Kanoo Travel, the first IATA member agency in the GCC and prominent force within the Middle East’s travel Industry, has unveiled their key strategic initiatives (2023-2027). The future roadmap builds upon a robust digitalization plan to deploy state-of-the-art technology, utilize cloud-based contact centers, and enable intelligent retailing to provide customers with a highly tailored next-generation travel platform. As the largest travel management company in the MENA region, Kanoo Travel’s new strategy will prioritize key investments in artificial intelligence and digital platforms, data analytics software and cloud based infrastructure solutions to redefine the entire customer travel journey and experience at every touchpoint. This is in line with the company’s mission to provide the most sophisticated travel solutions on a global level, and cater to the needs of the future travelers’ changing behaviors and needs. “Mr. Ali Abdulla Kanoo – President of Kanoo Travel ” The Kanoo Family takes priority in investing in our travel division and its people. Through this investment, we are also strengthening our technological skills to give our customers a fulfilling journey. We are consistently striving to grasp opportunities and reacting by developing and setting best practices, all while responding to the changing marketplace. Our future roadmap 2023-2027 and its outlined strategic initiatives will target the future of travel for both the individual and the corporation.” Zaeem Gama  –  Kanoo Travel CEO, commented, “Kanoo Travel is now entering a new phase, backed by a extensive corporate strategy and full-scale digital transformation master plan that will enable prominent improvements, allowing us to become faster at identifying and addressing shifts in the landscape, exploring diverse revenue stream opportunities, in addition to engaging with new potential global travel management partners.” He …

The Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) and Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST), both part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have upgraded their much-sought after ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism’ course that is available on DCT’s innovative learning platform, Dubai Way. The enhanced course on sustainability is launched, as the UAE prepares to host the COP28 (Conference of the Parties) Climate Change Conference, at Expo City Dubai in 2023, which will further address climate change to create a more sustainable and progressive economic future. With a range of new modules including educational segments focused on water and energy saving, how to implement a Green Team and effective procurement, the DCT course will empower participants with the knowledge on how to abide by and operate with sustainable principles across the travel and hospitality sectors. Dubai Way is a world-class training platform offering a broad range of educational and awareness programmes for people employed in tourist-facing roles across the tourism ecosystem. Supporting those who interact with visitors on a day-to-day basis, Dubai Way offers specialist training focused on history, culture and heritage and customer service, all of which are critical to delivering exceptional experiences for visitors to Dubai. Since the launch of the sustainability course in 2019, it has contributed significantly towards boosting the city’s sustainability credentials, within the wider DST initiative to position Dubai as tourism destination focused on and implementing sustainable practices. For example, a number of hotels have developed water bottling plants, installed solar panels and implemented water saving initiatives.  In recent years, the tourism sector has also witnessed a proliferation of on-site farms, generating locally sourced greens as well as hotels supporting local suppliers of fresh produce, poultry, seafood …

In Jeddah, more than 100 representatives of Saudi Arabian tour operators took part in the presentation of the first day of the road show. The event was also attended by Consul General of the Russian Federation in Jeddah Yusup Abakarov. In his welcome speech Mr. Abakarov noted: «St. Petersburg is a city of unique history and beauty! I am sure you will never regret or forget St. Petersburg if you visit it, and you can safely recommend it to your clients as a place of cultural rest and unforgettable impressions.” The representatives of the tourist business of the region got acquainted with the novelties of St. Petersburg, classic programs, the new tourist geography of the city on the Neva river. Road show visitors learned about the historical sights of St. Petersburg, architectural masterpieces, the event calendar, educational and religious routes, and much more. Particular attention was paid to the organization of direct flights to the northern capital. The presentation attracted the attention of representatives of tour operators and professional associations, airlines, organizers of MICE events and specialized media from the Middle East. The road show has become part of a unified information campaign of the Tourism Development Committee, which also includes participation in exhibitions and other marketing activities that provide an opportunity to generate interest in St. Petersburg as a tourist destination, and industry representatives to find potential partners and enter a new market. It should be noted that in recent years there has been an increased interest in St. Petersburg among tourists from the countries of the Middle East. Discerning guests from this region are attracted by the comfortable hospitality infrastructure of the city on the Neva river – …

The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced its participation in the World Travel Market 2022 (WTM), which brings together 51,000 industry professionals from the travel and tourism industry in the British capital from 7-9 November. Through its participation SCTDA will further its strategic goals of promoting the emirate as a popular travel destination on prestigious global events. The entity is leading a delegation of 17 public and private sector entities, namely, Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA), Sharjah International Airport, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF), Expo Centre Sharjah, Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Sharjah Sports Council, Sharjah Old Cars Club, Sharjah Airport Travel Agency (SATA), Sharjah National Hotels, Golden Sands Hotel, The Chedi Al Bait Hotel, Al Badayer Retreat by Mysk, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah,COSMO Travel, and TravTalk. These entities will showcase their latest developments across the emirate, including key projects taking shape in key sectors of tourism, leisure, heritage, culture, sports and hospitality, along with the steps they are taking to preserve Sharjah’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through their participation, SCTDA will also highlight its new developments and projects, tourism offerings and services, staycation options and hotel establishments across the emirate. Sharjah’s pavilion at WTM 2022, managed by SCTDA, will serve as a nexus for  potential businesses, investors, travel professionals as well as visitors and tourists in Europe to look into their areas of interest and learn more new and emerging prospects in Sharjah’s vibrant travel and tourism market. It will also serve as a platform for networking and exchanging experiences, sharing best practices as well as envisioning a way forward for a sustainable and …

70 top travel trade agents and influencers were invited for the official kick start celebrating the legacy of Picasso in Dubai. Irina Sanchis Vives, Deputy Head of Mission, Political and cultural affairs, embassy of Spain in UAE graced the occasion and shared that in order to celebrate the 50th death anniversary of Picasso, the government of France and Spain have put together many events to celebrate this great artist’s legacy and from the embassy in UAE they will be working together with the tourism board of Spain in UAE to enable this celebration. The event was held in four parts, of which the first was involving the best Emirati travel influencers with travel trade partners, the Spain tourism Director and Marketing Manager who were engaged in painting an artwork provided for them to celebrate the legacy of Picasso. Second was the presentations by the key speakers, Tourism Director of Spain Tourism GCC, Daniel Rosado shared about the destination and on the celebration of Picasso. Thirdly was the surprise with a unique entertainment based on costumes which depicted the artwork of Picasso and finally was the delectable dinner which included some Spanish dishes enjoyed by all the trade partners. As Spain was one of the first countries to open hence, they received a high number of visitors especially from the GCC. This year was a record year for Spain tourism as they hit the 2019 numbers by GCC and considering worldwide they hit 90 percent of the 83 million received in 2019 which is a great start and a very positive recovery. Spain emerged among the top recovered destinations, as, instead of resting on its laurels, Spain has been proactively working …

Al-Futtaim Automotive, which provides some of the world’s most-recognized automotive brands, services, and mobility solutions to customers across the region, announced today the signing of an exclusive agreement for Al-Futtaim Lexus become the exclusive vehicle partner for VIP moments at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). The signing took place on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Airshow where Al-Futtaim Automotive spotlighted its powerhouse mobility solutions, fleet, and innovations. As part of the collaboration, Al-Futtaim Automotive – one of the main five operating divisions within the UAE-based Al-Futtaim Group of companies – has provided AUH with a new fleet of Lexus vehicles worth AED 10 million, including the LX and LS models from its premium SUV and Sedan range, to ensure a luxurious passenger journey from VIP terminal to the aircraft and from the aircraft to the VIP terminal. This partnership sees AUH becoming the first airport in the MENA region to exclusively offer the all-new 2022 Lexus vehicles to its clients and will present passengers with an additional customer-centric benefit, alongside VIP terminal mainstays, private check-in, comprehensive entertainment, well-equipped business centre, direct luggage transfer and private Royal Majlis lounge. Vincent Wijnen, Senior Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Automotive, commented: “As a leading provider of mobility solutions in the UAE, Al-Futtaim Automotive is proud to have a portfolio comprising some of the world’s most recognised and widely respected automotive brands. This partnership with Abu Dhabi Airports reflects our commitment to offering an exceptional experience wherever customers engage with the Lexus brand. Abu Dhabi Airport’s VIP Terminal and Al-Futtaim Lexus both represent a certain level of exclusivity in the market, and we look forward to offering VIP passengers at Abu Dhabi International Airport the …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled its latest campaign: Experience Abu Dhabi. Find Your Pace. The campaign shares the variety of experiences that inspire, excite and restore, welcoming the world to come and enjoy memorable moments that matter – in their own way, and at their own pace. Experience Abu Dhabi shows the seamless connections between a wealth of cultural heritage, alongside exciting experiences. Yas Island welcomes the world with year-round theme park action and waterfront attractions, with events and entertainment for families and all ages. Only 15 minutes away, Saadiyat Island is filled with living culture, home to Louvre Abu Dhabi’s timeless inspiration and unforgettable architecture. Located at the heart of the island, Saadiyat Cultural District hosts community events and exhibitions at Manarat Al Saadiyat, alongside Berklee Abu Dhabi, the pre-eminent institute of contemporary music and the performing arts. The district is also the future home of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and the immersive art of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Nearby, pristine beaches and coastal avenues are lined with cafes and dining options at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, to enjoy over a breathtaking sunset. Just over an hour from these remarkable island experiences, Abu Dhabi invites visitors to ignite their curiosity by visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites in Al Ain, experience adventure and tranquillity among the desert dunes, and embrace Abu Dhabi’s fascinating past with iconic museums and ancient forts. Enriching experiences throughout the year   The campaign welcomes the world to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s enriching experiences at their own pace, with: Cultural inspiration: past, present and future Explore the nation’s living memorial and …

Emirates has resumed its flights to two South American destinations, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, which were previously suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Flight EK247, operated with a Boeing 777 aircraft, received warm welcomes on its journey into Brazil and Argentina on Wednesday. Rio de Janeiro’s RIOgaleão organized a traditional water cannon salute to mark the airline’s return to the Brazilian city. Passengers and crew were greeted with samba dancers who put on a lively cultural performance in the presence of the airport’s management team. Emirates executives Salem Obaidalla, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Americas; and Stephane Perard, Manager for Brazil marked the resumption of the Dubai-Rio de Janeiro-Buenos Aires route with a symbolic ribbon-cutting before boarding the flight for Buenos Aires. In Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza’s Ministro Pistarini International Airport, flight EK247 was met by Argentinian officials including Alexis Raúl Guerrera, Minister of Transport; Matías Lammens, Minister of Tourism; Paola Tamburelli, Director of Civil Aviation; Sebastian Villar Guarino, General Manager Ezeiza Airport, amongst other members of the airport’s management team; Oscar Suarez, Director of International Markets, IMPROTUR and H.E. Saeed Abdulla Saif Joula Alqemzi, Ambassador of the UAE to the Republic of Argentina. The welcome event in Buenos Aires was marked by a dramatic tango dance performance, courtesy of Argentina Tourism Board (INPROTUR). With the resumption of services to Argentina, which was first launched in 2012, Emirates has restored over 90% of its pre-pandemic network, comprising over 130 destinations including Dubai. The four-times weekly flights from Dubai to Rio de Janeiro with onwards service to Buenos Aires will operate as EK247/EK248. EK247 departs from Dubai four times a week at 08:05 and lands in Rio de Janeiro …

Female bosses from three leading airlines will take to the Future Stage at WTM London on Monday November 7 to talk about the opportunities and challenges they’ve experienced on their way to the top in the airline industry. Aer Lingus CEO Lynne Embleton, Wizz Air UK Managing Director Marion Geoffroy and TUI Airline Chief Operating Officer Dawn Wilson will come together to discuss their path to Board-level membership and their leadership roles in a male-dominated airline world. The BIG Airline Session, on Monday November 7, 15:00 – 16:00, will kick off with a perspective on the outlook for the airline sector by WTM’s aviation expert John Strickland, Director of JLS Consulting. In what has long been a must-attend event at WTM London, John Strickland will draw on his 40 years of experience in the air transport industry to give an overview of how airlines have fared over the past year and will draw on his strategic insight and contacts to give his view on the months and years ahead. He’ll then invite the female aviation bosses to tell their stories, as well as address the current challenges faced by their companies and the wider aviation industry. John Strickland, Director, JLS Consulting, commented: “I’m really looking forward to interviewing these exceptional women leaders and learning about the challenges they faced in advancing their own careers. They bring vast experience and I’m sure they’ll be keen to share advice and motivation for other woman in the audience seeking to get into the industry.” Juliette Losardo, WTM Exhibition Director, said: “I’m honoured to welcome these three incredible women – who’ve made it to the top of the aviation – to World Travel Market. …

Under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, and the insightful guidance of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, Sheikh Zayed Festival 2022-2023 will be launched on November the 18th at Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. The Higher Organizing Committee of the Sheikh Zayed Festival announced that the Festival, in its new edition, will include over 4,000 events in addition to 750 major public performances and activities over 120 days of filled with joy, entertainment and culture. The Festival will conclude its events on the 18th of March 2023, and is being held this year under the slogan “UAE: Uniting Civilizations”. The Committee explained that in its current round, the Festival will continue to focus on expressing its main messages of preserving UAE national heritage, affirming the depth of the Emirati civilization and carrying it through to future generations, as well as boosting its role in promoting Abu Dhabi’s status as a leading touristic and cultural destination in the region and the whole world. The new edition of the Festival brings a rich list of major entertainment events, shows and performances that vary from heritage conservation and education to entertainment. The Festival will include the Union Parade, National Day celebrations, New Year’s celebrations, as well as Global Parade, Al Wathba Custom Show and other events that are sure to please all family members. Since its inception, the Sheikh Zayed Festival has been keen to pass on the intellectual and cultural heritage of the UAE, demonstrate the richness of its traditions and highlight its diversity by organizing a world-class cultural event capable of …