Emirates to officially become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, inviting customers with autism and sensory sensitivities to experience Emirates’ seamless services and personalised hospitality, making travel more accessible for all. The inaugural designation is set to be formally awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) in the coming months, when more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff will have completed the initial training. Emirates also plans to roll out new standards and services that will improve the on ground and inflight travel experience for both customers on the autism spectrum and their families and companions, to be announced later in the year. For many members of the global autism community, international air travel is a highly challenging experience, or something to be avoided completely, due to the high level of sensory stimuli that can be involved. A survey on AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations, and that 94% of respondents would take more vacations if they had access to places where staff are autism-trained and certified. As part of Emirates’ mission to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all, this significant step also supports Dubai’s ambition to become the most accessible destination in the world.

Movenpick Al Marjan Island wins ‘Best family friendly Resort in Northern Emirates’ at the 7th edition of Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “This award strengthens our position as a leader in urban lifestyle hospitality and showcases the excellence of our team. It sets a new benchmark in the industry, inspiring others to elevate their offerings and innovate.” Nina Mohamed, Director of Marketing & Communications, Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island  

Travelport announced it has signed a new long-term multi-source content agreement, including New Distribution Capability (NDC) content, with China Eastern Airlines, one of China’s three major airlines and member of the SkyTeam Alliance. Travelport’s comprehensive NDC solution will enable travel agency customers to seamlessly shop, book, and manage NDC reservations with China Eastern Airlines including servicing adjustments such as cancellations and exchanges. “This agreement marks an important step in our journey toward NDC adoption, allowing us to scale and encourage its use across agencies and travel retailers,” said Fu Jian, Vice President, Digital Transformation and Business Management Department of Marketing and Sales at China Eastern Airlines. “Our commitment is to provide top-tier content and customized experiences for our customers, and Travelport’s advanced retailing technology is key to making our offerings more accessible to agencies and their clients.” Travelport’s comprehensive NDC solutions are built to support modern retailers, helping agents and travelers easily explore and compare offers, select the best choices, and manage NDC bookings with partners like China Eastern Airlines. Moreover, Travelport’s AI-driven Content Curation Layer (CCL) and Content Optimizer in Travelport+ streamline the search process, delivering intelligent, relevant, personalized, and enriched NDC and traditional content quickly and efficiently. “Our goal is to be the industry’s top multi-source content aggregator, which means NDC content in Travelport+ should be simple to access, compare, and manage,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Travel Partners at Travelport. “Through our partnership with China Eastern Airlines, together, we’re focused on delivering NDC content that is simple to access and ready for our agency customers to shop and compare more personalized offers to present travelers with the best options.”

According to Flight Centre Corporate, business travel is set to increase in 2025, with 40% of businesses planning to increase travel from July to June, and 42% of corporates are forecast to spend more than in 2024. Business travel will feature high on the agenda, particularly as part of ATM’s new feature, IBTM@ATM. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “At ATM, we recognise the critical importance of addressing the latest trends and innovations shaping the aviation industry. New technology and the increased use of sustainable fuels will be a game-changer for the sector, with far-reaching benefits for years to come.” The sector’s growth is a topic anticipated to create substantial discussion on the show floor. In 2025, industry revenues will surpass US$1 trillion for the first time, according to IATA. In addition, traveller numbers are expected to hit 5.2 billion, up 6.7% compared to 2024, exceeding the five-billion mark for the first time, with the number of flights expected to reach 40 million.  

PIF launched the Hotel Management Company (Adeera), a new hospitality management firm that will operate and manage hotels, combining the highest industry standards with timeless authentic Saudi hospitality. Adeera aims to build new world-class Saudi hotel brands and to enhance the capacity of the local sector by launching programs for training and skills development, in cooperation with international hospitality specialists. At a time when Saudi Arabia is cementing its place as a major tourism destination, the company seeks to introduce a portfolio of distinctive Saudi hotel brands, serving various segments from mid-range to ultra-luxury, for different categories of visitor. It will unlock new business opportunities, focusing on the Saudi hospitality experience, working with hotel developers to maximize the contribution from the local private sector. Khalid Johar, Co-head of Local Real Estate Portfolio at PIF, said: “The launch of Adeera comes at a pivotal time when Saudi Arabia is expanding its hospitality and tourism offerings. The company has the opportunity to grow the sector by introducing new hotel brands as the country is establishing itself as a major tourism destination. Adeera’s unique focus on Saudi culture and traditions will provide a distinctive edge.” The establishment of Adeera underlines PIF’s role as an industry enabler in developing Saudi Arabia’s strategic sectors, driving economic growth and diversification. It follows a series of significant investments by PIF in both the tourism and real estate sectors. This includes investments such as the hospitality company Boutique Group – which specializes in developing historic and cultural palaces into luxury boutique hotels – the agri-tourism company Dan and the tourism investment company Asfar. Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors and have tourism contribute 10% …

Almosafer’s latest travel trend report reveals a robust 44% growth in domestic bookings in 2024, marking a significant contribution (over 40%) to the overall travel landscape in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s rapidly growing and evolving tourism offerings continue to shape domestic travel behavior, and with an expanding range of destinations, unique accommodations, and diverse experiences, travellers are motivated to explore their country for leisure. Family and group bookings have emerged as a key growth driver of domestic tourism, with over 70% growth across these traveller segments. Travel groups are increasingly choosing destinations that offer event-based and experience-rich travel opportunities. While iconic cities such as Makkah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Madinah remain central to travel plans, emerging destinations are becoming increasingly popular. Abha’s cool climate and mountain views, Al Jubail’s pristine beaches, Jizan’s coastal charm, Tabuk’s dramatic natural landscapes, and Hail’s adventurous desert terrain are rapidly gaining traction. These rising hotspots reflect the Kingdom’s ongoing investment in tourism infrastructure, opening up exciting opportunities for leisure travellers. The report further highlights a significant shift in traveller preferences regarding accommodation. While luxury stays dominate, with 36% of room nights booked in 5-star accommodations. Simultaneously, budget-friendly stays in 3-star and below properties have significantly increased, representing 35% of all booked room nights. Notably, this segment has witnessed a remarkable 100% growth in volume for families and groups, reflecting a rising trend of value-conscious group travel. Alternative accommodations such as vacation rentals and hotel apartments have also gained popularity, offering flexibility and affordability. Family bookings in these accommodations surged by 90% and group bookings grew by 60%, as alternative accommodations have become more widely available throughout the Kingdom and travellers opt for convenient stays, …

Emirates’ Airbus A380 touched down in Copenhagen for the first time since March 2020. Emirates is currently the only international airline to operate the A380 to Denmark. The A380 touched down just in time to celebrate the airport’s jubilee, marking 100 years of operational excellence. Morten Balk, Emirates’ Country Manager in Denmark, said: “We are incredibly proud to finally bring back the Emirates A380 to Copenhagen – what a sight to see it gracing our runway again! We look forward to once again offering our customers unparalleled travel experiences and the signature products and services our A380 is known for. With more than 43 percent additional seating, more customers will now be able to enjoy greater flexibility and more travel options, to over 140 destinations worldwide via our home and hub, Dubai.” Peter Krogsgaard, CCO, Copenhagen Airport commented, “We have been looking forward to welcoming the iconic Emirates double-decker aircraft back to Copenhagen. It’s a fantastic way to start the new year, seeing the world’s largest passenger plane, with a total of 615 seats, return to Denmark after a hiatus of nearly five years.” Emirates is renowned for its exceptional services and luxurious amenities. The Emirates A380 is loved by customers for its spacious and comfortable cabins, quietness, and unique on-board features such as the Onboard Lounge. Customers onboard will also enjoy the warm hospitality of the airline’s multinational crew including Danish nationals, regional gourmet cuisine, and award-winning inflight entertainment system – ice – offering up to 6,500 channels of the best movies, TV shows, podcasts and more. The airline also recently expanded its entertainment catalogue, collaborating with Spotify – the world’s most popular audio-streaming subscription service – to offer customers a …

Satguru Travel and Tourism was awarded as the ‘Best Corporate Travel Management Company’ at the 7th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Best Corporate Travel Management Company 2024 at the Arabian Travel Awards is a milestone that reinforces our leadership in corporate travel. It validates our commitment to excellence, strengthens trust among stakeholders, and motivates us to set higher benchmarks. This award is both an achievement and a responsibility to continue redefining industry standards. This award has enhanced our credibility, increased visibility, and inspired our team to push service excellence further. It highlights the importance of innovation in corporate travel and raises industry standards, benefiting clients through improved services. It also serves as a benchmark for excellence, shaping the future of corporate travel management.” Dinkar Dasaur – General Manager, Satguru Travel and Tourism LLC

145 players from 27 countries will participate in ‘Sharjah Week of the Stars’  organized by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. Commenting on the launch of “Sharjah Week of the Stars,” H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, emphasized the emirate’s readiness to host this major international event. He highlighted the synergy between sports and tourism in driving development and attracting visitors, while showcasing Sharjah’s unique offerings. This unique event aims to enhance Sharjah’s sports tourism profile and showcase the emirate’s attractions and landmarks. The week features an exciting lineup of activities, including a football match between retired international legends titled “Night of the Stars,” the “Sharjah International Footgolf Tournament,” the “Legends Padel Tour,” and for the first time, an E-Sports Tournament open to the public, with special participation from football legends. The events will take place from January 10 to 13, 2025. Taking place at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, this tournament will see over 145 players from 27 countries competing from January 11 to 12. The final day will feature football legends joining footgolf champions, vying for the $30,000 prize. With participation from top global players and eight UAE-based players, this championship is one of the most prestigious events in the sport. On January 11, Aljada mini-football stadium, accommodating up to 2,000 spectators, will host a friendly football match featuring 22 international football legends. Participants include Francesco Totti, Fabio Cannavaro, Rivaldo, Michael Owen, Papu Gómez, David Trezeguet, Essam El Hadary, and a legendary Italian football star whose name will be revealed soon. On January 12, 16 international football legends will compete in the “Legends Padel Tour ” at Aljada Padel Courts. This event …

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resorts unveiled the highly anticipated upgrades of its luxury property, Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort. Featuring 30 beautifully appointed villas, each with a private pool measuring 3 by 4 metres, guests can enjoy a secluded oasis just steps from the uninterrupted beachfront, where the ocean stretches endlessly before them. The Deluxe Beach Pool Villas offer picturesque glimpses of the Arabian landscape, while the Anantara Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa features expansive terraces and en-suite bathrooms, ensuring complete privacy and tranquility. An uninterrupted beachfront retreat located on the serene eastern shores of the island, the resort is now ready to once again welcome guests. Its revitalised beachfront villas, with direct views of the Arabian Gulf offer an elevated experience that is ideal for travellers seeking romantic getaways and celebrating special occasions. Meanwhile, sister resort Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort will unveil its refreshed safari-inspired villas in early 2025, each reflecting a distinct facet of Sir Bani Yas Island’s natural charm. Situated just 250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island is the UAE’s largest natural island, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. It features three distinctive Anantara properties, each catering to a variety of travellers. Offering a tranquil escape on the eastern shores of Sir Bani Yas Island, Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort prioritises privacy and serenity. Inspired by a traditional fishing village, it artfully blends rustic elegance with contemporary sophistication, reflecting its natural surroundings and rich Emirati heritage. Recent upgrades have further enhanced the resort’s intimate atmosphere, with new barasti fencing, and extended outdoor decks that seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape. Each villa is paired with a dedicated villa host, …