Category Archives: Govt

Emirates joins UAE based research consortium for renewable and advanced aviation fuels. In the UAE Year of Sustainability, and at the 3rd ICAO Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) was held in Dubai, eight founding entities announced the launch of the “Air-CRAFT” initiative – a UAE based research consortium focused on developing, producing, and scaling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) technologies. Air-CRAFT, or the UAE Centre for Renewable and Advanced Fuel Technologies for Aviation, is a first-of-its-kind initiative that will bring together entities across the value chain – industrial policy makers, aviation regulators, fuel producers, academia and researchers, aircraft and powerplant manufacturers, and airline operators. While based in the UAE, the consortium will also engage with, and welcome the participation of relevant international entities as it progresses. The new initiative was announced on the sidelines of CAAF/3 today and ahead of COP28. Air-CRAFT is supported by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. “The aviation sector holds great importance as a key contributor to the GDP and as a target sector for our robust decarbonization drive,” said His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. “The UAE has committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and this goal can only be achieved by slashing the emissions across the board. Air-CRAFT will go a long way in supporting the decarbonization of the aviation sector, helping to make it resilient and sustainable well into the future.”   His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the UAE and Chairman of the GCAA said: Introducing ‘Air-CRAFT’ at CAAF3 in Dubai emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, uniting government, private sector, and academia …

HE Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), unveiled the latest triumphs in the tourism, development, hospitality, and investment projects undertaken by the authority in Kalba. Al Qaseer provided a comprehensive overview of the 3 noteworthy projects, each a testament to Shurooq’s dedication to realising the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, in elevating the eastern region into a premier investment and tourism destination. These projects include Kalba Beach, Kingfisher Retreat, and Nomad. In discussions surrounding Kalba beach, the CEO of Shurooq underscored the project’s commitment to preserving the natural ecosystem of Kalba at every stage of development. The project’s construction processes will exclusively involve environmentally friendly materials, with work set to commence in the First quarter of 2024 and handed over in the third quarter of 2025. Spanning an impressive 9.5 km, the beach is situated in the eastern region of the Emirate of Sharjah. HE further highlighted the project’s aspiration to become a premier tourist destination in the eastern region, boasting an array of restaurants, cafes, kiosks, and a diverse range of service and entertainment facilities for beachgoers. Notably, a dedicated play area for children will also be featured. Kalba Beach is steadfast in adhering to the rigorous standards of the Blue Flag global programme, ensuring services meet stringent safety criteria. Moreover, Al Qaseer highlighted that the expansion works of the “Kingfisher Retreat” project will be concluded in the upcoming month, December 2023. The retreat serves as an entrance to environmental reserves and is situated approximately 30 metres from the beach in Kalba City. Twenty luxury tents have been added to the project, …

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority will kick off its 10th edition of Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum under the theme “Sustainable Tourism: The Way to Improvement”will kick off today at Expo Center Sharjah. The forum serves as a nod to Sharjah’s efforts in developing environmentally and socially responsible travel practices, its thriving eco and adventure tourism sector, as well as the emirate’s growing reputation as a global example of sustainable solutions.  A highlight of SITTF’s dynamic agenda will be a series of engaging discussions, presentations and interactive workshops, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the travel and tourism sector. In the panel discussion ‘Sustainability Practices – Innovate for Impact, Collaborate for Change’, notable participants include HE Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of UAE IRENA, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Green Development and Climate Change at the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; and HE Ahmed Al Qaseer, CEO of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). These experts will share their insights on sustainable tourism trends, government policies, economic benefits, the role of technology, and the significance of collaboration in achieving sustainable tourism goals. The panel on ‘Strategies for Sustainable Travel and Tourism’ will bring together industry leaders, including Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager of HMH Hotel Group; Koko Tang, GSTC Board Member, Founder of Colorful Earth Co-Founder of Vinetree Tourism; Paul Bridger, COO of Rove Hotel and moderated by Doug Lansky, Destination Advisor and Tourism Expert. The panel will explore eco-tourism, waste reduction, and the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable tourism, providing valuable perspectives on shaping the industry’s future. SITTF 2023 will feature several expert-led presentations by Koko Tang, GSTC Board Member, Founder of …

With the new ETA announced for GCC and Jordanian nationals, Visit Britain conducted a special webinar for the agents in the GCC region. It was a well-attended webinar with over 300 agents posing their questions to the two speakers, from Visit Britain and the UK government’s home office.  At the beginning Visit Britain shared about their brand-new campaign for 2024, where there was a host of varied experiences which come in the bucket list of the travellers especially from this region as the interest keep increasing mainly due to the great outdoors, rich heritage, culture and the adventurous explorations. A special video was placed showcasing all the great areas to explore, the winter wonderland in Hyde Park, Oxford, Regent etc. “Britain has got it. I invite you to see it for yourself. This is our brand-new brand campaign that has launched this month. Welcome to Britain, where there’s always more to explore. Journey, wild coastlines, adventures through our vibrant cities, go monster hunting, meet the locals. Come see things differently. Plan your trip and visit Britain.com. As you can see, let me just check if I’ve off mused. I’ve this before. Yes, as you can see, there is so much to see and do in just 30 seconds. But what I want to do is start with the most magical time of the year. So basically, there’s nowhere else in the world, I think, that does the festive season quite like the UK. We all know of winter wonderland in Hyde Park, Oxford, Regent and Carnaby Street, Drakes and Twins and Lights, and the famous Ice Rink at Somerset House.” The power point presentation included, Winter Wonderlands and Festive Season, …

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of Sharjah Executive Council, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced the 10th edition of the Sharjah International Travel & Tourism Forum (SITTF) scheduled to take place on November 22nd at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Held under the theme “Sustainable Tourism: The Way to Improvement”, the forum will gather experts from the travel and tourism industry, emphasising environmentally and socially responsible travel practices through a series of panel discussions and engaging workshops to further delve into the challenges and opportunities within the travel and tourism sector. The anticipated forum is set to feature notable keynote speakers, welcoming the likes of HE Abdalla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, SCTDA Chairman, HE Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and representatives from the “Global Sustainable Tourism Council” (GSTC). Aligned with the UAE’s commitment to environmental conservation in the “Year of Sustainability,” SITTF aims to play a key role in implementing this vision, which is underscored by the nation’s hosting “COP28” event later in the year. The forum will delve into the essence of sustainable tourism, through creating a platform for experts to explore key topics, including sustainable and eco-tourism practices, strategies to mitigate and minimise negative impacts on the ecosystem, and the exploration of benefits for local communities both economically and socially. Additionally, the event will cover trends and innovations in sustainable tourism, economic benefits, and technology’s role. It will emphasise collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve sustainability goals …

An iconic project worth USD 1.3 Billion is to be launched in Al Marjan Island Ras Al Khaimah with 300 key hotel and 524 residences by JW Marriott. The project will break ground by February 2024 and will open doors by end of 2026. The founders of WOW Resorts, Anwar Ali Aman and Bhupender ‘Bruce’ Patel, joined hands with representatives of Marriott International and the respected Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, Chief Executive Officer, Marjan. This exclusive collaboration marks the birth of the first JW Marriott-branded resort and residences on Al Marjan Island, poised to captivate over five million visitors annually, thereby enhancing the island’s stature on the world map of tourism and opulent living. Poised to be an architectural masterpiece on Al Marjan Island, this project is designed by celebrity Beverly Hills Architect Tony Ashai with Dubai based Lead Consultants Architecture Design Unit, ADU. Anticipated to open its doors towards the end of 2026, JW Marriott Al Marjan Island Resort & JW Marriott Residences Al Marjan Island herald WOW Resorts’ debut in the UAE’s Northern Emirates, a favoured destination for leisure and luxury. With a legacy of over two and a half decades crafting hospitality and real estate projects across North America, WOW Resorts are bringing yet another exemplar. The newly announced development promises to redefine the very essence of hospitality and residential opulence. Infused with bold design and premium experiences, for which the JW Marriott brand is celebrated, this new establishment is designed as an exquisite haven for both vacationers and those seeking the pinnacle of luxury resort living. This extraordinary property caters to aspiring homeowners, the discerning globetrotter of tomorrow, nature enthusiasts, and aficionados of aquatic sports. Comprising …

A significant amount of orders and deals were announced, including a multi-billion dollar commercial order from Emirates, backed by air travel demand returning strongly to reach pre-pandemic levels. Emirates announced an order of 95 wide-body aircraft, committing to additional Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s, worth US$ 52 billion. Low-cost carrier FlyDubai also confirmed an $11 billion order for 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, the first wide-body aircraft in its fleet, SunExpress, the Turkey-based low-cost carrier, placed a firm order for 45 narrow-body 737 MAX jets to be delivered between 2029 and 2035, with options or purchase rights for another 45, and EgyptAir ordered its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, as the airline will take delivery of a total of 18 737 MAXs as part of a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC). Another milestone order was made by airBaltic, the Latvian national airline, which will see it become the largest Airbus A220 customer in Europe, following the confirmation of an incremental order for an additional 30 A220-300s, taking the airline’s total firm orderbook to 80 aircraft. Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Tarsus Middle East, said: “Today was a true testament to the continued growth we have seen across the industry and serves as the perfect platform to showcase the next-generation features and innovative technologies that will ensure an efficient and sustainable future. Day one has seen a series of landmark orders, deals and launches take place, and we look forward to seeing more over the coming days as industry players from across the world continue to gather in Dubai and collaborate to define the future for aerospace.” With an increased focus on Space at this edition of Dubai Airshow, the …

Saudi Tourism Authority announced its two year partnership with RX Global – following a formal signing after WTM London – which will see STA become the first-ever ‘Global Travel Partner’ of the World Travel Market (WTM) tradeshow events. The two-year partnership, which is scheduled to run from November 2023 – September 2025 and is designed to cover the global remit of the WTM brand (including  WTM London, WTM Africa, WTM Latin America and Arabian Travel Market), was announced on 8th November 2023, at the closing day of World Travel Market London. The agreement to partner was reached on the Saudi stand between the STA and RX Global on the final day at this year’s WTM, where the STA has led the largest-ever Saudi tourism delegation, with over 75 stakeholders in attendance – a 48% increase from last year. The STA stand this year brings to life the diverse and dynamic offering of what visitors can experience in the authentic home of Arabia, and the scale of progress of the most ambitious transformation in the world. The STA level of attendance and participation truly demonstrates the significance of WTM 2023 in charting the future of the global tourism sector’s growth. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority said: “Saudi is the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination, outperforming every expectation and setting the pace globally. Thanks to Saudi’s tourism leadership, each year our presence at WTM London continues to grow, and we are welcoming more visitors than ever, well on track to reach our targets for 2030. “This partnership will highlight Saudi’s progress at WTM London and inspire more visits to Saudi through a series of engaging promotional …

It was announced by His Excellency Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council that GCC states have unanimously approved a Schengen style GCC tourism visa, at a meeting of regional interior minsters at the GCC summit in Muscat, Oman on November 8 According to the Secretariat news, His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stated that the unified GCC tourist visa project represents a new achievement which is added to the blessed accomplishments made by the Cooperation Council, in light of the sound directives of Their Majesties and Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC who placed close attention to the achievements of the GCC security cooperation. His Excellency’s remarks came during the 40th meeting of Their Highnesses and Excellencies the Interior Ministers of the GCC which took place under the chairmanship of His Excellency Sayyed Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, Minister of Interior of Oman and President of the current session, in the Omani capital Muscat. Present in the meeting were Their Highnesses and Excellencies the Ministers of Interior in the GCC member states. At the beginning of his speech, His Excellency the Secretary General extended the highest expressions of thanks, appreciation and gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Sultan of the Sultanate of Oman and Chairman of the current session of the GCC Supreme Council, and to the esteemed government of the Sultanate of Oman and the honourable people of the Sultanate, for their backing and tireless efforts made to support the joint GCC action to maintain the Council’s march and progress in order to achieve the lofty goals of the aspirations of the citizens …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion and marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The agreement was signed in London at WTM, between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group during a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market, one of the most influential annual global exhibitions on travel and tourism. The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading global tourism destinations in the Middle East. The agreement will see leaders of both organisations work together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in a single trip. The partnership between the destinations is a natural fit, with just a 90-minute drive between them and a shared mountain range, the majestic Hajar mountains, among a wealth of other shared natural landscapes. Furthermore, their intertwined cultural heritage and historical connections only serve to enrich and strengthen this unique collaboration. To this end, the MoU sets forth a framework for greater collaboration and dialogue on marketing initiatives to promote cross-destination tourism. This includes facilitating ease of access in transportation between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah, developing favourable visa arrangements for international travellers to visit both destinations and initiating tourism packages, adventure offerings and partnership opportunities. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism …