The Royal Commission for Makkah City & Holy Sites (RCMC) has signed a strategic agreement with Almosafer, part of Seera Group, to strengthen the tourism ecosystem in Makkah and enhance the overall pilgrim and visitor journey. Through this collaboration, Almosafer will work closely with RCMC to showcase Makkah’s unique cultural and spiritual heritage while introducing innovative, technology-enabled services designed to deliver a seamless, world-class experience for visitors from within Saudi Arabia and around the world. The partnership leverages Almosafer’s integrated travel services platform and diverse portfolio of brands to curate enriching experiences for Makkah’s millions of annual visitors. This includes: ● Mawasim, Almosafer’s Hajj & Umrah tour operator, which will enhance religious travel services and pilgrim facilitation. ● Discover Saudi, its destination management company, which will design and promote Umrah+ itineraries that combine spiritual rituals with cultural, historical, and leisure experiences in Makkah. By integrating Almosafer’s market expertise, digital technologies, and global marketing capabilities with RCMC’s vision for destination development, the agreement aims to introduce authentic yet elevated experiences that align with international standards while respecting the sanctity of Makkah. Khalid Kurdi, GM-DMO said: “This agreement with Almosafer reflects our commitment to developing Makkah’s tourism offering in a way that protects its sacred identity while embracing excellence in visitor experience. Together, we will deliver services that are authentic, innovative, and deeply respectful of the city’s spiritual significance.” Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer (Part of Seera Group), added: “We are honoured to partner with the Royal Commission for Makkah City & Holy Sites. Makkah holds global spiritual significance, and through this collaboration, we aim to design integrated solutions and signature experiences that meet the highest international tourism standards while honouring the …

Ministers gathered at WTM London 2025 shared their views on how smarter, more inclusive investment models can help destinations to share more widely the benefits of travel and tourism. The 19th edition of WTM London’s Ministers’ Summit, in association with UN Tourism and WTTC, offered examples of how the public and private sectors are working together to fund the opportunities and mediate the challenges of growing travel and tourism markets. Many destinations are using tax breaks and other incentives to drive tourism development. Christina Frasco from the Philippines talked about how it was offering fiscal incentives and opening new economic zones for tourism that champion sustainability, green innovation and job creation. She also talked about accelerating the role of the private sector, which includes the government’s plans to privatise many of its airports. Similarly, Kenya is using tax incentives and economic zones to encourage private investors to build up tourism along its 500km of coastline. Rebecca Miano added that the government was working on air connectivity and finding ways to encourage airlines to add Kenya to their network. Increasing air capacity is also a priority for Costa Rica as it looks to address a drop in visitor from the United States. It is marketing strongly in Europe and looking to add more direct flights from the continent. Tax breaks are also being used by Ecuador as part of its strategy to promote the mainland to visitors to the Galapagos Islands. It has recently allowed the private sector to help manage conservation zones and offers incentives to tourism investors which show a commitment to rural tourism and to working with indigenous people. Elsewhere, airports emerged as an immediate way to engage …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with WebBeds, the agreement underscores a shared commitment to driving tourism growth and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s global reach. As part of this growing strategic alliance, the two entities will collaborate to significantly enhance Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape. This will involve empowering travel trade professionals within WebBeds’ network with enhanced knowledge and resources, enabling them to offer more informed and expertly guided travel experiences. Additionally, DCT Abu Dhabi will develop and disseminate compelling content showcasing Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural and touristic offerings, including Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, to raise awareness and drive bookings across WebBeds’ extensive global distribution and travel agency networks. , a global leader in travel trade, for a fourth consecutive year. Signed by HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi and Amr Ezzeldin, President of WebBeds MEA at World Travel Market (WTM) 2025. HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Our collaboration with WebBeds over the past three years has proven highly effective in expanding Abu Dhabi’s global tourism footprint. This partnership has been instrumental in delivering successful campaigns, from local activations to globally recognised initiatives, that showcase our unique cultural heritage and diverse attractions. The fourth renewal underscores our strong, shared commitment to driving sustained visitor growth and building a lasting tourism legacy for Abu Dhabi.” Amr Ezzeldin, President of WebBeds MEA commented: “As we proudly enter this next chapter of our partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, WebBeds remains committed to supporting Abu Dhabi’s bold vision with renewed energy, regional insight, and creative excellence. …

Hilton announced the signing of an agreement with Wirgan Hospitality to rebrand two of their trading hotels in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Makkah and a DoubleTree by Hilton. Both hotels are set to open before the end of the year, further strengthening Hilton’s presence in the Kingdom and the Holy City. The signings will almost double Hilton’s trading presence in Makkah – by rooms – to more than 4,100 keys. Carlos Khneisser, Chief Development Officer, Hilton, MEA, said, “We recently surpassed the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia – and we are thrilled to build on this momentum with the signing of these two properties. As we continue to expand our footprint in the Kingdom, we remain committed to diversifying our portfolio to meet the needs of every traveller. Our partnership with Wirgan Hospitality is testament to this as we introduce our Tapestry Collection brand to the Holy City and bolster our presence with the introduction of DoubleTree by Hilton to the Aziziyah district of Makkah – enhancing Hilton’s hospitality offering in a key global destination.” Omar Al Harbi, CEO, Wirgan Hospitality, said, “We are proud to partner with Hilton to support the future growth of the two exceptional properties we have developed in Makkah. As one of the most significant destinations in the Kingdom, Makkah holds deep religious, cultural and spiritual importance. These openings reflect our ongoing commitment to elevate the hospitality offering in Makkah and the Kingdom in line with Vision 2030, and to leverage Hilton’s global reach and commercial engine.” Located near Jabal Al Noor, one of Islam’s most sacred sites, the 1,386-guestroom …

The Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) announced a focused strategy to deepen its engagement with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) B2B tourism sector. This initiative is aimed at positioning Georgia as a premier, high-value partner for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) operators, travel agencies, and investors, capitalizing on the nation’s rapid tourism growth and strategic development plans to create significant new partnership opportunities. “We are building a foundation for long-term growth by forging strategic alliances with the GCC travel trade and investors to jointly develop high-quality, innovative tourism products that cater to the evolving demand for authentic and immersive experiences. Georgia’s dynamic tourism landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for partnerships and collaborations as we continue to nurture the country’s growing reputation as a preferred international travel destination,” said Mrs. Maia Omiadze, Head of Administration at the GNTA. The GCC outbound travel market, projected to more than double to USD 158.8 billion by 2034, represents a pivotal growth segment. Georgia has successfully captured this demand, with arrivals from key GCC markets experiencing triple-digit growth in recent years. This aligns with the country’s broader tourism success, which saw over 2.9 million international visitors in H1 2025 and a record USD 826 million in Q1 revenue, contributing 7.2% to the national GDP. This proven demand presents lucrative opportunities for B2B collaboration in high-yield sectors. As a core component of this strategy, GNTA is launching a targeted promotional and educational campaign across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait throughout Q4 2025. The program includes destination webinars and in-person events, offering GCC tour operators, OTAs, and MICE agencies exclusive access to Georgian suppliers, in-depth market knowledge, and co-marketing frameworks.

Connections Saudi, in partnership with Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), the invitation-only travel trade event, will take place in Riyadh from 10-14 November 2025. The highly anticipated gathering will bring together 250 leading international buyers with 250 Saudi suppliers, creating new opportunities for collaboration across luxury, adventure, culture and hospitality. Connections Saudi is part of the global Connections event series, bringing together trusted decision-makers from the travel and hospitality industry. Delegates will take part in pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings and experiences, delivered through the innovative Connections Way – an approach that blends business conversations with shared cultural, culinary and wellness activities, building lasting partnerships. The event programme also features content sessions designed to engage international travel buyers on selling Saudi to their clientele, including investment and culture. To ensure buyers discover Saudi beyond the event, they will join a specially curated destination tour organized by partners Aseer, Al Baha, AlUla and Six Senses. As part of the Connections Saudi experience, guests will be invited to a cultural engagement program, hosted in Diriyah on Tuesday 11 November. The evening will begin with a guided tour of At-Turaif Historical District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as the birthplace of the Saudi nation and a symbol of its enduring cultural legacy. Following the tour, guests will gather for a dinner at Villa Mamas, located on the elegant Al-Bujairi Terrace, overlooking the illuminated the World Heritage Site. Blending heritage and modernity, the evening will celebrate Saudi’s rich traditions, warm hospitality and its vision for a vibrant, connected future in tourism. A highlight of the programme will be the curated group trip to Qiddiya City on Wednesday 12 November. Delegates will be welcomed with a …

Barceló Hotel Group announces the opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai, a new 4-star lifestyle design hotel featuring 230 rooms, perfectly positioned in the heart of the city near the world-famous Burj Khalifa. Located in the vibrant Downtown Dubai district, the city’s iconic hub for shopping and entertainment, home to Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain, Barceló Business Bay Dubai promises guests an exceptional experience in the most cosmopolitan and modern area of the city. In the Downtown Dubai district lies Barceló Business Bay Dubai, a contemporary hotel defined by its sophisticated design. Its 230 rooms cater to families, couples, and business travellers alike, offering versatile spaces ideal for meetings and events. Among its highlights is a stunning rooftop pool on the third floor. On the culinary side, the hotel features a restaurant serving dishes inspired by local flavours and fusion cuisine, along with a Sports Bar and Shisha Bar. To complete the experience, guests can enjoy a fully equipped gym and a wellness area offering advanced treatments, each designed to encourage moments of relaxation and self-care. As part of its strategy to strengthen its footprint in Asia, Barceló Hotel Group inaugurates its third property in Dubai and fourth in the United Arab Emirates with the opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai. Recognized as a key destination for its strategic location bridging East and West, and for its unique blend of modern luxury and traditional culture, the company once again chooses Dubai as its base for further growth. “The opening of Barceló Business Bay Dubai reinforces our commitment to expanding in strategic, high-potential destinations,” says José Canals, Chief Operations Officer of Barceló Hotel Group for the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Asia. “Dubai is a …

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) announced its new official name, ‘Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media’, highlighting its forward-looking vision of the emirate’s wise leadership to reinforce institutional integration across three pivotal sectors, including tourism, culture and media. The announcement follows the merger of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development and the Ajman Culture and Media Department, forming a single institutional entity under the new name. This move emphasises Ajman government’s dedication to promoting a cohesive governmental framework that supports the emirate’s sustainable development in line with its future aspirations. The new name was established under Law No. (2) of 2025, issued by His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, and in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council. The law stipulates the merger of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development and the Ajman Culture and Media Department into a single institutional entity to reinforce coordination, enhance performance efficiency and foster effective government operations, while attaining full integration across the three sectors to support the emirate’s strategic objectives. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media, said: “The adoption of the new official name of the department embodies the ambitious vision aimed at consolidating institutional integration between the tourism, culture and media sectors. It reflects a firm commitment to developing a more efficient and flexible model of government work, based on the pillars of innovation and sustainability. This step goes beyond being an institutional initiative to constitute a confirmation of the endeavours and efforts made …

Qatar Airways and Air Algérie announced a codeshare partnership that will increase access to seamless connectivity between Algeria and key markets in Asia and the Middle East through the multiple award-winning Hamad International Airport. Starting today, travellers can book codeshare flights for travel starting on 15 November 2025. Building on an existing interline partnership between the two carriers, the codeshare provides Qatar Airways customers easier access to Algiers as well as six other key destinations in Air Algérie’s domestic network, including Annaba, Constantine, Oran, Tamanrasset, Timimoun, and Tindouf. Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club members will also earn Avios on codeshare flights operated by Air Algérie. Similarly, through codeshare flights with Qatar Airways, the Algerian national flag carrier offers more travel options for its passengers traveling to Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Muscat via Hamad International Airport. This codeshare agreement will soon be expanded to include additional destinations. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, said: “We are delighted to expand our partnership with Air Algérie through this new codeshare agreement, further strengthening our presence across key African markets. This collaboration will offer travellers greater choice and seamless connectivity to the Middle East, and Asia. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to deepening strategic partnerships, such as with Air Algérie, that enhance global connectivity from and to Africa through our hub, Hamad International Airport, which has been named by Skytrax as the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years, and ‘World’s Best Airport’ in 2021, 2022, and 2024. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with Air Algérie.” Air Algérie Head of Commercial Division, Samy El Karim Boutemadja, said: “This codeshare agreement with Qatar Airways will certainly give …

Accor announced the signing of Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah, within walking distance of the holy Mosque set to open by 2026. This will be the largest Sofitel property int the world with 1141 rooms and suites. “We are honored to introduce Sofitel in Makkah, a city that holds immense spiritual and cultural importance. Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will stand as a symbol of hospitality, serenity, and connection — a place where our French zest meets Saudi authenticity. This extraordinary project reflects our ambition to create meaningful cultural bridges through luxury hospitality in one of the world’s most sacred destinations.” — Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will occupy a prime location within the prestigious Jabal Omar master development, providing direct pedestrian access to the Haram, Islam’s holiest site. The hotel will feature 1,141 elegant rooms and suites across two towers – Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah North and Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah South – each offering breathtaking views of the Holy Mosque and the surrounding cityscape. Designed to blend French art de vivre with Saudi cultural heritage, the hotel will feature a collection of refined restaurants and lounges, executive meeting facilities and fitness centers. Across the towers, guests will discover six distinctive dining venues — including elegant all- day dining restaurants, a signature fine-dining destination celebrating French and Middle Eastern fusion cuisine, and intimate lobby lounges perfect for gatherings and reflection. A Club Millésime executive lounge will provide exclusive experiences for distinguished guests, combining culinary craftsmanship with personalized service. Beyond dining, Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah will offer curated sensory experiences that celebrate both French refinement and the spiritual essence of Makkah — from thoughtful …