Travelport introduced the latest update to its next-generation platform, Travelport+. Now available, these enhanced, modern retailing tools are paving the way to revolutionize travel retail, modernize the booking experience, and make it easier for agents to offer more choice and deliver better service to their travelers. “As part of our mission to revolutionize the travel industry’s retail experience, we continue to evolve, simplify, and automate the most critical technology tools. Today’s enhanced features empower travel agents to offer more choice, enable greater self-service capabilities for travelers, and simplify the most complex servicing processes,” said Jen Catto, Chief Marketing Officer at Travelport. “All Travelport+ customers enjoy a more modern, digital-first retail experience when connecting through our platform. That includes our desktop customers, who have said that the latest version of Smartpoint has managed to transform mundane travel management tasks into superior servicing opportunities.” More Choice, Richer Content, Better Servicing The evolution of Travelport+ tools and agency capabilities continues with simplified access to enriched travel content from multiple sources, including New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard content. Travelport is the first and only global distribution system (GDS) to sign NDC content distribution deals with all three major European airline groups (Air France-KLM, International Airlines Group (IAG), and Lufthansa Group). The company continues to expand its NDC connections with more than 16 airlines worldwide, including American Airlines, Emirates, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines. Adrian Kazim, Chief Operating Officer at Emirates, commented: “Together Emirates and Travelport are starting their journey to deliver the future of travel retail; kicking off with our first-ever GDS joint agreement that is inclusive of NDC content; that will enable the flexibility to innovate Emirates’ products and deliver more dynamic and personalized …

From biometric-based checks, self-boarding and real-time bag-tracking to digitalized air traffic management, airports have kept up competing by continuously adopting cutting-edge technologies for a completely frictionless travelling experience.  Having insights into the newest technology helps remain at the cutting edge of the airport business, now highly competitive post-pandemic. Innovative technologies and products are providing a wider degree of agility and flexibility for the airports as the number of passengers are gradually increasing and they prefer completion of their baggage handling operations outside the airports. Digital queuing and biometric has been viewed as a priority to be implemented to modernize every component of the journey at airports which are expected to allocate up to six per cent of their revenues each year to spend on Information Technology until 2024 on transformative projects and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency and preparing themselves to handle passengers whose numbers will reach 8.2 billion in 2037 and 20.9 billion by 2040. A diverse range of technologically advance and innovative products will be displayed at the Airport Show 2022. The world’s largest airport industry B2B platform, organized by Reed Exhibitions Middle East, will provide insights into the investments planned by the world’s airports until 2040. The 21st edition will be held from May 17 to 19 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Patron of Airport Show, said: “The Airport Show has provided over the past two decades products and services to create most advanced aviation facilities in the world.” Airports are being increasingly becoming destinations …

Avani Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of Avani Muscat Hotel, its newest property in the Middle East and the upbeat, contemporary brand’s first property in the Sultanate of Oman. Located in Seeb, a prime residential area at the heart of Muscat’s westward growth, the new property benefits from superb airport and city access making it a convenient base for business travellers, digital nomads and leisure travellers alike. Blending heritage-inspired touches and sleek contemporary style, the property’s 161 guest rooms are a masterclass in subtle design. Soothing yet stimulating environments, empathetic to the needs of today’s hyper connected traveller, have been created with natural materials, bespoke décor and Omani tones. In response to global travellers’ evolving working behaviours, in-room workspaces feature flexible configuration options and easy access to the smart power panel outfitted with multiple plugs and USB ports. On the residential side, 45 studios and one, two- and three-bedroom serviced apartments bring Avani’s fresh, forward-looking aesthetic to one of Muscat’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. At 128-square metres, the three-bedroom apartments are the largest in the inventory and are perfectly suited for long-stay guests and families with children who can take full advantage of AvaniKids, the hotel’s kids’ club and pool. Flavourful dining options include Trisis, a nature-inspired all-day dining restaurant with indoor tree features and specialising in Omani, Arabic and international cuisines, and Avani’s easy gourmet grab-and-go concept Pantry, known for its honest, nutritious meals and specialty coffee. The alfresco Patio Bar offers refreshments and the perfect spot to kick back overlooking the turquoise swimming pool whilst taking in the heartbeat of the city. Dedicated exercise and health club amenities are available at AvaniFit providing space to get in …

Etihad Airways has launched its dedicated sustainability-focused corporate rewards programme, designed to facilitate and deliver corporate partner sustainability goals through carbon offsetting, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) investments and green surcharge fares. Corporate Conscious Choices is designed specifically for organisations committed to reducing emissions and operating sustainably, with rewards and incentives designed to proactively support pro-environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives and employee behaviour. The programme provides benefits across four core sustainability pillars: SAF Investment, Green Surcharges, Corporate Conscious Miles and Carbon Offsets. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “Sustainability has been at the top of Etihad’s agenda as the most significant long-term priority of our business for a long time now; but it is more than just a business priority. It’s a social responsibility, as the influence organisations have on society as leaders, helping consumers make sustainable choices in their everyday lives, is a duty and obligation of doing business. “We have put a lot of focus on what governments and regulators should be doing to battle climate change, but the fact is we need corporates’ help and there is an equal responsibility for corporates to do what they can to reduce their own carbon footprint, while leading by example to help consumers to live more sustainably. “All corporates and organisations need transportation, whether it’s for travel or their supply chain. Our aim with the launch of Corporate Conscious Choices is to recognise those corporations that take the most sustainable actions through rewards and recognition.” The programme has already resonated among corporates, with a number of leading global organisations partnering with Etihad to launch the programme, including CWT, one of the largest business travel management companies …

Located in the Al Jaddaf Waterfront community and overlooking the serene Dubai Creek, INK Hotel is the latest 4-star boutique hotel in the area. The 5-storey hotel is a fun, trendy and offbeat property with a distinctive vibe focusing on sustainability and a commitment to honing hospitality excellence in the region. INK Hotel boasts a sleek and contemporary design that complements its intimate scale and varied amenities. With 63 rooms, the boutique hotel features classy interiors and splashes of vibrant colours to create a comfortable ambience where guests can be at liberty to be themselves. The hotel houses two main room types: 23 square metre rooms (that can be interconnected) and 30 square metre rooms, equipped with large floor-to-ceiling windows, free WIFI, and other favourable facilities. Featuring a rooftop swimming pool with stunning views across Dubai Creek, a pop-up gym and designated areas for pets, INK Hotel poses an ideal getaway for the young at heart. With sustainability playing an essential role in its operations, INK Hotel has taken several steps to ensure an eco-friendly environment without sacrificing any aspect of its style, high-quality service and welcoming atmosphere. In addition to solar panels installed on the roof and staff uniforms made from recycled plastic, the entire hotel is laden with L’Occitane amenities featuring top-range organic soaps and bottles made of recycled plastic. The all-day dining restaurant Bistro by INK stocks the world-renowned selection of climate-conscious, ethical, organic Teabags from Pukka while providing exquisite indoor and alfresco dining spaces. It has even collaborated with the local cafe roastery – Grandmother – to provide speciality coffee along with other delectable treats. INK Hotel is also home to the leading Swiss Hospitality school …

After a successful run in the production of Paramount Hotel Dubai and its continuous growth, DAMAC Group is thrilled to announce the expansion of the hotel chain with the opening of Paramount Hotel Midtown. Paramount Hotel Midtown is set to razzle and dazzle Dubai from the first quarter of 2022. Set in the heart of Business Bay Dubai, it’s on the doorstep of Sheikh Zayed Road, Burj Khalifa and the Dubai International Financial Centre and has been curated for the young-at-heart who love to be at the centre of it all. Developed using the same bold imagination, inspiring talent and creative process that has been perfected over Paramount Pictures’ 105-year history, Paramount Hotel Midtown is synonymous with entertainment and, above all, creativity. Offering timeless Hollywood elegance and a cinematic guest experience, the hotel brings to life the contemporary Californian magic with its sophisticated design, upscale dining experiences and celebrity spa and fitness centre. Commenting on the second hotel launch, Jean Faivre, Senior Vice President Hospitality DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, said: “The Paramount proposition is special, with a rich history to live up to. We’ve been immensely successful with our first property and we are now looking forward to our second opening, which will, without a doubt, be a unique addition to Dubai’s vibrant hospitality scene.” With feel-good vibes, mid-century styling, awe-inspiring views and fresh culinary concepts, Paramount Hotel Midtown is where the Hollywood-chic go to ‘see and be seen’. 281 contemporary rooms and suites include Scene Rooms, A-List Suites and a Paramount Suite. Designed for high-life lovers emulating the lifestyle of the rich and famous, elegantly decorated rooms are further enhanced by balconies overlooking the Dubai coastline or Burj Khalifa. …

The Armenian National Interests Fund (ANIF) and Air Arabia Group, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator revealed the visual brand identity of ‘Fly Arna’, Armenia’s national airline to be launched by their joint venture company.  The brand name ‘Arna’ is derived from company’s official name ‘Armenian National Airlines’ with ‘AR’ taken from Armenian, ‘N’ from National and ‘A’ from Airlines. Chosen following a public competition, the name ‘Fly Arna’ was identified to be most inclusive and reflective of the spirit of the joint venture company to transform the aviation sector of the country. With its colours inspired by the Armenia flag, the ‘Fly Arna’ logo and brand identity was designed to reflect the young, modern and a value-driven national airline that strive to become the most accessible and sensible choice for air travel in Armenia and beyond. Its brand values are Ambition – to motivate to build and grow the airline; Persistence – to build services that deliver real and tangible value to customers; and Innovation – to inspire creative solutions that helps keep a competitive edge while remaining practical and efficient. Inspired by the logo and the brand ethos, ‘Fly Arna’ aircraft livery reflects clarity and a forward-looking airline that is always on the move, with the letter “A” creatively displayed at the aircraft tail. The bright outlook in the brand identity will also be reflected through the aircraft interior, staff uniforms and across all customer touchpoints. David Papazian, CEO of ANIF, said: “Fly Arna’s brand identity is truly reflective of the inspiring spirit and ethos of Armenia. This is highlighted by the involvement of the public in deciding the name to …

Radisson Hotel Group is pleased to announce the re-opening of Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial City following a rebranding and extensive refurbishment of the existing Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial, the only international 4-star hotel in Dammam Second Industrial City.  Located in the heart of the buzzing business district near Half Moon Bay Beach, famous for its sandy beaches, Radisson Hotel & Apartments Dammam Industrial City is just 35 minutes’ drive from King Khalid International Airport, with access to numerous nearby businesses and offices. The hotel is close to the popular Dhahran Mall and Modon Lake, the Kingdom’s largest artificial lake with a 4-kilometer footpath surrounded by greenery. The hotel’s 201 spacious rooms, 104 apartments, and common areas have been redesigned to feature a fresh, modern, and stylish atmosphere. Guests can enjoy access to the fitness center, pool, and spa, for a simple delightful stay. The hotel also offers two restaurants and a lobby lounge. RBG restaurant offers a casual dining experience where guests can savor grilled international dishes for lunch or dinner, as well as the famous Super Breakfast buffet to start the day. For a taste of Italy, guests can enjoy lunch and dinner in the soon to open Bocca Buona, where chefs will serve pizza to pasta straight from the open show kitchen. Guests looking for a tasty snack and a hot drink, can visit Modon Café in the lobby lounge which will also showcase live sports. Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President, Middle East, and Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, says, “We are delighted to rebrand the hotel to our fast-growing upscale brand, Radisson, which has been well-received across the Middle …

Majid Al Futtaim, the premier shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia is proud to announce that Ski Dubai has garnered the distinction of the ‘World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort’ for a record-breaking six years in a row. Ski Dubai was revealed as the winner today at the prestigious World Ski Awards, which are the definitive benchmark of excellence in the ski hospitality industry.Ski Dubai was nominated amongst 10 internationally-recognised indoor ski resorts across Egypt, Germany, China, Spain, Scotland, New Zealand and Netherlands.   Launched in 2005, Ski Dubai was the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and quickly established itself as one of the region’s most popular and iconic attractions. Over the last 15 years, it has evolved into a lifestyle brand and a world-class experience for the local community, snow sports enthusiasts as well as tourists from around the globe. In line with its commitment to innovation, Ski Dubai is continuously enhancing the guest experience and features five ski slopes, a family-friendly snow park complete with a variety of fun activities and the hugely popular Penguin Encounter, which is home to a colony of King and Gentoo penguins.   Ski Dubai has also been fueling huge growth in sporting tourism within the region and fostered a winter sports culture in the UAE, where more than 80,000 people are introduced to skiing and snowboarding each year. The state-of-the-art facility has also established itself as a hub for international competitions, such as The World Cup and Para Snowboard World Cup, which attract both competitors and spectators from around the globe and contribute to the UAE’s tourism industry. In November, Ski Dubai …

Kicking off the first webinar for the year conducted by the German National Tourist Office for GCC countries Yamina Sofo, Director Sales and Marketing GNTO for GCC shared the latest update about travelling to Germany for Gulf countries. If you are fully vaccinated with the European Union approved vaccinations and also have the new booster shot, it is very easy to get about Germany and to visit restaurants and other areas. Sofo then shared  about the latest tourism campaigns for the year starting off with the continuation of the German local culture campaign which started in 2021 and mentioned that it way continue through this year. The next campaign is the Feel good and embrace German nature which is another interesting way to discover the various escapes in the destination. Birte Kristin Zielasko Mecklenburg-Vorpommerm Tourist Board shared her presentation with the 10 important reasons to visit the destination. With 2000 km of Baltic sea with coastlines and bays, world famous chalk cliffs and the white sandy beaches will be the first reason to visit the destination. Having 30% of protected nature as UNESCO nature heritage would be the second reason. This entails some amazing discoveries such as the dance of the cranes which enables you to capture over 50,000 photo opportunities and be one with nature. Third most important reason is that there are 2000 glistening lakes in this federal state that you can enjoy. There are various sailing areas where you can rent a sailing boat especially the traditional ones are quite famous to truly immerse yourself in a different experience. Fourth reason to visit is the famous Baltic sea cycle route or as you say out and about …