The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) approved testing and quarantine protocols on December 2, 2021, for arriving international passengers from countries/territories/jurisdictions that are not listed as Red List countries/territories/jurisdictions in all ports of entry in the Philippines. The new standards have been implemented on December 3, 2021. Individuals who have been fully vaccinated must have a negative RT-PCR test completed within 72 hours of departing from their country of origin. They will be subjected to facility-based quarantine upon arrival in the Philippines, with an RT-PCR test performed on the fifth day, with the date of arrival being the first day. Regardless of the result, they will be subjected to home quarantine until the 14th day after their arrival. Individuals who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or whose vaccination status cannot be independently validated will be required to do a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of departing from their country of origin. They will be subjected to facility-based quarantine upon arrival in the Philippines, with an RT-PCR test conducted on the seventh day, with the date of arrival being the first day. Regardless of the result, they will be subjected to home quarantine until the 14th day after their arrival. The Department of Transportation has been directed to ensure that only passengers who pass a negative RT-PCR test before flying are allowed to board. Minors’ testing and quarantine protocols, on the other hand, must follow the parent/testing guardian’s and quarantine protocol, regardless of the minor’s vaccination status or country of origin. International travellers who have already arrived and are undergoing quarantine must follow the testing and quarantine protocols in effect at the time of their arrival. Filipinos from countries/territories/jurisdictions on the Red …

Exactly 13 years after it first connected Abu Dhabi to Moscow, Etihad Airways launched its inaugural flight to the new state-of-the-art International Terminal C at Moscow Sheremetyevo Alexander S. Pushkin International Airport (SVO). Operated by a 787 Dreamliner, Flight EY63 departed Abu Dhabi International Airport at 9.35am and landed in Moscow at  2.25pm on 2 December, where it was greeted with a welcoming ceremony including and a delegation of government ministers, the UAE Ambassador to Russia and senior SVO executives. The return flight back to Abu Dhabi, EY64, departed Moscow to similar fanfare at 3.50pm. The delegation was led by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Russia, Tony Douglas, Group CEO, Etihad Aviation Group; Ali Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism & Marketing at DCT; and Mikhail Vasilenko, General Director of SVO Airport. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “After 13 years connecting our two capital cities, we’re delighted to introduce the 787 on this route and move to Russia’s newest and most sophisticated airport, providing better connectivity for guests between Abu Dhabi and Moscow in support of our objective to grow trade and tourism opportunities between our two countries.” “Supported by an increased daily flight schedule providing Russian holiday makers and business travellers with even more opportunity to visit the UAE, this is the start of a new phase in relations building on the strong economic ties between Moscow and Abu Dhabi.” To complement the move to SVO, Etihad continues to work with Aeroflot to enhance and develop its partnership, including the launch of codeshare services across the respective networks, and exploring other areas of cooperation to enhance guest benefits. UAE citizens are …

The Scottish Association Dubai Pipe Band, an international blend of pipers and drummers from Scotland, South Africa, the US and beyond, joined together with the Dubai Police Band at Dubai Expo 2020, to celebrate Scotland’s national day, St Andrew’s Day with a musical display in front of the UK pavilion. The bands brought together people with a shared passion for Scottish culture, and celebrated by performing both traditional and modern bagpipe music. Members of the Scottish Association Dubai Pipe Band played the Great Highland Bagpipes whilst performing in traditional Highland Dress, consisting of swaying tartan kilts, sporrans and hats.

The much awaited webinar on Breuninger, one of Germany’s most prestigious department stores took place recently attracting the travel trade in the GCC region. Yamina Sofo, Director Sales and Marketing, German National Tourist Office, Gulf Countries started off the webinar and explained that they will look at three areas; first about Germany, followed by a presentation on  Arab travelers paradise and lastly about the campaigns for 2022. Sofo explained about the destination Germany, “situated in the heart of Europe it is the second most visited country in Europe with almost 90 million overnight stays recorded in 2019.” She explained that it is one of the most accustomed countries with Muslim travelers which offer a diverse mix of vibrant cities, historic towns and natural landscapes. She further reiterated Germany’s distinction as a shopping paradise with the wide network of outlets with savings up to 70% with 19% VAT refund with both summer and winter sales. 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. She also explained the new 2022 campaigns for Germany “Feel Good and embrace German nature”. 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. Lena Schulz, Manager Tourism Marketing-Breuninger Kurzbeschreibung explained about the unique selling characteristics of …

Kuwait Airways launched its first scheduled commercial flight to Bangkok in the Kingdom of Thailand, operating four flights per week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday recently. The ceremony of resuming the first flights to Bangkok at Terminal 4, was attended by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the State of Kuwait, His Excellency Rooge Thammongkol and his accompanying delegation from the Embassy, who were received by the Director of Public Relations and Media department- Fayez Al-Enezi, Director of Ground Handling department- Abdullah Al-Huwailah and the Assistant Director of Ground Handling Department, Kuwait International Airport- Mazyad Al-Mutairi. The first flight to Bangkok witnessed the implementation and completion of comfortable and convenient travel procedures for passengers and meeting their requirements to the fullest, who in turn appreciated Kuwait Airways’ employees for their services from the entrance of Terminal 4, to the check-in area, until reaching the boarding gate, as well as providing them with the best services on board, in addition to KAC’s adherence to its schedule in the departure and arrival of its flights. In this regard, the Director of Public Relations and Media department, Fayez Al-Enezi stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce resuming of its direct and scheduled operations to the city of Bangkok, Thailand and we are honored by the presence of His Excellency Rooge Thammongkol, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to celebrate the launch of the first flights after its suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic.” His Excellency the Ambassador was also briefed on the operating procedures followed at Terminal 4, where he expressed happiness on the convenient and speedy completion of procedures extended to passengers on the flight to Bangkok as …

Antics Land, the first and one of the largest indoor family theme parks at Sharjah Mega Mall is celebrating its 20 year anniversary. The amusement park is offering special packages throughout December 2021. Visitors can purchase game cards for AED 250 and enjoy any games or rides at Antics Land worth AED 600. They will also receive 2 free McDonald’s meals & a Bubee drink from the Mega Mall branch outlet.  Visitors can also enjoy a special stage show every Friday until the end of the month. Various popular mascots will also be a part of the action-packed day to make sure everyone has a good time. Offering grand excitement and fun for every member of the family, it introduced education and entertainment as a concept. A Roller Coaster, Monorail, 5D & 7D Cinemas, Bumper Cars & Bikes, the Haunted House, Flying Fish, Twister, Tube Town, Carousel, Pirate Ship, VAR Zone and Family Bowling Centre are just some of the many kids choose from. Experiencing 20 exciting rides and attractions along the way. Commenting on the milestone, Dr J.S. Datta Kumar, Director of Operations, Antics Land said, “We are proud to serve the UAE for 20 years and would like to see our family growing along with the fun. Antics Land has always provided the best entertainment activities for all ages be it, toddlers, teenagers or parents and hopes to expand to more regions soon.” At 75,000 sq.ft Antic’s Land is located on the third level of Sharjah Mega Mall in Al Bu Daniq – Sharjah. Apart from the thrilling adventures to enjoy at the amusement park, the mall offers a wide range of activities from lifestyle, leisure to sports.

Oman Air has resumed with effect from 1st December 2021 direct service on its Muscat-Zurich-Muscat route. The route resumption coincides with Oman Air’s 10th anniversary flying to Zurich (ZRH) from its base in Muscat (MCT). Initially introduced on 2nd December 2011, the route was paused temporarily due to the unprecedented pandemic and subsequent downturn in global aviation and travel. Due to strong demand for the route, however, and with the reassurance of its 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating from Skytrax, Oman Air is once again delighted to welcome its valued guests on board. In a scaled-down, socially distanced ceremony held at Zurich Airport, Lina Samman, Oman Air Country Manager for Switzerland, accompanied by several Zurich Airport officials, spoke to passengers, local press, and airline partners ahead of the departure of flight WY 154 from Zurich to Muscat. “This evening’s flight from Zurich to Muscat not only resumes scheduled passenger service, but also marks ten years of exceptional service, connecting travellers to the Sultanate of Oman’s natural beauty, its cultural richness, and the genuine kindness and openness of its people.”

Dubai-based luxury hospitality developer Seven Tides will open the first resort on The World Islands in Dubai, UAE in just a few days, on 18th December 2021. Situated on Clarence Island, the five-star Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort will feature its own stunning 2,000 square metre private beach. The resort’s 142,000sqm host island is itself located within the South American continent of the World Islands development – a remarkable offshore archipelago of 300 man-made isles, just four kilometres from the coast of Dubai. Seven Tides CEO, Abdulla Bin Sulayem, said: “The Anantara hotel on Clarence Island will set the bar for exclusivity and a luxury lifestyle, while remaining in harmony with nature. Without a doubt, this will become one of the most sought-after leisure and lifestyle destinations in the Middle East, if not the world. “Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is unique. It will offer genuine island tranquillity despite its close proximity to major retail destinations, gourmet restaurants, golf courses and the emirate’s lively nightlife,” Bin Sulayem added. The upscale hospitality project boasts a total of 70 rooms, suites and villas, which combine island living with contemporary luxury. Guests will be able to choose from rooms and suites with ocean views and beach access, while spacious villas with private pools will also be available. Accessible exclusively by boat, just a 10-minute ride from Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, the development will feature a gymnasium and a guest pool, as well as a series of private infinity pools for the exclusive use of those staying in villas. Food lovers will be able to choose from the resort’s five restaurants and bars, which will offer everything from fine dining to chilled-out eats. …

The 12th edition of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, Abu Dhabi’s favourite music festival, brings a captivating calendar of world-class musical entertainment around the highly anticipated FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 2021 from 9-12 December at Etihad Park. From rap to rock, there is something for everyone this year. The highly anticipated return of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts represents a landmark moment in Abu Dhabi’s reopening and recovery, as the first major, live music event since the start of the pandemic. With a diverse line-up of musical talent, the weekend of world-class live entertainment and sport reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s standing as an international destination for world-class entertainment, culture, and leisure events with a commitment to the highest standards of health and safety. With a thrilling weekend revving into view, here are the top reasons not to miss Yasalam After-Race Concerts 2021. Four nights of AAA artists Six-time Grammy Award-nominated artist Khalid will headline the opening Yasalam After-Race Concert on Thursday 9 December, followed by triple BRIT award-winning rap artist Stormzy on Friday 10 December, multi-platinum certified ‘Someone You Loved’ singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi on Saturday 11 December, and American rock legends Foo Fighters will bring the curtain down on the music extravaganza with a storming closing show on Sunday 12 December. Feel the thrill of live events again – at full capacity Following a challenging 18 months for the world, the Yasalam After-Race Concerts 2021 marks the first major live music event, and the first event at Etihad Park (formerly du Arena) since the start of the pandemic. This is an opportunity not to be missed, a chance to feel the thrill of live events once again and celebrate …

Laundryheap has strengthened its B2B linen rental services by rebranding its specialised vertical as ‘Laundryheap Linen’ and investing in a new 3,000 sq ft warehouse in Dubai, UAE to drive the operations. Serving the significant demand for bed linen, towels, accessories and other related rentals for the hospitality sector in the UAE, ‘Laundryheap Linen’ is the new brand identity of ‘NestAngel,’ which was launched by Laundryheap in Dubai earlier this year. NestAngel was first launched by Laundryheap in the UK six years ago and continues to operate successfully under the same brand name and has serviced over 300,000 guests. Laundryheap Linen in the UAE, will allow businesses – including hotels, short-term rentals, Airbnb operators, holiday home companies, and others to save in the long-term on laundry, depreciation, logistics and storage costs by using this clever solution to service all linen needs. The Laundryheap Linen service will be especially useful to the hospitality industry while managing the increased occupancy during the upcoming Expo 2020 season. The service operates as a one-stop-shop for all services relating to linen and towel rentals as well as accessories. It avoids the hassle that many holiday home and apartments face in managing inventory and having to buy, wash, store and deliver to guests. With Laundryheap Linen, its customers can focus on their core competency of operating their properties, getting more bookings and improving customer service while the firm takes care of all the requirements with ready-made linen sets. Adding to this, businesses can also access a wide range of toiletries and welcome kits effortlessly. The new brand creates strong synergies with the organisational brand, Laundryheap, thereby enabling customers to instantly connect to it. Unlike most other …