Arabian Travel Award winner Rezlive has signed up as gold sponsor with Rent Conferences and Exhibitions Company for the first edition of the Saudi Travel Market (STM) to be held in Riyadh from February 25-27, 2024. Jaal Shah, Group Managing Director, Travel Designer Group shared, “We will be participating in the inaugural Saudi Travel Market 2024 as both an exhibitor and sponsor. Saudi Arabia holds significant importance in the travel industry, and your presence at this event reflects your commitment to exploring and contributing to this thriving market. Being a part of the first edition of this prestigious event offers a unique opportunity to engage with travel partners, fostering valuable connections and collaborations. This premier event promises to be a dynamic convergence of key players, innovators, and stakeholders within the travel sector and we are very happy to be a part of this event.” Rent Conferences and Exhibitions Company General Manager Mohammed Al-Harbi said: “We are pleased to sign a new agreement today with Rezlive to sponsor the Saudi Travel Market. The partnership with one of the world’s leading companies in the travel and tourism sector is very important in attracting international companies to the Kingdom. We consider the Saudi Travel Market to be one of the important exhibitions through which we intend to place the Kingdom on the list of major tourist destinations in the coming years. Through this exhibition, we aim to attract the largest international companies to the Kingdom and make it the first and best choice for everyone.” For his part, Rezlive’s Business Development Manager in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Marzooq Suleiman, said: “We are pleased to sponsor one of the most promising tourism exhibitions in Saudi …

Jeddah International Travel Exhibition (JTTX) will take place from 28 – 30 January 2024 connecting international travel businesses to the Saudi travel trade. The three day travel trade exhibition will open from 4pm to 11pm from 28 – 30 January 2024. Last year’s edition saw over 29,000 participants with 172 exhibitors and 27 countries, hence this year the show is expected to attract more visitors both B2B and B2C.  Saudi travel market is considered as one of the fastest growing markets in the World. JTTX is an ideal place to identify and build business relationships, connect and understand customer preferences and trends, as well as to promote Tourism destinations, with relevant products and services. The exhibition is the perfect networking  and meeting point for all in the travel. tourism and hospitality trade.

Saudi Arabian Airlines intends to buy around 100 aircraft to operate flying taxis between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and hotels in Makkah. The Saudi national carrier is making preparations to use air taxis as a new mode of transportation during the Hajj season, according to Abdullah Al-Shahrani, director of corporate communications and spokesman of the Saudia Group. He said that the Saudia Group has contracted the purchase of 100 Lilium jets, German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to shuttle between the Jeddah airport and airstrips in Makkah hotels near the Grand Mosque and other holy places. “The electric plane Lilium is one of the first aircraft that operates entirely on electric power. The news is according to the Saudi Gazette. “After completing the necessary arrangements, these planes will fly with the guests of God during Hajj and Umrah seasons from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to the airstrips in hotels near the Grand Mosque in Makkah,” he told Al-Arabiya. Al-Shahrani noted that flying taxi can transport four to six passengers. “The Lilium aircraft is characterized by a low rate of carbon emissions and is an environmentally friendly aircraft, which makes it one of the possibilities for sustaining air travel and shortening the time of flights, as it covers a maximum distance of 250 km. “Through purchasing nearly 100 aircraft, Saudi Airlines intends to launch an advanced service to connect a number of travel destinations via this advanced electric aircraft, and will support it with air routes between the main airports from where Saudia operates,” he said while pointing out that this is a special service for its guests. He said that the aircraft also features …

Red Sea Global (RSG) with Zain KSA and the French Serge Ferrari Group, has announced a new technical breakthrough to deliver a groundbreaking digital experience at Ummahat Island. Through this strategic partnership, which aims to maximize joint sustainability efforts, RSG and Zain KSA have designed and installed innovative telecom towers to provide visitors with an unprecedented communication experience that combines speed and efficiency of service. At the same time, the towers are fully blended with the aesthetic elements of the island, ensuring that guests enjoy an exceptional experience on the white beaches of Ummahat, with its charming turquoise waters and stunning landscapes. Completion of the towers coincides with the opening of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, with Nujuma, A Ritz Carlton Reserve, also located on the island, preparing to welcome its first guests imminently. “Today, we are developing a future of stunning destinations with putting people and planet at the center. As we aspire to be leaders in sustainable development and environmental responsibility around the world, we are well aware that achieving this ambitious goal requires being surrounded by partners who share a common development vision, a common ethical and social commitment, as well as a desire for innovation and uniqueness. Our strategic partnership with Zain KSA, a leading provider of telecommunications and digital services, is once again yielding an unprecedented technological milestone. We are confident that we have a partner capable of turning all our digital ambitions into reality, through its extensive experience in innovation in the telecommunications and digital services sector,” said Group Head of Technology at Red Sea Global, Dr. Ahmed Al Suhaili. The project had four main objectives: provide an ideal 5G service; enhance the island’s …

Qatar Airways announced the success of its inaugural journey to AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking the airline’s commitment to providing unparalleled travel experiences across over 170 destinations worldwide. Operating two weekly flights to AlUla, Qatar Airways brings the total number destinations to Saudi Arabia to 10, including 125 weekly flights across AlUla, Dammam, Gassim, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. The meticulously curated trip showcased AlUla as a new and exciting destination, offering travellers a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury. The VIP delegation included His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Culture of the State of Qatar who attended the inaugural flight, His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Acting Chief Executive Officer Royal Commission for AlUla, Abeer Al Akel, and Phillip Jones Chief Tourism Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla. The VIP delegation started the itinerary with a visit to the heart of the city’s Old Town. The tour showcased the revitalised Old Town, a historical gem with ancient traditional architecture revamped with a modern touch. The journey continued with an exploration of various sites, highlighting a synergy of modernity and history, notably a visit to the sustainable and biodiverse district, Oasis, as well as to multiple publishing houses, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture and its affinity to literature. The pinnacle of the trip was the significant visit to the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra, where His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, received …

Jazeera Airways announced the signing of a new facilities management contract with Kuwait-based Intelligent Management Solutions (IMS). Under the terms of the contract, IMS will utilize its Computerized Aided Facilities Management System (CAFM IMS) to digitize operations systems and maintenance at Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5) and other facilities. This contract is a part Jazeera Airways’ commitment to support local businesses. Speaking about the contract, Naser Al Obaid, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Terminal 5, highlighted: “We are pleased to partner with Intelligent Management Solutions and benefit from their comprehensive digital operations and maintenance system to manage our facilities. It is also a matter of pride to be working with a Kuwaiti startup that has seen many successes in providing its services to local and regional companies.” Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5), fully owned and operated by Jazeera Airways aims to make the passenger journey faster and smoother. The recently upgraded terminal includes 24 check-in desks, five boarding gates, transit areas, food, and beverage options, Duty Free and retail outlets as well as service provider desks for the convenience of all passengers. A 350-vehicle parking building across the road is connected to the Terminal by a walking bridge making it easier to cross over or transfer luggage, especially during the summer months. With just one security check to be cleared for departures, passengers can relax till it’s time to board their flight. IMS is a startup company founded by Kuwaiti entrepreneur Faleh Alajmi. The company developed its proprietary Computerized Aided Facilities Management System (CAFM IMS) to enable companies to efficiently manage facilities, reduce maintenance costs and preserve asset values. The system, alongside the company’s services and solutions, has benefited government-owned and private companies …

ADQ and ADNEC Group have signed definitive agreements for the strategic acquisition of a 40.5 per cent stake in Egypt-based Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) Holding’s hospitality arm, ICON Group, through a capital increase. ICON is a leading player in Egypt’s luxury and upscale hospitality market, with a track record of building and owning some of the most celebrated luxury hotels in Egypt. The group owns four operational hotels – Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza, Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo, Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh and Four Seasons Alexandria at San Stefano – and has three hotels and luxury residential real estate assets currently under development, such as the Four Seasons in Madinaty and Luxor and Radisson Collection in Marsa Alam, and one hotel under design, the Four Seasons at The Pyramids. ADQ and ADNEC will invest through a special purpose vehicle, with 49 per cent equity ownership by ADQ and 51 per cent equity ownership by ADNEC. The transaction represents a major foreign direct investment (FDI) in Egypt and marks a vote of investor confidence in the Egyptian tourism and hospitality sector. The investment by ADQ and ADNEC in TMG’s hospitality arm will be used partially to de-leverage the existing debt of ICON, with the remaining used for the acquisition of a stake through ICON in the portfolio of seven luxury heritage hotels owned by the Egyptian Government, for which definitive agreements have been signed. The seven hospitality assets include Marriott Cairo Omar Khayyam Zamalek, Marriott MENA House Cairo, Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Steigenberger Cecil Hotel Alexandria, Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo and Mövenpick Resort Aswan. Post-transaction, ICON will have a combined portfolio of 15 luxury and upscale …

Shangri-La Dubai proudly presents its newest culinary marvel, the “Dragon Brunch,” in commemoration of the auspicious Chinese New Year, heralding the Year of the Dragon. This gastronomic experience fuses the colourful traditions of Vietnam and China, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures showcased at Hoi An and Shang Palace. The Chinese New Year and Lunar holidays hold profound significance for Shangri-La, rooted in its Asian origin. The launch of the Dragon Brunch resonates deeply with the brand’s heritage, marking a special tie-in to the new year and its cultural importance. In Chinese culture, the Red Dragon symbolises prosperity and good fortune, making it a fitting emblem for the Year of the Dragon in 2024. The colour red embodies strength and vitality, reserved for significant celebrations, signifying auspiciousness and life-generating energy. Vietnam on the other hand, hailed as the Land of the Blue Dragon, honours these mythical creatures as symbols of power and prosperity. The folklore narrates the union of Lac Long Quan, a dragon prince, and Au Co, a fairy princess, believed to be the ancestors of the Vietnamese people. Dragons in Vietnamese culture represent elements like clouds, rain, and water, signifying essential aspects of life. Eoin Whelan, Director of Food and Beverage at Shangri-La Dubai, expressed enthusiasm for the Dragon Brunch: “We’re excited to usher in 2024 with our signature brunch, blending cultures deeply associated with the Dragon and offering specialized cuisines essential for these celebrations. It’s a convergence of flavours, a celebration of cultures, and a feast for the senses.” The Dragon Brunch is a showcase of Hoi An and Shang Palace’s newly introduced menus, boasting an extensive range of beloved Asian delicacies. It’s the …

Sofitel Dubai Downtown was recognized as hospitality partner of the sixth edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2023. The award was received by Caroline Trichet, General Manager, Sofitel Downtown Dubai and the team. “Massive applause to the DDP Group team for flawlessly orchestrating the Arabian Travel Awards celebrating excellence in travel. It was a remarkable event! To be awarded the Best Luxury Hotel accolade is a humbling testament to our commitment to the art de recevoir, exceeding expectations and embodying the essence of “The French Way” hospitality excellence. It is a moment of immense honour for the entire team.” Caroline Trichet, General Manager, Sofitel Downtown Dubai

Amadeus has joined the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) to bring its travel expertise to the table in the quest to support a more prosperous and responsible hospitality sector. As a leading, global player at the heart of the travel and tourism sector, Amadeus sees great potential to work alongside and connect with hospitality industry stakeholders and, together, contribute on the journey to the Alliance’s goal of Net Positive Hospitality – ensuring the industry gives back to destinations more than it takes. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, with donor members including 27 world-leading hotel companies with a combined reach of over 50,000 properties, brings together engaged hospitality companies and the wider hospitality value chain, such as owners, investors, and suppliers to address key challenges affecting people and places around the world related to hospitality. Through strategic initiatives and global networks, the organization develops practical programs to create a prosperous and responsible hospitality sector that contributes to a positive net impact on destinations. As part of its membership, Amadeus will hold a permanent position on the Senior Advisory Council that was established to provide strategic advice, create a network of influential leaders and drive change towards Net Positive Hospitality. Key areas of focus for Amadeus include education, accessibility and helping travelers and guests make informed decisions. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, says: “Having Amadeus’ broad, global travel expertise in the discussion with the Alliance is a game changer. Onboarding Amadeus to our Senior Advisory Council is an important step in tackling the challenges the hospitality industry faces. Having Amadeus as a member will help drive our collaborative approach on the journey to Net Positive Hospitality. The Alliance is built for the …