Wego and Japan National Tourism Organization bring the best of Japan to travelers. Through this partnership, Wego will work closely with Japan National Tourism Organization and develop a comprehensive and enticing campaign that will highlight the different aspects of Japan and showcase the best winter experiences. This will be promoted through all Wego’s marketing channels. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, Middle East, North Africa (MENA) and India of Wego, said: “We are excited to announce our partnership with the Japan National Tourism Organization to promote a new campaign to showcase the best of Japan to the world. Japan has a wealth of cultural and natural treasures that are sure to inspire visitors. This partnership allows us to give people an authentic experience and help travelers discover the unique beauty of the country.” Winter in Japan is one of the best seasons to visit the country, with a wide range of activities and experiences to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, relax in a hot spring, or experience the country’s rich culture and history, there’s something for every type of traveler. Mr. Daisuke Kobayashi, Executive Director of JNTO Dubai office, commented: “When it comes to traveling to Japan, many people think of the cherry blossom season in spring, but it is not the only attraction. Cherry blossoms in spring, green nature in summer, colored leaves in autumn, and snow in winter. The greatest feature of Japan is the diversity that allows you to enjoy the natural scenery of each season and unique experiences throughout the year. Especially in winter, you can try skiing on the powder snow, which is said to be one of the best …

Abu Dhabi convention and exhibition bureau (ADCEB) will educate corporates, associations, event organisers, MICE agencies, and other industry stakeholders in South Korea about Abu Dhabi’s strong MICE proposition, highlighting it as a dynamic global destination for business events. Mubarak Al Shamisi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are excited to open our first representative office in South Korea to further establish Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for meetings, incentive travel, conferences, and exhibitions. As we remain focused on progressing the emirate, growing our network of international offices will help us expand Abu Dhabi’s reach in newer markets. With the recent easing of travel restrictions in South Korea, we anticipate great demand for outbound MICE travel, making it the best time for us to establish our presence in this market.” In recent years, ADCEB has accelerated its financial and non-financial support towards strategic business events, which includes the launch of Advantage Abu Dhabi 2.0, an enhanced subvention programme that offers event organisers an array of support throughout the event planning cycle, comprising financial assistance and destination-driven value-adds. ADCEB continues to build strategic partnerships that ensures event objectives are met with world-class experiences for both planners and attendees. Earlier this year, ADCEB formed a strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, to further bolster support for MICE travel groups travelling to Abu Dhabi. Through this collaboration, ADCEB can offer eligible Advantage Abu Dhabi applicants additional flight benefits and perks such as group booking discounts, complimentary flights for large MICE travel group bookings on direct flights, and special flight rates for site/destination inspection trips to Abu Dhabi for clients who host their business events and incentive …

Discover Qatar (DQ) has launched three new additions to its spectacular series of Transit Tours that highlight Qatar’s position as the principal destination for sports activities following the success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.Transit passengers can now embark on a journey to re-experience the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM in an exclusive transit tour that takes tourists across Qatar’s leading state-of-the-art stadiums. The tour includes an exterior visit to five of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ stadiums: Al Thumama, Education City, Khalifa International, Lusail Iconic Stadium, and the innovative Stadium 974 before its permanent disassembly. The guided coach tours offer a unique experience for passengers to explore Qatar’s architectural wonders from the outer perimeters that showcase the country’s culture, heritage, and history during the world’s most prestigious sporting event. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are delighted to help our transit passengers maintain their active lifestyle through our sports simulator sessions offered by Discover Qatar. Sports enthusiasts can also relive the excitement of the historic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ by visiting Qatar’s iconic stadiums which hosted an unforgettable edition of the world’s most popular tournament.” Discover Qatar World Cup Stadiums Tour can be booked online up to 48 hours before arrival in Doha or offline at the Qatar Tourism/Discover Qatar kiosk in the Duty Free Plaza on arrival at Hamad International Airport. The tour is priced at USD 42 per adult, USD 21 per child under the age of 12, and free of charge for children below the age of two. For more information, please visit:  https://www.discoverqatar.qa/transit-exclusive-world-cup-stadiums-tour For passengers who are transiting for four hours or more, DQ offers …

‎Qatar Airways re-opened its luxurious Premium Lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), complementing the airline’s triple daily flights, available for Premium passengers and eligible oneworld alliance partners. The Premium Lounge features all of the facilities and qualities of the airline’s premium product, including both The Brasserie and The Global Deli, prayer rooms, business centre, shower facilities, Wi-Fi and zoned seating for more than 200 guests. Far-reaching views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower, contribute to a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Commenting on the airline’s latest Premium Lounge re-opening, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, stated: “This milestone illustrates our focus on continuous product enhancements. The re-opening of the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, marks our fifth global lounge within our growing network. This further demonstrates our commitment to providing unparalleled services to our customers, especially in France.” At more than 1,000 square metres, the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle offers Qatar Airways First and Business Class passengers a sophisticated, modern and spacious environment in which to relax and commence their five star journey experience. Catering to exceptional premium culinary standard, the lounge is equipped with a full kitchen for freshly-prepared à la carte orders, in addition to an existing buffet spread, offering an international menu from across the globe. Qatar Airways Paris Premium Lounge launched its operations in 2017 to serve the growing capacity of passengers travelling with the airline from Charles de Gaulle Airport. Today, Qatar Airways operates 18 weekly flights to Paris, offering passengers with the ultimate connectivity to Skytrax’ World’s Best Airport, Hamad International Airport.

Eagle Hills Muscat, a partnership between Eagle Hills and Izz International, announced that Oman’s first luxury branded residences, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, has been approved as an Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC). ITCs are opening up Oman’s real estate sector, as they allow foreign investors to own freehold property and granted a residence visa based on this ownership. These complexes are gaining popularity due to their luxurious facilities, better security and prime locations. As an ITC, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental will welcome international buyers and expatriates, offering them inspired community living in the heart of Muscat. The development introduces a new concept of luxury living to the Sultanate, providing the first branded offering in the heart of Muscat. The project is aligned with Oman’s 2040 Tourism Strategy of attracting 11.6 million visitors and raising the tourism sector’s GDP contribution to over 6% by 2040. The 156 exclusive Residences at Mandarin Oriental offer one to three-bedroom luxury apartments and four-bedroom penthouses. Residents will benefit from outstanding facilities including 24-hour concierge, a private drop-off area, valet parking, an exclusive residents-only lounge, an expansive beachfront and a waterfront sanctuary boasting multiple retail and food and beverage outlets. Mandarin Oriental hotel will be open by the end of 2023, and it’s located in Shati Al Qurum. As an Integrated Tourism Complex, Eagle Hills is committed to delivering potential buyers with a high quality, branded experience that will redefine Oman’s luxury property landscape. This is an important moment for the company, as it seeks to deliver quality properties and support the economy of the Sultanate.”

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi unveiled recently Mission Ferrari, the world’s most immersive mega-coaster and the latest addition to its exhilarating mix of rides. Mission Ferrari joins Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s unique lineup of attractions which have long taken guests on exhilarating experiences for over a decade. Equipped with the latest advancements in the industry, the themed next generation mega-coaster promises passengers an unforgettable ride featuring stunning visuals and an immersive environment like no other. Set in a top-secret international spy headquarters, guests become part of the stealth mission to safely deliver a high-spec Ferrari spy car, commissioned especially for agent Cavallino, to a rendezvous deep within the subterranean level of the Ferrari Factory in Maranello Italy. Deana Taylor, General Manager at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi commented on the occasion: “We are excited to announce that the world’s most immersive mega-coaster, Mission Ferrari, is now open to our guests. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, we’re passionate about creating thrilling experiences that evoke that ‘Ferrari Feeling’! For over a decade, the Park has maintained its reputation of giving guests unparalleled experiences through record-breaking rides and attractions. This unique ride offers an immersive experience where guests get the chance to see the world through the eyes of agent Cavallino and become part of the story. We can’t wait for our guests to try it.” The launch of Mission Ferrari will bring the Park’s offerings to over 44 Ferrari-inspired attractions for both the young and the young at heart, ensuring guests unforgettable memories. This addition come as part of the Park’s commitment to adding new offerings that complement its Ferrari-inspired adventure. For over a decade, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has been bringing the Ferrari …

In keeping with its position as a sustainable touristic destination, the Board of Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has endorsed a plan to transform taxis in Dubai (Dubai Taxi and franchise company taxis) into 100% environmentally friendly (hybrid, electric and hydrogen-powered) by 2027. The move meets the requirements of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, the Green Economy drive, and the Dubai Government’s strategic directions toward comprehensive environmental sustainability. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said, “The plan to transform taxis into environmentally-friendly vehicles translates the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai to optimise energy usage and promote environmental sustainability in the UAE. RTA has taken decisive action toward creating a safe, clean, and sustainable environment that befits Dubai’s reputation. This initiative supports the Dubai Government’s efforts to introduce green vehicles and promote a cleaner environment. RTA has made remarkable progress in this regard, successfully transforming 72% of the taxis in Dubai into environmentally friendly vehicles, comprising a total of 8,221 hybrid vehicles. This significant accomplishment aligns with the overarching goal of optimising energy usage, creating a sustainable environment, and positioning Dubai as a leader in promoting green transportation. “The 5-year plan (2023-2027) aims to switch the entire taxi fleet into fully environmentally-friendly (hybrid, electric and hydrogen-powered) within five years at a rate of 10% per annum to achieve the targeted 100% by 2027. The plan is aligned with RTA’s roadmap for transforming public transport means into emission-free by 2050,” explained Al Tayer. “The results of experiments on eco-friendly vehicles, which …

As the number of bleisure travellers increase InterContinental Abu Dhabi has just announced an exciting new addition to the capital of the UAE with the launch of its brand-new residences. Boasting a prime location in the affluent neighbourhood of Al Bateen district in the capital and a stone’s throw from some of the central business and leisure facilities in Abu Dhabi, including several government buildings, Marina Mall, and Corniche Beach. Coming fully furnished with everything a guest could need, the residences will place you at the centre of the action amidst the bustling metropolis. The residences feature 130 units comprising studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a selection of accessible apartments specially designed to cater for the needs of people with determination. Each apartment is fitted out with gorgeous textures and natural oak furniture perfectly complemented by the tasteful, contemporary décor. Panoramic windows saturate the spaces with natural light and offer unparalleled views of the Marina or the city’s glittering skyline at night. Each apartment is fully equipped with only the highest quality modern amenities and devices. The 48 sqm. studios and 101 sqm one-bedroom residences are comprised of intimate spaces to unwind and switch off, and they are perfect for solo occupants or couples. More suited for larger families, the 190 sqm. two-bedroom and 217 sqm.; three-bedroom residences simply outspread comfort. Fully equipped with kitchenette, spacious balconies, walk-in wardrobes, ensuites with bathtub and standing showers, guest bathrooms, and a separate dining area, each of these exquisite options offers a healthy balance between size and luxury amidst spectacular views to the sea and city. Dani Demerjian, General Manager of InterContinental Abu Dhabi recently commented on the new residences …

Manoj Nair, Head of Government Data & Analytics at Visa, and Nur Topcu, Head of Government Services at Visa, delivered a joint presentation on ‘The Power of Data for Effective Decision-Making’. Nair presented a new Visa case study highlighting how it can be used to make better decisions in the travel and tourism industry as it rebounds from the pandemic. Topcu spoke about how financial service companies can help governments use data to inform policymaking. Nur Topcu also shared how Visa has worked with governments and banks to help them make better decisions with data solutions that can help them in predicting the market spending and consumer behavior. “If we do not engage the community, nothing will get done. We need to act as a tribe to engage youth, engage the government and engage society to press forward on urgent issues facing us all. These include quality healthcare, food security and ensuring humanity really does thrive in the next 100 years.” Micheal Moqbel, Nadeera’s Head of Operations, added: “Today there are many technological and technically intensive solutions that can solve all types of social, economic, and environmental problems, including those related to climate change. The problem is that this focus on technology warps our understanding of the problem, it pushes the ownership on findings solutions to these problems from us to machines. While technology is a main driver of change – and one that should be celebrated and supported – humans must remain at the centre of innovation.” The ‘Innovation Talks’ series, organised by The Executive Council of Dubai, concluded recently with leaders from the government, business and the community highlighting how innovation can accelerate the nation’s journey towards a …

For the first time, the two most visited countries by the GCC, France and Spain have collaborated to bring out a special event titled, “Marhaba France, Spain 2023” which will take place in the Sultanate of Oman from 6th to 9th March 2023. The on-site event will bring in 70 suppliers from the two countries to meet 100 buyers from nine countries in GCC and ME region and expects to conduct over 2000 meetings. Karim Mekachera, Regional Director, Middle East, and Turkey, Atout France, “We will be organising Marhaba in collaboration with Spain and will be named as “Marhaba France, Spain 2023”. We have an array of 70 suppliers that will come over to meet with the travel trade from the region coming from nine different countries and of course this year we wanted to make something new and something different and as we work in the tourism industry, we thought to organise this event in another great destination and very popular in France, the Sultanate of Oman. Over three days we will have more than 2000 meetings, along with a special entertainment program, a special press corner for journalists to meet with all the different stake holders and promote both destinations. France and Spain remain as the two first destinations in terms of tourist arrivals in the world, so with this collaboration we also intend to introduce our travel trade to make the most of this event and partnership as they will be able to design new itineraries which can cover both countries France and Spain as they plan for their clients. We want the travel trade to think out of the box and give their Middle East clientele …