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 …

Accor continues to expand its luxury footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the signing of its first Sofitel property in the Holy City of Madinah, scheduled to open in 2023. With plans to revamp and rebrand under the Sofitel marque next year, the hotel will continue to operate under white label while it undergoes a comprehensive renovation to position it at the pinnacle of the luxury market in Madinah.  Upon completion of the revitalization works, the hotel will stand out as a beacon of modern luxury and French savoir-faire, blending the brand’s unique sense of joie de vivre with the very best of the locale. Partnering with Waqf Sheikh Abdul Bari al-Shawi, represented by the principal of Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, the hotel ownership is part of a joint charitable entity that donates a portion of its annual profit to treat patients in need in Madinah. “The agreement reinforces and advances the humanitarian message the Waqf stands for. We could not think of a better group to collaborate with than Accor and look forward to a successful partnership in the coming years,” mentioned Sheikh Hamza al-Shawi, Principle and representative of the Waqf. The hotel boasts a landmark location in the centre of Madinah, a short walk from the northern entrance of the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. The property features 469 keys, including the most luxurious suite in Madinah, two- and three-bedroom suites, three dining outlets, an executive lounge, two meeting rooms and a fitness centre with a gym. “The hotel is another great addition to our luxury portfolio in the Kingdom and the region overall”, says Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. “The new Sofitel Madinah …

Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority formally opened World Art Dubai at Dubai World Trade Centre, touring the venue with a high-profile delegation of dignitaries. With more than 4,000 artworks from 300-plus artists and galleries, from 50 countries, the eighth instalment of the region’s largest affordable art fair is its biggest yet. Her Excellency toured the show, taking in some of the huge cross-section of art disciplines, from mixed media, fashion, music and dance to sustainability, digital art, photography, graffiti, sculptures, and more. “We’re showcasing a replica of the Global Gate at this year’s World Art Dubai, with the original made out of 37 sea freight containers and standing at 21 metres high. The installation is made by young artist Leon Löwentraut and selected to travel around the world to represent the 17 SDGs by UNESCO,” said Marcus Schaffer, Managing Partner – Global Gate. Collectors looking to bulk up their sculpture collections will revel in the expanded dedicated area with features from key sculpturists, including Hagok Karakashian Jerusalem who bring with them high quality pottery; Gishyan Ceramics started by Armenian Folk Master, Alina Gishyan who focus on avant-garde and abstract ceramics; and Dubai based Camelson who creates art depicting fun things to do in Dubai. “I started Camelson because I felt the market needed specially designed sculptures targeted at expats that embody Dubai’s culture while being completely unique. Camelson is a character that incorporates the magic of the city with each of my pieces having a story behind them,” said Hani Naji, Artist at Camelson. “I have doubled my presence here – last year I had three stands, this year six and I’m looking …

With the Airports Council International (ACI) predicting global passenger traffic recovering by end of 2023 to 2019 levels, airports, especially in the Middle East region, have started sharply focusing on their sustainability and ‘green’ goals. More vulnerable to climate changes than most regions due to limited water supplies and harsh summers, the Middle East is expected to see its aviation market reaching the US$23.07 billion mark in 2026. The region is seeing airports using environment-friendly reclaimed wood, daylighting systems and water treatment technologies. With officials becoming focused on sustainability to ensure a better future for the airport industry, Reed Exhibitions Middle East is focusing on sustainability at the world’s largest airport industry B2B platform that will be organized from May 17 to 19 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The 21st edition of Airport Show, under the patronage of 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, will provide insights about airports facing the sustainability challenge. Airport show, in partnership with dnata, will launch e-Apron zone. The e-Apron zone will provide exhibitors an opportunity to display electric and hybrid ground handling equipment and GSE. Reducing the carbon footprint is a key target for dnata as a world-leading air and travel services provider at 129 airports and we expect more exhibitors will join our efforts for more sustainable operations, said Raed Younes, Vice President, UAE and Regional Business Development at dnata. The airport operations have a sharp focus on reviewing the intensity of environmental impacts like carbon emissions, energy consumption, air and noise pollution, waste management and biodiversity. They are practising …

With Tourism Malaysia participating for the fourth consecutive time at the Gulf Travel Show (GTS) on 22nd and 23rd March 2022 from 11am to 5pm, Sarawak tourism will be one of the key partners to attend the event virtually to meet the agents for two consecutive days. Mary Wan Mering, Director – Marketing, Sarawak tourism board shares, “we are showcasing the 5 pillars of the SARAWAK destination’s unique selling points on Culture, Adventure, Nature, Festival and Food. The experiences of being close to tropical rainforest and wildlife will give the lasting memory of a lifetime. The ethnic cultures and lifestyles are uniquely found in Sarawak. Expected to meet buyers who are interested in experiential holidays.” 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 East. Travel products from across the world have signed up to participate. Find out what is trending in the region with the auditorium special sessions with a host of speakers who will share the latest happenings in the region. Focused on business meetings, the digital event will host buyers from across the region. After the success of the first three editions in November 2020, March 2021 and October 2021, Gulf …