IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the addition of InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa to its portfolio of resorts in KSA, and debuting its first urban luxury resort and spa in Riyadh. After a 45 million SAR refurbishment, the stunning property is now the first InterContinental Resort in Riyadh, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle collection. Located at the northern gate of Riyadh, the resort resides on 154,000 sqm of a lush green oasis with a lagoon and exclusive cascades for guests to unwind and relax. The resort offers 162 extensive guestrooms, suites and stately private villas each with a private outdoor swimming pool, six dining outlets and exclusive Club InterContinental privileges and lounge access. “Durrat al Riyadh’s heritage as a place to escape to has been reimagined with an array of ways to unwind, celebrate and retreat. We look forward to welcome our guests from both near and far to experience the resort and our service,” says General Manager Marc Reissinger. “InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa will set the tone for unbounded adventure in the area, marrying deep knowledge of the destination with an understanding of what luxury means to the discerning modern-day traveller.” Award-winning interior design studio Kristina Zanic Consultants was appointed for the refurbishment of the property, including all rooms, suites, villas, dining venues, and public areas. The new interior scheme creates a vibrant resort ambiance that reflects the oasis-like setting, while also referencing the property’s Arabian architecture and the local heritage in a contemporary way. The design adds layers of warm tones, natural materials, textured finishes, and organic patterns – creating an inviting desert retreat away from the urban bustle.

The Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia  announced an extraordinary achievement in the country’s tourism sector. In the first quarter of 2023, Saudi Arabia witnessed a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a deficit of USD 427 million in Q1 2022 to an impressive surplus of USD 6.1 billion during the same period this year. This momentous shift is underpinned by the phenomenal growth in incoming tourism revenues, which have surged by an astounding 225% compared to the first quarter of 2022, reaching a staggering USD 9.8 billion. This data, reported by the Saudi Central Bank, showcases the Ministry of Tourism’s unwavering commitment to not only revitalizing the tourism sector but also harnessing its pivotal role in advancing the national economy. His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, underscored the significance of this accomplishment, stating, “These achievements are a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to creating a world-class tourism sector. In the past year, Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has witnessed a paradigm shift driven by new regulations, increased connectivity, ease of accessibility, and a greater focus on partnerships. Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a key global destination for tourists and investors, powered by a skilled and ambitious workforce. The Kingdom is shaping the future of tourism, one that is sustainable, full of opportunity, and connects communities, countries, and cultures.” In recent times, Saudi Arabia has achieved several notable milestones in the tourism industry. The country ascended an impressive 16 places in the international tourism revenue index, ranking 11th globally in 2022. This marked a significant leap from its 27th position in 2019. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia continued to excel internationally, welcoming approximately 7.8 million tourists in the first quarter of …

RezLive.com announced the launch of its new and enhanced version, designed to provide travel agents with a more refreshing and convenient platform for their business needs. The upgraded features and user-friendly interface aim to streamline the booking process, empower travel agents, and elevate the overall booking experience. RezLive.com has always been committed to delivering exceptional travel solutions, and the new version is a testament to the company’s dedication to continuous improvement. The latest upgrades leverage cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the travel industry’s B2B segment, ensuring travel agents have access to the most advanced tools and a seamless user experience. One of the key enhancements of the new B2B version is its refreshing and intuitive interface. The platform has undergone a complete redesign, featuring a modern and sleek look that captivates users from the moment they log in. The clean and user-friendly layout allows travel agents to navigate effortlessly and access a comprehensive range of travel services and products. Furthermore, RezLive.com’s new version offers a highly convenient booking process that saves time and simplifies operations for travel agents. With the introduction of a simplified search and booking system, agents can quickly find the best deals tailored to their clients’ needs. The upgraded interface is optimized for speed and responsiveness, ensuring efficient browsing and enabling agents to complete bookings with ease. “We are excited to launch the new version of RezLive.com, which signifies a major milestone for our company,” said Jaal Shah, Group Managing Director at RezLive.com. “Our goal is to empower travel agents with a refreshing and convenient platform that enables them to provide seamless travel experiences for their clients. With the new version, we are confident that travel agents will …

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the completion of the revamping of four traditional abras stations along Dubai Creek. The project aimed to enhance the experience of abra riders, and step-up security & safety at marine transport stations used by 14 million riders annually. The project also aimed to fulfil the requirements of the Dubai Universal Design Code for People of Determination and increase the capacity of Bur Dubai Station by 33%. “The launch of this project is part of RTA’s master plan for overhauling marine transport systems in Dubai, which is recognised as a primary mobility mode, and enriching the marine transport network in the emirate. The plan envisages the development of four key stations: Bur Dubai Model Station, Deira Old Souq Station, Dubai Old Souq Station, and Sabkha Station,” explained Al Tayer. “Marine transport has seen consistent growth in terms of the transportation modes, stations, and riders since the inauguration of the Dubai Water Canal linking the Dubai Creek to the coastal area,. The sector is poised to see further improvement with the completion of the urban and touristic amenities on the shores of the canal as well as the construction of marine stations. It plans to make marine transport means the ideal mobility choice for citizens, residents and tourists savouring picturesque tourist and urban structures overlooking the Dubai Creek, Water Canal and beaches. “The revamping of Bur Dubai model station took into consideration maintaining the historic and cultural identity, providing advanced amenities for users, building a sheltered outdoor space, offering retail outlets to serve abra riders and visitors, and upgrading the technological …

Wego’s statistics show a substantial surge in bookings from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait to Britain during the campaign, up 25% from January to June, compared to the same period last year. Additionally, passenger numbers traveling to Great Britain through Wego are up 27% during the same timeframe. There was also a 78% rise in Wego’s searches from Riyadh to Newcastle and a 63% increase in searches to Manchester. The multi-media advertising partnership campaign ‘Spilling the Tea on Great Britain’, which ran between January to June 2023, used a play on Britain’s love of tea, inviting visitors to ‘See Things Differently’. The campaign promoted Britain’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking coastlines and landscapes, as well as its dynamic cities and destinations including London, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Manchester. Wego VP of Brand Marketing and social media, Roxana Nicolescu said: “We are absolutely delighted with the campaign growth figures that our partnership with VisitBritain has achieved. This collaboration signifies our joint commitment to showcasing the unparalleled beauty and experiences that Britain has to offer. The impressive growth in engagement and bookings affirms the impact of our collective efforts in igniting wanderlust and facilitating seamless travel experiences.” VisitBritain Head of Partnerships, APMEA, Jennifer Huntley said: “Our partnership with Wego has been instrumental in promoting Britain’s diverse travel experiences across the nations and regions to a global audience. The impressive growth figures from our partnership are also testament to the allure of Britain as a destination and the power of collaboration in driving tourism growth.” In an initiative to facilitate traveling for GCC nationals, the UK Government is set to launch a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme commencing in October, starting with Qatar. …

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) entered a new, far-reaching and long-term strategic partnership with Red Sea Global (RSG) to develop and expand Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism landscape and boost the Kingdom’s status as one of the world’s most in-demand locations for tourists and investors. Signed at a meeting between Amr AlMadani, the CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla, and John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, the Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) agreement will act as a catalyst for the continued growth and expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, allowing each project to transfer knowledge, expertise, best practices, innovative ideas, and solutions as they drive ahead with their shared goal of meeting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aspirations. As two of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects – located just 350 km apart – the ongoing regeneration of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region has many attributes in common with AlUla, each facing and overcoming a variety of unique challenges as they progress with comprehensive development strategies. The new partnership, which will function on a national and global scale, will fuel the growth of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification allowing each destination to achieve its full potential while benefiting local communities and stakeholders alike. As the core developer of Saudi Arabia’s stunning Red Sea region, RSG is spearheading a new model of regeneration that is helping to reimagine the sustainable luxury tourism industry by merging the vast coastal area’s rich environmental biodiversity and cultural heritage with unrivalled amenities and hospitality services. Now established as a must-visit destination for holidaymakers seeking high-end accommodation and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences within an incredible natural landscape, AlUla is one of the world’s most diverse and immersive …

This year’s edition of Medlab Middle East hit a record-breaking AED1.9 billion of deals secured during the four-day laboratory showcase. Following this success, the 2024 edition is expected to welcome more than 30,000 visitors and 900 exhibitors, a 20% increase in exhibitor numbers compared to last year. Medlab Middle East will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 5-8 February 2024 with a host of new features, including a new zone, Next Gen Medicine, which will focus on the transformative potential of early disease detection and preventive medicine. Tom Coleman, Group Exhibition Director, Informa Markets Healthcare, said: “The laboratory sector stands as the bedrock of innovation and progress in the modern world. As we navigate an era marked by unprecedented challenges and opportunities, the role of laboratories has become more pivotal than ever before. “As a result, laboratory technology has evolved at an astonishing pace. From genomics to materials science and from pharmaceuticals to renewable energy, laboratories are at the centre of delivering game-changing innovations and pushing boundaries thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated scientists, researchers, and technicians. “Medlab Middle East provides the ideal platform for not only securing business deals but also for showcasing the industry’s contribution to economic growth, developing healthcare advancements and developing environmental sustainability. We are committed to fostering excellence, driving innovation, improving lives, and building a brighter future for all.” As part of Medlab Middle East’s commitment to innovation, a new zone and conference, Next Gen Medicine, will be added to the show floor this year. In partnership with Express Med Diagnostics and Research and occupying 1,500 sqm of exhibition space with 100 exhibitors, over 1,000 delegates are expected to attend, where topics …

IFEMA MADRID is launching a new project to increase its commitment to cultural and leisure events in the capital. The latest innovation is Fiesta Flamenca by IFEMA MADRID Live, a selection of prestigious flamenco shows scheduled to coincide with major trade events. The shows will be an ideal opportunity for visitors, exhibitors, and the general public to enhance their stays in Madrid and enjoy a gastronomy featuring high-quality Spanish products. The new project is provided by SO-LA-NA Entertainment, the world’s leading producer of flamenco events, which has been organising international flamenco projects as a cross-cutting area since 2011, supporting international appreciation of Spanish dance, art and culture. The company has succeeded with international projects such as Las Minas Puerto Flamenco, Faro, Summer Flamenco Experience, and the prestigious Flamenco Real cycle, with more than 400 shows at the Teatro Real in Madrid since 2018, and since 2022, it has been working internationally. The producer became a world leader with Authentic Flamenco, with three simultaneous international tours co-produced with the Teatro Real and Fever, taking flamenco to 15 countries in America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Oceania, with more than 450 performances to great public acclaim. Fiesta Flamenca will premiere at IFEMA MADRID Live within the framework of Fruit Attraction 2023, a flagship, extremely international fair that will bring together more than 1,800 companies from 47 countries, including the institution’s most important and most international fairs and more than 89,000 trade professionals from all corners of the earth. The show “Origin” will premiere on 3, 4, and 5 October, a show starring one of the world’s best dancers or “bailaores” – Eduardo Guerrero – accompanied by a cast of seven prestigious …

BBN Airlines Indonesia, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, that specialises in the provision of ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance & Insurance), air charter, and air freight services is the latest addition to Indonesia’s aviation industry. ACMI is considered relatively new in Indonesia, and there are very few service providers. With this expertise in hand, BBN Airlines Indonesia is expected to give an extra boost to support the ever-growing aviation needs in Indonesia. For the three services above, BBN Airlines Indonesia was awarded an Airline Operator Certificate issued by the Directorate of Airworthiness and Aircraft Operations of the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia on August 31st, 2023. The AOC was issued to BBN Airlines Indonesia upon successfully completing five stages of Pre-Application, Formal Application, Document Compliance, Demonstration and Inspection, and Certification; all of which complied with ICAO regulations and applicable aviation laws in Indonesia. By completing all certification stages, BBN Airlines Indonesia was declared qualified after having fully met all technical and safety requirements to be granted an AOC, and therefore can immediately conduct commercial flights. “The AOC is a testament to our serious commitment and readiness to support Indonesia’s aviation needs, in all sectors from airlines, tour operators, and cargo, to logistics. We have witnessed a high demand for aircraft provision, especially during high seasons such as Umrah, Haj, Eid, and other special holidays that result in a large surge in goods distribution, and we have conducted thorough research on that. This is why we are confident that this is an excellent opportunity for us to be able to give much-needed support to the airline, logistics, and tour operator companies so that, in return, they can give …

UNWTO will be celebrating World Tourism Day under the theme Tourism and Green Investments from 27th to 28th September in Riyadh Saudi Arabia with its call to action to the international community, governments, multilateral financial institutions, development partners and private sector investors to unite around a new tourism investment strategy. UNWTO has identified investments as one of the key priorities for tourism’s recovery and future growth and development. For World Tourism Day 2023, UNWTO highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, for planet and for prosperity. Now is the time for new and innovative solutions, not just traditional investments that promote and underpin economic growth and productivity. Investing in People: Prioritizing Education and Upscaling Skills “Education is a fundamental human right. It’s the bedrock of societies, economies, and every person’s potential. But without adequate investment, this potential will wither on the vine” – Secretary-General of the UN, on the occasion of the International day of Education (2023). The crisis has revealed the need to rethink the structure of tourism economies to improve competitiveness and build resilience and accelerate the implementation of SDG 4 (quality education). To that end, the sector should invest in education and skills development, including for women, in all areas to promote added value jobs and resilience. We cannot build a more sustainable tourism without the right talent. Tourism is one of the world’s leading employers. In 2019, the sector employed one in 10 people worldwide and has proven to be a tool for economic diversification and a major employment engine with a multiplier effect on other sectors that contribute to rural development. Furthermore, tourism in rural areas can particularly benefit traditionally disadvantaged groups …