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 …

Indian outbound market forecast to be worth $143.5 billion annually by the end of this decade, the Indian tourism sector will come under the spotlight during Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, which returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) for its 31st edition from 6-9 May. According to a report by booking.com and McKinsey, 70% of Indians travelling overseas choose nearby destinations, with one-third choosing destinations in the Middle East. The UAE is the top regional destination, followed by Saudi Arabia. According to the DET, India is Dubai’s top source market, with 1.9 million visitors in the first 10 months of 2023. Saudi Arabia is aiming for 7.5 million visitors by 2030. To illustrate the sheer size and potential growth of India’s overall outbound market, prior to the pandemic in 2019, Indians made 26.9 million overseas trips; the report predicts that by 2030, that number could increase to 50 million departures. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “The boom in outbound travel from India is being driven primarily by the growing middle class. In 2020, only 37 million households had annual income between $10,000 and up to $35,000, but due to India’s rapid economic growth, by 2030 that number will rise significantly to 177 million households. “More specifically, households earning over $35,000 per annum will also increase from two million in 2020 to 13 million by 2030, a sixfold increase! “And with India’s median age being just 28 years, it’s little wonder that the UNWTO recognises India as one of the top three fastest-growing outbound markets in the world. By 2030, India’s total travel expenditure will be valued at $410 billion. “Putting that into perspective, prior to …

The Autonomous e-Mobility Forum (AEMOB) continues to surge forward in the global conversation on autonomous e-mobility, with the Ministry of Transport serving as the host and strategic partner. A significant addition to the Forum is Mowasalat, a leading transportation provider in Qatar, recognized for its commitment to mobility innovation and growth. Mowasalat joins AEMOB as the transportation partner, showcasing their dedication to shaping the international discourse around autonomous e-mobility and sustainable transport. The Forum is scheduled to take place in Doha, Qatar from 30 April to 02 May 2024. Mowasalat’s extensive expertise in transportation services further amplifies the Forum’s capacity to become a central driver for change. Together, they aim to accelerate the realization of intelligent and sustainable mobility solutions, catering to local needs while contributing to global e-mobility advancements. Commenting on this collaboration, Mr. Ahmad Hassan Al-Obaidly, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Mowasalat, (Karwa) expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Our partnership with the Autonomous e-Mobility Forum signifies our commitment to nurturing cutting-edge transportation solutions in Qatar that are not only technologically advanced but vitally, also environmentally conscious. We look forward to contributing what we know towards shaping the future of e-mobility across the world.” This partnership stands as cornerstone for the Autonomous e-Mobility Forum 2024, fostering an environment where technological innovation merges with businesses to drive change in the mobility sector. Aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, this collaboration underlines the Forum’s dedication to helping expert stakeholders to shape a sustainable and dynamic future for driverless e-mobility worldwide. –

Amsaan has joined forces with MOTIONGATE™ Dubai to enhance the theme park experience for Deaf visitors. This partnership highlights a significant leap towards inclusivity in the entertainment industry, with Amsaan leading the charge in making theme park experiences accessible to everyone. Traditional methods of communication, such as printed signs or verbal instructions, are challenging for the local Deaf community and can lead to misunderstandings. This initiative introduces on-demand Emirati sign language for ride descriptions, safety guidelines, and park instructions, allowing local Deaf visitors to easily access essential information by scanning strategically placed QR codes linked to Amsaan’s dedicated platform with Emirati sign language videos. Deaf visitors will be able to navigate MOTIONGATE™ Dubai independently and make informed decisions about attractions, enabling a more self-reliant, barrier-free, and enjoyable experience. This project is not static; based on feedback from the Deaf community and park visitors, there will be continuous enhancement of these Deaf-friendly features. Vitalii Mykhalchuk, CEO of AMSAAN, stated “This partnership is not just about making a theme park accessible; it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity. By combining technological innovation with a commitment to the Deaf community, Amsaan and MOTIONGATE™ Dubai are leading the way in transforming entertainment spaces into truly accessible experiences for everyone, setting a precedent for other industry players. With over 11 million Deaf individuals in the Middle East alone, this step will pave the way for more organisations to embrace inclusivity, creating a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully experience any entertainment.” The implementation process was a collaborative effort between MOTIONGATE™ Dubai and Amsaan, with local Emirati Deaf employees playing a crucial role in translating the text into Emirati Sign Language. Additionally, a quality …

Qatar Airways resumes flights to Lisbon, Portugal with four weekly flights commencing Thursday, 6 June 2024 as part of its 2024 network expansion of over 170 destinations. As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon offers the perfect starting point for travellers eager to delve into the rich tourism offerings of the country. With countless historical sites only a day trip away, adventurers can embark on a journey to the medieval town of Sintra and its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quinta de Regaleira palace. A train ride away, the National Palace of Pena is adorned with colourful tiles inspired by the exotic plants surrounding it, creating a captivating ambience. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “As we continue to expand in the European market, we celebrate the resumption of our flights to the beautiful city of Lisbon. Qatar Airways passengers can now enjoy very efficient ways to travel between Qatar and Portugal, as well as connect between Portugal and Asia, Africa, Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, through the Best Airport in Middle East which offers customers the best duty free and best lounges in the region.” Travellers wishing to escape the city life can venture to Cascais, also known as the “Portuguesa Riviera”. With several beautiful beaches, Cascais is the ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts, especially surfers and windsurfers. Cascais is also the perfect beach destination with delectable seafood and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Qatar Airways passengers in Portugal can now uncover new corners of the world through the award-winning Hamad International Airport (DOH). This latest addition to the summer schedule opens up new entry point for international travel from Europe, through Lisbon, to the continents …

Emirates announced it will launch a new daily service from Dubai to the Colombian capital, Bogotá, starting 3 June connecting Colombia with the United Arab Emirates, the new services will establish a historic first-ever link between the greater Middle East region and the northern part of the South American continent. Emirates’ entry into Bogotá will expand its South American network to four gateways, complementing its scheduled services to São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. The latest destination will also enhance the airline’s operations in the Americas to now serve 19 points across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. The daily services will link Dubai and Bogotá via Miami, with Emirates set to become the first airline to offer a host of premium services on the popular route between south Florida and Colombia. Commenting on the launch of the new route and destination, Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, said: “We’ve long wanted to serve Colombia, and the addition of Bogotá to our network is part of our strategy to deliver better connectivity, expand options and choice for travellers and provide unparalleled premium experiences on the ground and in the air. The launch of our daily operations to the dynamic capital of Colombia also underscores our deep commitment to South America, and is poised to foster increased business and leisure travel opportunities for customers. “There is a huge demand for travel to and from Bogotá and we can’t wait for customers to experience Emirates’ signature products and services on the flights between Bogotá and Dubai as well as between Bogotá and Miami. We would like to thank all the authorities involved for supporting our plans and making this …