Travel intent to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is beginning to show a strong uptick, and flight search levels to the country have increased dramatically since the end of May. Although all search volumes to the region remain below those seen last year, searches to the UAE now stand at 57% down year-over-year, compared to -88% in mid-April, showing positive signs of recovery as restrictions continue to be lifted. An example of such an announcement is that Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management announced easing of restrictions on activities across Dubai, including lifting the restriction on those above 60, or under 12, entering shopping malls as of June 18. With regards to travel into the region, air bridges with European countries are due to be announced this week which will allow travellers to visit various countries, without quarantine. In addition, Dubai residents can return from June 22 with General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs approval, and tourists are welcome from July 7 under new air travel protocols. With announcements such as these, we can expect global travel intent to the Middle East and Africa (MEA) to rise to all countries affected by the lifting of restrictions, followed eventually by an increase in bookings once traveller confidence returns. Given the recency of some of these announcements, we will likely see more of an impact in the coming weeks.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has released new data measuring the impact of COVID-19 on the sector, as tourism slowly restarts in an increasing number of countries. UNWTO emphasises the need for responsibility, safety and security as restrictions on travel are lifted. The Organization also reiterates the need for credible commitment to support tourism as a pillar for recovery. After several months of unprecedented disruption, the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer reports that the sector is beginning to restart in some areas, most notably in Northern Hemisphere destinations. At the same time, restrictions on travel remain in place in a majority of global destinations, and tourism remains one of the worst affected of all sectors. Against this backdrop, UNWTO has reiterated its call for governments and international organizations to support tourism, a lifeline for many millions and a backbone of economies. Restarting tourism in a responsible way a priority. The gradual lifting of restrictions in some countries, together with the creation of travel corridors, the resumption of some international flights and enhanced safety and hygiene protocols, are among the measures being introduced by governments as they look to restart tourism.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) reaffirmed its strong commitment to support its stakeholders in the UAE and across the world through a series of virtual meetings to discuss the current and post-pandemic situation. The meetings specifically reviewed the robust mechanism in place to safeguard the health of residents and visitors, and addressed a wide range of queries raised by participants on industry-related COVID-19 regulations, the phased reopening of economic sectors and various measures to kick-start the tourism sector. Presided by the Director General of Dubai Tourism, the meetings were attended by hoteliers and top executives of hospitality groups including Jumeirah, Emaar Hospitality Group, Marriott International, Hilton, IHG, Millennium Group, Accor, Kerzner International, AAAGroup, Investment Corporation of Dubai, Nakheel, Majid Al Futtaim, Lakhraim, Abu Dhabi National Hotel, JA Resorts and Hotels, IHG, Shangri-La, Al Habtoor Group, Atlantis – The Palm, Hyatt International, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, Wasl Hospitality and Rotana, in addition to Emirates. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Tourism, commented, “As the continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors is key to reviving and maintaining tourism growth, it is encouraging to know that this unique model of public-private sector partnership combined with the comprehensive result-oriented citywide management of the COVID-19 pandemic, has already contributed towards achieving significant progress in the current and second phase of our recovery plan, which is the gradual reopening of economic sectors.” HE Helal Almarri added, “With travel behaviours remaining fluid and travellers set to become even more discerning and prudent in their travel choices, we welcome the commitment shown by our partners to work together to help prepare the ground for a meaningful tourism …

In just a few hours, at 11am UAE time the next session exploring Spain from home will take you to the northern parts of the destination. To participate please contact Crisna de Guzman at crisna.deguzman@ddppl.com or call +971505074618, +971554704200. We are quite familiar with Canary islands but there are others that are equally enjoyable for visitors that look for new destinations and experiences. The country will open to foreign tourists from next week, hence Daniel Rosado Bayon – Director of the Spanish Tourism Office in Abu Dhabi will share more details about what will be important to visit the destination. Northern Spain is considered as one of the green covered destinations, this includes Canary islands of volcanic origin in the Atlantic, Balearic islands in the Mediterranean. They offer paradise beaches with green sceneries, great nature, amazing gastronomy and history. Another few key factors are that they have mild temperatures and plenty of space to move around easily and without getting disturbed. You can enjoy a whole trip up to northern Spain in the comfort of your home within just one hour. So, go ahead and register now!!

The Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management announced its decision to start welcoming visitors and tourists from overseas beginning July 7, 2020. The new decisions are supported by protocols and preventive measures aimed at safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all passengers travelling into or out of Dubai Airports. The Committee said the marked progress achieved by the emirate in combating the virus with strict precautionary measures implemented at national and local levels has earned it worldwide praise. Dubai’s rapid response to the global pandemic combined with the concerted efforts of the government and private sector and the commitment of the community have helped significantly reduce the spread of the virus.

Meliã Desert Palm Dubai received their five-star certification from the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Government of Dubai, the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. Since the hotel’s opening in March 2008, the ownership, management, as well as the supporting entities for the property have all invested in the resort to extend the guest experience and elevate the services the retreat offers, providing a well-rounded stay for guests, including the Desert Palm Polo Club and Desert Palm Riding School. The resort has refined its dining and wellness facilities with the opening of their signature restaurant, RARE, serving the finest grills and Argentinian dishes, while the property’s bespoke spa, Samāna Spa, provides some of Dubai’s best treatments and unique therapies. The retreat’s location amidst lush green polo fields, offers a tranquil escape for relaxation and even makes it an ideal location for destination weddings. Meliã Desert Palm Dubai is also home to fully appointed private pool villas, providing utmost privacy for a revitalising getaway. The evolution of the resort over the last decade or so has allowed for a significant uplift for guests and visitors to the hotel. Nathalie Cockayne, the resort’s General Manager said of the certification, “This has been a decade in the making, and anyone involved in achieving this milestone should be proud. We’re also grateful to the owner for supporting this ambitious plan and for having the vision and encouragement for the team to see this to its conclusion.” Ortiz Enrique, Vice President (EMEA Regional) of Meliã Hotels International, said, “It is a point of pride in our expanding Middle East portfolio, and it’s a tremendous achievement for …

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of flydubai said the decisions to issue new travel protocols for citizens, residents and tourists travelling through Dubai airports and welcome returning residents will strengthen the economy by boosting one of its major pillars, the tourism and travel sector; under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The impetus received by the new announcement will enable the national carriers to reinforce their leading position in the global travel industry, he said. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said, “The move comes at a time when the world is preparing to resume economic activities across sectors. Travel and tourism are among the key industries at the forefront of spurring global economic recovery. Our airports and national carriers are resuming larger scale operations by stringently implementing globally benchmarked precautionary and preventive measures that protect the health and safety of travellers.” His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum confirmed that Emirates Airlines and flydubai are geared to provide the highest quality of services for passengers following implementation of the new protocols. The new protocols enable citizens and residents to travel to destinations that have started to receive flights in accordance with protocols put in place by their governments. They also allow residents to travel back to Dubai in accordance with measures implemented to prevent spread of the virus. HH Sheikh Ahmed noted that both airline companies have developed a clear set of protocols to safeguard the health and safety of all passengers …

R Hotels unveils its new website and mobile application to allow users to conveniently book at its seven properties in the UAE. The website rhotels.ae and the mobile app ‘R Hotels’, which is free to download and available across all iOS and Android devices, both feature a platform which allows users to choose from seven hotels and directly book their stay. The latest promotions on the short and long-term stays, dining, spa & fitness, and meeting facilities at each hotel are also available on both channels. Other features include: a career section for job opportunities at each property, and a media centre with updates on news and events at the hotels. Guests can choose from R Hotels’ four properties in Dubai namely The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel, Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai, Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Dubai JBR, and ibis Styles Jumeira Dubai; and from its three hotels in Ajman which are Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche, Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Ajman, and Ramada by Wyndham Beach Hotel Ajman. R Hotels is also offering incentives for the first batch of users who will download and book their stay through the app. These include discounted room rates, food and beverage vouchers, and special discounts on restaurants and spa, among others. Sumair Tariq, managing director, R Hotels, commented, “The hospitality industry continues to evolve; our new website and mobile app are part of our enhanced digital strategy for 2020 and the years ahead. In keeping up with the latest trends in the industry, we aim to provide guests with a secure and convenient channel to book their stay at their preferred hotels, and explore the destination.”

Finnair and Sabre Corporation announced a new worldwide distribution partnership. Under the new agreement, Sabre will resume distributing competitive global Finnair content to hundreds of thousands of travel agents and thousands of corporations worldwide through its travel marketplace. Ole Orvér, Chief Commercial Officer, Finnair said, “We are delighted to promote our products and services through Sabre’s extraordinary network of travel agents worldwide as we rebuild our network and operations following the COVID-19 pandemic.” He added, “Travel agents continue to play a key role in the travel industry value chain and, together with Sabre, we will work to deliver the benefits of NDC technology. Ultimately, travel agents and their customers will enjoy more relevant and comprehensive travel solutions. As we ramp up our operations globally, it is imperative that customers have choice and flexibility in booking through their preferred direct or indirect channel. Travel agents contribute significantly to helping people regain the confidence to travel, which is absolutely essential for our industry.” “We are fortunate to enter this unprecedented period with new opportunities that will drive incremental revenue for both agencies and airlines”, said Wade Jones, President, Sabre Travel Network. “Consumers want the best offers, agencies want to present the most relevant content to their customers, and airlines want to distribute their fares and products so that travellers can access them wherever they choose to shop. Sabre remains committed to helping all parties achieve their goals. We are confident that our content serves the needs of travel agents in a truly optimal way.”

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has announced the formation of the Tourism Development Fund to boost growth across the sector. The fund will launch a range of equity and debt investment vehicles, with an initial $4bn (SAR 15bn) capital and $45bn (SAR 165bn) in memorandum of understanding(MoU) already signed with private banks.The Tourism Development Fund, which has been approved by Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers, will collaborate with private and investment banks to support private-sector developments and incentivize further investment across the industry. “The Tourism Development Fund will play a critical role in developing outstanding tourism experiences and unlocking the full potential of Saudi Arabia as a destination. The launch of the fund at this time, as the tourism sector faces unprecedented global challenges, is testament to investor and private-sector confidence in the long-term outlook for tourism in Saudi Arabia. The social and economic importance of the sector cannot be understated: it drives growth and diversification, attracts international investment, creates job opportunities and enhances quality of life for millions of Saudis,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism. The National Development Fund, chaired by His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, has approved the appointment of five board members, who will bring a wealth of experience and investment expertise to the Tourism Development Fund. Board members are: Her Highness Princess Haifa Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Strategy and Investment at the Saudi Ministry of Tourism; His Excellency IhsanBafakih, Governor of the Real Estate General Authority; Mr. Stephen Groff, Governor of the National Development Fund; Mr. Mohammed Omran Al Omran, Member of the Board of Directors at Saudi British Bank; and Mr. Mohammed Al-Hokal, Member of the Board …