According to research conducted as well as commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions, the organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), many travel experts are expecting a surge in workations in 2021 and beyond, a trend that was apparent in 2019, but one which now has such pent-up demand due to the coronavirus travel restrictions. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, which will take place live at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) May 16-19, 2021, said, “The hotel industry in the Middle East has gradually started to recover, especially in places such as Dubai. Staycations created the initial demand after lockdown, the next step has been the continued growth of workations, which are also referred to as bleisure stays, which tend to bring in more visitors from overseas. Longer term, the ‘on the go’ executive will be a far more common sight in hotels, whether it’s Gen Z singletons, millennial professionals, or freelancers who can earn a living from a laptop,” added Curtis. “And on that point, as an example, Dubai has introduced a remote visa programme that would entitle visitors to stay for up to 12 months, with access to co-working spaces and government support services,” said Curtis. “Covid-19 has completely disrupted the traditional office culture and the hospitality sector has been quick to offer alternative solutions for those looking to combine working from home with leisure time. The introduction of the workation concept is not just a novel idea, it’s about making adjustments to meet the new market demands, allowing those who are not currently working from their office to enjoy a luxury hospitality experience whilst continuing their work commitments,” said Mark Kirby, COO of Emaar Hospitality. …

Oman will close its land borders for one week from Monday to curb the spread of the coronavirus, especially a more contagious variant, state news agency ONA said on Sunday. The measure will come into effect from 6 p.m. (1400 GMT) on Monday and can be extended for longer than the initial one week closure, ONA said, citing a decision by the Gulf state’s coronavirus emergency committee. The committee is concerned about a new coronavirus variant — although it didn’t specify which one — as well as lax adherence inside the sultanate with the wearing of face masks and avoidance of large social gatherings. Oman earlier this month registered its first case of the variant of the virus that emerged in Britain, in a resident who arrived from the UK. It reopened its land, air and sea borders on December 29 after a one-week shutdown over the new variant. Neighbouring United Arab Emirates has seen a surge in daily infections to above 3,000 while the other five Gulf states, including Oman, have seen daily cases drop below 500. The UAE on Sunday reported 3,453 new infections taking its total to 225,374. Oman had registered a total of 13,1790 cases and 1,512 deaths as of Sunday. It has rolled out an immunization campaign using the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech for its population of roughly 4.2 million, with a first phase prioritising exposed health care workers, people over 65 years of age and those with chronic diseases. The health minister, receiving his second jab on Sunday, said Oman had so far received around 38,900 doses. The health ministry has said that 24,204 people have received their first dose and that …

Residents and visitors can enjoy sensational winter sun getaways with an exclusive selection of hotel deals and promotions on offer this Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Running until 30 January, there’s still plenty of time to check-in to some of the city’s best five-star properties, beachfront getaways and neighbourhood retreats. Wintertime in Dubai is when the city really comes to life, with the wonderful combination of picture-perfect weather, blue skies and amazing offers and entertainment available as part of DSF’s superb lineup of activities, promotions and much more. Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), organisers of DSF, has highlighted some of the best deals available so residents and visitors can enjoy days filled with sun-soaked shopping experiences and cool evenings relaxing with friends and family at a hotel of their choice. After a hard day’s shopping at the DSF sales, guests staying at the Rixos the Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites can unwind in a luxurious rejuvenation treatment available as part of the property’s indulgent self-care holiday offer. The promotion includes 25 per cent off all-inclusive stay rates, a complimentary 30-minute body massage per person, once per stay, and 20 per cent off massages and hammam treatments throughout the stay. Located on the banks of the historic Dubai Creek and a short stroll from some of the city’s oldest and most eclectic neighbourhoods, the Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef hotel is the perfect choice for residents and visitors looking to discover the Dubai Shopping Festival Market at Al Seef Presented by Al Foah as well as historic old Dubai. This DSF, the hotel is offering a great deal for foodies looking to indulge in traditional Mediterranean-style seafood and international dishes …

Anantara announces the reopening of its Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts from February 1. Lush landscapes, archaeological marvels and exotic wildlife await just 25 minutes from the mainland, and three unique resorts welcome guests with signature hospitality for unforgettable journeys. As one of the top resorts in the Middle East, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Resorts combine pristine beach retreats with natural wonders, world-class service and opulent accommodation, alluring the perfect balance of off-grid island getaway, five-star luxury and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in this singular setting. Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort offers guests the chance to get rooted in the natural world. Nestled in the Arabian Wildlife Park, an oasis of African-lodge-style villas is surrounded by a lush landscape. Excursions into the park include nature walks and drives, while a unique “Spa Cabana in the Savannah” experience promises utter bliss. Savannah Grill and Savannah Lounge serve up delicious delicacies from all over Africa, and vibrant Boma Nights bring the bush culture alive through music and al fresco cookery. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara welcomes families with modern amenities, elegant traditional touches and culinary adventures. Gourmet seafood entices at Amwaj, international buffet breakfasts await at The Palm and Al Shams serves bites and delights by the pool. Meanwhile, on the tranquil beachfront, Anantara Spa welcomes guests with timeless relaxation experiences, from the ancient rituals of Arabia, to age-old eastern health practices, performed by experts using natural products. Guests at all three of the island’s Anantara resorts are invited to discover the spa delights available in each location.

Turkish Airlines launched a new hygiene programme ‘TK Extra Care’, which highlights new protective hygiene measures, in collaboration with the global carrier’s ambassador Dr. Mehmet Oz, the producer and host of the world-renowned ‘The Dr. Oz Show’. The announcement of the new animated in-flight video comes at a time when health and safety is a top consideration on travelers’ checklists. Inspired by the airline’s ongoing dedication to its passengers’ well-being, the three-minute video follows Dr. Oz through the travel experience passengers should expect when flying with the global airline today. From the moment Dr. Oz checks-in for his flight to when he arrives at his destination, viewers will not only be reminded of the airline’s hygiene protocols necessary for a safe flying experience, but will have full assurance that Turkey’s flag carrier is enforcing a higher level of protection for every stage of the journey that goes above and beyond industry standards. M. İlker Aycı, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, commented on the video’s debut, “There is no question that travelers around the world are facing an immense need for enforced safety measures and peace of mind while traveling. At Turkish Airlines, the hygiene standards for our passengers are our top priority and we offer the highest standards. These extra safety precautions have been introduced following the authorized committees’ evaluations and approvals. With the release of ‘TK Extra Care’, we are hopeful that viewers will recognize Turkish Airlines’ hard work and dedication in keeping both passengers and crews safe, and we are pleased to have Dr. Oz share our message with the world.”

Air Arabia has announced the resumption of directs flights between Sharjah and Doha, Qatar’s capital, starting January 18, 2021. Customers can now book their direct flights between Sharjah and Doha by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call centre or through travel agencies. Ensuring the highest standards of safety at every step of the journey by following all health and safety protocols, Air Arabia has also added to the convenience and confidence of passengers by introducing free COVID-19 insurance coverage. The insurance is automatically included as part of the booking and no additional documents are required from passengers.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—the first Grand Hyatt hotel in the Kingdom. The 368-room luxury hotel including 54 residential units is situated in the commercial and retail heart of Al Khobar with a connecting bridge to Al Rashid Mall. Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences is the sixth Hyatt-branded hotel in Saudi Arabia, and the fifth hotel under the Grand Hyatt brand in the Middle East, making it an important milestone in Hyatt’s growth strategy in the region. Reflecting a bold and vibrant design, the hotel offers an ideal destination for both business and leisure guests to celebrate moments that matter, both big and small. “We are thrilled to open the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Saudi Arabia and we look forward to welcoming guests seeking magnificent moments from this iconic destination,” said Nizar Weshah, General Manager at Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences. “Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences celebrates these moments and exceeds guest expectations by delivering iconic cuisine, breathtaking design and unparalleled service.”

Due to operational reasons, Emirates flights to/from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne will be suspended until further notice. Emirates’ last flights to / from these Australian destinations are below: Dubai ‑Melbourne  ‑ EK408/19JAN, Melbourne – Dubai ‑ EK409/20JAN, Dubai ‑ Sydney ‑ EK414/18JAN, Sydney – Dubai ‑ EK415/19JAN, Dubai ‑ Brisbane  ‑ EK430/16JAN, Brisbane – Dubai ‑ EK431/17JAN Customers holding tickets with final destinations Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin after the completion of the above flights. Emirates regrets any inconvenience caused. Affected customers should contact their travel agent or Emirates contact centre for rebooking options. To receive update notifications, customers are requested to ensure their contact details are correct by visiting Manage Your Booking.

Singapore Airlines takes you back to the skies as it resumes flights between Dubai and Singapore starting January 18, 2021 five times a week.Introducing one of SIA’s newest aircraft to operate the DXB-SIN route– Airbus A350-900 – which features Business Class seats in a 1-2-1arrangement that ensures direct aisle access for every single customer,and their latest Economy Class product arranged in a comfortable 3-3-3seat configuration. For contactless travel use the Singapore Air mobile app to generate your mobile boarding pass, access the e-Library and explore more features for a contactless journey. All passengers undergo temperature screening before immigration.Hand sanitisers are available at all touchpoints throughout the airport and inside your SIA care kit.All staff wear masks and follow safety standards mandated by local authorities.Passengers, including children aged six years and above,are required to wear a mask throughout the flight. Pleaseobtain a doctor’s letter of exemption, if you are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.Safe distancing* – Markers on the ground and alternate check-inkiosks help everyone keep a safe distance from each other.You will receive a complimentary kit containing a face mask, hand sanitiser and disinfectant surface wipe for your well-being.Increased sanitisation and disinfection*Cleaning frequencies have been increased and long lasting disinfectants are applied to frequently touched surfaces.Meal services – to ensure the safety of our customers and crew,meal and beverage services have been simplified. Customers who require special meals can request for one from a reduced list based on IATA guidelines.

REVIER Hospitality Group AG (Switzerland) makes its debut in one of the prime location in the heart of the city – Burj Khalifa district. A new addition to Dubai’s skyline, REVIER is finally ready to open its doors. Grab your personal device and check-into the next best place. A young, vibrant and edgy hotel, the REVIER offers a city retreat like no other and a meeting point for the modern and tireless travellers who can enjoy all the tech-savvy amenities. Contactless check-in, keyless entry to your room, and a traditional Swiss cow to welcome you at the lobby – unconventional, authentically simple and Swiss efficiency the ”Revier”. The Swiss owners, Remo and Philipp Bienz, commented, “As experienced real estate developers and investors from Switzerland we were impressed by the way Dubai transformed itself from a small town to an internationally recognized and bustling destination. We were pleased by how well they treat foreign investors and international entrepreneurs. The spirit of encouraging space for performance and expansion – expedited our development plans to bring a taste of Switzerland to Dubai. We feel very privileged to have partnered with Eaglewing Group represented by two experienced and passionate industry leaders, Dinky Puri and Rahul Raghuwanshi, to expand the REVIER Hospitality Brand in Dubai. We are very excited about our new venture and to be a part of Dubai’s hospitality industry. The vision, out of the box innovative, progressive and futuristic planning by its ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum gave us immense confidence in Dubai being a preferred international destination for the commercial and tourism industry. Dubai’s status as a hub encouraged us to embark on our expansion plans for multiple developments …