It was shared by Bahrain News Agency that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia has signed a memorandum of understanding between the two countries to boost tourism in both destinations. This landmark agreement not only signifies a milestone in their bilateral relations but also sets the stage for an exponential surge in their respective tourism sectors. Fatima Bint Jaffar Al Sairifi, Tourism Minister Bahrain has affirmed that the signed agreement with Saudi Arabia in the field of tourism will confirm the status of both nations as a joint regional and global tourism destination. According to Minister Al Sairifi, this agreement is the first cooperation agreement between the tourism sectors of the two countries, where they also prepared a comprehensive marketing plan in this area that consists of engaging the private sector in promoting the two countries as one tourism destination. Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister, underlined the importance of the agreement between the two countries, pointing out that the MoU signing is the culmination of the long-standing historic relations, in line with the directives of their leaderships. He emphasised the importance of staying on top of the latest developments in the Gulf region’s tourism sector, especially in the two kingdoms, which boast a rich culture, civilization, and heritage, in order to strengthen tourism cooperation. Minister Al Khateeb said that the agreement addressed important issues, including training and developing human resources, investing in technology in the tourism industry, and establishing joint marketing programmes to promote the cultures of the two countries and the region to tourists from around the world. He affirmed that the agreement will also develop the tourism investment in both countries, as well as improve and enrich the …

Rydezilla has joined forces with Udrive Bahrain in order to revolutionize the car rental industry in Bahrain. Customers can now access Udrive’s extensive fleet of vehicles, through the seamless online booking feature on the Rydezilla app. Whether you seek an everyday ride or a luxurious vehicle, this convenient process will allow customers to effortlessly browse, reserve, and select their preferred rental, setting a new standard of convenience and choice. Building on its success in the UAE, where Rydezilla has been providing cutting-edge car rental solutions for over a year, the company is excited to extend its services to Bahrain. This expansion brings unparalleled online experiences, unmatched convenience, and exceptional deals to customers in Bahrain. By integrating Udrive Bahrain’s fleet into the Rydezilla app, customers enjoy a user-friendly interface that simplifies the car rental experience. The app’s intuitive design and advanced search features enable customers to find the perfect vehicle for their specific needs, whether it’s a short business trip or a memorable family vacation. “We are proud to partner with U Drive Bahrain to revolutionize the car rental landscape in Bahrain,” said Maabad Said, Co-Founder & COO of Rydezilla. “By combining our expertise and resources, we are committed to setting new industry standards and driving positive change. Through digital innovation and a steadfast focus on customer satisfaction, both Rydezilla and Udrive Bahrain are poised to transform the car rental experience.” This collaboration expands Rydezilla’s market presence in Bahrain and solidifies its position as the leading provider of convenient and dependable automobile rental services. By tapping into Rydezilla’s user base and web presence, Udrive Bahrain can reach new markets and customers, unlocking exciting opportunities. “We are thrilled to join forces with …

IGY Marinas announced that it is partnering with NEOM, the global development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, to develop and operate the prestigious marina at Sindalah, the giga-project’s luxury island destination. Perfectly positioned as a glamorous gateway to the Red Sea, Sindalah will be the closest ultra-prime superyacht marina to Europe and the Mediterranean. Expected to become an iconic destination for the world’s yachting community, the maritime facility will offer 86 berths for yachts up to 50 meters and additional serviced offshore buoys for superyachts up to 180 meters. Antoni Vives, Head of Urban Development at NEOM, said: “Sindalah will be one of the most alluring and vibrant yachting destinations in the world, thanks to its strategic location, outstanding amenities and stunning natural landscapes. This partnership with IGY is one of many steps we are taking to achieve our vision of reshaping the global yachting calendar, with NEOM located one day’s cruising distance from the Mediterranean Sea.” IGY’s unique position and expertise will help Sindalah realize this goal and set a benchmark for premium customer experience. Once established, the marina will join IGY’s international superyacht marina network of 23 marinas across 12 countries – the only network of its kind in the world – as well as their exclusive superyacht membership program IGY Trident. Tom Mukamal, CEO of IGY Marinas said: “Sindalah perfectly integrates with IGY’s global vision to connect the world’s most incredible yachting destinations across our growing marina network. The addition of NEOM to the IGY platform provides superyacht owners, captains and charter guests unrivaled destinations, service and convenience. IGY is tremendously excited about the opportunity to promote this amazing new destination to the international yachting community.” …

The Ascott Limited welcomes guests to escape, explore and experience the Sultanate’s capital city with Citadines Al Ghubrah, Muscat. Situated close to Muscat’s central business district and leisure attractions, the exquisite property offers a range of elegantly designed serviced apartments for the perfect recluse for business and leisure travelers. The impeccably designed 7-story, 96-unit property offers four apartment types – Studio Deluxe, Studio Premier, One-Bedroom Executive and One-Bedroom Premier. With graceful designs and optimal use of living spaces, each apartment is furnished with opulent decor catering to the essential requirements of each resident in house. Guests staying at Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat can head into the conference or meeting room to address any business needs or indulge in a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy a massage at Rosabell SPA, recently opened on 7th floor. Residents can end their day with a reviving workout in the fully equipped fitness corner, followed by a relaxing read in the residence lounge or enjoy a thirst-quenching beverage at the in-house Kaldi café. Family and friends can also enjoy some much-needed quality time with mouth-watering delectables and unique culinary experiences at the restaurant located on the ground floor at Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat. Visitors can explore Muscat’s local culture, and stunning natural landscapes, or partake in exciting outdoor activities such as snorkeling, camel rides and dune bashing. With the ‘ASR Member Special Rate’ guests can avail of up to 20% off when booking directly via the Ascott website: discoverasr.com/offers.

IHG® Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a Management Agreement with Akam Al Rajhi, a joint venture between AkamAlRajhi and Al Rajhi Saudi groups to bring in voco resort to the Middle East region. Set to open in December 2026, the 300-key voco North Coast will include low-rise buildings, chalets and townhouses in a prime location, directly on the beachfront. As part of the DOSE Village North Coast secure gated community, the resort will be located on the front row of the development, offering 360 degrees of uninterrupted beach views. With this signing, IHG continues to expand their footprint across the MEA region and diversify their portfolio, as part of the company’s ambitious growth strategy. With the voco hotel brand already well established in MEA, including locations in the UAE and KSA, the new signing marks the first voco resort in the region, and will cater to the growing leisure demand on Egypt’s North Coast. Stretching 1,050km across the Mediterranean Sea, the area is one of Egypt’s most attractive leisure destinations and is home to a number of arts, sports and entertainment events. voco North Coast will also cater to the growing wellbeing-focused travel market, with natural landscapes, artificial lakes, a swimming pool, spa, health club, running and biking tracks, a shopping mall, a waterpark (DOSE Aqua Park) and diverse dining options. For travelers seeking blended travel, the resort will also offer meeting and events spaces, totaling approximately 1,375 sqm. Offering a coastal escape, but just minutes from bustling and dynamic Alexandria Matrouh, the new voco will be located 23km from Egypt’s new Al Alamein Airport. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “We are excited …

Nationals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan will soon only be required to pay £10 to apply for an ETA, which will allow them to visit the UK multiple times over a two-year period. This is compared to Gulf nationals currently paying £30 per visit to the UK under the current Electronic Visa Wavier (EVW) scheme and Jordanian nationals £100 for a visit visa. The scheme is set to launch for Qatari nationals in October 2023, and for the rest of the Gulf Cooperation Council states and Jordan in February 2024 ahead of a worldwide expansion throughout 2024. Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said: “Visitors from the Gulf states and Jordan make a huge contribution to the UK’s tourism industry and the new ETA scheme will make it easier and cheaper for them to travel to the UK. The cost of an ETA will be one of the best value in the world compared to similar international schemes. This small additional cost to visitors will enable us to bolster the security of the UK border and keep our communities safe.” Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia Lord Ahmad said: “I’m delighted that our partners across the Gulf and Jordan will be the first to benefit from the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme. This scheme is further proof of the strong partnership between the UK and countries across the region. By cutting costs and visa requirements, the ETA scheme will ensure visitors from the Gulf states and Jordan can enjoy travelling with ease to the UK, boosting business and tourism links between our countries.” These details were disclosed by the Home Office, …

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Emirates will host the 80th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 2-4 June 2024. “We look forward to gathering the aviation industry in Dubai for the 80th IATA AGM in 2024. Dubai is a dynamic city and a major aviation hub connecting the world. The UAE’s positive approach to aviation has built a strong airline with a strong hub airport. Together, these make an enormously powerful and positive contribution to the society and economy of the UAE. Holding the AGM in Dubai will be a showcase of what can be achieved by aviation with supportive government policies and decisions,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “Emirates is delighted to host the 80th IATA AGM and World Air Transport Summit. We look forward to welcoming all our aviation industry colleagues to Dubai in 2024,” said Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline. The decision to host the 80th IATA AGM was made by the 79th AGM in Istanbul.  This will be the first time the UAE and Dubai will host the global gathering of aviation’s top leaders.

Almosafer (part of Seera Group), has signed a partnership agreement with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce to develop Saudi talent for the travel and tourism sector. The partnership will enable Almosafer to expand the reach of its in-house training programme, Almosafer Academy, which equips young Saudi nationals with the necessary skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed and grow as travel advisors or other industry professions. Almosafer and the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce will work together to enable more university students in Saudi Arabia to apply to Almosafer Academy. Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer of Almosafer, said: “This partnership with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce will help accelerate our efforts to develop the necessary human capital for a sustainable travel and tourism industry. As our industry grows, there is a wealth of opportunity for young Saudis to embark on successful careers. I am pleased we are doing our part in championing young talent as we continue to support the tourism agenda of Saudi Vision 2030.” Naif Abdullah Al-Rajhi, Second Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors Riyadh Chamber and Chairman of the Tourism Committee, said: “We are pleased to be collaborating with Almosafer. This partnership is poised to significantly enhance human competencies, underpinning the growth of the travel and tourism sectors and aligning seamlessly with the Kingdom’s strategic mission to cultivate and advance Saudi talents, inspiring them to pioneer and lead initiatives across diverse disciplines.” The signing took place at the inaugural Tourism Investment Forum in Riyadh which was sponsored by Almosafer. Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer at Almosafer, moderated a panel discussion on private sector investments with Her Highness Princess Haifa Bint Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism, …

Wego offers travelers an unforgettable experience in Spain this summer. Wego and Spain Tourism will be promoting the best things to do in the country and sharing guides and tips on how to spend the best summer holiday. This strategic collaboration brings together the extensive reach and expertise of Wego in the online travel industry and the allure of Spain’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Summer in Spain is one of the most enjoyable travel experiences. The vibrant cities such as Madrid and Barcelona offer a plethora of shopping options from high end boutiques to traditional markets that are perfect for every type of traveler. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, said: “Spain is a preferred destination for MENA travelers. Through our partnership with Spain Tourism, we aim to attract a wider audience and boost tourism to this captivating country. We will be providing curated itineraries, and personalized travel recommendations, to inspire and assist travelers in planning their dream trips to Spain.” Wego will showcase Spain’s diverse attractions, including its historic landmarks, breathtaking beaches, and world-renowned culinary scene, to its vast user base. Daniel Rosado, Director of Spain Tourism for the Middle East, said: “Spain is a well-known country in the GCC region and it’s experiencing a continuous increase in demand year after year. To consolidate this trend and build on it, we are partnering up with Wego to reach more and better the potential audience. Spain is a world in a country where travellers will find all they are looking for and that they desire, as Spain caters for all tourists. Through this campaign we will increase the awareness in …

The first standalone residence in the Ennismore portfolio outside of The Americas is set to open in 2026, featuring panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline. Highlights include a Small Little Secret Club, an exclusive clubhouse for homeowners with private F&B concept, chef’s table, entertainment lounge, infinity pool and a boutique fitness studio with treatment rooms. These 113 prestigious homes were 100% reserved within 30-days of their release. Accor provided an update on the progress of its fast-growing, branded residences business line. Currently, Accor is welcoming residents home at some 40 branded residence communities around the world, with another 100+ projects under development, across 20 distinct brand collections. By 2027, the company expects to have more than 150 branded residences in operation, an increase of more than 300%. These properties are supported by Accor One Living, the company’s industry-first platform focused on the development, design and operation of mixed-use projects and branded living communities. Through Accor One Living, homeowners, guests, and partners are connected to Accor’s diverse ecosystem of brands, expertise, and solutions – creating a constant flow of new opportunities to live, work, and play. “The intersection of private residences and lifestyle brands is one of our most compelling areas of growth right now – two areas in which Accor leads the global hospitality industry and is continuing to push forward,” said Jeff Tisdall, Chief Business Officer, Accor One Living. “Around the world, we are seeing strong demand for homes that are anchored by the comforts and promises of a beloved brand experience, providing a sense of belonging and community. This is particularly true for our lifestyle brands, where we see an important and growing segment of …