Emirates and GE Aviation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a programme that will see an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER, powered by GE90 engines, conduct a test flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by the end of 2022. Currently, SAF approved for use is a blend of petroleum-based Jet A or Jet A-1 fuel and a SAF component with a maximum blend limit of 50%. One of GE’s fuel experts chairs an international task force to develop standardized industry specifications supporting adoption of 100% SAF, which does not require blending with conventional jet fuel. A milestone collaboration for both Emirates and GE Aviation, the 100% SAF test flight is expected to demonstrate how widebody commercial aircraft using jet fuel made from alternative sources can lower lifecycle CO2 emissions compared to petroleum-based fuels with no operational issues. The demonstration flight also supports both companies’ broader efforts to reduce CO2 emissions as the industry looks to scale up its use of SAF. Emirates will work closely with regulators to secure approvals for experimental type certification, and will also coordinate with airframe, Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) on pre- and post-flight requirements, in addition to closely working with SAF suppliers on procurement and delivery logistics. Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer, Emirates Airline, said: “Emirates is committed to supporting initiatives that help minimise its CO2 emissions, and we’ve already made great strides in fuel efficiency and conservation as well as operational advancements across different areas of our business. Our agreement with GE Aviation will support progress on the industry’s collective commitment to net zero emissions, and we look forward to continuing this close collaboration. Our partnership …

Gulf Air has recently boosted frequencies to popular destinations in line with the increasing demand and the relaxed travel restrictions in many countries around the globe. Gulf Air destinations have seen an increase in frequency with the growth of passenger number in the current quarter ahead of the holiday season. The airline has increased frequencies to: Amman, double daily – Frankfurt, daily – Paris, daily – Casablanca, 3 weekly – Singapore, 3 weekly – Bangkok, 5 weekly – Istanbul, 10 weekly – Dubai, 49 weekly – Pakistan, 35 weekly and Manila, 9 weekly. Commenting on these developments, Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Captain Waleed AlAlawi said: “We’re getting closer to full restoration of our network. Although frequencies are lower than pre-pandemic levels, however it is important for us to bring back our network and offer our passengers more choices of more destinations. Frequencies are regularly reviewed and increased based on network optimization, forecast, demand and entry restrictions”. The airline is also participating at the Dubai Airshow 2021 which is taking place currently (from 14 to 18 November) at Dubai World Central (DWC) in the United Arab Emirates. During the airshow, Gulf Air is showcasing its flagship aircraft the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and its state-of-the-art cabins in its iconic 70th anniversary livery. An executive delegation from Gulf Air will be representing the airline during the event and lead a number of networking initiatives and meeting opportunities with partnerships and potential customers and suppliers. The only live and in-person aerospace event taking place in 2021, the Dubai Airshow 2021 will feature more than 1,200 exhibitors, representatives from 148 countries, more than 80 start-ups, decision makers in attendance and over 20 country …

Lisa Michel, Head of Incoming at railtour suisse, is convinced that, together with Al Rostamani Travels, individual tours to Switzerland and European cities by rail in the GCC markets are well on track. Railtour Suisse is an experienced tour operator with a specialised portfolio in the areas of individual city breaks in Europe, Switzerland and special rail tours. As the European metropolises are connected by an excellent high-speed rail network, round trips by train to discover them are super-easy and convenient. In this context, Railtour offers either Eurail passes for the train journey only or entire packages including hotels and excursions. These can be booked online or tailor-made by the specialists at Al Rostamani Travels according to the customer’s wishes. Switzerland trips are extremely popular. To crown the experience, a trip on one of the famous panoramic trains such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Golden Pass Line or a combination as the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a must. The Swiss mountain and lake landscapes are magnificent and can be enjoyed to the full on a train journey. railtour offers a wide variety of short or multi-day packages. The Swiss mountain and lake landscapes are magnificent and can be enjoyed to the full on a train journey. Railtour offers a wide variety of short or multi-day packages. Swiss Travel Passes or hotel and extra services are also part of the offer. “We are delighted to add railtour to our growing product portfolio. railtour is the largest rail tours operator, who have placed their 45 years’ experience at the service of the leisure traveler. This creates a strategic partnership, helping us in making our customer’s journey more scenic, more …

Dubai Airshow and the UAE Space Agency have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the second day of Dubai Airshow 2021. The two parties will collaborate to further position Dubai Airshow as a key platform for companies and investors in the space sector. The partnership will support organizations looking to establish a presence at future editions of the event and will enable space companies to benefit from the participation, engagements, networking and agreements created at Dubai Airshow. The MoU was signed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group and Her Excellency Sarah Bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology, Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed commented: “The space sector continues to be a vital industry for the UAE, one that has already inspired a generation of future astronauts and space scientists. Globally there are an increasing number of space organizations and new players investing in the space sector. Dubai Airshow will accelerate its focus on space by creating exciting new prospects for regional and global space players from both public and private sectors. This agreement will help strengthen the Airshow’s space offering and lead to even more partnerships, collaborations and projects in the future.” Her Excellency Sarah bint Youssef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology and Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency, said: “Enhancing cooperation locally and globally is a key part of our ongoing efforts to stimulate the space industry and increase its economic contribution. Partnerships play an important role in building a knowledge and innovation-driven economy …

To mark the UAE Golden Jubilee, Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s leading entertainment and leisure destination, is offering visitors free tickets to Qasr Al Watan as well as access to a Yas Theme Park per day with its superlative Stay and Play package for the ultimate family staycation. In addition, visitors can look forward to spectacular firework displays, live entertainment and so much more as part of the destination’s celebrations. Starting from only AED402 per person exclusively on yasisland.ae, the special ‘Stay and Play’ package allows guests to enjoy a luxury stay at one of Yas Island’s leading hotels, including the recently opened The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, and also gain access to one of the three award-winning theme parks for every day booked – Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi. In addition, the package includes complimentary tickets to Qasr Al Watan, inviting guests to take an interactive journey throughout the Palace to learn more about Emirati culture and rich heritage. As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, guests can also enjoy the festivities at the Island’s latest lifestyle destination, Yas Bay Waterfront, with spectacular firework displays at 9pm, live entertainment and more on December 2 – 4 between 5PM – 10PM. The celebrations will mark the first in-person display since the start of the pandemic, with precautionary measures in place to ensure the health and safety of those in attendance. Further to the three globally-renowned theme parks, Yas Island invites guests to take their holiday experience to new heights at CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, skydive in the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber,  as well as enjoy outstanding …

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence visited Dubai Airshow 2021 on its official opening day. The event was officially inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai who led the Royal Tour in the morning. This marked the start of the much-anticipated Airshow, which runs from 14-18 November at Dubai World Central (DWC) Al Maktoum airport. Industry specialists and leaders from across the aviation, aerospace, space and defence sectors arrived at the Airshow from every part of the globe. Almost 150 countries are represented at this year’s Airshow which includes 20 country pavilions and new additions from the Czech Republic, Belgium, Brazil, Israel, and Slovakia. There are also civil and military delegations from more than 140 countries with more than 370 new exhibitors at the event. This year’s Dubai Airshow is expected to be the biggest edition of the event since it began in 1989, with around 85,000 visitors expected to attend across the week. His Highness (H.H.) Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group attended day one of the Airshow and was part of the Royal Tour. Timothy Hawes, Managing Director at Tarsus Middle East, organisers of Dubai Airshow 2021 said: “It is fantastic to see Dubai Airshow back again in the most advanced and futuristic form it’s ever been in. We are displaying world-class products, solutions and services from market leaders and disruptors. A number of aircraft are making international debuts at this …

Homegrown Dubai digital travel marketplace, kitmytrip, has announced the launch of the Dubai Touristor, enabling  visitors, tourists and residents alike to unlock the best deals, offers, and value added incentives for an unforgettable Dubai adventure. Starting at just USD 9 (AED 33) and ranging up to USD 35 (AED 128), Dubai Touristor enables experience seekers to seamlessly plan and book their holidays, staycations and experiences with great savings. With access to over 18 attractions and activities, dining offers from over 3,000 restaurants, as well as access to Expo 2020 Dubai, Dubai Metro Pass with AED 19 ($5) credit and 5G Internet with 6GB Data and international calling, Dubai Touristor enables visitors to enjoy amazing experiences for less for an unforgettable Dubai adventure. Travellers visiting Dubai will be able to access kitmytrip via desktop and mobile to gain access to localised content and enhanced, seamless user experience when linking to partner sites to complete their travel bookings. In addition, holidaymakers landing in Dubai can visit the kitmytrip retail store at Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 to speak with a customer service representative to gain insight into the best tours and activities. Appealing to the modern digital traveler, kitmytrip launched in 2016 with the goal of simplifying the travel process, providing local information, recommended activities to enjoy, attraction booking opportunities and connectivity under one roof. Born in Dubai and built for the world, kitmytrip is developed by co-founders Ashish Sidhra and Saurabh Bhatnagar who have over 35 years of digital and e-commerce experience between them. Their first product provided wifi connectivity to travellers to the UAE, developed in 2016 and went live in 2017 at Dubai International Airport Terminal …

Emirates and Gulf Air have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a deeper commercial cooperation between both carriers. The MoU will set the framework between both carriers to establish a potential codeshare cooperation across the networks of each airline, extending reciprocal loyalty benefits on Emirates’ Skywards and Gulf Air’s Falconflyer, and discussions are also underway to initiate cargo cooperation. Signed on the first day of the Dubai Airshow, the MoU will mark the beginning of closer ties between the two airlines. The MoU was signed by Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline and Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Captain Waleed AlAlawi. The signing ceremony was also attended members of each airline’s executive management teams. Customers travelling on Emirates and Gulf Air’s operated flights can book single-ticket travel with competitive fares, and one-stop baggage check-in to their final destinations. Emirates will initially place its “EK” marketed code on Gulf Air operated flights between Bahrain and Dubai, and reciprocally, Gulf Air will add its “GF” marketed code to Emirates routes. Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: “We are pleased to partner with Gulf Air on developing this codeshare agreement, which will give customers significantly enhanced choices, convenient schedules and flexibility to connect between Dubai and Bahrain, and beyond to cities in our extensive long-haul network. We believe that our new partnership will bring real benefits to our customers and business, and today’s agreement is a positive step in our cooperation, and we are on the way to further strengthening our relationship in the future.” During the event, Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Executive Officer said: “This will be a remarkable partnership between one of the first airlines in the …

Mark your date for the fourth Arabian Travel Awards on 21st November 2021 at Le Meridien Hotel and conference center in Garhoud as they prepare to applaud the heroes of the industry of travel, tourism and hospitality. It will be a night of celebration for all those who strived under the pandemic to not just keep their heads above water but to make a difference in the new normal. Recovery of the industry is foremost in the Middle East region, hence the pent up demand and the traveler sentiments have changed vastly over the past almost two years. This years’ awards are special as it has been a rollercoaster journey which had some of the most daring and extreme risk circumstances. Mentally to keep people motivated to stay in environments where it may not be all that conducive due to various factors which gave a new face to the industry. The whole industry had to unlearn certain factors and relearn, rethink and restrategise the way forward. San Jeet Director Arabian Travel Awards shares, “Arabian Travel Awards this year will hold a special place for each individual and company that will carry one home with them as it is a momentum of their hardships and challenges which led them to overcome to the best of their ability. Applications are still open to vote for those in the industry and who has been in the forefront promoting and proactively working during the pandemic and beyond as of today. Currently, borders  are slowly and steadily opening and there is a demand from travelers, those who did not travel before covid are now willing to travel, those who were price conscious before are now …

It is time to once again experience Germany, the most popular shopping destination for the GCC travellers when they host a webinar on Breuninger, one of Germany’s most prestigious department stores on 23rd November 11am UAE time. With the recent announcement that the limitations on GCC travellers have been relaxed, it is once again time to discover some of the destination’s new and renovated experiences. The German National Tourist Office will host a special webinar to highlight the various offerings, with a particular emphasis on Germany as a shopping destination. “I’m looking forward to refreshing our industry partners on destination Germany and informing them of the latest travel guidelines to Germany while also highlighting one of the most prestigious department stores Breuninger,” said Yamina Sofo, Director Sales and Marketing, German National Tourist Office, Gulf Countries. We’d like to invite you to pre-register for the event and come prepared with all of your questions.” For a moment, everything was put on hold due to the pandemic, but now it’s time to revisit and rediscover the many shopping spots throughout Germany. Travellers and shoppers can find anything they want, from discounts to fine couture, from second hand knickknacks to futuristic treasures, from worldwide to traditionally German brands, always prompt, easy to find, and, at an unbelievable low cost. The unique selling characteristics of one such retail destination, Breuninger, will be highlighted in this webinar. It will be a chance for the travel industry to rediscover the destination after the Covid era. “For 140 years, the fashion and lifestyle company Breuninger has been setting high standards in the areas of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, “ said Lena Schulz, Manager Tourism Marketing-Breuninger Kurzbeschreibung. Since …