Qatar Airways has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new home in New York. The carrier will move its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026 and unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge – the airline’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States. The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network. Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers. In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers …

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed the biggest names in the travel and tourism industry as headline speakers for its milestone 25th Global Summit in Rome. Hashil Al Mahrouqi, CEO, OMRAN Group, Anthony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International are among the glittering line-up of some of the most influential figures shaping the future of the sector. From the 28 – 30 September, the Eternal City will play host to a gathering of global business leaders from across business, government, and media, as the Global Summit returns to Europe in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.  Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to have such a distinguished group of speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Rome. “The Eternal City provides a perfect backdrop for a Summit where the world’s Travel & Tourism leaders will gather to innovate, collaborate, and drive a decade of exceptional, sustainable growth.” Taking place at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica, the event will set the stage for high-impact debates and bold commitments on the issues defining Travel & Tourism. From the game-changing potential of AI to shaping the future of a sector that generates 10% of global GDP. The first confirmed speakers include: Minor Hotel Group, Founder & Chairman, William E. Heinecke Virtuoso, Founder & CEO, Matthew Upchurch Trip.com Group, CEO, Jane Sun, CEO TBO.Com, Co-Founder, Gaurav Bhatnagar Diriyah Company, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo MSC Cruises, Executive Chairman of Cruise, Pierfrancesco Vago Arsenale Spa, CEO, Paolo Barletta IC Bellagio, CEO – Sole Founder, Andrea Grisdale The Bicester Collection, Chair & Global Chief Merchant, Desiree Bollier Marriott International, CEO, …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development, has launched the second edition of the “GIFTED” program—one of its flagship social investment initiatives. The program forms part of the Group’s #IAmTourism strategy, which aims to empower national talent and strengthen its presence in the tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman. This edition builds on the success of the first phase, which was implemented at dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Al Jabal Al Akhdar and achieved positive outcomes in both training and integration. The current edition includes 13 participants with disabilities who are undertaking a six-month intensive program designed to provide them with the practical skills and knowledge required to work in the tourism and hospitality industry. The program represents a practical step toward inclusive employment, offering promising opportunities for participants to join a number of OMRAN Group’s leading hospitality assets in Muscat Governorate, including W Muscat, InterContinental Muscat, JW Marriott, Crowne Plaza at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Barceló Mussanah Resort. Hilal bin Rashid Al Mukhaini, Assistant Director at the Department of Specialized Rehabilitation Centers at the Ministry of Social Development, affirmed: “The Ministry of Social Development is committed to developing a comprehensive framework that enables persons with disabilities to fully integrate into the labour market, in line with its developmental vision to promote independence and self-reliance. The ‘GIFTED’ program, launched in partnership with OMRAN Group, stands as an important practical model of this approach, by providing tailored training and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in the tourism sector, in line with their abilities and potential.” He added: “Partnerships between the public and private sectors are a cornerstone in the rehabilitation and …

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launched new seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi and Yekaterinburg in Russia. The seasonal flights, which will operate during the winter season, reflect the airline’s commitment to offering convenient and affordable travel options for customers travelling between the two countries during peak travel periods. The non-stop service will commence on 27 October 2025 and continue through 27 March 2026, between Zayed International Airport and Yekaterinburg’s Koltsovo International Airport with a frequency of two flights per week. This route further complements Air Arabia Group’s broader network between the UAE and Russia, with Yekaterinburg accessible through non-stop flights from Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and now Abu Dhabi. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, the most modern and best-selling single aisle aircraft in the world. Offering passengers, a value-added onboard experience, the aircraft is equipped with ‘SkyTime’, its complementary in-flight streaming service, and ‘SkyCafe’, its onboard menu. Passengers can also benefit from ‘Air Rewards’, the most generous loyalty program in the region. Customers can now book their direct flights between the two cities by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call centre, or through travel agencies.

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism announced that it will host the UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit on 27 October 2025 in Dubai, as part of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World 2025). The Summit aims to enhance economic and tourism partnerships between the UAE and African nations, boosting mutual investments across key priority sectors, particularly tourism, hospitality, and related services. As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Bench – the organizers of FHS World – in the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. The MoU was signed by H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector at the Ministry, and Daria Smith, Portfolio Director at The Bench. The two parties will collaborate on organizing the event and coordinating its promotional efforts, in line with the Summit’s objective of highlighting investment opportunities in tourism-related activities and projects across the African continent. The event will bring together over 250 high-level participants, including senior government officials, decision-makers, and investors from 53 African countries, including tourism ministers and representatives of investment promotion agencies from across the continent. This reinforces the UAE’s role as a reliable investment partner for Africa and opens new avenues for strategic collaboration in vital sectors that contribute to building a more integrated and sustainable economic future. H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor said: “The UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit will serve as a strategic platform for exchanging insights and expertise between the UAE and African nations, supporting sustainable development efforts through the establishment of projects and partnerships that serve mutual interests. This aligns with the objectives of ‘We the …

In a move to make the most of the last few days before schools resume, Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) unveiled two separate limited-time summer offers across its portfolio of hotels in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, providing travellers with exceptional value on accommodations and dining. Among them will be the Super Summer Saver Offer where guests can book stays at participating HMH managed hotels for just AED/SAR 99 or JOD 57, enjoying comfortable accommodations in prime locations throughout the summer season. To make it more attractive they offer breakfast for just 1 AED/SAR/JOD per person, travellers can add a full breakfast to any existing room reservation, featuring a selection of freshly prepared dishes and beverages. “These separate summer promotions demonstrate our commitment to delivering outstanding hospitality at accessible price points,” said Haytham Abdelaziz, Chief Operating Officer of HMH. “Guests can choose to enjoy our special room rates, add breakfast at an incredible value, or combine both offers for maximum savings.” The limited-time offers are available at HMH-managed properties across all three markets. Travelers are encouraged to book early at hmhhotelgroup.com to secure these special rates, as availability may be limited. As a leading hotel management company in the Middle East, HMH operates a diverse collection of properties recognized for their strategic locations, quality service, and value-driven hospitality solutions.   For bookings and more information visit our website hmhhotelgroup.com

In a move to boost the MICE industry in the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau to host M&I Expo from 14- 16 April 2026. The three-day programme incorporates one-to-one pre-scheduled meetings, hosted lunches, and evening socials, bringing the buyers and exhibitors maximum opportunities to connect and foster valuable partnerships. “Hosting the M&I Expo in Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate’s strength and sustained growth as a premier destination for business events and incentive travel. Our latest achievement reflects our strategic commitment to building a world-class MICE ecosystem offering cutting-edge event venues and exceptional hospitality rooted in our core cultural values. With iconic venues such as Qasr Al Watan and Yas Marina Circuit, complemented by Abu Dhabi’s diverse leisure attractions such as the newly opened teamLab Phenomena, we are confident this event will showcase the very best of what our destination has to offer.” Mubarak Al Shamsi – Director of Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau

Egypt is set to open the $1 billion Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on 1 November 2025, just a mile from the Pyramids of Giza. Spanning 120 acres and designed by Dublin-based Heneghan Peng Architects, it will be the world’s largest archaeological museum. The GEM will house 100,000 artifacts, including the full King Tutankhamun collection displayed together for the first time since 1922, and greet visitors with a 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II. Facilities include a library, education center, children’s museum, and cultural spaces with advanced preservation technology. Expected to draw 5 million visitors annually, the museum is part of Egypt’s push for record tourism in 2025, supported by a $30 million upgrade to the Giza pyramid complex.

flydubai has taken delivery of seven new aircraft so far in 2025, with a further five Boeing 737 MAX 8s scheduled to join its fleet before the end of the year. These additions form an integral part of the airline’s strategic growth plans, enabling the continued expansion of its network, enhancing operational efficiency and increasing capacity on existing routes. The seven new aircraft, received between April and August 2025, have seen the flydubai fleet grow to 93 aircraft. Once all 12 aircraft have been delivered this year, flydubai’s fleet will stand at more than 95 aircraft, supporting the carrier’s growing network of more than 135 destinations in 57 countries. This expansion continues to open up underserved markets, creating more travel opportunities and further strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global aviation hub. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “The arrival of these new aircraft is a testament to our long-term strategic vision and our confidence in the future of air travel. Our fleet investment supports our mission to offer greater choice, enhanced convenience and improved connectivity for our passengers. These deliveries are part of a backlog extensively delayed in recent years, and despite receiving 12 aircraft this year, we remain 20 aircraft behind our original projections.” “The continued interest from our financing partners highlights the strength of our business model and our commitment to contributing to the UAE’s leadership in global aviation. Looking ahead, these aircraft will enable us to unlock new destinations, optimise our operations and play an even greater role in supporting Dubai’s growth as an international aviation hub,” added Al Ghaith. The favourable response to the airline’s financing Request for Proposals (RFPs) and its ability …

The Ascott Limited (Ascott)is scaling its global resort footprint through asset-light expansion. Recent signings across the Middle East and Asia reflect Ascott’s strategic expansion into key leisure hotspots. These include iconic beach destinations such as Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s premier man-made coral island known for its pristine beaches. Ascott is also entering Patong Beach in Phuket and Jimbaran Beach in Bali. In Vietnam, Ascott is growing its presence in Phu Quoc, voted the world’s second-best island , and Nha Trang, an established coastal city often dubbed the “Riviera of the South China Sea”. The company is also capitalising on emerging opportunities in fast-growing destinations such as Cam Ranh, an up-and-coming aviation and leisure hub, and Sam Son, a rising domestic and regional tourism hotspot. Additionally, Ascott is entering Labuan Bajo, Indonesia – the gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In South Korea, it is tapping demand in Gangneung, the leading east coast destination and host of the 2018 Winter Olympics.Ascott signed 11 new resorts in the past 10 months secured via management and franchise agreements. These represent about 5% of its global portfolio of over 1,000 properties, reflecting a strategic focus on the fast-growing leisure segment . This momentum is driven by Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy, which adapts well-loved brands such as Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection for resort settings. This approach enables efficient scaling in high-potential destinations while fulfilling lifestyle aspirations of its growing Ascott Star Rewards membership and delivering brand-led solutions that drive long-term value for property owners.