Global Village has announced the much anticipated on-sale dates of Season 27 VIP Packs. Available exclusively online from September 24 on the Virgin Megastore Tickets website, each pack contains a host of benefits and offers as well as a range of premium experiences. Exclusive for Season 27 a Golden Coin will be hidden inside one VIP Pack, with the lucky recipient winning a cash prize of AED 27,000. The VIP packs offer exceptional value and are available in limited numbers, so demand is expected to be very high. A small proportion of the VIP Packs are available for pre-booking for AED 70 from September 17 until September 22, before the official sale starts on September 24. Customers are encouraged to register on the Virgin Megastore Tickets website prior to the online sale to save time and have the best chance of securing their desired Packs. Guests can choose between Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver VIP Packs. All Packs include VIP entry tickets, VIP parking privileges and VIP Wonder Passes which gives access to Global Village attractions including Ripley’s Believe it or Not!®, the Aqua Action stunt show and the ever-popular Carnaval® funfair. All Packs also include an exclusive, limited edition perfumed candle created from Global Village’s new signature scent called ‘Wonders’. The ambient fragrance embodies the spirit of Global Village and is a tribute to the wonders of the world and its many exotic scents and aromas. Another new VIP Pack benefit for Season 27 will be complimentary or discounted access to a range of new premium experiences including the beautifully designed private Cabanas with butler service for up to eight people and the new Star Seating for the Aqua …

Emirates will increase the frequency of its services to Algiers with the addition of a fifth weekly flight, effective 7 October. The newest service will complement Emirates’ existing operations between Dubai and Algiers, currently running at four flights a week. The latest addition of services to the airline’s schedule will provide additional connectivity for customers traveling to Dubai and onwards to Emirates’ global network. Emirates will utilise its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft between Algiers and Dubai, and the newest service will operate on Friday, in addition to the airline’s flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Flight EK758 departs Algiers at 15:45hrs, arriving in Dubai at 01:05hrs the next day. EK757 departs Dubai at 08:45hrs, arriving in Algiers at 12:55hrs. With the addition of the new flight, Emirates continues to be the only airline serving Algeria with private, enclosed First Class cabins, offering premium customers its industry-leading onboard experience with a line-up of elevated menus and refreshed amenities. Travellers flying with Emirates can enjoy the best experience in the sky with an unmatched culinary experience, regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages. Customers can sit back and relax with more than 5,000 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring Arabic movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system. In addition to carrying more passengers, Emirates’ fifth weekly frequency between  Dubai and Algeria  will provide around 30-40 tonnes of cargo belly-hold capacity for businesses, further opening global trade lanes through enhanced import and export opportunities. Emirates started operations to Algeria in 2013, and will be celebrating 10 years of serving the …

IDnow, a leading identity proofing platform provider, is pleased to announce its participation in the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Accelerate@IATA 2022 accelerator program. IDnow is working with IATA and its members, providing expertise and regulatory know-how in the field of identity proofing and digital identity. Together, IATA and IDnow are working on the shared goal of making flying more seamless and low-touch for passengers, while lowering fraud risks for airlines. IATA is the trade association for the world’s airlines, representing some 290 airlines or 83% of total air traffic. As a leading industry association, IATA is shaping industry standards and the future of aviation. Through the Accelerate@IATA program, IDnow is contributing to the IATA One ID working group. The goal of IATA One ID is to set industry standards that further streamline the passenger journey with digitalization of admissibility and a contactless process through secure biometric enabled identification. Under the One ID vision, upon completing document checks remotely, passengers will be able to arrive at the airport ready to fly and proceed through each airport touchpoint via simple biometric recognition. The objective is to achieve a truly interoperable global system across airports, airlines and governments. IDnow is collaborating with airlines and other technology providers members of the IATA Think Tank on a white paper about the application of digital identity in the air travel industry. In parallel, a proof of concept is being developed to show how digital identity can support people with reduced mobility with traveling, and airlines and airports to prioritize the required staff for the necessary support. “We are very pleased to have IDnow participation in the heart of industry innovation conversations. IDnow brings their expertise …

At the recent cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “Our tourism sector’s revenues surpassed AED 19 billion in the first half of 2022. The total number of hotel guests reached 12 million, achieving 42% growth, and we expect a strong tourism performance in this winter season. During the Cabinet meeting, we approved a new law enhancing partnership between government and private sectors… Also, we approved the licensing of the first electric cargo aircraft in the region fully powered with clean energy.” His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid noted, “I chaired the Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. We reviewed the UAE’s competitive and development indicators. Our commercial and development sectors surpassed the pre-pandemic growth. Under the leadership of my brother Mohamed bin Zayed, the UAE has managed to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. Our country has become globally prominent for its significant economic growth and development.” His Highness further added: “The number of global indices topped by the UAE rose from 121 to 156 indicators. We ranked among top 10 in 432 global indicators, compared to 314 pre-pandemic. We are the first in the world in terms of security and safety, infrastructure, flexibility of regulations, and more.” His Highness said: “The UAE’s foreign trade exceeded AED 1 trillion, compared to AED 840 billion pre- pandemic and this year’s economic growth exceeded 22%.” The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister …

Germany, the diverse travel destination, has launched its Autumn/Winter campaign, encouraging travellers to visit, explore, and experience its sustainable and diverse culture. From unspoilt landscapes to authentic cuisine, urban attractions to historical locales, Germany is the ultimate European destination to travel sustainably. The ‘Feel Good’ campaign encompasses a plethora of guiding tips highlighting the country’s eco initiatives providing conscious travellers with adequate tools and information on reducing their carbon footprint while touring different regions. With the German Environment Agency having set the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65 per cent by 2030, and complete neutrality by 2045, the German National Tourism Board is consistently supporting this goal through various ongoing initiatives with one of them being the ‘Feel Good’ Campaign. Under the initiative, states and towns are highlighting their innovative transport solutions, pioneering examples of green architecture, and sprawling parks – all of which ensure an exciting city break that can be enjoyed eco-responsibly. Berlin has an abundance of green hotspots including vegan restaurants and alternative events within the city’s urban oasis; Winterberg in North Rhine-Westphalia is equipped with a sustainable guest management system; and Freiburg features a Plusenergy House, which aims to achieve the world’s best energy values for buildings and represents the efficiency standards expected in the future. The tranquil Black Forest in Deidesheim has long been known for being a hub for local food produce and handmade crafts, while Celle recently became a certified sustainable destination for its eco-friendly initiatives and practices. “Modern travellers have become increasingly environmentally conscious and plan their trips to be sustainable,” said Yamina Sofo, director of sales and marketing at the German National Tourist Office (GNTO), the regional office of …

Prism Digital, a leading digital marketing agency in the UAE has launched an AI-Driven WhatsApp for business Chatbot Service for the Hotel Industry in the Middle East and North Africa. With over 2.2 billion users globally, WhatsApp is the most used app for communicating and for building personal & business conversations. The WhatsApp for business chatbot can reinvent the way a hotel communicates with its customers and addresses their queries. WhatsAppotel Chatbot offers hotels many advantages, including the ability to engage with guests and respond to their inquiries intelligently and with full automation which is available 24X 7. The WhatsApp chatbot can be programmed to communicate in over 50 languages and hence can connect the hotel with potential Guests and visitors in their local language. This feature will empower the hospitality industry to communicate with potential guests and visitors from all over the world. Since you can book directly from WhatsApp it will encourage more direct bookings and reduce the dependence on OTAs, leading to improved sales and Direct Booking and revenue. It also Improves the client Experience. Guests can receive virtual booking assistance from the WhatsAppotel Chatbot at every stage of the booking process. Starting with giving them all essential facts about the kinds of rooms that are available, the cost per night, any complimentary services, and whether or not rooms are still available at the hotel for the dates the guest has chosen, the hotel can also share video, location maps, Discount coupons and links to the hotel website to book with a Call to action. This is revolutionary for the hospitality industry where customer experience is paramount to success. Hotels can leverage greatly from robust booking capabilities …

As part of its tireless efforts to provide the best services to its valued customers, Kuwait Airways continues its preparations for the biggest and most prominent event, the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, where the Blue Bird will operate direct, daily match day shuttle services for fans to attend the matches and return on the same day to their homeland, giving fans an exceptional travel experience. In this regard, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways’ participation in this global event is an excellent opportunity to highlight our distinguished services to our customers. Our preparations for this event commenced in October 2021 and we launched our first promotional and marketing campaign in February 2022. In addition, we signed an agreement with Qatar Airways in May 2022, enabling Kuwait Airways to carry fans on a daily basis to attend the World Cup matches in Doha, and are fully prepared to meet the travel requirements of customers. Kuwait Airways will operate 13 daily flights from the start of the World Cup, which would gradually reduce as the participating teams progress to the finals, with the frequency in the number of flights depending on the extent of requirements of the customers.” Razouqi added, “Kuwait Airways will provide exceptional travel packages to its customers through KAC’s Holidays Office which include match tickets and KAC flight tickets, at prices starting from 200 Kuwaiti Dinars, depending on the respective classes on the flights and the different categories within the stadium. In addition, Kuwait Airways provides complete assurance to its customers about booking flight tickets and tickets for the matches, as we are certified to distribute match tickets in the State of …

St. Petersburg City Tourist Information Bureau and Committee for tourism development of Saint Petersburg organize the roadshow: presentation of St. Petersburg tourist programs and hospitality industry services in the cities of the UAE on 20-21 September 2022. Dubai’s roadshow will take place on 20th September at Park Hyatt Dubai and the one in Abu Dhabi on 21st September at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful megalopolises in the world, which travelers from all over the world come to see. The list of attractions of St. Petersburg is so impressive that it is almost impossible to describe all of them in detail. According to statistics, in pre-pandemic times, the number of tourists in St. Petersburg reached 10 million people. And even more than 10 million! The goals of the event are to promote the potential of St. Petersburg as a world tourist center and to develop partnerships between St. Petersburg tourism enterprises and representatives of tour operators and travel agencies in the cities of the UAE. Presentation will feature new tourist and excursion programmes, standard and off-beat tourist sites, museums, historical and cultural monuments, events. Participants from St. Petersburg includes St. Petersburg tour operators, DMC, representatives of St. Petersburg hotels and representatives of cultural institutions and other tourist infrastructure of St. Petersburg.The program includes presentation of St. Petersburg’s tourism potential, B2B workshop and dinner with cultural program and raffle of prizes from St. Petersburg participants. To attend the “Visit Saint Petersburg!” roadshow, please register by this link: https://petersburg-roadshow.com Contact us: info@petersburg-roadshow.com +7 929 519-08-82 – Karina Rink; +7 903 665-12-52 – Julia Chibireva Contact in UAE: Jinki@gulfreps.com +971 47036333 – Jinkie Perez Official tourist portal …

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of the highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, a refined haven blending timeless elegance with modern sensibility and sincere service, situated in the heart of Kuwait City. Connected to The Avenues, the country’s largest retail, entertainment, and luxury lifestyle destination, and just 11 kilometres and a 15-minute drive from Kuwait International Airport, the property’s prime location offers guests convenient access to beloved local attractions such as the Kuwait Opera House, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and the Grand Mosque. Waldorf Astoria Kuwait features 200 magnificently adorned contemporary deluxe rooms and suites with panoramic views of the vibrant city skyline. Guests will enjoy a transformative journey of the senses, from exquisite dining venues and beautiful event spaces to the awe-inspiring Waldorf Astoria Spa. “We are very excited to be expanding our portfolio in Kuwait to include the iconic Waldorf Astoria, which brings an elevated luxury guest experience to the country,” said Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Hilton. “Waldorf Astoria Kuwait is Hilton’s third property in the country and brings a trusted brand to a community of discerning travellers who expect the highest levels of service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this outstanding property, which will no doubt be one of Kuwait’s most prestigious landmarks.” Timeless Luxury Upon arriving at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, guests step into a place where stories begin, and unforgettable memories are made. Interiors reflect a grand yet intimate sense of place, including traditional brand elements such as the iconic Waldorf Astoria Clock, which was adapted to reflect Kuwait’s cultural heritage, as well as The Library and Peacock Alley. “We see the hotel stay as an opportunity to …

The iconic and internationally renowned sports event, IRONMAN 70.3, will be hosted in Salalah, Sultanate of Oman, creating the ideal backdrop for this spectacular event. The event also provides attendees with the chance to explore Salalah and experience the hospitality of the city and the people of Oman. Oman Air’s Vice President – Marketing, Abdul Aziz bin Mohammad Al Rashdi, stated “Oman Air is delighted to join the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and other official partners in organising this worldwide triathlon competition in the Sultanate of Oman. It is with great pride that Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, will be supporting the event as the official carrier of IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, which aims to raise awareness of triathlon sports across the country and serves the vision of adding Oman to the global map as an international sporting event destination”. “Through this event, thousands of athletes and spectators are expected to flock to Salalah. Oman Air provides flexible travel and connecting flight options through its main hub in Muscat, which will ensure easy and seamless access to all those that are participating in the event”. Al Rashdi added, “The athletes and spectators will be able to enjoy the amazing scenery surrounding Salalah city while cheering on or completing a 1.9km (1.2-mile) swim, a 90.1km (56-mile) bike ride and a 21.1km (13.1-mile) run”. Mohamed Obaidani, Chief Executive Officer of Triathlon Middle East LLC the exclusive license for IRONMAN70.3 Oman, said, “Since the first IRONMAN70.3 was held in Oman in 2019, the Oman Air brand has become synonymous with this high-profile global sporting event. As the event’s reputation continues to grow in the international triathlon and endurance …