The inaugural B2B edition of Saudi Travel Mart with TravTalkME as media partner kicked off in Riyadh yesterday with over 135 companies from 20 countries. It will provide a platform for key exhibitors from Saudi Arabia and the rest of the world to showcase their many offerings within a period of three days from 25th to 27th February 2024. Opening the event Naif A. Alrajhi – Vice Chairman of Board of Directors Riyadh Chamber of Commerce shared, “Today is an important event to have this first ever B2B event in Saudi Arabia, having 135 companies from 20 countries which shows the importance of being in Saudi  Arabia and this is very good for later stages as Saudi Arabia aims to achieve a high number of tourists from across the globe. Saudi Arabia has a lot of opportunities with thew commitment of the government as they have set a target with the vision 2030 aimed at attracting the highest number of  tourists by 2030 and with all the foreign investments happening in the Kingdom this will give rise to the tourism sector in the Kingdom.” Mohammed Al Harbi, Chief Executive Officer Saudi Travel Mart in his opening remarks shared, “we consider the Saudi Travel Market to be one of the important exhibitions through which we intend to place the Kingdom on the list of major tourist destinations in the coming years. As the first B2B exhibition in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we aim to attract the largest international companies to the Kingdom and make it the first and best choice for everyone.”  

In collaboration with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), H2O Hospitality (H2O) has established its regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi. ADIO provided H2O, which operates in the accommodation and leisure sector, with a comprehensive range of growth-enabling support, including financial incentives, setup enablement and connections to the Abu Dhabi ecosystem and international trade opportunities. H2O’s solutions will also contribute to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. The company is connected to more than 85 online travel agencies, in addition to managing over 190,000 units and 680 properties. It provides solutions which automate the front and back-end processes of hotels by digitising the process flow, enabling paperless and contactless procedures that improve efficiency and profitability for operators. H2O’s solutions in Abu Dhabi will enhance guest experience with mobile-based booking, check-in, smart locks, in-room services and payments. John Lee, Founder and CEO of H2O, said: “Digital transformation has become an even more pressing matter for the hospitality industry. The move highlights the strong economic cooperation between South Korea and Abu Dhabi, which has become increasingly focussed on innovation and technology. In the past 10 years, South Korea has been ranked as the most innovative nation six times by the Bloomberg Innovation Index. Abu Dhabi was also named the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for 2023 in the IMD Smart City Index, released by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). Badr Al-Olama, Acting Director General of ADIO, said: “Both Abu Dhabi and South Korea are globally known for their approach to innovation, sharing similar visions for digital transformation, and are natural partners to navigate the tech-enabled future. “At the same time, Abu Dhabi has become renowned for its diverse investment climate, …

Abu Dhabi’s ADQ unveiled plans to develop Ras El Hekma as a leading one of a kind Mediterranean holiday destinations and will invest USD35 billion in Egypt and acquire the development rights for Ras El-Hekma for USD24 billion to develop the region into one of the largest new city developments by a private consortium. The significant investment marks a pivotal step towards establishing Ras El-Hekma as a leading first-of-its-kind Mediterranean holiday destination, financial centre and free zone equipped with world-class infrastructure to strengthen Egypt’s economic and tourism growth potential. Ras El-Hekma is a coastal region in Egypt located approximately 350 kilometres northwest of Cairo. The Egyptian government will retain a 35 per cent stake in the Ras El-Hekma development. As part of this investment, ADQ will also convert USD11 billion of deposits that will be utilised for investment in prime projects across Egypt to support its economic growth and development. The signing ceremony was attended by Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Vice Chairman of ADQ, and Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Managing Director and CEO of ADQ. Spanning over 170 million square metres, Ras El-Hekma will feature tourism amenities, a free zone and an investment zone combining, among else, residential, commercial, and recreational spaces with connectivity domestically and internationally. ADQ, leveraging its expansive portfolio and partners, aims to unlock the appeal of Ras El-Hekma as a premium international financial and tourism destination adopting the latest cutting edge digital and technological smart city solutions. ADQ intends to leverage Egyptian and international partners as part of its development and investment plans. Work is expected to commence in early 2025. ADQ’s decision to invest in Ras El-Hekma is underpinned by …

Emirates Group has announced a slate of senior appointments as the organisation readies itself for its next phase of growth, promoting 19 executives including 8 UAE nationals, and 6 women. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “Keeping pace with Dubai’s vision for growth and prosperity, the Emirates Group has also set clear and ambitious plans for fleet, network, and business growth for the next 15 years. To effectively execute these plans, the Group is strengthening its executive bench, together with internal business and operational alignment. I am pleased to announce these senior appointments, all of whom are long-serving leaders within the organisation who continue to contribute to the growth and success of Emirates and dnata.” The appointments, effective 1 March 2024 are: Adel Al Redha Deputy President and Chief Operations Officer Adnan Kazim Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Steve Allen Chief Executive Officer, dnata Michael Doersam Chief Financial and Group Services Officer Boutros Boutros Executive VP – Marketing, Brand and Corporate Communications Nabil Sultan Executive VP – Passenger Sales and Country Management Oliver Grohmann Executive VP – Human Resources Richard Jewsbury Executive VP – Corporate and Customer Experience Planning Anand Lakshminarayanan Divisional Senior VP – Order Management and Revenue Optimisation Amira Al Awadhi Senior VP – HR Operations and Systems Amira Al Falasi Senior VP – Training and Development Hana Al Awadhi Senior VP – dnata Business Support Manal Al Soori Senior VP – Group Recruitment Masooma Hassan Senior VP – Airline Business Support Musa Faisal Senior VP – Operations Research and Effectiveness Valerie Tan Senior VP – Corporate Communications, CSR and Media Affairs Rogerio Leao Divisional VP – Fleet …

FHS Saudi Arabia, taking place in Riyadh from 29 April to 1 May, has a strong female focus this year, reflecting the rise of women in the Kingdom’s hospitality and tourism industries, and encouraging more to embark on a career in the sector. With International Women’s Day (8 March) just around the corner and FHS Saudi Arabia less than two months away, female forces in the Middle East’s hospitality sector share their thoughts on what women already bring to the industry, and how hospitality and tourism businesses can turn KSA’s young women of today into the leaders of tomorrow. As part of its commitment to recognise the important role of women in the sector, FHS Saudi Arabia organiser, The Bench, has launched #FHSWomenPower, a new campaign for this year’s event. Under the initiative, The Bench is offering female Saudi nationals who hold leading positions in the country’s hospitality sector to attend FHS free of charge. Read on for insight and expert opinion from Marie-Louise Ek, Vice President Human Resources Middle East and Africa, Hilton; Shaikha Al Nowais, Corporate Vice President of Owner Relationship Management, Rotana; Marloes Knippenberg, Chief Executive Officer, Kerten Hospitality; Eng. Orobah Filfilan, Architect, Saudi Icon; Norah Al Tamimi, Chief Executive Officer, Baheej Company, and Aseel Bondagjy, Hotel Talent Development Manager, and Maryam AlQahtani, Brand Experience Professional, NEOM. What is your organisation doing to champion gender diversity and women empowerment in the hospitality industry in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the region’s social and economic aspirations? Marie-Louise Ek, Vice President Human Resources Middle East and Africa, Hilton: At Hilton we are in a business of people serving people. We lead with culture and we are committed to creating …

The Supreme Committee to oversee the development of Hatta announced the launch of the first ever Hatta Farming Festival. To be held from 23 to 27 February, 2024 at the Hatta Hall, the event will be organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment in cooperation with the Dubai Municipality, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and the Hatta Traders Council. The launch of the festival is an initiative of the Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta, aimed at enhancing Hatta’s economic and tourism development, supporting traders and small business owners, encouraging them to display their agricultural products, and celebrating the rich heritage and agricultural production of the region. The inaugural Hatta Farming Festival, which is free to enter, will run from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Bringing the community together in a vibrant setting that celebrates agricultural and environmental practices, the event offers a platform for local farmers to display their activities and produce. Over five fun-packed days, visitors can join in exciting educational workshops and sessions, go on tours to nearby heritage sites, and sample culinary delights from local businesses in Hatta, including six food trucks and pop-up cafes, in a coming-together of the area’s farming community. Open to guests of all ages, every visitor will find something to enjoy, with entertainment events being held throughout the festival including roaming performances by Dubai’s beloved characters, Modesh and Dana. The festival features more than 25 workshops on sustainability-focused topics such as food security, water purification, diverting food from landfill, and growing your own food. Guests can also learn how to keep and rear their own animals, such as chicken and goats. In sessions designed to ignite a …

Emirates A380 has returned to Vienna again after a break of nearly four years and carrying more than 400 passengers to the Austrian capital. Emirates has become the only air carrier to operate the double-decker at Vienna International Airport, a significant milestone in the history of the partnership between the two entities. The iconic aircraft landed on Austrian soil for the first time back in 2014 to mark the 10th anniversary of Emirates’ operations in Austria, followed by a scheduled A380 service in 2016 between Dubai and Vienna. “We are delighted to bring our A380 back on the Vienna-Dubai route and offer our passengers the incomparable experience on board the popular aircraft. The A380 is Emirates’ flagship aircraft and a fan-favourite among passengers around the world. The return of the double-decker marks a milestone for Emirates’ operations in Austria and demonstrates the significance of our market in Emirates’ global route network,” says Elisabeth Zauner, Country Manager Emirates Austria, on the resumption of the scheduled Emirates A380 operations to Vienna. Julian Jäger, Joint CEO of Vienna Airport, is also enthusiastic about the return of the Emirates A380: “I am delighted that the Emirates A380 is back in regular service to Vienna. The world’s largest passenger aircraft is a highlight for all travellers and a great enrichment for Vienna Airport. The associated increase in capacity is a further sign of the strengthening of connections to the Near and Middle East and is good for tourism to and from Austria.” The A380 is currently the largest passenger aircraft in the world and the flagship of the Emirates fleet. More than 90 A380s are currently in service on Emirates’ global route network, including the popular …

Millennium Hotels and Resorts announced the opening of The Biltmore Hotel Villas in Dubai. Comprising a collection of 20 luxury five-star hotel villas, this establishment promises unparalleled comfort and sophistication, adding a touch of glamour to the heart of the city. Situated in close proximity to the Mall of the Emirates, The Biltmore Hotel Villas offer a distinctive hospitality experience that seamlessly blends the opulence, history, and heritage of the esteemed Biltmore brand. Renowned for its iconic 100-year-old hotel, The Biltmore Los Angeles has long been a haven for presidents, dignitaries, and Hollywood elite, epitomizing the glamour and style of the golden age of Hollywood. Now, with the launch of the first Biltmore Hotel Villas project in the world, guests in Dubai can expect nothing short of A-list treatment, complete with signature architecture, design, and unparalleled comfort. An Opulent Urban Sanctuary Nestled in a prime location just steps away from the Mall of the Emirates and the new open-air retail district, The Esplanade, The Biltmore Hotel Villas offer guests the epitome of privacy and luxury. An opulent urban oasis awaits, providing a serene retreat within easy reach of entertainment, luxury retail, and vibrant nightlife. Perfectly balancing the excitement of city life with secluded tranquillity, it’s an ideal haven for those seeking both indulgence and relaxation. Among the 20 exclusive villas offered, guests can choose from various configurations to suit their needs. Options include 3-bedroom villas, ideal for smaller groups or families, while 4-bedroom villas offer additional luxury for larger families or groups of friends. For those desiring the utmost space and opulence, the property features two 5-bedroom villas boasting a generous plot size. Exclusive to the 5-bedroom villas, guests can enjoy …

The Heart of Europe signed an agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts to launch and manage the InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe on The World Islands, Dubai. The signing marks the first resort property in Dubai from the iconic InterContinental brand, reaffirming the company’s commitment to bringing luxury experiences across key leisure destinations in the region. This latest signing strengthens the partnership between the two companies and marks the third hotel to be added to the joint portfolio of IHG Hotels & Resorts and The Heart of Europe. It also complements The Heart of Europe’s principles, embodying The World Islands’ mission to unite global cultures, bridging diverse backgrounds through its unparalleled global excellence in architecture, development, innovation, and sustainability. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with The Heart of Europe to bring our inaugural ‘InterContinental Resort’ in Dubai, marking a milestone in IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Being a one-of-a-kind first in the emirate, the new resort is poised to redefine the leisure and luxury space in Dubai, promising an immersive experience for all guests. He added: “We are confident in our partnership with Kleindienst Group in offering unique guest stays within a dynamic location like The Heart of Europe. We look forward to welcoming travellers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in early 2026.” Situated at the centre of The World Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Dubai, the upcoming ‘InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe’ will be strategically located in ‘The Heart of Europe,’ a self-sufficient holiday destination spanning six islands. This transformative destination will seamlessly blend European …

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, the Philippines boasts a tapestry of sun-kissed shores and pristine beaches that have earned global acclaim. From the renowned white sands of Boracay to the secluded coves of Palawan and the surfing haven of Siargao, the Philippines invites travelers on a journey of sun-soaked paradise. Let’s unveil these spectacular destinations, including a hidden gem, and discover the best times to bask in their coastal splendor. Tropical Bliss in Boracay Boracay, often hailed as one of the world’s best islands, sets the standard for tropical paradise. Renowned for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife, Boracay has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding, honeymoon, summer vacation, or a quick getaway, Boracay offers something for everyone. While White Beach in the province of Aklan is undoubtedly famous, Boracay boasts 8 additional beaches for exploration, diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, dining, or simply lounging around – including Puka Beach, Bulabog Beach, Ilig Iligan Beach, Lapuz Lapuz Beach, Puntabunga Beach, Balinghai Beach, Tambisaan Beach, and Diniwid Beach. Activities are aplenty too. Go on an island-hopping adventure to witness the renowned Magic Island, a cliff diving hotspot, or explore Crocodile Island for scuba diving and Crystal Cove for its distinctive crystal formations. On-island activities feature popular options like banana boat rides, flying fish, jet ski rentals, and paddleboarding. For truly Instagrammable moments, consider booking a crystal kayak or indulging in a paraw sailing adventure. Getting to Boracay and Best Times to Visit Before your trip, be sure to consult Boracay’s Information Guide for essential details on travel requirements, recommended activities, and upcoming events. Boracay is accessible from major cities of the …