Tsavo Trust has partnered with the Kenya Wildlife Service by establishing a unique “Rhino Viewing Platform” at one of the main waterholes within the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary. The aim being to offer visitors a rare and exclusive opportunity to view rhino close up with the backdrop of the prehistoric-looking Ngulia cliffs.

Morocco that recently suffered a strong damaging earth tremor that killed 3,000 persons, had some eye-catching attraction sites too, according to the report. “Places like Ourika Valley is considered dreamy as it sits just facing the majestic Atlas Mountain,” it says.

The place offers a variety of activities that tourists can love like fresh cuisine, hiking and horseback riding and it is near the centuries old Marrakesh City. In Madagascar, there are more than tourism aspects in play which offer wildlife viewing and wildlife exploration.

However, now the vibe in Antananarivo is all about Art as the scene explodes with the Capital City housing a magnificent Museum known as La Fondation H that opened its doors to the public last year in April.

The contemporary art space was created to showcase Malagasy talents. One of the star production legends Madam Zo has a dedicated area where her pieces of textiles, basketry and fabrics from Madagascar stand tall, the Times report adds.

Source: PD.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai Calendar, the official listing platform for events in the city, is providing Dubai residents and tourists with a plethora of things to do to kickstart 2024, across live music, entertainment, community, and sports.

Key events in January include the ever-popular Quoz Arts Festival, the annual Dubai Desert Classic, Michael McIntyre’s comedy performance and a much-anticipated return to the Emirates from superstar, Ed Sheeran.

Here are Dubai Calendar’s top picks of upcoming and ongoing events this January:

COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

Dubai Shopping Festival will continue until 14 January, providing retail lovers with an array of deals, fun and surprises across malls and shopping destinations in Dubai.

The much-loved Quoz Arts Fest will make its return delighting creative enthusiasts at Alserkal Avenue from 27-28 January marking its 11th edition. Packed with curated workshops, exhibitions, and live musical performances – Quoz Arts Fest has all ages covered with an array of activities targeted at children, as well as four-legged friends with the event billed as dog-friendly.

Celebrate the world of literature at the annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, the region’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word. Set to take place from 31 January to 6 February at the Intercontinental Dubai Festival City, book lovers of all ages can connect with their favourite authors, partake in literary debates, and join engaging workshops.

SPORTS FOR ALL

Dubai Marathon 2024, one of the region’s biggest annual athletic events, will take place on 7 January offering a run with a view as participants pass landmarks including Madinat Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. With two options depending on skill level between 42km, 10km or a family-friendly 4km, participants are encouraged to sign up in advance for the landmark event.

Golf fans unite as the legendary World No. 2, Rory Mcllory, is set to showcase his skills on the greens at Dubai Creek Resort from 11-14 January for Dubai Invitational. With more than 60 professionals playing with 60 amateur golfers to win incredible prizes, spectators should keep their eyes peeled for other top players, business leaders and celebrities.

The Sevens Stadium is gearing up to host the HSBC Sevens Challenger Series from 12-14 January, welcoming rugby players from across the globe to compete to win a spot in the coveted HSBC SVNS Series.

Rory Mcllroy will make his second Dubai based golfing appearance for 2024 at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, where he makes his bid to become the first four-time winner of the event. A packed line up with World Top 20 players including Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrell Hatton among other stars, the series will run alongside a host of family-friendly activities as well as an array of food trucks at the prestigious Majlis Course in Emirates Golf Club.

The 21 January is ideal for those looking to tick off a bucket list style run with the Burj2Burj which marks its inaugural edition and welcomes runners to race the 21.1km from Burj Al Arab to Burj Khalifa.

The inaugural Dubai Challenge Cup 2024 will see Wuhan Three Towns, Al-Ahli Saudi, Zamalek, and Raja Club Athletic compete in ‘The Challenge of Champions’ event at Al Maktoum Stadium from 26-28 January. The hotly anticipated football event will see stars including Roberto Firmino, Allan Saint-Maximin, Ahmed Abou El Fotouhm Shikabala and play in the tournament.

Hankook 24H, the grueling endurance race and the second largest 24-hour race grid in the world, will see petrolheads gather at Dubai Autodrome from 27-28 January. With a packed bill of international drivers, the event will see premium brands including Porsche, Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz compete to take the coveted chequered flag.

ENTERTAINMENT AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY

Tunes DXB celebrates local and regional talent at key destinations across Dubai including Al Khawaneej Walk, Al Seef, Box Park, Bluewaters, Dubai Festival City Mall, Last Exit Al Khawaneej and DxBike, located next to Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City and more from 5-14 January. Inclusive of rock, pop and Bollywood – Tunes DXB has events for all music tastes.

Cinephiles can rejoice at the Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival held by Dubai Culture for its third edition from 12-21 January at Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. The 10-day film event will provide a platform for works from regional and local directors, as well as an array of family-friendly activities.

Kids hoping to catch a glimpse of their favourite PAW Patrol characters can head to Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall for PAW Patrol Fest from 12-28 January for a show inspired by the popular series.

Enjoy a captivating performance from Arabic hitmaker, Majed Al Mohandis who will be performing at Coca-Cola Arena on 12 January with his setlist set to include crowd favourites such as Ana Wayyak, Ensaa and Eateni Waqtan.

Following a sold-out tour across the world, Michael McIntyre, the brilliant British comic is set to have audiences roaring at Coca Cola Arena on 13 January. Expected to sell out, fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early to avoid disappointment.

K-pop music continues to take over the world with their latest event in Dubai set to bring music lovers together for the night at Coca-Cola Arena for KPOP OVERDOSE. Electrifying performances can be expected from a trio of superstars – Chanyeol, Xiumin and Chen on 14 January.

Ed Sheeran, the English singer, songwriter is gearing up to make his return to Dubai for two nights at The Sevens Stadium as part of his ‘+ – = ÷ x’ Mathematics Tour. With the second night of his show sold out already, fans can still purchase tickets for his performance on 19 January.

Take a nostalgic trip back to the 90s with Saudi Arabian icon, Khalid Abdelrahman on 19 January for an electrifying night of Arabic classics including Ahat, Sarihini and Tedhkar at the Coca-Cola Arena.

Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi is set to blow audiences away with performances at Dubai Opera from 19-21 January. With the legendary pianist selling out of the venue four times, fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Billed as the one of the world’s most beloved children’s stories, Le Petit Prince will ensue at Dubai Opera from 25-28 January. Based around a pilot who meets a young boy from another planet, the performance is packed with music and dance in stunning staging.

Marvel Universe is a phenomenon that has popularity across the entire globe – fans are set to come together for a one-of-a-kind show at Coca-Cola Arena from 25 January – 4 February. Expect favourite characters including Iron Man, Black Panther, Spider Man and more who will transport guests to another dimension with an immersive video projection, and special effects.

Head to Bla Bla Dubai to enjoy live performances from pop rock group, OneRepublic, on 25 January as part of their Artificial Paradise world tour. Fans can expect top songs including Counting Stars, Apologise and I Lived as part of the set.

Enjoy the cooler climes in January and head to Expo City for Break The Block, a union of incredible musicians including a DJ set by Nightmares on Wax, Shadi Megallaa and more on 26 January.

Dubai Calendar allows residents and tourists to discover upcoming events and purchase tickets quickly and securely through Dubai Calendar’s website and the mobile application’s purchasing platform. For more information about all events taking place across Dubai, please visit:  www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar.

About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)

With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world’s leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city’s economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade.

Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai’s diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall.

DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai’s business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. The DET portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Licence Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).

Source: Zawya.