Following a dip in 2020, tourism globally is again on the rise and is expected to reach $17 trillion in size by 2027, compared to $11 trillion prior to Covid-19. Bain & Company’s new research study, ‘Sustainable Tourism: An Untapped Opportunity for Green Growth’, reveals that there is an increasing appetite for more sustainable tourism among leisure travelers across the globe, who will choose destinations and providers (airlines, hotels, restaurants, and tour companies) based on their sustainability records and are starting to pay a premium for it. On the other hand, research shows that some travelers feel that the travel and tourism sector is making little or no effort to be more sustainable, indicating that there is still much room for the sector to respond and make a difference. “The uptake in sustainable tourism is driven by an appetite to travel sustainably and make more responsible choices. Bain has developed a framework defining the components of a sustainable tourism experience around three pillars: environmental impact (e.g., eco-friendly transportation and accommodation options), social responsibility (e.g., DEI standards), and community engagement (e.g., contract with locals)” says Karim Henain, Partner at Bain & Company Middle East. There is a significant opportunity among the “sustainability enthusiasts” segment of travelers interested in visiting the MENA (Middle East and Northern Africa) region. The study’s aim is to better understand the behaviors and preferences of relevant travelers interested in MENA as a destination. The research covered consumers from six markets: Germany, Italy, France, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and China.   Overall, more than two-thirds of consumers surveyed in the selected markets consider sustainability aspects to be important or extremely important when traveling for leisure, and 73% expect …

Qatar Tourism in collaboration with the renowned Spacetoon channel is preparing to host the Qatar Games Festival, which will be the first of its kind in Qatar and the largest in the region, from July 13 to August 5 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center under the theme “Adventures… Tales.. and games.”  More than 25 of the world’s leading gaming brands including Barbie, Blebby, Bloway, Cocomilon, Disney, Happy Cappy, Marvel, Fortnite and Transformers are participating in the festival. The event is part of Qatar Tourism’s ‘Summer in Qatar’ campaign, which includes diverse and lively events and activities. Over the course of its 25 days, children and families who are festival-goers will have the opportunity to meet a range of their favorite characters, participate in interactive areas such as Barbie’s Dream House and the life-size Monopoly gamepad, as well as the possibility of purchasing the latest toys offered by participating brands. Sheikha Hessa Al Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to partner with one of the region’s most popular satellite channels to bring a world of fun to families this summer. When designing Qatar’s Summer Campaign programme, we made sure that it included unprecedented events and allowed families and children to enjoy a wonderful summer atmosphere in Qatar. Since the launch of our global campaign ‘Qatar More than a Feeling’ late last year, our seasonal campaigns have been very successful in developing a diverse and enjoyable calendar all year round and on all occasions.” The Qatar Games Festival offers four distinctive zones known as ‘Islands’ that satisfy the tastes of many visitors from all ages. These islands are: Fancy Land – with Disney …

Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority’s Khatm Melaha Customs Centre has received an official delegation from the General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs and the Federal Customs Authority to exchange experiences and review practices applicable in this land port, which is one of the best and most prominent across the country. His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Raisi, Director of Ports and Border Points Affairs and Chairman of the Organizational Committee of Ports and Border Points in the Emirate of Sharjah, received the visiting high-level team. The delegation included His Excellency Mubarak Matar Al Mansouri, Executive Director of the Customs Operations Sector at Abu Dhabi Customs; Abdullah Mohammed Al Khumairi, Director of the Policy and Governance Department; and Salem Issa Al Hammadi, Director of Operations Sector Projects, along with a number of officials from both sides. The visiting officials were briefed how the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority has been managing the border crossings in the Emirate, the work mechanism of the Organizational Committee of border crossings and points, leveraging modern technologies in customs operations and customs inspection, in addition to the methodology for qualifying young national resources and preparing leaders. During a visit meeting, Khatm Melaha border crossing’s unit managers and heads of departments gave a presentation for the updates and studies on the development of the port, the work mechanism and the most prominent initiatives, achievements and implemented activities. Afterwards, the delegation had a field trip for examining the separately-built entry and exit paths of vehicles and trucks, in addition to the technical support building equipped with the latest inspection equipment and systems, the operations room of the customs port, and the customer happiness center in …

Al Tayer Holidays (a division of Al Tayer Travel) will represent Crystal in the Middle East. This partnership was announced to a selected group of travel agents who cater to the niche luxury cruise market in the UAE at an event where Matthew Boutwell, Senior Director Charter & Incentives of Crystal shared details on the two new ships that will sail in the GCC by October this year. The route will include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha etc. Speaking with Tourismbreakingnews, Boutwell shared the exceptional offerings especially for the GCC and Middle East region, in terms of  accommodation which will include connecting rooms, larger spaces, more suites, a host of food options from halal and kosher, not just packed food but with a whole kitchen. This partnership will enhance and enrich Al Tayer’s niche cruise offering and a completely new cruising experience to their valued guests. Crystal Cruises has been synonymous with the word exceptional, it is known for its award winning voyages for over three decades and offers some of the most amazing itineraries and destinations around the world. Last year Abercrombie and Kent (A&K) Travel Group acquired the Crystal brand and its two most beloved vessels; Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ushering in a brand new era. Boutwell reiterated that both their ships have been renovated by A&K Travel Group to bring in exceptional design, comfort and a whole set of modern features. One of the most unique features notable would be that the ships have 14 different dining options Crystal Symphony offers nearly one staff member per guest and accommodates 606 guests whereas Crystal Serenity accommodates 740 guests.  

According to Skyscanner’s latest research, in association with OnePoll, a huge 98% of UAE travellers are open to travelling to more alternative or lesser-known destinations with more than three quarters (77%) saying they would be likely to swap their holiday favourites for an alternative option if it meant they were likely to save money.  Ayoub El Mamoun, Skyscanner Travel Expert, says,  “The desire for new and alternative destinations appears to be increasing this year, as in 2022, only 41% of global travellers surveyed said that they wanted to explore new places versus returning to an old favourite. We’re seeing a big uplift in the number of searches for underrated destinations from the UAE, including Hanoi (+373%) and Osaka (+332%) to name a few.  With almost half (48%) of UAE travellers yet to book their summer holiday this year, according to our latest research, and 41% of those admitting that they’re still deciding on where to go, Skyscanner is on hand to help find them find a lesser known and cheaper alternative to their usual holiday hot spot.” Over three quarters (76%) of UAE travellers already prefer alternative holiday destinations versus the more tried and true classic hotspots (20%), citing cost savings (24%) and the ability to escape the crowds (27%) as their top reasons why. Skyscanner data reveals it pays to swap. For example, UAE travellers when looking for a European city break could swap popular Paris (with return flights from Abu Dhabi AED 308 this August) for the lesser-known city of Bucharest (with return flights from AED 171 this August) and save 44% on the cost of their flights alone. Head to the old town in Bucharest to discover …

Emirates celebrated the launch of its Premium Economy offering in Singapore, with a tour of one of its enhanced four-class A380 aircraft. On a four-class Emirates A380, the Premium Economy cabin is located at the front of the main deck with 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration. In the cabin, every inch of space anticipates customer needs with a generous seat pitch and width for working and relaxing, and customised features that offer function and convenience like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. The experience is rounded off with expertly curated in-flight amenities, an inventive menu, and extensive beverage options. Emirates Premium Economy is deployed on flights EK 354 and EK 355 between Singapore and Dubai. The event kicked off at the Emirates Lounge at Changi Airport Terminal 1, after which guests were given a guided tour of the brand new product, as well as the enhanced interior across all cabin classes on board the Emirates A380. Guests took in the highlights of the exclusive premium economy experience that awaits travellers. Tickets can be purchased on emirates.com, the Emirates App, at Emirates sales offices, and via both online and offline travel agents. Travellers are also encouraged to check the Emirates website for the latest travel requirements.

Rail Europe announced the addition of the Berner Oberland Regional Pass to its comprehensive range of products on Rail Europe’s B2B website and API, allowing travel professionals to easily access and book this pass. Rail Europe’s commitment to extending its product offerings remains unwavering as it introduces the Berner Oberland Regional Pass. This pass showcases the unique and captivating Berner Oberland region, renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unparalleled alpine experiences. With the pass, travellers will gain the freedom and flexibility to explore this enchanting region at their own pace. “As Rail Europe continues to expand its product range, we are delighted to offer the opportunity to introduce our B2B partners’ customers to the Berner Oberland Regional Pass, one of the most visited areas in Europe. This pass provides an unlimited access to the captivating Berner Oberland region, allowing travellers to make the most of its breathtaking landscapes and iconic activities. We are fully committed to supporting our partners in delivering exceptional experiences to their customers and are very excited to further collaborate with them to promote this unique pass and region,” says Björn Bender, CEO & President, Rail Europe. One of the standout features of the Berner Oberland Regional Pass is its seamless integration with other train travel across Europe. Travellers can easily combine this pass with their European itinerary, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover multiple destinations in one trip. As Switzerland remains a top destination for travellers from all over the world, the Berner Oberland Regional Pass is also an ideal addition to the Swiss Travel System tickets and passes offered by Rail Europe. Beyond convenience, the Berner Oberland Regional Pass …

Possibilities of granting nationals from Kuwait visa-free access to the Schengen Zone have been discussed during official talks held between Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Both countries’ authorities also discussed new opportunities that would further enhance their collaborative relations, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports. Italian Foreign Minister reiterated Italy’s support for the abolishment of Schengen visa requirements for citizens of Kuwait, emphasizing Rome’s ongoing efforts on the matter in the European Union and European Parliament. At the same time, Sheikh Salem Abdullah affirmed keenness regarding boosting the friendly relationship between both states. Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has intensified the efforts so citizens of the Asian country can travel without additional requirements such as visas to the Schengen Area. Sheikh Salem Al-Jaber Al-Sabah recently held talks with Hungarian counterpart, Peter Szijjarto, during the Kuwait delegation’s official visit to Hungary’s capital. Among the main topics discussed in the meeting was the exemption of Kuwaiti citizens from visa requirements and also rallying European support for such a move. Last month, authorities in Kuwait also called on the European Union to abolish visa requirements for their citizens in a bid to facilitate the travel process, especially during the peak summer season. The request came in a meeting that Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs held with European Union ambassadors, during which he stressed that the country should no longer be subject to Schengen visa requirements. “The minister, during the luncheon held at the Foreign Ministry headquarters, called upon the diplomats to act to ease off difficulties facing the Kuwaiti nationals seeking the Schengen visa, facilitate procedures to apply for the visa, set …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) continues to implement its operational plan for Summer 2023 by providing over 7.4 million seats for domestic and international routes during July and August, a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The airline will operate more than 32,400 flights, reflecting a 4% increase. These measures aim to meet high demand during peak seasons and ensure smooth operations, efficient reservations for scheduled and seasonal destinations, and streamlined processes at airports. For international flights, SAUDIA is providing more than 4.2 million seats, achieving a 16% increase. Additionally, the airline is introducing over 14,800 flights , reflecting a 15% increase. On domestic routes, over 3.2 million seats will be available through 17,600 flights. The operational plan for the summer of 2023 is continuously monitored by dedicated teams to evaluate its performance. Captain Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, emphasized the airline’s extensive experience in managing operations throughout the year, especially during peak seasons. The plan includes increasing flights, seat capacity, and introducing seasonal destinations to meet guests’ needs while providing excellent services. He also acknowledged the various challenges in the aviation industry. One upcoming challenge is managing the departure of Hajj pilgrims from Makkah. The airline has implemented comprehensive procedures and prepared the necessary facilities to ensure a successful summer season and Hajj pilgrimage. SAUDIA relies on its young fleet and dedicated team from Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI) to maintain on-time performance of the aircraft. Earlier this year, SAUDIA Group announced the addition of 25 new international destinations, expanding its network to over 100 destinations. This expansion aims to provide more options for travelers and to connect the world with Saudi Arabia. As part of the …

EGYPTAIR announced that it will operate to Manchester, England, starting from 15th July, in light of its continuous efforts to stimulate tourism and travel, and to upgrade its airline network. The new route represents additional expansion points to EGYPTAIR’s network in Europe and serve new customers of the company around the world. It will operate 5 weekly flights to Manchester, England, starting from July 15, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with its B737-800NG , The outbound flight is at 10:00 am , Cairo time  , Flight No. MS781, arrives at 1:30 pm , Manchester time. EGYPTAIR customers can book their tickets on the two new routes through the EGYPTAIR website, Egyptair.com , EGYPTAIR offices around the world or travel agents.