Spain Film Commission is co-organising together with IFEMA MADRID the 6th edition of FITUR Screen, the monographic section dedicated to screen tourism, which will have a 99 m2 space in Hall 10 from 24 to 26 January 2024, the days on which the International Tourism Trade Fairis open to trade visitors. In this space, it will offer a specialist networking area and will host an intensive programme focused on the promotion of screen tourism. This new edition takes on the challenge of contributing to making Spain a global audiovisual hub and aims to become a platform for connecting the tourism and film industries through the dissemination of knowledge about screen tourism, commercial exchange between the industry’s different players and the formulation of future proposals for the development of this sector in Spain. FITUR Screen will have its own space, which includes an exhibition area with the offerings of various participating agents, a B2B area and a dedicated area for the conference programme. Different partners of the Spain Film Commission will be participating in the 2024 edition, offering an extensive programme of activities over three days. Over the course of these three days, FITUR Screen will host three round tables on trends in screen tourism and the importance of this powerful tool for promoting tourism in areas that have been used as locations in films or TV series. In addition, on [date and place] the awards for Spain Film Commission Ambassadors 2024 and Spain Film Commission Best Production 2023will be presented. The collaboration between the Spain Film Commission and the UNWTO (World Tourism Organization) for the promotion of screen tourism will also be presented during the event. Spain Screen Grand Tour, …

Jazeera Airways inaugurated its new sales office in Riyadh recently. Operating in KSA since 2007, the airline currently flies to six destinations including Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Madinah, Hail, and Taif. With 105 flights a week, Jazeera Airways serves 4000 passengers covering leisure and family visitors, religious pilgrims, and expatriate workers. Rohit Ramachandran, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Airways highlighted: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an important market for us and we are very pleased to open our new sales office in the city of Riyadh. As we grow our presence in the country, we continue to stay focused on offering affordable fares and convenient connections while maintaining the highest levels of safety. We greatly value our relationships with the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) as well as our local travel trade partners, and take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude for their ongoing cooperation and support over the years. We look forward to continuing our efforts to deliver the best to our partners and passengers, while steadily contributing to Saudi’s growing aviation industry.” Listed in the Best Workplaces in Asia list for 2023, Jazeera Airways has more than 50% Saudi nationals recruited into its local operations to support the government’s ongoing Saudization efforts. Established in 2004, Jazeera Airways and is the first airline to be listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange. With a market cap of more than $1 billion, it serves nearly 5 million passengers across a network of 64 destinations in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe, with a fleet of 23 aircraft. Jazeera also owns and operates its own terminal, Jazeera Terminal 5, at Kuwait International Airport.

Kanoo Travel won the title as ‘Best Travel Management Company Middle East at the sixth edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2023. The award was received by Zaeem Gama, Divisional CEO, Travel, Kanoo Travel and Aubrey Heldt, Divisional General Manager, Travel Operations, Kanoo Travel. Fawad Kanoo, CEO, Kanoo Group shared, It is an honour to accept this esteemed award. This recognition is not just for me but for everyone who believes in the power and beauty of exploration. We are all adventurers at heart, drawn together by the magic that unfolds when we discover new places and forge new connections. A heartfelt thanks to my community, supporters and fellow explorers.”

International SOS underscored the necessity to implement enhanced risk management strategies for travellers and organisations, amid the increasing international travel. While global travel regained momentum despite significant fluctuations throughout 2023, the evolving landscape raises concerns about the growing complexity of risks that both travellers and organisations need to navigate. International SOS data revealed a 59% increase in international travel and 48.4% increase in domestic travel during October 2023, as compared to the beginning of the year.1 These findings align with a recent report from The International Air Transport Association (IATA), emphasising the resurgence of global travel. According to IATA, global air traffic reached 97.3% of pre-COVID levels at the end of 2023.2 With the holiday season quickly approaching, IATA anticipates that this trend will continue into the New Year, despite economic and political uncertainties in parts of the world. For instance, the Middle East region anticipates to witness a substantial uptick in air passenger traffic, indicating a promising trajectory for 2024. Additionally, the industry forecasts indicate that the volume will reach 105% of 2019 levels, facilitating travel of around 429 million passengers. Michael Rogers, Chief Security Analyst at International SOS said: “The resurgence in global travel comes at a time in which the travel security landscape is increasingly being complicated by geopolitical events, natural disasters and other developments. More and more organisations are finding comprehensive risk mitigation strategies for their mobile workforce to be of upmost importance. Today, more than ever, travellers need to remain informed of prevailing risks and attendant mitigation measures. Beyond geopolitical issues and natural disasters, emerging diseases, social unrest and evolving crime dynamics require that travellers practice vigilance. Across a series of concurrent and overlapping crises, …

Travelport and easyJet, announced they have signed a new content distribution agreement that will bring more enriched easyJet content to all of Travelport’s agency customers – now including OTAs for the first time. The multi-year deal confirms that travel retailers using Travelport+ will have access to all easyJet fare types and bundles that the airline has made available to distribution partners, including ancillaries, without any agency channel restrictions. The addition of easyJet’s Standard Plus fare bundles (including seat selection and large cabin bag) and Essential fare bundles (including seat selection and checked bag) which complement the existing fares of Standard, Business Inclusive and Flexi, will significantly enrich the options available for both business and leisure travelers. Agents using Travelport+ will be able to shop and compare easyJet’s products all in one place, so they can easily upsell and personalize offers for their travelers. Travelport’s enhanced servicing capabilities also ensure agents can seamlessly manage easyJet bookings, including modifications and exchanges. “We’re bringing more easyJet content to Travelport+ so that travel retailers across the globe can create more personalized offers and provide superior service to our customers,” said Dominic Tucker, Senior Distribution Manager at easyJet. “Our partnership with Travelport helps us deliver more choice and connectivity to the market so that travelers flying easyJet can easily customize their experience and add-on extras when they book in any channel, whether they are traveling for leisure, business, or both.” “This new deal means that Travelport-connected agencies can access easyJet’s dynamic offers effortlessly, so they can book the best options for travelers based on their needs and preferences,” said David Gomes, Head of Regional Air Partners, EMEA at Travelport. “By opening up easyJet content to …

The second edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum will kick off from 22nd to 24th January 2024 at the Riyadh International and Conventional Center. It will be an important forum where the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be promoted as a tourist destination, strengthen constructive collaboration among all stakeholders in the Saudi tourism sector, and deepen awareness about investment and development opportunities in this vital industry, This forum will serve as a platform for achieving remarkable successes and fostering a spirit of cooperation and partnership. There will be seminars and workshops conducted over the three day event to showcase the rich diversity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai unveils MBRACE Club that acts as a passport to a life enriched with unparalleled privileges, beach access and experiences. Members may bask by a 75-metre outdoor pool, unwind at the sublime Saray Spa and participate in invigorating group classes that revitalise the mind and body. It is a gateway to a world of possibilities, from physical well-being to mental clarity and from leisurely relaxation to exhilarating activities. MBRACE Club is a brand-new lifestyle membership that redefines wellness and offers a fresh perspective on embracing life’s finest moments. Unlocking exclusive access to the resort, MBRACE Club promises an elevated way of life, inviting members to rejuvenate, invigorate and explore in the idyllic setting of one of the world’s most iconic locations – Palm Jumeirah. Gerrit Schmitt, General Manager of Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, shares his excitement: “We are delighted to introduce MBRACE Club, a remarkable membership that encapsulates the essence of holistic well-being. At Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, we believe in offering our members more than just amenities; we provide a lifestyle that inspires and elevates. MBRACE Club is designed to empower individuals and families to embrace their best selves, surrounded by the unparalleled beauty of the Palm Jumeirah.” MBRACE Fitness: A Journey to Wellness and Vitality The heart of MBRACE Club lies in its exceptional fitness facilities. Members have access to the state-of-the-art Marriott Fitness Center comprising a thoughtfully designed, personal fitness space featuring cutting-edge cardio, strength and resistance equipment. The Fitness Center boasts other exclusive facilities, including a sauna, providing a complete wellness experience. With select complimentary personal training sessions and a range of group classes including Yoga, Boxing Fit, H.I.I.T, Pump & Tabata …

Emaar Hospitality announced a key development in its brand journey: the rebranding of Address Fountain Views to Address Dubai Mall, effective 8th January 2024. This strategic change reflects the group’s dedication to upholding its iconic status and delivering the signature experience associated with the Address Hotels + Resorts brand. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, on the famed Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, the new Address Dubai Mall is directly connected to the world’s largest retail and entertainment destination, Dubai Mall and the recently opened Chinatown Dubai Mall, through an air-conditioned walkway. Towering high at 193 rooms and 783 residences with six restaurants and award-winning signature spa facilities with state-of-the-art fitness center, kids club and more – the new Address Dubai Mall boasts an infinity pool with stunning panoramic views of the eclectic Downtown Dubai, Dubai Fountains and Burj Khalifa. This prime venue offers an array of adaptable spaces, from intimate boardrooms to spacious ballrooms, equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure a seamless and successful event, with exquisite catering options. Only a few steps away from Burj Khalifa, the newly rebranded property is the epitome of luxury and sophistication, offering impeccable service and featuring some of the city’s most exquisite dining venues alongside a plethora of world-class amenities. Its central location not only grants immediate access to cultural and entertainment landmarks, but also offers breathtaking views of the city’s iconic skyline, Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, elevating the overall experience with an unmatched sense of elegance and charm. Mr Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, said: “The rebranding of Address Fountain Views to Address Dubai Mall is more than just a name change; it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment …

Burj Al Arab opens its doors to an array of extraordinary experiences with the launch of several, exquisite private tours, offering groups of friends, families and couples an unparalleled glimpse into the original home of luxury, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Inside Burj Al Arab brand-new group tours are the ideal way to discover the history and innovative design of the iconic hotel and its architectural marvel. Perfect for groups of four, Inside Burj Al Arab’s Private Tour for four people promises an opulent adventure. Revel in the luxury of a personal butler, complimentary folder with two printed pictures capturing precious moments, and a refreshing soft drink at the renowned UMA lounge, all while savoring the breathtaking sunset views. As part of this lavish experience, guests will also have the privilege of exploring the iconic destination aboard their private buggy. Elevate the tour experience with the luxurious Golden Private Tour, perfect to enjoy as a couple for a more intimate escape. This golden-tier experience includes access to a Private Golf Cart and dedicated Private Butler, to ensure couples get the most out of their tour experience; an opportunity to indulge in the hotel’s famous Golden Cappuccino at the stunning Observation Lounge on the 25th floor, plus a selection of exclusive gifts from the boutique. To ensure guests remember their Inside Burj Al Arab moments, couples who experience the Golden Private Tour can also take home a selection of images of themselves, a 360 video and a Snappic video. Inside Burj Al Arab Private Tours Packages: What: Private Tour for Four People When: Booking from 10:00 am until 7:00 pm Price: AED 4,999 What: Private Tour Golden Experience When: Booking from 11:00 am until …

Siyam World Maldives won the accolade as “Best Luxury Resort” at the sixth Arabian Travel Awards 2023. Receiving the award, Husain Mansur, Managing Director, Hype Communications shared, “Being part of the Arabian Travel Awards was an enriching experience. It allowed me to connect with industry professionals, celebrate excellence, and provided an excellent networking platform. Winning an award at the Arabian Travel Awards is a genuine honour, signifying the collective hard work of our entire team. It is a strong motivator to continually deliver exceptional services to our valued guests.”