Malaysia Airlines celebrated the arrival of its inaugural direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Doha via flight MH160 at Hamad International Airport (HIA) marking a milestone in the airline’s international expansion plan and efforts to enable optimal connections to the Middle East, United States, Europe, and Africa. Upon arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA), the Official Airport Partner of the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and voted the World Best Airport 2021 by SKYTRAX World Airport Awards, the A330-300 aircraft was welcomed with a water cannon salute, while passengers were given welcoming gifts upon their disembarkation. The event was co-hosted by HIA and Qatar Airways, the airline’s codeshare partner. Malaysian Ambassador in Doha, H.E. Zamshari Shaharan; Malaysia Airlines’ Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, Lau Yin May; Hamad International Airport’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Ioannis Metsovitis and Senior Vice President Eastern Regions of Qatar Airways, Marwan Koleilat were present to greet the first 274 passengers who arrived at HIA at 11.50pm. Prior to the arrival, a sending-off event was organised in KL International Airport. Group Chief Operations Officer of MAB, Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi; together with senior officials from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) distributed goodies to passengers departing on MH160 bound for Doha at 9:20pm local time. Lau Yin May of Malaysia Airlines commented, “Today marks another milestone for the national airline as we commence our new daily service from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Doha, Qatar. We are delighted to introduce this new service, our third direct flight to the Middle East after Jeddah and Madinah, further providing greater convenience to customers and widening our global footprint for seamless connectivity. We recorded a very encouraging load …

Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road recently welcomed Tour Operators from East Europe as part of the Saudi Tourism Authority’s first familiarization trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In an aim to establish further business ventures and attract international travelers, the familiarization trip allowed participants from ten tourism agencies from across Eastern Europe. Participants experienced Riyadh’s rich culture and hospitality firsthand while discovering the city’s diverse landscape and unique offerings. The two-day itinerary included an in-depth personal hotel tour and sight inspection of the facilities and amenities by Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road’s General Manager, Mahmood Omar, and Director of Sales, Bashar Naji, followed by a trip to the city’s top attractions. Commenting on the visit, Mr. Mahmoud Omar said: “We were honored to have been the first hotel to welcome the Eastern European Tour Operators to Riyadh, allowing guests to receive their first experience of the city in the comfort of our hotel.” He continues: “This is a fantastic opportunity as the hotel is ideally positioned in the city, providing guests with ease in access to the city’s top attractions and shopping malls. We look forward to welcoming international guests in the future with the support of the Tourism agencies. The hotel is ready to create strong roots in the hearts of those across the globe.”  

As recovery of the travel industry picks up steam, payments technology company Mastercard and travel website Musafir have partnered to take travel bookings originating in the Middle East and North Africa, to new heights. The exclusive partnership will digitize end-to-end payment flows and launch new innovative payment products with attractive travel benefits to both consumers and corporates. According to an analysis by the Mastercard Economics Institute, if flight booking trends continue at their current pace, an estimated 115 million more passengers in Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa will fly in 2022 compared to last year. The research reveals that global leisure and business flight bookings have surpassed pre-pandemic levels with an estimated 1.5 billion more passengers predicted to fly in 2022 compared to 2021. “At Mastercard we are committed to contribute to the continued recovery of the travel and tourism sector through insights, data analysis, innovative digital solutions and unique partner collaborations. We are continuously investing to innovate across the travel value chain. We are excited to partner with Musafir to provide digital-first experiences to their consumers,” said Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President, Market Development, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard. “Our partnership with Mastercard is a testament to our belief that travel is back and our commitment to providing both consumers and corporates with technology-led travel solutions,” said Sachin Gadoya, Co-founder, and CEO of Musafir.com. Musafir.com is the UAE’s first online travel agency and is among the leading corporate travel management companies in the region. Mastercard and Musafir have signed an exclusive partnership to launch innovative payment products and solutions across the MENA region, benefiting both consumers and corporates. These will help digitize end-to-end payment flows, providing …

Emirates and Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore joint cooperation and initiatives targeted at attracting more investments into Dubai by supporting new and existing businesses registered or licensed in the free zone. Under the MoU, both parties will explore opportunities to offer a number of travel-related incentives for new and existing SMEs and larger businesses, including potential enrolment in the airline’s Business Rewards programme. The MoU was signed by Dina Al Herais, Emirates’ Vice President, Commercial Products, B2B Corporate & Leisure, and Ebtesam Ahmad Alkaabi, Head of Sales, Jafza Sales. The signing ceremony was also attended by Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President, Gulf, Middle East & Central Asia, and Ahmad Al Haddad, Chief Operating Officer, Parks and Zones, DP World UAE. Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer for Emirates Airline, said: “We are pleased to partner with Jafza to support Dubai’s efforts in cementing its leadership position as one of the world’s preferred investment destinations. Dubai’s vibrant business environment continues to gain momentum in attracting new companies and foreign firms, start-ups and talented entrepreneurs across a wide range of industries. Emirates has been a long-standing supporter of a number of initiatives targeted to support SMEs and innovative start-ups in our home base the UAE, and today’s signing with Jafza reinforces our commitment to help stimulate diverse economic activity in Dubai by providing companies with a range of highly competitive travel incentives so they can scale up their businesses both regionally and globally.” Ahmad Al Haddad, Chief Operating Officer, Parks and Zones, DP World UAE said: “Since its inception, Dubai has built a reputation as a global business ecosystem. It is a magnet for …

Etihad Airways unveiled its new Economy class soft furnishings and tableware which will be launched on board in the fourth quarter of the year. The new products have been designed with sustainability and improved guest experience as primary objectives. The Economy class experience will be upgraded with new soft furnishings for all guests in Economy, including a 35% larger pillow with a 200 thread-count cotton cover made locally in the UAE. This is complemented by a soft blanket made from recycled plastic for additional comfort on all flights. Etihad’s new dining experience features reusable tableware made from recycled high-quality plastic and eliminates the use of single-use plastic. The tray, serving plates and their lids are part of a closed loop recycling system. At the end of their lifecycle, they are collected, washed, ground and reused to make new replacement products. Etihad is also introducing quality stainless-steel cutlery into the Economy cabin which upgrades the experience and also reduces single-use plastic. In 2019, Etihad committed to remove 80% of single-use plastic from its operation by the end of 2022 and the introduction of this new inflight equipment ensures the airline meets this sustainability goal. Where possible, Etihad is also moving towards locally produced items which will further improve the overall environmental impact of the operation. Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing, commented: “Etihad is trailblazing when it comes to sustainability in aviation. Following extensive research and development through our eco-flights over the past few years, we’re proud to reveal the first in a series of enhancements to our inflight experience. Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at a compromise to the quality and thoughtfulness behind Etihad’s guest experience, …

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched a ‘Service Ambassador’ programme with the objective of improving the customer experience in Dubai and thereby reduce consumer complaints. The programme, developed by DET’s Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP) Sector and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) in cooperation with the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) features a specialised course designed to assist employees in businesses and commercial groups elevate the quality and efficiency of their customer service. The Service Ambassador programme is part of a series of innovative initiatives being launched by CCCP to support business and enable merchants to maintain cordial relations with their customers. The course content will be offered online on DCT’s smart learning platform. Merchants can subscribe to the programme and trainees can log in and start learning from anywhere, anytime. Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, CEO of Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection sector stated that the Service Ambassador programme has been meticulously developed to address the most important aspects defining customer happiness, including service quality, warranty obligation as well as merchant-consumer relations and interaction. “Shopping being a major factor in driving growth of tourism and retailing in Dubai, it’s important for businesses and all commercial outlets to maintain an exceptional level of customer service. The Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection Sector and Dubai College of Tourism have jointly developed this programme drawing on our insights on the customer’s journey and expectations on shopping in Dubai,” Lootah said. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, said: “Dubai continues to grow its reputation as a top retail destination globally through an integrated shopping experience that features a broad spectrum of dining and entertainment. The new …

Etihad Airways is celebrating the launch of its newest seasonal route to the French Riviera, between 15 June and 18 September 2022. The twice-weekly service will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays between Abu Dhabi and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport on a modern Boeing 787 aircraft, one of the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world. Martin Drew, Senior Vice President Global Sales & Cargo, said: “We are delighted to be launching our services to this UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its waterfront and its scenic seven-kilometre walkway known as the ‘Promenade des Anglais’, and we are sure that this route will attract a lot of guests wishing to spend their vacation in a luxurious setting under the Mediterranean sun. With the return of international tourism, we continue to broaden our network by adding services and frequencies across key markets and offering additional options to our guests.” Guests can show their love for the planet by offsetting their flights with the new green loyalty programme launched by the airline earlier this year. Conscious Choices rewards travellers with Tier Miles and additional benefits for carrying less baggage on board and offsetting their flights’ carbon emissions using Etihad Guest Miles. Guests travelling with Etihad can make use of the airline’s innovative service to simplify the process of authenticating travel documents. With Verified to Fly, travellers can validate their documents before arriving at the airport, giving them the confidence that they have met all essential government and airline travel requirements before travelling to the airport. Those wishing to book are advised to visit etihad.com or the Etihad app to view the latest sale fares, and to remain informed on the appropriate entry regulations at …

Qatar Airways announces increase in flights from Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, operating triple daily flights from the Emirate to Doha, commencing 10 July 2022. The additional flights will provide passengers with more flexibility and better connectivity to Qatar Airways’ extensive global network. With this increase in its services, the airline will operate 21 weekly flights from Abu Dhabi, and a total of 56 flights from Qatar Airways’ three gateways in UAE; Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are pleased to offer seven additional weekly flights to Abu Dhabi, providing passengers from UAE with more connectivity and convenience. By offering these additional flights between Doha and Abu Dhabi, passengers can enjoy more of our extensive network, and increased flexibility in making their travel plans via the best airport in the world, Hamad International.” Passengers from Abu Dhabi can benefit from Qatar Airways’ expanded network in USA, Europe, Asia and Africa. They can also enjoy the airline’s newly integrated rewards currency – Avios, providing passengers even greater opportunities to accumulate points and leverage exciting innovations in redeeming and spending their rewards. In addition, Qatar Airways loyalty programme members will retain their well-earned rewards balance and will be able to continue enjoying the redemption opportunities they currently have. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ at the 2021 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. It was also named ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering’ and ‘Best Airline in the …

Wego and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BETA) launch a campaign to drive tourism to the country. Bahrain saw signs of recovery in the second half of 2021, which was impacted by the opening of King Fahad causeway. Wego and BTEA are working closely to attract more travelers to the country in line with the Government’s strategy for 2026 which aims to bring over 14.1 million tourists. The campaign will shed light on the things to do in the country for all types of travelers including solos, couples, and families as well as the key destinations to explore. It will be promoted on all Wego’s marketing channels and aims to convert searches to bookings. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, commented: “We continue to partner with tourism boards to promote tourism recovery and attract more travelers to the destinations in the new norm in 2022. We’re proud to collaborate with Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. This partnership further strengthens our commitment to our customers to offer them the best destinations to visit.” Dr. Nasser Qaedi, the CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, said: “The launch of our partnership with Wego reinstates our drive to increase international footfall into the Kingdom and it comes at the right time as the island is filled with fantastic events and activities for tourists to enjoy.”  

Saudia Airlines has announced the resuming of its direct flights to Mauritius this May, and One&Only Le Saint Géran welcomes Saudi travellers to discover this exclusive tropical peninsula, flanked by the warm ocean and a tranquil lagoon. Long celebrated as the iconic luxury retreat in Mauritius, One&Only Le Saint Géran retains what guests have always loved – a sense of seclusion on its own private peninsula with a beachfront and calm lagoon unlike any other resort on the island. The luxury resort’s rooms, suites and exclusive villa offer ample space for relaxation, exploration, and celebration, a haven for the perfect family holiday in Mauritius. One&Only Le Saint Géran offers a host of one-of-a-kind experiences for guests to discover, designed exclusively for One&Only and tailored to each individual guest’s preferences. Saudi guests can unearth a side of Mauritius they never knew existed with illuminating excursions and hands-on experiences; from vibrant culinary journeys through to thrilling deep-sea fishing experiences, guests can discover protected nature reserves and take advantage of privileged access to unrivalled locations and colourful local characters. The dining experience at One&Only Le Saint Géran celebrates Mauritius and its fusion of cuisines, spices and culture, delivering an exciting, world-class experience for guests. Saudi guests can choose to dine at PRIME, One&Only Le Saint Géran’s celebrated and transformed steakhouse; Tapasake, exciting pan-Asian, tapas-style fusion cuisine on the edge of the lagoon; L’Artisan, an artisanal bakery serving barista prepared coffee, tempting pastries and light bites throughout the day; La Terrasse with its stunning views and celebration of Mauritian, Indian, Chinese and Mediterranean flavours prepared live; Le Badamier, idyllically located beneath the tropical sway of the Badamier trees and overlooking the Indian Ocean, serving …