LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s collection of independent luxury properties, is pleased to announce the signing of an agreement for a breathtaking new resort surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes on the private Al Nawras Island in Abu Dhabi. Expected to open in 2023, Al Nawras Island, LXR Hotels & Resorts will mark the brand’s entry into the UAE capital. Perfectly situated in one of Abu Dhabi’s most recreational yet tranquil areas and designed with elements inspired by the destination, the resort will offer an exclusive escape on a private, secluded island, while still providing seamless access for those who wish to explore the vibrant city and its cultural experiences. The all-villa resort will offer 80 expansive and elegantly designed beach and water villas as well as a 450 square-metre two-bedroom Royal Villa surrounding a state-of-the-art golf course. “We’re delighted to be bringing LXR Hotels & Resorts to Abu Dhabi with Al Nawras Island,” said Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton. “The UAE’s burgeoning capital has established itself as a global hub in recent years and has seen incredible development in terms of hospitality, sports and tourism. I believe Al Nawras Island will complement Abu Dhabi’s luxury hotel landscape perfectly and we look forward to guests experiencing this unique property.” Al Nawras Island will place a strong emphasis on exploration, expression, and wellbeing. Among the property’s world-class leisure and recreational facilities are an upscale gym, fitness studio, and three stunning swimming pools – one indoor and two outdoor, as well as tennis and paddle courts, a private marina, exclusive beach club, and elaborate spa. Additionally, children will have access to an engaging playground, dedicated swimming …

As part of its relentless pursuit for network expansion and within its strategic objectives to provide greater options to its valued customers, Kuwait Airways announced the operation of its scheduled commercial flights to Sharm El-Sheikh, in the Arab Republic of Egypt, where the Company will operate two flights per week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting from 4th May 2022. Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce to its valued customers the launching of one of its most important and newest destinations for the summer season, which is Sharm El-Sheikh, which is our fourth destination to the Arab Republic of Egypt, in addition to Cairo, Alexandria and Sohag. Sharm El-Sheikh is one of the destinations of great importance due to its high demand for it by our customers and because of its landmarks and touristic attractions which is an excellent option for spending the summer vacation.” Razouqi added, “Kuwait Airways is keen to launch a variety of different destinations that meet the requirements of its valued customers. In the past weeks, we had announced the launch of 17 new destinations, linking Kuwait to the world, in an effort to meet the growing demand. Therefore, Kuwait Airways renders great attention to the comfort and service provided to customers, as well as offering them with the opportunity to travel on Kuwait Airways aircraft to their preferred destination.” Furthermore, the Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi received the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the State of Kuwait, H.E. Osama Shaltout and his accompanying delegation at the Company’s headquarters where the two sides discussed methods to enhance cooperation between the State of Kuwait and …

Oman Air and SalamAir announced greater cooperation to align both airlines’ networks for passenger growth in and out of Oman. This new cooperation will further expand the offering of outbound destinations available to guests in the Sultanate while enhancing the choice of flight options available to international guests travelling to Oman. Commenting on the new cooperation, Eng. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, said “This is a landmark moment for aviation in Oman and signals the start of closer alignment between Oman Air and SalamAir at a time when the sector is starting to show signs of recovery. Offering passengers more convenience and connectivity is something both airlines do well, so cooperating on strategic routes makes perfect sense for us. The significance of this cooperation is further strengthened within the context of Oman’s Vision 2040 Strategy, where both airlines play a crucial role as enablers of the Strategy’s tourism pillars through enhanced travel options into Oman.”

Expo 2020 Dubai reached the remarkable milestone of 20 million visits on Saturday (19 March) – an amazing achievement making history against the odds while bringing the world together in the UAE for the largest global gathering since the start of the pandemic. Displaying huge resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges, the biggest event ever to be held in the Arab world has combined unparalleled cultural, educational and entertainment experiences, with 192 countries coming together to showcase the best their nations have to offer. World leaders, cutting-edge innovations, sporting heroes, Grammy-award winning artists, incredible architecture, Arab superstars, innovative forums, global cuisine and the guarantee of something new and surprising every single day are among around 32,000 events and myriad attractions at the region’s first World Expo that have spurred Expo 2020 Dubai to this monumental achievement. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee, said: “When we started this journey in 2013, and even before then as we prepared the bid for Expo 2020 Dubai, we had a dream to welcome the world to Dubai and the UAE for an unprecedented global gathering that would live long in hearts and minds. “That we have fulfilled this dream is already beyond doubt, but to achieve such a landmark number of visits is true testament to how the world has responded to what we have worked so long and hard to create. We trust that those millions of people will take their memories back to their families and friends, wherever they are from in the world, to continue …

The fourth edition of the most popular virtual travel trade show in the Middle East is scheduled to kick off tomorrow at 11am until 5pm. This year 22nd and 23rd March 2022, will witness a whole new line up of interesting sessions apart from the B2B networking opportunities from 11am to 5pm. One of the key partners from the Balkan region has some very unique experiences for the market to be shared, hence agents have the opportunity to tap into this market. Ivana Karanikić – General Manager – Prolingua Travel DMC shared, “Participating at 4th GTS is of utmost importance for us as we are intensively working on the Middle East travel market since 2018 and particularly because this year we have intensified, in cooperation with some tourism stakeholders from Western Balkans, the promotional activities so you will soon hear us at Arabian Radio Network channels as well as on other important media. I see this participation as an opportunity to meet both existing and future partners in order to raise awareness of Western Balkans’ market as well as us as one of the best connoisseurs of that travel destinations. This year our main focus is on our brand new tour – Muslim Women’s Adriatic Cruise along Croatian coast with 4 departures in 2022 as we recently become the only Western Balkans’ Halal Certified TO.  Thanks to unique tours combining outdoor, adventure, culture and gastronomy that have been recently updated, we also work intensively to promote undiscovered parts of Montenegro and Western Serbia as perfect travel destinations. New gem in our travel necklace is definitely Albania as an ideal destination to spend summer holidays with family but also to enjoy …

More than 700,000 passengers are expected to depart from DXB’s Emirates Terminal 3 over the course of the next two weekends, as travellers head off for their spring break holidays. With the lifting COVID-19 related travel restrictions in 16 countries, Emirates customers will be able to swiftly check-in without the need to present Covid-19 related medical documents, and in some countries passenger locator forms are also not required.  These countries include the UK, Portugal, Italy, Jordan, Mauritius, Maldives, Austria, Bahrain, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland, Norway, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Switzerland. Travel restrictions remain in place for other destinations and Emirates customers should check that they have their documents in order ahead of their flights on www.emirates.com/travelrequirements, to ensure a smooth process at check-in. Emirates also urges passengers to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to their flight departure, and ensure they have all the required documents as mandated by their destination. In addition to departures from Dubai, close to 620,000 passengers will be arriving on Emirates flights during that same period, as many make their way for their spring break holidays in Dubai, and to experience Expo 2020 before it ends on 31st March. Emirates check-in options: Check in desks, self-service kiosks: Emirates’ customers may check in as early as 24 hours before their flight departure using the 32 self-service bag drop machines and 16 check-in kiosks available at Terminal 3, or at Emirates’ check-in desks. Passengers travelling to the US can check in 12 hours before departure at Emirates’ check-in desks. Customers using the self-service kiosk will receive their boarding passes on the spot, but must still complete their immigration formalities no later than 60 minutes …

dnata has been announced as exclusive representation partner for Sun Resorts Mauritius hotel group to cater for increased demand from GCC travellers. Adding to its extensive hotel representation portfolio, dnata Representation Services will now act as sales and marketing partner for Sun Resorts properties across the GCC countries, offering travellers local expertise and a personalised service, as they return to the beautiful island since its full reopening for tourism. With a spread across the island, Sun Resorts’ Mauritius footprint includes four resorts, La Pirogue, Sugar Beach, Ambre, and Long Beach, whilst the group also owns iconic leisure island, Ile aux Cerfs, featuring the world-famous championship golf course designed by Bernhard Langer. Popular with golf enthusiasts from the region, guests with Sun Resorts are offered complimentary green fees at three signature golf courses during their stay: Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, Anahita Golf Club, and Tamarina Golf Club. Sébastien Doussin, DVP – Global Ground Services & Destination Management at dnata Travel Group, commented: “The Indian Ocean islands have always proved popular with GCC travellers, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, offering luxurious and secluded island retreats. With Mauritius fully reopening for tourism we have certainly seen an increased demand for travel there. “With our local expertise, we are delighted to represent Sun Resorts Mauritius across the GCC, particularly as a brand which attracts various demographics of travellers across the leisure, corporate, and MICE segments. This also includes travellers with a keen interest in sport due to the quality of the golf courses in Mauritius. With the GCC region producing a number of golf enthusiasts due to the abundance of world-class courses in destinations such as Dubai, we can certainly see …

In honour of Hag El Laila – an integral custom in UAE culture, Mall of the Emirates will host two evenings of fun-filled activities in its unique Emirati cultural hub, Zeman Awwal. Falling in the middle of the Islamic month of Sha’ban, which precedes Ramadan, celebrations at Mall of the Emirates will begin on the eve of 17th March and bring the community together to mark this special time of year. Celebrating the UAE’s spirit of generosity and tolerance, Hag El Laila teaches children the significance of acts of giving as family and friends gather to enjoy the occasion. To mark the local celebration, Mall of the Emirates will offer a host of free activities for families to enjoy between 17th March from 6pm – 10pm and 18th March from 4pm – 10pm. This includes workshops, entertainment, captivating storytell-ing, giveaways, and immersive classes designed to celebrate the rich culture of the UAE and its tradi-tions. Hussain Moosa at Majid Al Futtaim Properties – Director, Mall of the Emirates commented: “The UAE is a country full of legacies and rich culture that deserves to be celebrated. Emiratis and residents of the UAE are passionate about preserving the vibrant history of the nation by passing down its fascinat-ing traditions and stories, including Hag El Laila. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, there’s no better time to bring the community together to promote the values of sharing and giving than at Zeman Awwal, where endless experiences with loved ones will be found. Our mission at Mall of the Emirates is to uplift the surrounding community, and we’ll do so by connecting with our customers through unique events that help preserve the …

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA)announced plans for Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. A 300-year-old site located just outside of Riyadh, Diriyah is considered to be the birthplace of the Kingdom and the capital of the first Saudi state. The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif, the valley and lush palm groves of Wadi Hanifah, and will soon include the Diriyah development – an acclaimed project that pays homage to the history of Saudi Arabia. Located 15 minutes from the centre of Riyadh, Diriyah will comprise 13 unique districts inclusive of residences, hospitality offerings, office space, retail, museums, cultural institutions, outdoor attractions and more. The development is a key driver of the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority commented, “It is a delight to be partnering with Four Seasons. Renowned for their unforgettable guest experiences, Four Seasons is working alongside DGDA to elevate what travellers can experience within Diriyah, showcasing their timeless approach to hospitality whilst staying true to Diriyah’s rich cultural past. We are excited to share further developments on this project in the coming months.” Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia will include approximately 150 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, expansive meeting and event spaces, a wellness spa with seven treatment rooms and a fitness centre, as well as two outdoor pools with private cabanas. The Hotel will also offer four culinary outlets, including a poolside restaurant and sunset lounge. The Diriyah development will become one of the Middle East’s most walkable, pedestrianized cities, and upon completion will be the world’s largest cultural and heritage site. It has been designed to …

As Tourism Malaysia participates for the fourth consecutive time at the Gulf Travel Show (GTS) on 22nd and 23rd March 2022 from 11am to 5pm, Sabah tourism will be one of the key partners to attend the event virtually to meet the agents for two consecutive days. Humphrey Ginibun, Senior Marketing Manager, Sabah Tourism Board shares, “Sabah Malaysian Borneo is the hidden jewels of Malaysia and Sabah Tourism Board (STB) is proud to promote Sabah as a preferred holiday destination for families, honeymooners, and adventure travellers. Mt Kinabalu in Sabah is Malaysia’s first World Heritage site and Sipadan Island is renowned as among the top dive sites in the world. These tourism products are Sabah’s top iconic tourism product in Malaysia. Prior to the Covid19 pandemic, Sabah is ranked the top two busiest airports in Malaysia and Sabah receives over 200 international direct flights from 20 cities in Asia. Sabah is growing in popularity as a holiday destination, STB looks forward to meeting tour agents who can work hand in hand with us to rekindle tourism holidaymakers and promote Sabah to the Middle Eastern market.” As a platinum partner, Malaysia is having its own virtual pavilion with 15 booths consisting of tourism boards, tour operators and hotels and resorts such as Tourism Malaysia Dubai, Tourism Malaysia Jeddah, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Tourism Selangor, Asian Overland Services, Universal Holidays travel and tours, World Express tours Malaysia, Sunway hotels and resorts, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, New World Petaling Jaya hotel, Dash Box Hotels, Lexis hotels and resorts, Berjaya hotels and resorts and Gembox. It will be an opportunity to network with travel agents and tour operator partners from the Middle …