According to a report from Accor, highly-personalised service is becoming the key differentiator for travel advisors. The report, titled ‘Tailor-Made Touch or Digital Efficiency?’, looks at the strategies, technologies and trends impacting leisure travel advisors in the recovery and beyond. It says that while continually digitally transforming their operations is of course vital, even more important is to develop the services and nurture the partnerships that can help them delight and connect with their customers on a level that is beyond what alternative intermediary models can achieve. The report, focused on the European market, outlines how the pandemic accelerated the transformation of the leisure travel intermediary market, with the widespread adoption of digital technology and many key players shifting their models in a bid to become platform businesses or b2b technology providers. It supports the notion that, used properly, technology from messaging platforms to payments and artificial intelligence can be travel advisors’ best friend, helping them to optimise their capacity with a wide variety of inventory; access powerful digital distribution channels; better understand their customers, market themselves and provide more sophisticated and efficient services. However, it argues that even more key to travel planners’ success as they evolve is the ability to get close to their customers, to provide the high-touch personalised service now expected by travellers. Saskia Gentil, SVP Sales, Europe & North Africa at Accor, explained: “Consumers increasingly value the ability of travel advisors to remove the stress from their trip, tailor it to their preferences, plan every last detail in a flexible way, and be the reassuring presence that takes care of problems when they arise. “The ability to provide this bespoke level of service is a …

The world’s busiest international airport will get even busier in the coming weeks as the UAE’s summer school break coincides with the six-day long Eid Al Adha holidays starting this weekend. According to Dubai Airports, Dubai International (DXB) will welcome an estimated 3.5 million guests through its doors between June 20 and July 3, with average total daily traffic reaching 252,00. The hub is preparing for a surge in departures, with more than a quarter of a million in outbound traffic from June 23 to 25. Saturday, June 24 is forecast to be exceptionally busy with a total departure load of nearly 100,000 passengers across DXB. The arrival peak at the end of the Eid Al Adha holiday is anticipated to be even busier with total daily traffic expected to surpass a record breaking 305,000 passengers on July 2. “Dubai International’s recovery has been spectacular this year as evidenced by the impressive traffic growth in the first quarter. As a result, the seasonal peaks this year are expected to be the busiest since 2019, and we are preparing ourselves accordingly. Teams across DXB, representing terminal operations, guest experience, control authorities including Dubai Police, airlines, ground handling, baggage operations, car parks, and multiple commercial and service partners, are all working in perfect sync to maintain the high quality of service that international travellers have to come to expect of Dubai,” said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports. Backed by DXB’s state-of-the-art airport operations control centre, which not only monitors operations inside the terminals and on the airfield in real time but also helps predict and address operational situations before they occur, the teams at the …

Emirates recommends passengers take time to plan their travel journey this June and July, as departure numbers peak significantly just before Eid al Adha on 24 June, and again on the 1 July as many families set off on summer holidays. With more than 80,000 passengers expected to depart Dubai on busy days – Emirates advises passengers to arrive to the airport up to 3 hours before a flight, take note of their boarding time to ensure they reach the departure gate on time, and take advantage of multiple check-in and baggage drop options to reduce time at the airport. Passengers are encouraged to download the Emirates app on their mobile phone and are reminded that when departing from Dubai – boarding passes are now issued in digital format on the app, or by email when passengers check in online via Emirates.com. Both options allow customers to book and change flights, download a digital boarding pass for most destinations, check what meals will be served onboard, book a chauffeur drive service and even pre-select and plan movies to watch via ice inflight entertainment. Online check in and app check in are both open 48 hours ahead of flight departure time. To save time, Emirates passengers can drop off luggage at the airport the night before travel at no charge. Passengers who are departing from Dubai can check-in early and drop off their bags 24 hours before departure, or 12 hours before departure if flying to the US or Tel Aviv. Then closer to departure time, they can arrive to the airport and proceed directly to immigration. For a slick start to summer travels, passengers can try the brand-new City Check‑in …

Sabre Corporation has signed a multi-year agreement with dnata Travel Group. The partnership will see Sabre support the travel company’s strategic goals as its preferred technology partner.  Sabre and the dnata Travel Group already share a long-term commitment to innovation through travel technology, and the new deal will represent an extended, broader relationship between the two companies in the Middle East. Additionally, under this agreement, the dnata Travel Group’s Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Partner Network will continue to access Sabre’s portfolio of innovative technology and its intelligent platform Sabre Red 360, allowing it to harness more data, content, and offer clients more choice from more than 400 airlines, 1.6 million lodging options, and hundreds of tour operators, rail, car and cruise providers. “With evolving customer expectations and complex market dynamics, Sabre has been our partner of choice for over 12 years,” said Simon Woodford, VP Global Air Services, dnata Travel Group. “Sabre’s deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities offered by the dynamic global travel eco-system enable us to identify and embrace new technology to strengthen our position, improve efficiency and respond to evolving customer expectations with personalized experiences. This partnership will lead to accelerated innovation, operational simplification and enhanced digital user experience.” For many years, Sabre has provided a broad portfolio of technology and solutions to dnata Travel Group brands in the Middle East as well as key markets in Europe. This strategic agreement builds upon that history with new initiatives that will help expand dnata’s business and reinforces Sabre’s role as a key distribution partner. “We are excited to continue our successful collaboration with the dnata Travel Group,” said Andy Finkelstein, senior vice president – Global Agency Sales …

The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is inviting travellers to embark on an enchanting journey through the country’s rich history and fairy tale landscapes this Eid al-Fitr. From royal palaces to charming castles, travellers can this summer immerse themselves in Germany’s awe-inspiring world, where medieval tales come alive. With 25,000 enchanting sites, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to hidden gems, Germany’s historic treasures offer both romantic getaways and legendary tours filled with pure magic. Whether it is the Baroque-style Moritzburg Castle constructed on its own artificial island near Dresden or Kriebstein Castle that looms ominously over the River Zschopau in Saxony; the Barockgarten Großsedlitz in Heidenau or Germany’s oldest “porcelain palace”, the Schloss Favorite Rastatt near Baden-Baden.The wonderous sites promise unique experiences, from open-air concerts under starry skies to captivating exhibitions. Visitors can participate in the Hohenzollern Mountain Race, conquering 365 vertical metres to reach Hohenzollern Castle’s courtyard; explore the world’s first playing card museum to design their own cards at Altenburg Residential Castle; or experience music fusion at Spandau. Explorers can also discover other fascinating landmarks such as Sanssouci Palace, which is actually an ensemble of palaces and gardens; immerse themselves in culture at regular musical performances and events at Wartburg Castle; experience the annual theatrical tribute paid to William Shakespeare at Neuschwanstein Castle; and visit Heidelberg Castle, which hosts a series of unforgettable theatre, opera, and concert productions. Each of these landmarks highlight Germany’s rich history and architectural wonders. Furthermore, Germany has been promoting its slogan, “Germany Simply Inspiring”, aimed at promoting sustainable travel and communicating the country’s positive image as a travel destination with a wide range of eco-conscious tourism experiences. The goal is to extend the …

Cruise Saudi announces the launch of its owned cruise line, AROYA Cruises. AROYA Cruises will offer Saudi nationals, expatriates, and regional guests a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of Saudi from the sea. With a commitment to showcasing Arabian experiences, AROYA Cruises will reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, providing an immersive journey, designed and tailored to reflect its brand values of inspiration, enrichment, generosity and respect. AROYA Cruises is committed to an exceptional passenger experience and will offer the highest standard of service, facilities and shore excursion programme culminating in a unique offering in the region. “This momentous step marks a historical milestone in Cruise Saudi’s ambitious strategy to create a premium cruise ecosystem in Saudi, in line with Vision 2030.” quotes Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi. “AROYA Cruises will be operating as an autonomous brand within the Cruise Saudi portfolio, aiming to provide experiences and services specifically designed to embrace Arabian preferences.” The launch of AROYA Cruises’ will be led by Ghassan Khan. The brand will be managed as a separate business unit supporting the fulfilment of Cruise Saudi’s strategic goals of welcoming 1.3 million cruise visitors by 2035 and providing 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Ghassan Khan quotes: “This is an extremely exciting time. It is a privilege to bring this cruise line to launch as a core element of Saudi’s development as an international cruising destination.” AROYA Cruises itineraries and packages are currently under development and will be announced at its commercial launch to be held in the coming months.    

Qatar Tourism hosted the British Travel and Tourism Institute (BITC) Conference in Doha again two decades later. Sponsored by destination partner Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways as official airline partner, the three-day conference was held at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Hotel Doha, in the presence of more than 200 senior representatives of the UK travel industry including government officials and major international airlines. The conference included a series of panel discussions during which the growth prospects of Qatar’s tourism industry were reviewed, with the participation of prominent figures in the travel and tourism industry, including Gary Wilson, CEO of easyJet Holidays, and His Excellency John Wilkes, British Ambassador to Doha. Bertold Trinkel, Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar Tourism is delighted to host this important conference in Doha and showcase Qatar’s key tourism offerings and benefits to some of the UK’s leading travel industry. The relationship between Qatar and the UK is gaining great importance and vitality, not only in terms of tourism, but also through the common history that unites the two countries. As we continue to participate in such travel and business events, we look forward to strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading destination for hosting global business events.” The BITTI’s member-only conference follows a series of high-profile business events hosted by Qatar Tourism since the start of the year, including the World Association of the Exhibition Industry Middle East and Africa conference in May. The UK is one of Qatar Tourism’s 15 priority markets as per its National Tourism Strategy 2030 and has always been among the top 10 countries in the list of source markets. to Qatar.

Jazeera Airways joined the Egypt Civil Aviation Authority announce the launch of direct flights from Kuwait International Airport to Sphinx International Airport. Jazeera is flying from Kuwait to Sphinx and back four times a week. The Sphinx airport which serves the city of Giza, is located close to the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza. Other tourist destinations, including the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum and world class shopping centers will also be easily accessible from the airport. This helps put Giza on the map not only as a historic city, but also a shopping destination. The airport is an hour away from downtown Cairo and close to the Greater Cairo districts of 6 October and Sheikh Zayed, as well as the governorates of Fayoum and Beni Suef. All of this makes it ideally situated for tourists flying in from Kuwait and vice versa. The press conference was also attended by Pilot Amr El Sharkawy, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority, Pilot Ahmed Mansour, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Egyptian Airports Company, Dr. Nayef Al Tayyar, First Secretary, Embassy of Kuwait, Omar Islam Shalaby, President of Imperial Travel Center and Rohit Ramachandran, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Airways. Speaking at the press conference El Sharkawy said: “This comes within the framework of the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s plan to develop and revitalize air and tourism traffic to and from Egyptian Airports and attract the attention of many International Airlines to continue exploring new destinations.” This is the seventh destination Jazeera Airways will fly to in Egypt including Alexandria, Assiut, Cairo, Luxor, Suhag and Sharm El Sheikh. With direct flights from Kuwait and network connections from other destinations in …

Qatar Airways landed its inaugural flight to the Turkish city of Trabzon. The non-stop service is operating with the Airbus A320 aircraft three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The new route expands Qatar Airways’ footprint in Türkiye and strengthens its global network of more than 160 destinations. Trabzon is Qatar Airways’ seventh destination in Türkiye, with the airline also operating to Adana, Ankara, Antalya, Bodrum, Istanbul, and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen. Located in the Northeast of Turkey, Trabzon is celebrated for its rich history, cultural offerings, and beautiful Black Sea coastline. The city boasts an array of natural and historic wonders, including the Sumela Monastery, Uzungol Lake, and the stunning Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum. Onboard QR319, the flight was celebrated by the attendance of the Ambassador of The Republic of Türkiye in Qatar, His Excellency Dr. Mustafa Goksu. Special celebrations took place in Premium and Economy Cabins, where passengers were welcomed with special Turkish desserts, and experienced a bespoke menu in addition to being presented with unique giveaways that embrace the Turkish culture. The aircraft was welcomed with a water cannon salute upon landing, where a short airport ceremony took place which was attended by the Governor of Trabzon, Mr. İsmail Ustaoğlu. Passengers were handed red roses and Turkish baklava and enjoyed a dance performance by a traditional folk group. With this new route, Qatar Airways passengers will have the opportunity to explore Trabzon’s diverse offerings with ease and convenience. From sports activities, to hiking mountains and family getaways, Trabzon presents something unique to all travellers. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Trabzon is an exciting and important new route for Qatar Airways, …

SAUDIA launched its first flight from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport in Nice, France. This marks SAUDIA’s second destination in France as part of its phased implementation strategy aimed at expanding its international network. It is also the newest Summer seasonal destination SAUDIA introduced this year. Baakdah emphasized the significance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries through the introduction of SAUDIA’s flights to Nice Airport and connecting the existing flights to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. This was part of the plan announced at the beginning of this year to expand the airline’s existing flight network. As part of the plan, SAUDIA aims to increase the number of destinations and expand the aircraft fleet to achieve operational goals. Additionally, SAUDIA has been focusing on developing its digital service ecosystem to enhance the guest experience. The inaugural SAUDIA flight, SV129, departed from King Khalid International Airport to the city of Nice, in the presence of Mr. Mohammad Baakdah, the Vice President of Ground Operations at SAUDIA, and Mr. Mohammed Alshammari, the Chief Operations Officer at Riyadh Airports Company, along with several operations and management officials. To commemorate the flight’s launch, a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the airport at AlFursan International Lounge.