Emirates is set to introduce a fourth daily flight between Dubai and London Gatwick from 8 February 2026. Flight EK069/070 will be operated by the airline’s newest aircraft, the Airbus A350, offering customers the opportunity to experience its latest generation interiors, including Business Class and Premium Economy. The fourth flight to London Gatwick brings the airline’s total London services to 12 flights across three airports, offering customers more departure time choices and greater flexibility. Emirates flight EK069 will depart Dubai at 17:05hrs, arriving in London Gatwick at 20:50hrs. The return flight, EK070, departs London Gatwick at 23:55hrs and lands in Dubai at 11:00hrs. * The new service’s unique timing as the last flight of the day between Dubai and London in both directions caters to customers traveling directly between the two cities. For those traveling to Dubai, the service provides the ideal arrival time for customers to check-in to their hotels and get a head start on their Dubai activities. Customers departing Dubai on the flight can make the most of their time in the city—finishing business meetings, enjoying extended shopping, or completing last-minute activities—before taking the evening flight to London. Operated by an A350-900 aircraft in a three-class configuration, Emirates’ new service EK069/070 will offer customers 32 lie-flat Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 28 Premium Economy seats, and 238 Economy Class seats. In addition to Emirates’ signature next-generation products and award-winning service, customers can look forward to cutting-edge tech touches like wireless charging in Business Class, electric window blinds with the Emirates Ghaf tree motif when closed in premium classes, digital inflight menus on ice screens, and more. Gatwick is set to become the second UK destination …

The 8th Annual Commercial Strategy Conference MEA (CSC), organized by Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Middle East and Africa (MEA), will take place on 25 and 26 November 2025 at the Conrad Dubai Hotel with TravTalk ME as media partner. The event will gather the region’s leading hospitality experts in sales, marketing, revenue management and distribution for two inspirational days of presentations, panel debates, networking opportunities and awards. Since 2018, CSC has been the only conference of its kind in the region and the go-to event for hospitality peers to discuss the industry’s most pressing issues and hottest topics. This year, HSMAI MEA and its Advisory Board of experienced industry veterans are taking it up a notch with a jam-packed programme aimed to educate, inspire and create connections among hoteliers and thought leaders. The 2025 Conference will focus on expert-led sessions by top industry leaders on revenue optimization, sales strategies, marketing trends, as well as the latest tools and technologies shaping the future of hospitality. A standout segment of the conference is the much-anticipated annual ROCKSTAR awards, designed to celebrate exceptional on-property professionals for their bold initiatives and outstanding contributions to the Middle East hospitality industry that push the boundaries of commercial success. The ROCKSTAR awards will feature nine finalists selected by the HSMAI MEA Advisory Board, who will be invited to present their strategies live during the conference where the audience will vote for the top three. Prizes for the winners include an HSMAI certification course, event attendance and annual membership, a 50 percent scholarship on the Executive Master’s programs at Glion and Les Roches along with a complimentary executive course or select e-Academy certificate, as well …

Mandarin Oriental is strengthening its presence in the region with the upcoming launch of its second property in Dubai. Set within the striking Wasl Tower, a new architectural icon on Sheikh Zayed Road, Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai is scheduled to open in October 2025. With 259 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, 224 exclusive residences and unobstructed views of both the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline, Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai brings a new perspective to the city’s hospitality landscape. Complete with a rooftop helipad for seamless arrivals, the hotel is set to become a pillar of sophisticated urban hospitality. Framed by the region’s tallest ceramic façade, the tower’s distinctive twisting form is accentuated by innovative fins that optimise airflow for natural cooling. Redefining the city’s skyline, it integrates advanced energy-efficient technologies, setting a new standard for sustainable urban design. Embracing Dubai’s duality of history and modernity, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai will fuse ancient healing practices with cutting-edge wellness technologies and treatments. Spanning two floors, it offers a holistic path to restoration, guided by the pillars of nourishment, in-room wellness, beauty and intelligent movement. Culinary connoisseurs can look forward to a collection of ten exquisite concepts and bars, spanning French, Chinese, Greek, Italian cuisine, and more, along with vibrant nightlife – all culminating in an exceptional destination. The property will also unveil Dubai’s first-ever Mandarin Oriental branded residences, available for lease. Combining the comforts of a private home with the hotel’s legendary service and world-class facilities.

Etihad Airways has launched the first commercial flight of its all-new A321LR, defining luxury travel on a narrowbody aircraft. The inaugural flight introduces guests to Etihad’s latest cabin innovation, designed to deliver the same elevated service and attention to detail that defines its award-winning widebody experience, now available on a next-generation single-aisle aircraft. Last week Etihad took delivery of the first of 30 A321LR aircraft scheduled to join its fleet, each configured to provide elevated comfort, refined design and high-speed connectivity across all cabins. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “The A321LR symbolises our ambition to deliver extraordinary experiences on every route we serve. It allows us to bring the sophistication of our widebody cabins, including our renowned First experience, to more destinations, and to more travellers, than ever before.” Flight EY414 departed Zayed International Airport for Phuket, marking the introduction of an aircraft designed to deliver Etihad’s premium cabin standards on short and medium-haul sectors. Etihad’s A321LR introduces a new benchmark for narrowbody travel, with a premium cabin layout that transforms expectations across all classes: First Suites – Two fully enclosed private suites with sliding doors, flat beds, and unique styling Elegant design with space for a guest to dine or relax, either in the privacy of their suite alone, or with companion Features include a 20-inch 4K screen, wireless charging and Bluetooth pairing Full Etihad First service onboard and on the ground Business – Fourteen seats in a 1-1 herringbone configuration, each with direct aisle access and window views Enhanced with 17.3-inch 4K displays, wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity Generous personal space and intuitive storage Economy – 144 ergonomically designed seats offering generous legroom Equipped with 13.3-inch 4K touchscreens, USB …

Blacklane officially launched operations in Bahrain, beginning in the capital city of Manama. This marks a significant step in the company’s expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), strengthening its presence alongside existing services in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman. Initially offering premium airport transfers, in-city chauffeur rides, and hourly bookings, Blacklane’s services are now live in Manama and will soon extend island-wide. The company plans to expand availability across Bahrain’s key destinations, business districts, and residential areas beyond the capital in response to growing demand from both business and leisure travellers. The launch also opens new cross-border connections for travelers in the region. Blacklane has already seen strong early demand for its city-to-city service linking Manama with Al Khobar, Dammam, and Riyadh, popular business and leisure routes where premium ground transport offers a compelling alternative to short-haul flights or unpredictable car services. All rides come with transparent pricing, professional chauffeurs, and luxury vehicles tailored for comfort on longer journeys. “We’ve seen growing demand for reliable, premium city-to-city travel across the Gulf, especially between Bahrain and eastern Saudi Arabia,” said Adib Samara, General Manager at Blacklane. “Our launch in Manama strengthens this network and gives travelers a seamless, high-quality alternative that matches the region’s expectations for comfort and hospitality.” Guests in Bahrain can book a range of vehicle classes to suit their needs, including Business Class for solo travelers or professionals on the move, Business Vans/SUVs for groups and families requiring extra space, and First Class for the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. All services can be booked via Blacklane’s website or mobile app. In line with Bahrain’s national vision for sustainable mobility and Blacklane’s …

Experiential Planner Expo (EPEX), the region’s leading B2B platform for the MICE, weddings, and luxury events industry announced the continuation and expansion of its strategic partnership with the International Congress and Convention Association – Middle East Chapter (ICCA ME). This renewed alliance marks a significant evolution in EPEX’s engagement strategy by introducing qualified association representatives into its Hosted Buyer Programme for the first time. In 2025, EPEX and ICCA ME are jointly bringing a select group of international association leaders to participate in the show. These association representatives (majorly from Medical associations) have expressed genuine interest in hosting future congresses and events in the Middle East. Their presence will provide EPEX exhibitors and destination partners with a rare opportunity to understand the deeper requirements of international congresses and the decision-making dynamics behind destination selection. The partnership will also feature an ICCA-led Leadership Session during EPEX 2025, where these invited association leaders will engage in a panel discussion titled “More Than Meetings: How Association Congresses Drive Impact, Legacy, and Destination Strategy”. Moderated by Anju Gomes, Senior Regional Director, ICCA ME, this session will uncover the real priorities of associations—from aligning with national development goals to achieving long-term impact in knowledge and community exchange. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how destinations, venues, and local stakeholders can position themselves not just as hosts, but as long-term partners in delivering transformational outcomes. “This expanded partnership with ICCA ME brings a crucial new dimension to EPEX,” said Karishma Hundalani, Head of Brand and Content at POW WOW Marketing, organizers of EPEX. “As the region grows its credentials as a global hub for international meetings and congresses, it’s important that we also enable real conversations …

Etihad Airways continues to reinforce its position as a leader in global aviation, expanding strategic partnerships that connect world-class airlines to Abu Dhabi and broaden travel opportunities for millions of visitors. With over 40 codeshare partners in its network, Etihad connects travellers to more than 100 destinations across its own network and over 300 destinations through its partners, positioning Abu Dhabi as one of the most accessible cities in the world. Recent collaborations with leading carriers include strategic partnerships with Ethiopian Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Air Europa, alongside codeshare agreements with Air Seychelles, Akasa Air, TAP Air Portugal and Sky Express, underscoring Etihad’s central role in attracting major international airlines to the UAE capital. “Etihad is proud to be at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s growing global footprint,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways. “Every partnership we build strengthens the connectivity, choice and experience for our guests, while positioning Abu Dhabi as a key world destination. Through our strategic partnerships, we have brought major international airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air Seychelles, Air Europa and Akasa Air to Abu Dhabi. “These partnerships are not only expanding access to critical markets such as China, North America, Africa and Europe, they are also contributing directly to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism, affirming the city’s role as a hub for innovation, tourism and global business.” Etihad’s award-winning loyalty programme now features partnerships with 25 airlines, the most of any non-allied carrier. This extensive network offers frequent flyers greater flexibility, convenience and value, enabling guests to earn and redeem rewards effortlessly across hundreds of global destinations. As more carriers choose Abu Dhabi as a launchpad for …

Air Arabia announced the launch of two new direct routes connecting Ras Al Khaimah to Yekaterinburg and Kazan in Russia. The new flights will commence this October, further expanding the airline’s growing network from its Ras Al Khaimah hub. Starting 27 October 2025, Air Arabia will operate weekly flights to Yekaterinburg’s Koltsovo International Airport every Monday, meanwhile, the non-stop service to Kazan International Airport will begin on 31 October 2025, with weekly flights every Friday. “We are glad to introduce our new non-stop services from Ras Al Khaimah to Yekaterinburg and Kazan, further expanding our growing network from the emirate”, said Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia. “Russia remains a key market for us, and these additions reflect our commitment to offering more travel options while supporting the continued growth of tourism and trade between the UAE and Russia”. The launch of the new routes to Yekaterinburg and Kazan mark Air Arabia’s continued expansion from its Ras Al Khaimah hub, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to offer affordable and convenient connectivity to Russia. With existing direct flights to Moscow, the addition of these two cities further strengthens Air Arabia’s footprint in the Russian market and enhances travel options for both leisure and business travellers. In addition to the new routes, Yekaterinburg is also served with non-stop flights from Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, while Kazan is accessible from Sharjah, offering passengers across the UAE multiple gateways to Russia through Air Arabia’s network. Directly from Ras Al Khaimah, Air Arabia serves a growing network of 10 international destinations including Cairo, Jeddah, Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Calicut, Moscow, Tashkent as well as the newly added Yekaterinburg and Kazan. Air Arabia operates the most modern …

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has marked significant growth in its EMEA footprint, with more than 720 hotels now operating across the Middle East, Europe, Eurasia and Africa. In the first half of 2025 alone, the company added over 4700 rooms through more than 60 new hotel openings, driving year-over-year organic system growth of 5% in EMEA, alongside 27 new deal signings in the region, reinforcing its focus on high-growth markets and expanding access to quality, branded accommodations to travellers across the region. Standout additions include the Dolce by Wyndham Siracusa, Monasteri Golf and Spa in Sicily and the Signature Cave Cappadocia, Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Türkiye; offering distinctive stays in one the region’s most captivating destinations. Wyndham also opened new destinations across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with launches in Georgia, Romania, and Kazakhstan, and accelerated its momentum in Eurasia with 21 new openings in the first half of the year, expanding the regional portfolio to over 90 hotels – primarily located in India, one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing hospitality markets. Wyndham’s strategic development partnerships also played a key role in driving brand growth, bringing its globally recognized Super 8® by Wyndham brand to two high-demand markets: the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iberia. “With more than 720 hotels now open across EMEA, we’re seeing incredible momentum. Travel is thriving and we’re meeting that demand with a growing portfolio that reflects the energy and diversity of this region. From stunning resorts in Sicily to one-of-a-kind cave stays in Cappadocia, we’re adding experiences that truly inspire. And with new signings in markets like Iberia and Saudi Arabia, we’re not just growing – we’re creating new opportunities for …

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) has launched the Germany Halal Travel Guide, a dedicated resource designed to support Muslim travellers in planning seamless, culturally respectful journeys throughout Germany. Available in both English and Arabic, the guide can be downloaded free of charge from a dedicated microsite hosted on the official Germany Travel website. Created with the expectations of GCC visitors in mind, the guide features practical information and curated recommendations. It highlights halal dining, prayer spaces, and culturally considerate stays that help visitors from the region feel comfortable and confident while exploring Germany. Germany continues to grow as a preferred destination for travellers from the GCC, supported by a well-developed infrastructure, strong hospitality standards, and an inclusive approach to tourism. In cities such as Berlin, Dresden, Dusseldorf and Munich, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of halal restaurants, Arabic-speaking staff, and accessible prayer spaces, all contributing to a sense of ease and belonging. The Germany Halal Travel Guide offers valuable insights for Muslim travellers seeking experiences aligned with their lifestyle and travel preferences. Whether visiting for leisure, medical care, education, or retail tourism, the guide introduces options that support spiritual needs and cultural expectations. It also showcases Germany’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and world-class wellness facilities in a format that makes trip planning both efficient and rewarding. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing and Sales Office, GNTO GCC, said: “The launch of our Halal Travel Guide reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring Muslim travellers feel informed and welcomed in Germany. The guide presents clear, accessible information to support planning and create a worry-free travel experience. We are committed to showing guests from the GCC that Germany is a destination …