NEOM announced a partnership with IMG Golf Course Services to open a groundbreaking 9-hole beachfront golf course on the luxury island, Sindalah. The first island golf course of its kind in the GCC, Sindalah will offer an entirely unique golfing experience for all visitors, from amateurs and young players to experienced enthusiasts and golfing professionals. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the 6,474-yard (5,920 meter) par 70 golf course will boast 9 holes and 18 teeing points, as well as a 280-meter driving range and golf practice suites fitted with state-of-the-art ball tracking technology and statistics feedback. The course is also set to be GEO certified, meaning it will demonstrate the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility. IMG Golf Course Services has been appointed to provide pre-opening, marketing and management services to the Golf Club at Sindalah, which will be a year-round, exclusive venue, elevating the golfing experience in the Middle East. The IMG Golf Course Services team will manage the onsite sports club, which will offer multiple membership options for visitors to enjoy the very best facilities, equipment and services, including a luxurious gym, Olympic-size swimming pool, an indulgent spa, and sports courts. The Sindalah Golf Academy will further complement the facilities with multiple performance studios offering the latest in custom-fitting and golf-learning technology. Perfectly positioned as a glamorous gateway to the Red Sea, Sindalah will redefine the luxury island experience and welcome in a new dimension of exquisite, curated travel. Sindalah is one of a group of islands off the NEOM coastline and will be the Red Sea region’s first ultra-prime superyachting destination. Opening in Q1 2024, the island will be the first iteration of NEOM to …

The new government fee amendments include reducing a tourism fee issued to guests from six per cent to four per cent, removing a municipality fee of AED15 per room per night, removing a six per cent tourism fee and four per cent municipality fee applied to hotel restaurants. The municipality fee for 4 per cent of the value of the invoice issued to the customer will continue. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT – Abu Dhabi) has reduced government fees applied to hotels in the emirate, supporting the continued growth of the hospitality and tourism sector, and enhancing Abu Dhabi as a leading global leisure and tourism destination. The change is set to take effect from 1 September 2023 and follows directives from Abu Dhabi Executive Council to further encourage tourists as well as residents to enjoy hospitality offerings in the emirate. This revision of fees seeks to further grow the emirate as a tourism and cultural destination while bolstering support for its thriving hospitality sector. As part of its mandate, DCT – Abu Dhabi continuously elevates the standards of the emirate’s tourism, culture, and hospitality offerings in the emirate. By curating a diverse range of experiences that cater to the preferences and interests of a wide spectrum of travellers, DCT – Abu Dhabi aims to enable sustainable growth and long-term success.

Oman Air and SalamAir concluded a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance various aspects of cooperation, develop and implement a joint commercial strategy in the field of air transport. The MoU provides for cooperation between the two airlines’ networks to enhance operational efficiency and improve passenger service, besides consolidating ties in the areas of destination planning, flight schedules, inventory management, air fleet management, revenue and sales management. The MoU was signed by Captain Nasser Al Salmi, Acting CEO of Oman Air, and Captain Mohammed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir. Eng. Said Hamoud Al Ma’awali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oman Air, affirmed that the MoU will secure the complementary role of the two companies in making Muscat Airport more attractive through the integration of operations aimed at increasing the number of destinations reached by Oman Air and SalamAir. In a statement to reporters, the minister said that the MoU would also bolster passenger traffic at Muscat Airport and boost the market share of Oman Air and SalamAir to and from Oman. The MoU is the first step in Oman Air’s recovery plan announced by the government, he added. For his part, Anwar Mohammed Al Rawas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of SalamAir Company, underscored the significance of the MoU, which, he described as a positive move that generates benefits for both parties in the aviation sector, improve passenger services and avoid unfavourable competition and losses. Al Rawas told reporters that the two sides are working to develop cooperation systems through the partnership aimed at addressing and avoiding accumulated losses. He observed that the MoU represents a measure to achieve the goals …

Continent Worldwide Hotels announced the signing of two remarkable hotels in Madina and another prestigious property in Al Dammam. These strategic developments mark a significant milestone for the brand as it continues to expand its footprint in the Gulf and MENA regions. Continent Al Waha Riyadh, located in the heart of Riyadh, offers an oasis of comfort and luxury with its meticulously designed rooms and impeccable service. Continent Al Ertiqaa Jeddah, situated in the vibrant city of Jeddah, captivates guests with its modern elegance and convenient access to key attractions. Meanwhile, Continent Al Uqayr Eastern Province showcases the brand’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences in the tranquil setting of the Eastern Province. Continent Worldwide Hotels is proud to introduce the Continent Areola Hotel and the Continent Rose Hotel, two exquisite properties poised to elevate the hospitality experience in Madina. The Continent Areola Hotel, a 4-star establishment with 216 luxurious rooms, buffet restaurant, fine dining restaurant and a meeting room, is set to become a cornerstone of comfort and elegance. The Continent Rose Hotel, offering 286 rooms, a restaurant, and a meeting room, is ready to extend warm hospitality to its guests. Meanwhile Continent Al Khobar is  a mix use project with Hospital and Business Building in the strategic area of Al Dammam District, consisting of 42 luxury rooms and suites, an all day dining area, a coffee shop on the roof top with beautiful view of Dammam, a Spa & Healthclub on the 21st floor of the tower.

Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is delighted to announce the appointment of Christian Ruge as the new General Manager, effective 1 August 2023. Ruge’s internationally seasoned career in hotel management and leadership extends across Europe, USA, the Middle East, and Asia, promising a new era of excellence and innovation for the hotel that is a landmark of luxury and wellness in the heart of the city. Born in Essen, Germany, Christian Ruge’s impressive 25-year journey in hospitality management has seen him hold important positions in key locations worldwide. He began his career at the Hotel InterContinental Frankfurt, Germ any, quickly moving up the ranks to work at their top properties in Europe and USA. Ruge’s time with Sofitel Hotels & Resorts included serving as General Manager at the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor in Egypt and Sofitel Wroclaw Old Town in Poland. In 2012 he joined Kempinski Hotels, and his diverse international experience with the brand includes successful tenures as General Manager in Saudi Arabia (Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh), United Arab Emirates (Kempinski Hotel Ajman), and China (Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan). Prior to joining Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, he was the general manager at Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena in the famous ski resort town of Bansko in Bulgaria. Under his leadership, the hotel received several prestigious awards in 2022, including Bulgaria’s Best Ski Hotel, Best Hotel Restaurant, Best Hotel Spa, and Leading Lifestyle Hotel by World Travel Awards. With an MBA in General Management, and a series of professional development courses from Cornell University, USA, Ruge brings an advanced understanding of the hospitality industry. His expertise includes strategic management, hotel real estate investments and asset management, demand management, and new media in …

Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort is slated to open in Q4 bringing the concept of eco-luxury to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. Now in the final stages of development it will be the brand’s ninth property in the UAE. Set along the Arabian Gulf coastline on Mina Al Arab Island in Ras Al Khaimah with a backdrop of the majestic Hajar mountains, Anantara Mina Al Arab is situated amid 1.5 kilometres of mangroves and lagoons in a natural reserve. The resort will be a 45- minute drive from Dubai International Airport and just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, the new-build resort features 174 guest rooms, suites and villas, including the first over water villas in the emirate. All the accommodation has been built in a sustainable fashion, with furniture and fittings using eco-friendly materials such as sustainable wood and recycled fabrics and plastics. The resort will also feature a range of sustainable initiatives including greywater waste recycling, thermodynamics and solar panels for water heating and a water bottling plant. All accommodation options will offer a balcony or terrace with sweeping views of the lagoon, sea or surrounding landscapes, with the peninsula and over water villas also with a private pool.  The option of interconnecting rooms and extra beds will make the resort ideal for family getaways. With unique views over the mangroves, lagoon and beach, the over water villas will deliver an unrivalled guest experience with luxurious living spaces including an expansive terrace for al fresco dining and relaxation. All over water villas will have access to a secluded private beach, …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Franco-Dutch airline Group Air France-KLM, forging a strategic partnership that will enhance connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Europe further positioning the emirate as a preferred tourist destination. The signing ceremony, held at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, was attended by HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi; Angus Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer of Air France-KLM; Olivier Piette, Senior Vice President – Network of Air France; and Maureen Bannerman, Chief Commercial Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. The partnership expands Abu Dhabi’s global connectivity through daily flights to Paris, whose flagship carrier Air France is a Skytrax Top 10 airline. Furthermore, the MoU reinforces Abu Dhabi’s goal to attract more than 24 million visitors by the end of 2023 and its commitment to build on its destination awareness. Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Geziry, the Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi said: “This partnership signifies DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to promote, protect and progress the tourism sector of Abu Dhabi and elevate the emirate’s status as a global destination. By fostering long-term partnerships with trusted international carriers, we are enabling visitors from around the world to visit and witness our rich heritage and diverse culture. This increased connectivity not only enriches the experience for travellers but also positions Abu Dhabi as an additional access point to the East”. Angus Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer, Air France-KLM, added: “We are proud and privileged to be working with DCT Abu Dhabi on this new venture. Abu Dhabi is emerging as a truly global aviation centre, catering to millions of passengers …

Tourist attractions, Dubai Municipality’s public parks, neighborhood parks, lakes and recreational facilities registered for the first time a record-breaking total of more than 15 million visitors during the first half of 2023. This marks a 50 per cent increase in the same period of 2022, which recorded approximately 10 million visitors. Visitors to parks and facilities in Dubai during the first half of 2023 were distributed as follows: 10 million to lakes and neighborhood parks, and around three million to the five largest parks (over 951,000 visitors at Al Mamzar Beach Park; 701,000 visitors at Mushrif Park; over 658,000 visitors at Creek Park; 430,000 visitors at Zabeel Park, and over 153,000 visitors at Safa Park). Additionally, over 884,000 people visited Dubai Frame; over 710,000 people visited The Quranic Park, approximately 427,000 people visited Dubai Safari Park, and up to 73,000 people visited Children’s City. The increased number of visitors to these facilities and parks can be attributed to their exceptional locations and ease of access via various ways of transportation. Furthermore, the periodically organized events and initiatives totaled more than 200 out of which 151 were by the private sector, 43 societal initiatives, and 19 recreational initiatives by the Municipality. These initiatives aimed to provide new and diverse recreational spaces and choices to cater to all segments of society in Dubai and enhance their well-being, happiness, and quality of life. The services provided by the Municipality are integral aspects of its goal to manage and develop public parks, recreational facilities, and attractive destinations in the Emirate of Dubai. They are one of the most key features that draw visitors to those facilities, which include car parks, free seating, and play …

Sojern and Profitroom announced a new collaboration. In today’s era, where hotels closely monitor their budgets, the collaboration aims to equip hotels worldwide with a powerful combination of advanced booking technology and data-driven marketing solutions. This will enable hoteliers to effortlessly reach travellers searching for a place to stay and drive direct bookings on their website, ultimately leading to increased revenue. “With travellers increasingly relying on multiple digital channels to discover, plan and book their trips, the hospitality industry is undergoing a profound shift,” said Josh Beckwith, Managing Director, Global Strategic Accounts and Partnerships, Sojern. “This collaboration between Sojern and Profitroom is perfectly timed to address the evolving needs of hoteliers of all sizes, helping them navigate the complex landscape of digital marketing and guest acquisition, and ultimately drive measurable results while boosting profitability. In an exciting year for Sojern, we are thrilled to partner with Profitroom to empower hotels with the tools and insights they need to succeed in today’s competitive market.” As a leading provider of hospitality technology solutions, Profitroom boasts one of the highest-converting booking engines on the market, complemented by powerful marketing automation tools, an advanced channel manager, and a website builder. By integrating these offerings with Sojern’s digital marketing capabilities, hoteliers can optimise their online presence, attract high-value guests, and streamline operations. Furthermore, Sojern recently introduced its suite of Guest Experience Solutions through the acquisition of VenueLytics. Sojern’s enhanced Travel Marketing Platform now enables hotels to engage with guests throughout their entire journey. “We are excited to join forces with Sojern and help hoteliers accelerate growth while increasing direct online revenue,” said Samantha Williams, Commercial Director, Profitroom. “By leveraging each other’s strengths, we will equip …

Etihad announced the launch of nine new destinations this year, including Malaga, Mykonos, Lisbon, Kolkata, St Petersburg, Dusseldorf, Copenhagen, Osaka, and Boston. Etihad Airways has unveiled an ambitious network overhaul, positioning the airline for sustainable expansion while improving Abu Dhabi’s links to global markets. The new network is designed to support Abu Dhabi visitor growth and provide travellers with more options by introducing new destinations, ramping up capacity to sought-after international destinations, providing opportunities for travellers to explore and experience diverse cultures, while bringing more visitors directly to Abu Dhabi. Provide more options: Provide passengers with enhanced travel flexibility with multiple and more convenient departure times, ensuring seamless and stress-free journeys. Increase frequencies to key international markets: To support Abu Dhabi’s economic and tourism growth, Etihad is increasing flight frequencies to essential international destinations, fostering improved accessibility and strengthening the emirate’s position as a hub for global travellers. The updated schedules have been timed for departures from Abu Dhabi at 2 pm, ensuring travelers and visitors can thoroughly experience Abu Dhabi’s hotels and attractions until their checkout time. This approach enhances the overall travel experience while maximising the enjoyment of Abu Dhabi’s offerings. “As we embark on Etihad’s next chapter targeting growth, our ambitious network and improved connectivity allows us to better serve Abu Dhabi and our valued guests, forming the basis of our future expansion while providing flexibility and freedom to adapt to new opportunities and markets,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “By offering more travel options and seamless connections, we aim to attract an increasing number of visitors to Abu Dhabi, propelling economic growth for the city while enriching the travel experience for our passengers.” …