Red Sea Global (RSG) signed an agreement to launch the third batch of its Red Sea vocational training program, in partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) and King Abdulaziz University (KAU) under the vision of His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah. The program, launched on July 25, 2023, will consist of three tracks that will serve Red Sea Global’s destinations: Hospitality, Tourism Security and Information Technology. Admission is open to all Saudis who meet the requirements via RSG’s website. Successful graduates will be employed at either Red Sea Global or one of its partners. “Through this partnership, we will be creating a substantial pool of qualified professionals with the skills and resources needed to establish a new and successful tourism industry in the Kingdom,” said RSG Group CEO John Pagano. RSG’s vocational training programs are a demonstration of its commitment to supporting young Saudis to participate in the growth of the Kingdom’s promising tourism sector and positioning the country on the global tourism map. Last Wednesday at King Abdulaziz University, RSG and HRDF celebrated the graduation of the first batch of the Red Sea Vocational Training Program students, giving them the title of ‘Tourism Generation’. The ceremony was attended by His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi and a number of top officials, in addition to the graduates and their parents.

Rail Europe introduces its latest addition, the Eurail Greek Islands Pass, which is now part of its B2B inventory and available via its B2B website and API. “With the launch of the Eurail Greek Islands Pass, we are proud to present an unparalleled opportunity for our B2B partners’ to enhance their customers’ travel experiences. The Eurail Greek Islands Pass serves as a gateway to a myriad of experiences across Greece’s captivating islands, from the alluring glamour of Mykonos to the inspiring landscapes of Santorini, and the pristine serenity of Crete, three top destinations in Europe. We are thrilled to foster further collaboration with our partners as we jointly promote this unique pass and showcase the captivating islands it encompasses.”, says Björn Bender, CEO & President, Rail Europe. The Eurail Greek Islands Pass allows travellers to explore the Greek islands via national ferry lines – Superfast Ferries, Minoan Lines, Grimaldi Lines, Blue Star Ferries – for 4 domestic travel days, as a mobile pass. It’s also a great addition to the Eurail Greece pass, for travellers willing to visit highlights like Athens, Thessaloniki and Olympia, or the European continent as a whole. Eurail passes is the perfect choice to discover the wonders of Europe by train. Rail Europe’s trade partners from across the world have been promoting and selling these rail passes for decades. Considered as the most popular pass, Eurail Global Pass is seen by many as the easiest way to travel within Europe. It offers unlimited rail travel across 33 destinations in Europe, giving travellers a unique experience and an in-depth knowledge of the European culture.

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has announced the launch of the ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’, a new sustainability initiative that seeks to recognise hotels with the highest adherence to DET’s 19 ‘Sustainability Requirements’. The initiative, launched in line with the UAE Year of Sustainability, is part of DET’s commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading sustainable tourism destination. Developed in collaboration with Dubai’s hospitality sector, the new stamp is designed to accelerate efforts towards empowering the tourism sector to achieve its sustainability goals and support the UAE’s NetZero 2050 initiative. As Dubai continually strives to achieve the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, the initiative will contribute to further consolidating the city’s status as one of the top three global destinations. The Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp will serve as a validation of the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and showcase its sustainable practices. To obtain the stamp, hotels of all classifications must meet the highest standards of DET’s 19 Sustainability requirements, which include criteria such as energy and water efficiency, waste management programmes, and staff education and engagement initiatives. The accreditation process will be overseen by a committee of senior industry professionals to ensure integrity and independence, with the initiative designed based on global best practices. The stamp will feature a three-tier scheme with categories ranging from Gold, Silver and Bronze. Nominations for hotel establishments to obtain the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp will begin on 3 August, 2023 and end on 31 August, 2023. Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance sector, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism stated: “As part of our efforts to transform Dubai into a leading sustainable tourism destination in …

SAUDIA shares that there was a noteworthy 52% increase in the number of international guests transported during the first half of 2023, with a total of 7.4 million guests. Additionally, the airline operated 37,600 flights, marking a significant 30% growth. SAUDIA extended its reach to four continents, accumulating an impressive 180,700 flight hours, a remarkable 40% increase compared to previous periods. The report also underscores the successful transport of 6.3 million guests on domestic routes, achieved through the operation of 47,700 flights, accumulating 80,800 flight hours. SAUDIA (Saudi Arabian Airlines) continues to contribute to the development of tourism, business, Hajj and Umrah sectors with their remarkable operational performance, as evident by the performance report for the first half of 2023. The report highlights the transportation of over 13.7 million guests on both domestic and international routes, representing a substantial 24% increase compared to the same period last year. This impressive feat was accomplished through the operation of 85,400 flights, reflecting a growth rate of 6%. Furthermore, flight hours surged by an impressive 22%, reaching a total of 261,600 hours. Notably, the overall flight punctuality rate reached an impressive 86,3%. Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, highlighted the outstanding flight operations, punctuality rates, and guest transportation achieved during this period. These accomplishments align with the airline’s commitment to efficiency and operational safety, which are of paramount importance. Capt. Koshy also emphasized the crucial role played by the national flag carrier in supporting the growth of the tourism, business, Hajj and Umrah sectors through strategic partnerships. Moreover, SAUDIA has increased its seat capacity and flight frequency to cater to the growing demand for travel, firmly establishing itself as a key player in …

Emirates has taken its first steps in an innovative initiative of meal preordering, whereby customers will be able to preselect their hot main meal between 14 days and 24 hours in advance of their flight, ensuring they get their preferred meal choice every time, as well as helping to reduce food wastage. The initiative will be rolled out from 25 July onwards in Business Class, on all flights between Dubai and London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and London Stansted, adding even more benefits to the Emirates customer experience, improving time management and adding another layer of insight into meal consumption onboard. Meal preordering will be added to the existing suite of AI-enabled customer preference tracking data and cabin crew reports, which facilitate menu planning and optimal food loading to deliver the premium ‘restaurant in the sky’ inflight dining experience. Up to 14 days before a flight, passengers will be able to browse the onboard menu on Emirates.com or on the Emirates app and choose from a selection of regionally inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Passengers can also pre-order special meals if required. On the aircraft, cabin crew will use a custom-built application on a device to view the meal selection and serve the passenger their choice of hot dish. Emirates plans to expand the meal preorder initiative to more routes and classes in the near future and is closely monitoring customer feedback from the initial roll out phase. The preordering meal service innovation is another addition to the convenience of digitally enabled journeys that Emirates passengers enjoy. As well as website check-in and app check-in, the option of digital boarding passes and itinerary management, passengers can also access digital menus …

NEOM partners forum will see more than 1,500 job openings for local young talent from the NEOM and Tabuk regions who have successfully completed the registration process based on an evaluation to match their skills and backgrounds with available opportunities. Aiming to attract young people with potential who can take part in building the new future and contribute to NEOM’s development, the event has been established to provide prospective employees with the opportunity to apply for positions offered by leading local and international companies involved with NEOM. The job seekers will be able to submit their applications directly at the forum, as well as engage in networking activities and meet employers through in-person interviews. The second edition of “NEOM Partners Employment Forum” gets underway at Tabuk University, with the two-day event bringing together 20 major local and international companies from NEOM’s top partners involved in its various projects and sectors Attendees at the job fair will also benefit from sessions offering tips and guidance on developing professional resumes, excelling in job interviews and seamlessly landing career opportunities at the right place and time. In line with NEOM’s environmental sustainability efforts, all applications and submissions will be processed digitally to reduce the use of paper and preserve natural resources. Consistent with NEOM CSR strategy’s ‘Enhancing Quality of Life’ track, NEOM is organizing the forum to strengthen its ties with the local community, offer them exceptional livability standards, and develop for them a sustainable and thriving business environment that fosters innovation and supports ambition. Through its social responsibility strategy and development programs, NEOM continues to empower students, graduates and job seekers, supporting them to achieve their aspirations and unlock their full potential. …

Qatar Airways has begun its new direct service from Doha, Qatar to Toulouse, France, this July, marking Qatar Airways’ latest efforts to expand its network in France. The highly anticipated inaugural flight becomes the fourth destination in France after the airline’s recent additions of Nice and Lyon. Passengers were greeted with French delicacies and music at the departure gate of Hamad International Airport (DOH). Onboard the inaugural flight, QR047 carried esteemed passengers including Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, as well as the Ambassador of France to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mr. Jean-Baptiste Faivre. The flight was received by the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to France, His Excellency Sheikh Ali bin Jassem Al Thani, and the Chairman of the Board of Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, Mr. Philippe Crébassa. The new direct service to Toulouse is operated by an Airbus A330-200, with 24 Business Class seats and 236 Economy Class seats. Synonymous with excellence, the inaugural flight included a French curated dining menu to all its passengers, as well as a box of the luxurious Pierre Hermé macarons and various other giveaways at both the departure and arrival gates to celebrate the new route. A press conference was held by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, and by the Chairman of the Board of Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, Mr. Philippe Crébassa to announce the national carrier of the State of Qatar’s expansion in the French market, as well as future collaborative opportunities between both exciting cities. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways’ expanded footprint into France will serve to strengthen the trade, tourism and …

Celebrating the history of civil aviation in Oman and its own unique journey, Oman Air has opened a first-of-its-kind exhibition at Stal Gallery in Muscat. ‘Oman Air: A Legacy in the Skies’ combines state-of-the-art multimedia, immersive displays, and an array of compelling artifacts that bring to life Oman’s illustrious aviation past and celebrate the key milestones that have shaped Oman Air into the globally recognised and esteemed brand it is today. Amouage, the Oman-based international fragrance house, is also present at the exhibition, unveiling the signature scent for Oman Air’s new on-board amenity kits. This captivating journey through time, spanning from the reign of Sultan Taimur bin Faisal to the present day, promises a truly immersive and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages. Having celebrated its 30th anniversary earlier this year, Oman Air continues to invest in its award-winning products, while redefining the art of hospitality in the skies. Most recently the airline earned the award for Best Airline Staff in the Middle East at the Skytrax 2023 World Airline Awards. Oman Air has also been announced as global airline partner for English football club, Chelsea FC, further cementing it as a leading international carrier with worldwide appeal. Entry to ‘Oman Air: A Legacy in the Skies’ at Stal Gallery (located in Madinat Qaboos) is free and visitors are welcome to explore the exhibition from Sunday to Saturday between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.  

The prestigious event will be hosted at the city’s Madinat Jumeirah from 1–2 November 2023 under the theme ‘Shifting Economic Power: Dubai and the Future of Global Trade.’ Powered by Dubai Chambers, the transformational two-day forum will bring together key public and private sector stakeholders from across the globe to forge partnerships, cultivate international networks, and unlock a world of opportunities. It is set to bring together leaders from sectors including technology, retail, finance, travel and hospitality, real estate, and healthcare to participate in insightful discussions on transforming business for the future. Previously known as the Global Business Forum (GBF), the Dubai Business Forum is set to play an instrumental role in achieving the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Announced in January 2023 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, D33’s ambitious blueprint features 100 projects aimed at doubling the size of Dubai’s economy over the coming decade and consolidating the emirate’s position among the top three global cities worldwide. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Chambers has announced the launch of the Dubai Business Forum. With Dubai leading the world across a wide range of industries, and particularly in future-facing sectors, the forum will gather visionary Heads of State, government officials, global business leaders, and major international investors to redefine the rules of success. Commenting on the launch of the forum, His Excellency Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, said: “Shaping the future requires concerted efforts, and we remain fully dedicated …

IHG® Hotels & Resorts signed a franchise agreement that will see a Hotel Indigo property open in Oxagon, a coastal industrial city in NEOM, located in the Northwest region of Saudi Arabia. In Oxagon, thriving communities will exist seamlessly alongside clean industry, commercial, hospitality, entertainment and retail activities. The 250-key Hotel Indigo property will be situated in Oxagon’s first residential community and will open its doors in 2026. Designed to seamlessly integrate work, live, and play, Oxagon’s neighborhoods will be fully walkable, with sustainable on-demand mass transit and micro mobility solutions. As one of IHG’s lifestyle brands, Hotel Indigo properties offer a gateway to some of the world’s most inspiring locations. Just as no two neighborhoods are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same, taking inspiration from the area around each hotel to inform all aspects of the guest experience, from the hotel’s boutique design approach to locally inspired restaurants. Similarly, the Hotel Indigo property in Oxagon will be designed as a lifestyle destination offering exciting retail and dining concepts including cafés, a pool lounge, and a specialty restaurant. Additionally, residents and visitors will have access to a range of leisure and wellness facilities including a spa and 24-hour fitness centre. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG, said: “We are delighted to announce our first IHG hotel in the exciting and rapidly developing region of NEOM. Hotel Indigo is dedicated to embracing the unique essence of each local destination, ensuring that our hotels truly embody the spirit of their locations. We are excited to announce the upcoming opening of this new property in Oxagon, where an innovative blueprint for industry and remarkable livability is …