Rocco Forte Hotels announced that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a significant minority stake in the group. The Forte family will retain majority ownership and control. The arrangement sees the Italian entity CDPE Investimenti (CDPEI) selling its entire stake. PIF’s investment will include an element of primary equity which will accelerate the brand’s expansion in both existing and new global markets, building on the group’s track record of growth and development that includes eight new properties opened or committed in recent years. Sir Rocco Forte will remain Executive Chairman, alongside Olga Polizzi, who will continue as Deputy Chairman. Charles Forte, Lydia Forte and Irene Forte will also continue to hold key roles in the business. Completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval. Sir Rocco Forte, Executive Chairman of Rocco Forte Hotels, said: “PIF is an excellent partner for us going forward. We have established an extremely good relationship during the course of our negotiations. They share the same vision for the brand and the future strategy of the group with the same ambition to take a long-term view. I look forward to working with PIF to expand the group and improve the high level of service we offer our customers. “We thank CDPEI for having shared the past fruitful eight years during which we both successfully accomplished the mission we shared when we started the journey, having significantly enhanced the value of the company and increased the group’s presence in Italy and across Europe.” Turqi Al Nowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments Division at PIF, said: “Our investment in Rocco Forte Hotels reflects PIF’s confidence in both the …
Read More »Copthorne Hotel Dubai wins Best 4 Star Hotel at Arabian Travel Awards 2023
Copthorne Hotel Dubai walked away as the winner of ‘Best 4 Star Hotel’ at Arabian Travel Awards 2023. Shady Dawad – General Manager – Copthorne Hotel Dubai shared, “The Arabian Travel Awards is a fascinating assembly of innovators in the hospitality industry. Being consistently named the Best 4-Star Hotel is an incredible experience. This demonstrates our dedication to providing excellent guest service. The award is a powerful inspiration for us to ignite our zeal and strive for even greater heights in the year 2024.”
Read More »WTTC launches water roadmap for travel and tourism
On the side lines of COP28, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its new ground-breaking report, ‘Water Roadmap for Travel & Tourism’, revealing total water intensity by global Travel & Tourism continues to decrease as the sector continues to grow. Despite being one the fastest growing sectors, accounting for one in 10 jobs globally and contributing 10.4% of global GDP in 2019, Travel & Tourism’s water usage ranged between 3.5% and 5.8% of global available freshwater, in 2021 and 2019 respectively. While this is a lower share than other key sectors, such as agriculture and food, which accounted for 70% of global water usage, there is more work to be done as growing water scarcity has become one of the most pressing challenges for sustainable development. Today, over 2.2 billion people do not have access to safe drinking water, while 4.2 billion do not have access to safe sanitation services. Water is a vital natural resource, sustaining life on earth, making it an essential asset that must be protected. The report highlights that further progress can be made if Travel & Tourism stakeholders take a series of actions, and sustainable water practices are implemented globally. In a collaborative effort, WTTC worked with Accenture and Oxford Economics to leverage their expertise in data analysis, best practices, and proven methodologies, providing a framework to help the global travel and tourism sector set water targets, reduce their water footprint and increase water resilience. The data is a result of to the partnership between WTTC and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center. According to the research, from 2010 to 2019, Asia Pacific, Americas and the Middle East saw their Travel & Tourism …
Read More »Vistara announces Doha as its 50th destination
Vistara announced the addition of Doha (Qatar), its 50th destination, to its growing network. The airline will be operating direct, 4x weekly flights between Mumbai and Doha, starting from 15 December 2023 using its A321neo aircraft. Bookings for the flights are being progressively opened on all channels, including Vistara’s website, mobile app, and through travel agents. Mr. Vinod Kannan, Chief Executive Officer, Vistara said, “We are thrilled to introduce direct flights between Mumbai and Doha – the capital of Qatar and a burgeoning financial hub in the Middle East. Given the city’s growing economic significance, this move not only further solidifies our presence in the Gulf region but also enhances our network offering from our Mumbai hub. We hope that our customers will appreciate having the option of flying with India’s best airline on this route.” Introductory all-inclusive, round-trip fares Sector Economy Premium Economy Business Mumbai – Doha – Mumbai INR 30,599 INR 39,399 INR 111,049 Doha – Mumbai – Doha QAR 1349 QAR 1849 QAR 4699 Schedule of flights to/from Doha effective 15 December 2023 Sector Flight No. Days of Operation Departure Arrival Mumbai – Doha UK 285 Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays 18:45 hrs 20:30 hrs Doha – Mumbai UK 286 Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays 21:45 hrs 4:05 hrs (+1) * All timings shown are in local time zones, exact timings may differ slightly for respective days of operations ** (+1) indicates next-day arrival *** Subject to regulatory approvals Vistara will accept all eligible customers meeting visa/entry requirements in both countries, as specified by the respective government bodies. Vistara strongly encourages its customers to fully understand these guidelines before making their bookings. Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on …
Read More »Dubai launches landmark Dubai Reef project
Dubai in its commitment to sustainable tourism announced the launch of the Dubai Reef project, one of the world’s largest marine reef developments, marking a pioneering step in the journey towards ecological preservation. In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Dubai Reef project will be led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and founding partner, the Regulatory Committee on Fishing of Living Aquatic Resources in Dubai, in cooperation with Dubai Chambers, the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), and Nakheel. The project is part of the city’s efforts to increase fish stocks, support sustainable fishing and contribute to boosting food security. Dubai Reef project will also play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and increasing marine biodiversity. As the city continually strives to achieve the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to strengthen Dubai’s profile as a leading sustainable city, the landmark project is set to further consolidate the emirate’s position as one of the top three global cities. HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted that preserving the environment, safeguarding wildlife and promoting biodiversity stand as core priorities for the UAE, aligned with the strategic initiative to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. His Highness also emphasised that safeguarding the continuity and quality of human life requires a concerted and intensified commitment to launching high-impact projects and championing the adoption of best practices that ensure environmental safety and sustainability for generations to come. “Dubai recognises the critical importance of the environment and is fully committed to its preservation …
Read More »DCT Abu Dhabi launches inaugural Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted its inaugural Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum, a new platform that empowers and connects UAE nationals working across the emirate’s tourism sector. The event saw the participation of DCT Abu Dhabi leadership and over 80 Emirati tourism professionals from across the sector, representing diverse roles such as tour guides, agents, marketers, and managers, among others. The annual forum was incepted to highlight the pivotal role Emiratis play in delivering authentic experiences for visitors, and to facilitate networking and the exchange of invaluable insights about Abu Dhabi’s rapidly growing tourism and hospitality sector. HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “As we continue to grow and elevate Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape, we must ensure our community of Emirati tourism and hospitality ambassadors are given the tools and resources needed to deliver authentic and unforgettable experiences for all. The Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum will amplify the voices of our Emirati talent, while leveraging their unique perspectives to steer and evolve Abu Dhabi’s hospitality industry.” The Emirati Hospitality Ambassadors Forum aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to cultivate a dynamic, diverse and inclusive tourism sector, one that celebrates the rich heritage and warm hospitality that defines Emirati culture.
Read More »Double the fun this holiday season at Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi’s double Winter Wonderland celebrations
There’s ‘snow’ better place to experience the holiday season than Ski Dubai, which will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland for the festive period (01-25 December). What’s more, Snow Abu Dhabi will also launch the first edition of Winter Wonderland, so guests in Dubai and Abu Dhabi can enjoy a bumper line-up of family-friendly activities surrounded by real snow! Santa Claus is coming to town and guests will have the chance to meet the man himself and his merry elves at Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi from 01-25 December. Beat the holiday rush and take the express lane to meet Santa Claus in his grotto! Enjoy 25% off* the Meet Santa package (AED 120* instead of AED 150) when you book online from 13-30 November, exclusively for 04-08 December slots only. This package includes a surprise gift made by Santa’s elves, signature hot chocolate, fleece gloves, and a printed photo to capture the picture-perfect moment. Standard package rates apply from 01 December onwards. Experience Winter Wonderland – the Santa-approved way! The Snow Park & Meet Santa package (AED 295*) includes a special meet-and-greet and printed photo with Santa Claus, a surprise gift made by Santa’s elves, signature hot chocolate, fleece gloves, and one-time access to the Snow Park. Enjoy unlimited Snow Park rides including Zorb Ball, Bobsled, Tubing Run, Bumper Cars, and Climbing Wall at Ski Dubai or choose from over 20 Enchanted Forest-themed rides at Snow Abu Dhabi. Experience the joy of the holiday season with your loved ones with the Family Meets Santa package (AED 450* in Snow Abu Dhabi and AED 550* in Ski Dubai), which includes four tickets to a special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, …
Read More »McArthurGlen Designer Outlets Honors Top Trade Partners in the Middle East
McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, a global leader in luxury outlet shopping, proudly acknowledged its top trade partners in the region for their exceptional contribution at the McArthurGlen Tourism Awards held on the 29th of November 2023 at Park Hyatt Dubai – Creek Resort hotel. This recognition is part of McArthurGlen’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships that have played a pivotal role in achieving remarkable success and record-breaking numbers throughout the year. Selected esteemed trade partners were presented with Certificates of Appreciation and McArthurGlen Tourism award trophies in highlighting their outstanding dedication to promoting the brand in the region. “We are thrilled to express our gratitude to our invaluable trade partners who have been instrumental in our success story in the Middle East. Their commitment, creativity, and collaborative spirit have significantly contributed to McArthurGlen’s strong presence and growth in the region,” said Matthias Sinner, Head of Tourism, McArthurGlen Group. The awards ceremony brought together industry leaders, partners, and stakeholders for an evening of celebration, recognition, and camaraderie. McArthurGlen Designer Outlets continues to set the standard for luxury outlet shopping worldwide, and these awards underscore the brand’s appreciation for the collaborative efforts that have contributed to its success in the Middle East.
Read More »McArthurGlen awards its partners
McArthurGlen awarded its partners at a special event to mark their successful presence in the Middle East. There were two segments in terms of awards, McArthurGlen awarded certificate of appreciation to selected agents who had been instrumental over the year in securing partnerships. McArthurGlen also recognised the best performers for the year by presenting them with the Tourism Award Trophies. Starting off the event San Jeet CEO Buzz Travel Marketing welcomed all the winners for their exceptional commitment in contributing to the success of the brand. Head of Tourism Matthias Sinner, in his speech reiterated that Middle East has become the most lucrative market for them and thanked every partner present in the room for their continued support and commitment to contributing to the numbers of the brand and ensuring the brand presence. International Markets Manager Sabina Piacenti, thanked the partners for their presence and valuable commitment in making sure that McArthurGlen becomes a name synonymous among all travellers from the region. Best Partner of the Year was won by Konooz Travel – Saudi Arabia, Best Online Travel Agent of the Year 2023 was Rezlive, Best Itinerary design of the Year 2023 GCC was won by Al Rais Travel – Dubai and Al Naboodah – Dubai, Best Marketing partner of the year went out to Al Shamsi Travel – and Travel Point – Oman, Rising Star Agency of the Year 2023 – GCC was won by Bravo Travel. Some of the other partners appreciated with certificates were Austrian National Tourist Office, Atout France, Wego, Uranus Travel, Cozmo Travel, Travco Travel, TravTips Travel & Tourism LLC, Al Rayah Travel, Deira Travel.
Read More »ATM 2024 will showcase the latest trends in luxury travel, value of the global luxury travel sector stood at an estimated $1.28 trillion in 2022
The value of the global luxury travel sector stood at an estimated $1.28 trillion in 2022, according to figures from Grand View Research. The market is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% during the period 2023-30. This upward trend is reflected in the Middle East, where the majority of respondents from both the UAE (74%) and KSA (69%) told researchers from Marriott Bonvoy that they were planning to spend more on their vacations in 2023 compared to previous years. High-spending travellers are willing to pay extra for experiences that do not detrimentally impact the communities or ecosystems in which they are located, according to YouGov’s Global travel & tourism whitepaper 2023: Luxury travel post-pandemic. More than three-fifths (61%) of UAE residents say they are willing to pay a premium for responsible, eco-friendly and sustainable tourism experiences, demonstrating that consumers no longer see the luxury segment as being limited to indulgence. With brands such as Kerzner International’s Atlantis The Palm, Mandarin Oriental Dubai (BVI) Limited, Jumeirah International LLC, Air Charter Service, Hyatt International, Mayfair Jets, Minor Hotel Group, Nirvana Holding, The Leading Hotels of the World and Desert Gate Tourism having already confirmed their attendance, ATM 2024 will welcome a diverse selection of luxury travel exhibitors from across the Middle East and beyond. The exhibition will provide an ideal forum for attendees from every corner of the globe to explore the shifting landscape of luxury travel, including future trends and innovations, entrepreneurial drivers and opportunities for growth. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, said: “By incorporating luxury travel as a sub-theme at ATM 2024, we are aligning our event with the future of travel. This …
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