Boutique Group  marks its first independent participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) highlighting its commitment to redefining the luxury hospitality experience by transforming some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic former royal residences, among other cultural and historic landmarks, into ultra-luxury hotels. Boutique Group also announced details of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed with ALTANFEETHI luxury concierge service to cooperatively exchange knowledge and expertise to develop and enhance guest experience at airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Boutique Group’s portfolio includes the stunning Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah, known for hosting some of the world’s most prominent international public figures, the Red Palace in the heart of old Riyadh, which adorned the SAR 100 bank note and served as the home to the Council of Ministers for three decades, and the Aga Khan Award-winning Tuwaiq Palace, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Saudi Arabia’s iconic forts, tents and oasis landscape. Across its palaces, Boutique Group is dedicated to designing bespoke modern luxury offerings rooted in a strong sense of place, backed by strong partnerships and an authentic representation of Saudi’s vast heritage. “This year’s ATM theme explores gateways. This is particularly poignant for Boutique Group, because our properties are in essence a gateway to a new model of hospitality, and a more sustainable future. Inspired by Saudi Arabi’s rich heritage and powered by its talent, we are creating a gateway to a more resilient and diversified economy,” said Mark De Cocinis, Chief Executive Officer at Boutique Group. “We are also delighted to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with luxury concierge provider, ALTANFEETHI, and look forward to exploring more ways to collaborate on this remarkable new model of Saudi hospitality,” …

The Jamaica Tourist Board has ambitious tourism plans, focused on expanding its reach in the GCC market. Recognizing the growing interest in Caribbean travel among GCC residents, the JTB is actively investing in targeted developing and growing the market to increase visitation figures. Travelers from the GCC can easily reach Jamaica through convenient flight connections via major airlines linking through the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada. This connectivity provides seamless travel options for citizens and residents of the GCC looking to experience the beauty and culture of Jamaica. The residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are renowned as some of the most well-traveled individuals globally, constantly seeking new destinations and experiences fueled by their healthy disposable income. Their adventurous spirit and eagerness to explore make them ideal candidates to appreciate Jamaica’s allure. Passengers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have several airline choices for flights to its main airports in Montego Bay and Kingston. Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, and Air Canada offer routes with convenient connections. Qatar Airways also provides suitable connections to major US airports such as New York, Miami, and Chicago, offering additional options for travelers from the GCC region. Other GCC countries can access Jamaica via connections through the UAE, enhancing accessibility to the island. “As part of our strategic vision, the Jamaica Tourist Board is committed to investing in the GCC market and enhancing awareness of Jamaica’s attractions among travelers in this region,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism of Jamaica. “We believe there is immense potential for increased visitation from the GCC.” “Jamaica is an ideal destination for citizens and residents of the GCC countries seeking a …

Bahwan Travel Agencies Oman, and Sabre Corporation announced the renewal of their strategic technology agreement at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. This renewal marks a significant milestone in the continued collaboration between the two companies, further solidifying their commitment to leveraging latest technology to drive business growth in Oman and the wider region. Under this renewed agreement, Bahwan Travel Agencies will continue to access Sabre’s portfolio of innovative technology, including its intelligent platform Sabre Red 360. This access enables Bahwan Travel Agencies to harness more data and content, providing clients with an expanded choice from over 400 airlines, 1.6 million lodging options, and numerous tour operators, rail, car, and cruise providers. The extensive marketplace empowers Bahwan Travel Agencies to curate and offer personalized travel packages from suppliers around the globe, significantly enhancing the overall travel experience for its customers. “The agreement renewal with Sabre endorses the robustness of our enduring partnership,” stated Sheikha Amal Suhail Bahwan, Vice Chairperson, Suhail Bahwan Group. “As a pioneer in the travel industry with 50 year’s presence in Oman, we ensure our travel business is empowered by latest technology, innovation and enhanced customer experience. Choosing Sabre as our technology partner is not only a strategic decision but also a logical choice to facilitate the growth of our business, enhance operational efficiency, and consistently add significant value for our customers.” Additionally, Bahwan Travel Agencies will deploy Sabre Automation Hub, Sabre APIs, Automated Exchanges and Refunds, and the Sabre E Ticket Report. These advanced technologies will empower Bahwan Travel Agencies to enhance its online presence, differentiate offerings, and provide customers with a more personalized and seamless travel shopping experience. “Bahwan Travel Agencies commitment to a strong and enduring …

Witnessing a 15% rise in visitors as compared to last year, and the thoughtful theme, ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, Regency Holidays had the opportunity to engage a larger audience of tech-driven tour operators from across the world to present existing products on offer and to tailor them per needs and requirements of the audiences. Representing Qatar and its wide range of tourism-driven products exuding luxurious experiences all around, Regency Holidays, Qatar’s foremost destination management company (DMC) participated in the recently concluded Arabian Travel Mart 2024 held in Dubai World Trade Centre. Given the scale of the event, Regency Holidays through its standalone stall, had the opportunity to showcase its comprehensive collection of luxury travel services through Qatar. During the 4 days, Regency showcased its large network of partner luxury hotels & resorts; breathtaking excursions, attractions like – Inland Sea, Katara Cultural Village, Lusail, etc.; shopping trails and city tours; premium ground transport fleet; and much more that one can experience in Qatar. With a profound design and displaying vibrant immersive experiences across Qatar, Regency Holidays attracted many eyeballs which led to rising footfall to its stall. The company is confident about massive conversions of its thoughtfully tailored travel products into realization on the back of a large number of visitors, meaningful networking, and discussions on upcoming travel trends that were witnessed at the event. Speaking about the participation in ATM 2024, Manoj Kumar Tiwari, General Manager, Regency Holidays, said, “The ATM 2024 saw a spectacular success this year with the highest-ever recorded footfall of around 46,000 travel sector professionals from across the world. We are delighted to have showcased our existing and upcoming signature products in Qatar to …

Travelers from the GCC can easily reach Jamaica through convenient flight connections via major airlines linking through the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada. This connectivity provides seamless travel options for citizens and residents of the GCC looking to experience the beauty and culture of Jamaica. The residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are renowned as some of the most well-traveled individuals globally, constantly seeking new destinations and experiences fueled by their healthy disposable income. Their adventurous spirit and eagerness to explore make them ideal candidates to appreciate Jamaica’s allure. Passengers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have several airline choices for flights to its main airports in Montego Bay and Kingston. Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, and Air Canada offer routes with convenient connections. Qatar Airways also provides suitable connections to major US airports such as New York, Miami, and Chicago, offering additional options for travelers from the GCC region. Other GCC countries can access Jamaica via connections through the UAE, enhancing accessibility to the island. The Jamaica Tourist Board has ambitious tourism plans, focused on expanding its reach in the GCC market. Recognizing the growing interest in Caribbean travel among GCC residents, the JTB is actively investing in targeted developing and growing the market to increase visitation figures. “As part of our strategic vision, the Jamaica Tourist Board is committed to investing in the GCC market and enhancing awareness of Jamaica’s attractions among travelers in this region,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism of Jamaica. “We believe there is immense potential for increased visitation from the GCC.” “Jamaica is an ideal destination for citizens and residents of the GCC countries seeking a …

Tourism Seychelles Middle East showcased its vibrant offerings and strategic collaborations at the Arabian Travel Market with nine partners led by Minister Sylvestre Radegonde, Seychelles Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, the delegation underscored Seychelles’ commitment to enhancing tourism partnerships and opportunities in the Middle East. Minister Radegonde was accompanied by Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary, and Bernadette Willemin, Director General Marketing, who engaged in fruitful discussions and strategic initiatives throughout the event. Seychelles’ participation was further reinforced by the support of distinguished Destination Management Companies, such as 7° South, Luxe Voyage Holidays, Luxury Travel, Masons Travel, Ocean Blue Travel, Summer Rain Tours, along with renowned hotels including Berjaya Resorts Seychelles, Eden Bleu Hotel, Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa, and Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel. Ambassador Gervais Moumou, Seychelles resident Ambassador in Abu Dhabi, added diplomatic presence and support to the delegation. Highlights of the event included the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with key industry partners. The first MOU was signed with Emirates Airlines, enhancing partnerships to strengthen connectivity and accessibility to Seychelles. The second MOU was signed with dnata Travel to foster joint collaborations and further promote Seychelles as a premier travel destination. Additionally, bilateral meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives further strengthened regional collaboration and cooperation. Ahmed Fathallah, the Tourism Seychelles Middle East representative, commented, “This event provided an exceptional platform for Tourism Seychelles Middle East to foster existing relationships, explore new opportunities, and reinforce Seychelles’ allure as a premier travel destination. The engagement with key industry stakeholders and media have amplified our efforts to showcase Seychelles’ unique offerings and commitment to sustainable tourism.” The Arabian Travel Market served as …

Lifestyle Developers signed an agreement with Marriott International to open the first Autograph Collection Hotel in Jeddah. The B Hotel, an Autograph Collection Hotel is anticipated to be situated within Jeddah’s emerging waterfront destination, South Ubhur. Sultan Sobhi Batterjeee, Founder and President of Lifestyle Developers said, “We are very excited to introduce the Autograph Collection brand to Jeddah’s hospitality scene. The inauguration of the B Hotel represents an idyllic fusion of sophistication and local charm, offering guests a truly immersive experience that celebrates the Kingdom’s rich heritage and authentic hospitality.” The B Hotel is anticipated to offer 100 guestrooms including more than 40 suites, that will reflect the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia combined with contemporary elegance and appeal. Plans for the property include multiple dining options, a fitness centre, swimming pool and kids club. The hotel is also expected to offer event spaces ideal for hosting meetings and memorable occasions. Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development, Middle East, Marriott International added, “Jeddah continues to grow as a business and leisure destination, and we look forward to strengthening our footprint in the market. Autograph Collection is the ideal fit for this project, and we look forward to working with Lifestyle Developers to introduce the brand’s distinct and unique hospitality experience in Jeddah.” The B Hotel will be strategically located in the upcoming area of South Ubhur with direct sea views of Ubhur Creek, and in close proximity to King Abdullah Sports City Stadium and King Abdul Aziz International Airport. The Ubhur is increasingly becoming a popular leisure and family destination. Autograph Collection’s portfolio currently features over 295 hotels globally. Each hotel is a product of passion and a personal …

Skyscanner revealed that 33% of UAE travellers are looking for trips that are over 1-2 weeks long for the Eid Al Adha break. New York, Tokyo and Athens are the top trending destinations this Eid Al Adha 2024 for the residents of UAE. Findings reveal that 14 June 2024 is the most popular travel departure date during this period, and more than half of UAE travellers (53%) are searching for trips that are one week or less. At the same time, 33% of travellers are looking for trips that are over 1-2 weeks long, and 14% are looking to book holidays for up to a month*. Skyscanner unveils five destinations experiencing a surge in popularity among travellers from UAE. From the vibrant streets of New York to the pristine shores of Malé, these are the trending destinations witnessing the highest year-on-year spike in searches for June departures*. 5 Trending Destinations 1. New York (525%) 2. Tokyo (330%) 3. Athens (257%) 4. Dublin (212%) 5. Malé (205%) Skyscanner also revealed the most searched destinations by UAE travellers ahead of Eid Al Adha. Offering a glimpse into the travel preferences and trends shaping the region, the data sheds light on where UAE residents are looking to escape during this holiday season. 5 Most Searched Cities by UAE travellers 1. London 2. Athens 3. New York 4. Cairo 5. Manchester  

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development has initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at fostering regulation within the Holiday Homes sector. The primary objective is to heighten awareness among investors in the tourism sector regarding the prerequisites and procedures for obtaining licenses and permits essential for engaging in this emerging tourism venture within the emirate. His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, emphasized that the campaign seeks to familiarize investors with Emiri Decree No. 6 of 2023, which governs Holiday Homes in Ajman. Furthermore, the initiative includes conducting awareness workshops to equip investors with the knowledge required to leverage this investment opportunity. The overarching goal is to pave the way for expanded avenues in tourism investment within the emirate, drawing more investors keen on capitalizing on the distinctive tourism growth in both Ajman and the broader country. Alhashmi highlighted the department’s intent to forge collaboration agreements with leading reservation platforms. This strategic move aims to streamline processes and establish a transparent legal framework for showcasing Holiday Homes on these platforms, benefiting all stakeholders involved. Holiday Homes services were inaugurated in Ajman in 2023 with the intent of fortifying the tourism sector and enhancing the emirate’s appeal to visitors. This initiative was set in motion under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, aligning with the strategic vision for tourism development as per Emiri Decree No. 03 of 2012. Among the services rendered is the provision of proactive guidelines and procedures to regulate Holiday Home activities, along with facilitating the acquisition of permits and licenses. Interested parties can easily register for these services through …

Air Cairo announced Almosafer as their exclusive general sales agent (GSA) in Saudi Arabia. This highlights the importance of KSA as a primary market for Air Cairo, as both parties will work together to meet the needs of travellers from the Kingdom. Air Cairo selected Almosafer for its strong market presence and esteemed reputation in Saudi Arabia. Almosafer will play a key role in boosting Air Cairo’s sales across the Kingdom, by leveraging its extensive customer base to offer promotional deals and on-ground activities, while utilizing the strength of Almosafer’s businesses, such as “Discover Saudi,” its destination management company, and “Mawasim,” its Hajj & Umrah tour operator. Air Cairo offers greater connectivity and convenience through its fleet of well-maintained aircrafts. The airline has been expanding its network since its inception in 2003. With the recent addition of a more modern Airbus fleet, the airline reinforces its dedication to providing world-class comfort and convenience. As a leading airline in the region, it is focused on offering safe travel and ensuring greater connectivity and accessibility to its valued passengers. Pilot Ahmed Shannan, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Air Cairo Airlines, said about the partnership “We are delighted to collaborate with Almosafer to offer our services to a broad spectrum of travelers from Saudi Arabia and beyond. We are confident that Almosafer’s expertise and credibility in the region will enable us to broaden our reach and offer cost-effective travel options to all.” Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We are excited to welcome Air Cairo among our esteemed partners. We are confident that this collaboration will enhance the travel sector in the region and offer greater …