ENVI Lodges has partnered with Oman’s Ministry of Defence Pension Fund to develop a sustainable mountain lodge in the heart of Al Jabel Al Akhdar. Marking ENVI’s foray in the Sultanate, the ecolodge will provide a unique mountain stay experience while promoting environmental conservation, a brand proposition aligned to the Oman National Tourism Strategy 2040 target of 11.7 million visitors and 80,000 hospitality keys focused on nature, adventure and sustainable initiatives. The Ministry of Defence Pension Fund’s representative said: “Partnering with ENVI Lodges to open the first ecolodge of its kind in Oman, is a strategic move that contributes to the responsible development of the Sultanate’s tourism industry. The lodge will appeal to the growing number of travellers seeking eco-friendly accommodation and authentic destination experiences, reinforcing Oman’s reputation as hotspot for nature and adventure.” When it opens in 2025, ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar will feature 40 luxury expedition tents designed by Tenthouse Structure, a renowned South African architect of tented wilderness developments. Each unit will overlook the Hajar mountain range and offer guests an elevated adventure experience while minimising environmental impact. These precision-engineered, hand-crafted tents will be insulated and include a heating system for the winter season, ideal for Al Jabel Al Akhdar, which sits at 2,000 metres above sea level. Facilities will include a farm-to-table restaurant, some private pools, fitness and wellness centre, library, guest arrival area, an Insta-worthy swimming pool, a kids club, and kitchen garden, while an adjacent events space will host community activities such as markets and food trucks. The lodge will offer guests the chance to explore nearby villages, interact with local farmers and hike to discover the hidden treasures the famous Omani mountain …

Travelport and Air India announced that they have extended and expanded their multi-year distribution agreement to include New Distribution Capability (NDC) content and servicing. The agreement further expands the collaboration between Travelport and Air India, confirming the future delivery of a complete NDC solution which will provide Travelport’s global network of travel agencies the ability to easily search, shop and service Air India’s product offerings. “Our valued partnership with Travelport is an important part of our growth and technology strategy as we prepare to deliver a complete solution that makes it easy for agents to access and service Air India’s content and offers,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial and Transformation Officer at Air India. “Travelport+ will elevate our technology investment and the future roll out of NDC-sourced content, so that together, we can ensure agents and travellers have a seamless, modern retailing experience.” Travelport and Air India remain committed to providing travel agencies worldwide with more choices and a fast, easy way to search and book the best options that meet travellers’ needs. This renewed agreement between Travelport and Air India ensures that Travelport subscribers continue to have simplified access to Air India’s extensive network of destinations, which will continue to expand and evolve. “Our expanded agreement with Air India positions Travelport and our operator partner ITQ to continue driving modern travel retailing as the leading travel technology partner of choice for travel agencies in India,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Airline Partners at Travelport. “As part of Air India’s future technology strategy, our collaboration on NDC will be complemented by the superior retailing and merchandizing solutions available in Travelport+, which ultimately make it easier for agents to operate …

It was announced that the Qatari government has appointed a new chairman for its tourism arm. HE Saad bin Ali bin Saad Al Kharji has been officially appointed as the new Chairman of Qatar Tourism.  According to QNA,  HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani issued the Amiri Decision No. 85 of 2023, appointing HE Saad bin Ali bin Saad Al Kharji as Chairman of Qatar Tourism. More details to be revealed soon.

With Germany as a prime destination for GCC tourists, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) is set to further captivate the Gulf region with its compelling roadshow. From October 29 to November 2, the GNTO, along with nine esteemed partners, will embark on a journey across major Gulf cities, including Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait City, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, strengthening ties, and sharing insights with local tourism professionals and media partners. Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing & Sales Office Gulf Countries at the German National Tourist Office (GNTO), elaborated on the roadshow’s goals: “Our aim is not only to introduce Germany to the local travel trade, but also to diversify our campaign offerings and share valuable knowledge with market experts.” Ongoing campaigns such as Simply Feel Good, Historic.Modern.Germany, and Embrace German Nature will take centre stage on the roadshow, aligning their various unique offerings with the Gulf market’s desires. Key stakeholders will convey essential messages to the audience. Participating in the roadshow are two prominent local tourism offices: visitBerlin and the Munich Tourist Office, spotlighting among other things next summer’s UEFA European Championship and the growing recognition as a medical tourism capital. Outletcity Metzingen, Europe’s largest retail outlet and renowned for hosting 170 premium and luxury brands, will make significant announcements at the roadshow. The recently inaugurated Eventspace in the historic BOSS factory building will also be unveiled, adding to the excitement. Under the theme “Luxury Reinterpreted for You”, the Hommage Luxury Hotels Collections will present its properties tailored for GCC guests. Steigenberger Hotels offer a diverse range of stays – from historic residences to serene retreats – and will showcase their rich heritage and modern amenities. The Meiser Design Hotel meanwhile …

Red Sea Global (RSG) revealed Thuwal Private Retreat, an exclusive, buy-out only island destination set to welcome guests next year. Located on a pristine 1.7-hectare sandy islet in a spectacular coral archipelago on the Red Sea coast, the intimate destination offers stunning natural beauty complemented by discreet architecture, offering ultimate luxury in complete privacy. The island resort boasts a spacious main three-bedroom villa, three one-bedroom suites, a beach club, gym and wellness center. The curated travel experience begins as soon as guests arrive, entering via a private jetty to be greeted by the guest experience team at a stunning welcome center. “Thuwal Private Retreat has been created to allow guests the chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and instead reconnect with their closest companions. Our belief is that the sublime Red Sea coast combined with tailored luxury experiences will deliver a peerless escape for the most discerning travelers,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. The creation of Thuwal Private Retreat represents a new phase for Red Sea Global, with the destination sitting separately to The Red Sea and Amaala, and as a wholly RSG-owned brand. There are no third-party hospitality or hotel operators involved for the first time in RSG’s development history. “This is a milestone for us personally. It is the latest project we can reveal since we announced our expanded portfolio of projects last year and it is significantly advanced in terms of delivery. It is also the first time we are creating a destination owned and operated end-to-end by the expert team here at Red Sea Global, from development and planning to accommodation and guest services,” added Mr. Pagano. In line …

The First Group partners with Charge&Go marking a significant milestone in sustainability, The Group will be installing Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at its six hotels, making it Dubai’s first hospitality company to embrace this forward-looking practice for the environment. Underpinned by a resolute dedication to environmental protection and guest comfort, the initiative solidifies The First Group hotels’ position as a premier destination for sustainable hospitality. By adopting eco-conscious measures, the Group caters to the growing desires of environmentally aware travellers. More than just a convenience, this endeavour underscores the brand’s pledge to a greener planet, further enhancing its reputation as an industry leader in responsible hospitality in a competitive market. The EV charging stations will be located across six of the brand’s properties – The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, The First Collection Business Bay, Tryp by Wyndham Dubai, Wyndham Dubai Marina, Citadines Metro Central Dubai, and Grand Heights. Muammar Nasir Al Rukhaimi, CEO, Etisalat Services Holding (ESH), subsidiary of e& said: “This partnership demonstrates our dedication to ‘Charge&Go’ and our support for electric mobility in UAE. We are committed to leading the conversations on sustainability and exploring the limitless possibilities with technology. Today, innovation goes beyond ground-breaking products and solutions; it also involves making choices that benefit the environment and generations that will inherit this planet from us.” “We take great pride in this significant milestone alongside our valued partner, Charge&Go as it exemplifies our commitment to sustainability within the dynamic realm of hospitality. As the UAE steers towards a sustainable economy, we acknowledge our key role as a partner in shaping an environmentally conscious future. This initiative underscores our commitment to being catalysts of positive change …

The legacy continues at Akbar Travel with Ashiya Nazar spearheading GCC operations. Ashiya holds a degree in Business Management, gained experience in various aspects of the travel industry at a young age while working with her father K V Abdul Nazar (Chairman of Akbar Group International). Following in his footsteps, she is currently involved in all levels of the business to ensure its continued success. She is a highly innovative, dedicated, enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable, responsible, and hard-working individual actively developing Akbar Travels’ GCC business to continue its legacy.

A seasoned professional in setting up successful business units in travel/airline industry, Saleem Shariff has established a name in the industry. Currently associated with ATS Travel as Deputy Managing Director, he has been successful in developing various new and innovative B2B platforms. Shariff has been focusing on some of the key markets in the Middle East, Europe and Asia to take travel to the next level, introducing digitalisation and sustainability. One of the key areas most passionate for him is sustainability, where the office environment has become a role model as they have become a paperless business concentrating more on digitalisation.      

An international award-winning hotelier with over 38 years’ experience, Mohamed Awadalla CEO & Co-Founder of TIME Hotels has been one of the key leaders in the industry across the Middle East. An entrepreneur with a vision who took the lead to drive overall success of TIME management, increasing future development, drive commercial success and the effectiveness of positioning TIME brand to be a Middle East success story. Working with some of the leading global hospitality companies including Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Worldwide, Rotana Hotels and now he is leading TIME Hotels Management L.L.C where he was one of the founding members. Being part of the initial management team of TIME Hotels, Awadalla started as the Area Vice President. In 2012, he moved to the position of CEO with overall responsibility for the company’s 17 hotels, apartments and residence with a remit to spearhead the future development, drive the commercial success of TIME’s rapidly expanding portfolio of Middle East, and Northern Africa based properties.  

Fahad Kanoo is a highly accomplished and dynamic individual who is the 5th generation member of the renowned Kanoo family. After completing his studies, he honed his skills in a competitive environment away from the family business. He later joined the senior management team of The Kanoo Group in Dubai, where he quickly established himself as a key player and served on several boards within the company. Fahad holds several executive positions within The Kanoo Group, including the President of Kanoo Shipping & Logistics, the Vice President for Kanoo Travel, and the CEO of The Kanoo Group – UAE & Oman. He is responsible for overseeing the UAE & Oman regions and has played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success. In addition to his professional achievements, Fahad is a graduate of the prestigious INSEAD Business School, where he received an Executive EMBA in December 2017. He is known for his active personality and has a keen interest in football, paddle-tennis, cars, and travel.