In the heart of Kuwait, where the desert meets the sea, a new wave of tourism is emerging, led by visionary entrepreneurs like Abdullah Alsoudan. As the founder of Happidaze, Abdullah has transformed his passion for people and experiences into a thriving local tour operation, redefining how residents and visitors alike perceive Kuwait.
A Global Beginning
Abdullah’s journey into tourism began far from the sands of Kuwait. His educational experiences abroad, particularly attending a boarding elementary school in the UK, played a significant role in shaping his meticulous approach to tour planning. This early exposure to diverse cultures and environments instilled in him a broad perspective, allowing him to curate tours that cater to participants from various backgrounds.
The Birth of Happidaze
Initially, Abdullah was a tour participant, relishing the camaraderie and shared experiences that group travels offered. His love for engaging with others naturally led him to guide tours himself, starting with international trips. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to pivot his focus toward local tourism. Friends and former travel companions encouraged him to organize experiences within Kuwait, and thus, his journey as a local tour operator began.
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Challenges and Triumphs
Introducing the concept of local group tours in Kuwait was not without its challenges. Many locals were skeptical about the idea of touring their own country, often associating tourism with international travel. Abdullah faced the task of convincing them that local tours could be just as entertaining and enriching.
“People always ask, ‘Do we actually have tourism in Kuwait?'” he says. Changing this perception is part of his mission, and he has seen progress through the enthusiastic participation of locals and businesses. “Businesses are very supportive, wanting to be part of this tour, providing services, and contributing to the experience.”
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Despite these challenges, Abdullah persevered, focusing on creating unique and immersive experiences that showcased Kuwait’s rich culture and heritage. His efforts paid off, with more than 50% of his participants becoming returning customers, a testament to the quality and appeal of his tours.
Crafting Unique Experiences
What sets Happidaze apart is Abdullah’s emphasis on experiences rather than just destinations. He believes that tourism is another form of entertainment, aiming to bring joy to people through his tours. This philosophy is reflected in the name of his company, Happidaze, symbolizing the happiness and memorable days he strives to create for his participants.
One of his most memorable tours was last year’s National Day Fiesta. Inspired by his family’s tradition of renting a bus and celebrating with music and flags, Abdullah brought the same spirit to his clients. “What made it special was the introduction of a traditional ladies’ band,” he says. Coordinating this was no easy feat, as the musicians were not accustomed to working outside of weddings or engaging in business agreements. However, the challenge was worth it. “The result was absolutely astonishing. Everybody was happy. The tour got the exposure it deserved.”
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Building a Community
Beyond the tours themselves, Abdullah places a strong emphasis on building a sense of community among his participants. He ensures that everyone feels included and connected, fostering an environment where strangers can become friends. This approach not only enhances the tour experience but also contributes to a growing community of local tourism enthusiasts in Kuwait.
Looking Ahead
Abdullah is not resting on his laurels. He is currently working on making Happidaze a well-known and trusted name in local tours, extending their services to private tours for groups of friends, families, or corporations. He also aims to establish fruitful collaborations with all tourism-related entities, further enriching the tourism landscape in Kuwait.
Looking ahead, Abdullah dreams of developing a tour focused on Kuwait’s diverse plant species, adding another layer to his immersive experiences. He also hopes to explore South America, one of the few parts of the world he has yet to visit. Through it all, his approach remains rooted in authenticity. “My content stands out because it’s real. I stay close to people and how they think, rather than focusing on everything being perfect.”
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Inspiring Others
Abdullah’s journey from a tour participant to a pioneer in local tourism serves as an inspiration to many. His story highlights the importance of passion, resilience, and the willingness to challenge societal norms to create something meaningful. For those looking to explore Kuwait through a new lens, Abdullah’s tours offer not just sightseeing, but memorable experiences that foster connections and celebrate the rich tapestry of Kuwaiti culture.
Connect with Abdullah
To stay updated on Abdullah’s latest tours and initiatives, follow him on Instagram at @soovoyage and his company at @happidazekw. For booking and more information, visit the Happidaze website at happidazekw.com.
Conclusion
Abdullah Alsoudan’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. By redefining tourism in Kuwait, he has not only created a successful business but also fostered a sense of community and pride among locals. His story serves as an inspiration to those looking to make a difference in their communities and showcases the potential of local tourism in bringing people together.
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