Sustainable and regenerative tourism was in the spotlight on the second day of World Travel Market London, along with other key issues such as diversity and digital marketing. Speakers at WTM London’s first Regenerative Tourism Summit said the travel and tourism sector needs to see a “paradigm shift”. Tina O’Dwyer, WTM London’s Sustainability Advisor, asked delegates: “Are we brave enough to leave behind a paradigm that has worked well for us in the past?” Anna Pollock, Founder of Conscious Travel, highlighted warnings from the World Trade Organisation of a “polycrisis” – a cluster of global risks, including the climate crisis, adding: “Sustainability is not enough.” Other speakers showcased how regenerative tourism is helping revive and support destinations, including peat bogs in Ireland, Loch Ness, Majorca and Flanders. Sustainability was also a major theme for the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO). Andreas Fiorentinos, GNTO Secretary General, said the country is poised for another record setting year in 2024, with projected arrivals reaching approximately 35 million tourists, and total revenue expected to rise by 10% to about €22 billion – “driven by a robust increase in international arrivals and a growing emphasis on sustainability”. He pointed to developments such as an eco-islands initiative in the Aegean and investment in other sectors such as mountain tourism, hiking trails and ski resorts to help spread tourist arrivals across the seasons. Developing accessible tourism facilities and activities “makes business sense”, delegates heard at the WTM diversity, equality, accessibility, inclusion and intersectionality (DEAI) summit. Ryan Smith, the founder of The Access Agency, said investing in the accessible sector can generate $13 for every dollar spent. He said the public and private sectors are developing more facilities …

According to the latest WTM Global Travel Report, travellers are actively starting to avoid destinations which are exposed to extreme weather. The report, in association with Tourism Economics, found that 29% of travellers from key global markets have avoided visiting a destination in past 12 months due to concerns about inclement or extreme weather. Gen Z – travellers aged between 18 and 34 – are more likely than the average to avoid destinations exposed to extreme weather, with more than two in five (43%) admitting to reconsidering where to go. Extreme weather – such as wildfires, flooding, unusually high temperatures – is widely accepted to be a direct result of man-made climate change. Evidence is emerging that extreme weather events will become more prevalent and widespread as the climate continues to warm. The report references an MIT study which introduced the concept of “outdoor days” as a way to measure the impact of climate change through to 2100. Outdoor days are defined as days on which outdoor activities can be undertaken in comfort. The WTM study pulled out the data for some popular destinations and found that Thailand, for example, will have 55 fewer outdoor days. In contrast, Canada will have 23 more. Tourism Economics data in the report shows that only a slight majority (53%) of travellers say that they attempt to minimise their carbon footprint when travelling. At the same time, nearly two in three (65%) of travellers acknowledge that travel has a negative impact on the environment. That disconnect can be closed by travel sellers helping travellers to make climate-friendly and sustainable choices. Booking.com figures from 2023 are quoted, which showed that 74% of travellers want more …

Rotana announced plans to open Bloom Arjaan by Rotana on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, and Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), in 2025. The latter will contribute to Rotana’s goal of tripling its current key count in the Kingdom to 6,000 over the next three years. In addition, work is also underway on another six Edge by Rotana properties in the MENAT region. Launched as a new brand in 2022, Rotana currently operates seven Edge by Rotana properties in the UAE and KSA, with plans on track to reach a target of operating 30 Edge by Rotana properties across the region by 2027. Rotana unveils its ambitious regional and international expansion plans at the World Travel Market (WTM) London. Driving the group’s global expansion is the development of 43 new properties in 24 cities in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Türkiye. The new properties will add 9,049 rooms to Rotana’s inventory, taking its total keys to 30,301 globally. Commenting on Rotana’s expansion plans, Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana, said: “Rotana’s ambitious development plans underscore our commitment to expediting growth in the sector and developing offerings to suit ever-changing customer demand. Drawing on our rich heritage, we look forward to welcoming more guests to Rotana properties across the globe soon to experience our signature hospitality offering and enjoy moments of treasured times.”  

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) announced its new partnership with Chapter Zero Egypt, a collaboration poised to transform the hospitality industry’s approach to sustainability and propel the concept of Net Positive Hospitality throughout the region and beyond. Chapter Zero Egypt is a vital member of the global Climate Governance Initiative, working alongside the World Economic Forum to equip boards with the necessary skills, tools, and processes to meet their fiduciary responsibilities in the face of climate change. This initiative aims to enhance climate governance across organizations, providing engagement opportunities to develop essential knowledge and practices. The partnership, signed during the Annual Conference of Chapter Zero Egypt, marks a significant step in the Alliance’s ongoing mission to advance sustainability within Egypt’s hospitality sector. Through collaboration with Chapter Zero Egypt, the Alliance aims to: • Enhance Awareness: Develop comprehensive educational programs focused on the importance of sustainability and best practices within the hospitality industry. • Mobilise Expertise: Engage leaders from various industries to lend their expertise in the practical implementation of sustainable practices. • Facilitate Dialogue: Organise roundtables to share insights, recommendations, and tackle pressing sustainability challenges. • Access Financial Solutions: Offer pathways to secure funding for sustainability projects in the sector. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are delighted to partner with Chapter Zero – Egypt to share our knowledge and expertise in addressing sustainability challenges within the sector. This groundbreaking partnership will foster collaboration throughout Egypt’s hospitality industry and strengthen our commitment to sustainability and climate governance.” Ayman Salah, Founder & Executive Director of CHAPTER ZERO EGYPT highlighted the importance of cooperating with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will be the official destination partner for the Air Expo 2024, set to take place from 19-21 November at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), underscoring the emirate’s prominence as a key facilitator of diverse, high-level MICE events in the region. Abu Dhabi Air Expo is one of the most successful aviation exhibitions within the region. Alternating with Dubai Airshow, the exhibition is designed for professionals and offers visitors a wide and representative range of the ever-growing aviation industry. Air Expo 2024 will bring together over 20,000 aviation professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from around the globe, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and advancements in the dynamic aviation and aerospace sectors. It will also feature keynote addresses from thought leaders, and a special focus on the future of aviation through the Advanced Air Mobility segment, which explores the latest innovations in urban air transport, drone technologies, and sustainable aviation solutions. Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau ADCEB, said: “We are proud to partner with Air Expo 2024, offering a premier platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and development in this exciting sector. As we welcome enthusiasts and experts from around the globe, we aim for the event to further showcase Abu Dhabi’s unmatched destination offering and its vast potential as a world-class host for large-scale MICE events, delivering success and value for all involved.” As the Official Destination Partner, DCT Abu Dhabi will strengthen collaborations with key partners while advancing the emirate’s status as a global destination for business events, tourism, and investment. Through its partnership with Air Expo 2024, DCT Abu Dhabi will showcase …

Oman Air is expanding its Moscow service for the winter, enhancing connectivity between Muscat and the Russian capital. The expansion is among several enhancements to Oman Air’s winter schedule as it continues to cater to its guests’ travel preferences, while offering more choice and convenience, whether for business or leisure. From 1 December with five weekly flights and to six weekly flights from 25 December to 29 March 2025. Outbound flights will depart from Muscat at 15:25 and arrive in Moscow at 21:00, while return flights will depart from Moscow at 22:20 and arrive in Muscat at 05:40. “We are excited to offer greater flexibility and connectivity with increased flights to Moscow, a key destination on our winter schedule. The route will now be served by our B737 aircraft, an adjustment which both allows us to effectively and sustainably expand our services, while navigating constraints in relation to the operational environment,” said Mike Rutter, Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer. “We continue to look into increasing capacity across our network to cater to seasonal demand, underscoring our commitment to providing enhanced travel choices and a superior travel experience for our guests.” With historic landmarks, festive events and a huge variety of snow-based activities, Moscow is the ultimate winter destination. Guests can choose to fly in either Business and Economy Class, enjoying spacious seats, world class dining, and warm, attentive service. Guests travelling to Moscow should ensure they are aware of official requirements to enter or transit through the country. Flights can be booked through Oman Air’s website, mobile app, or preferred travel agents. For more information, please visit www.omanair.com

Emirates touched down in the Scottish capital for the first time since 2020. Edinburgh is Emirates’ eighth destination in the UK. The daily service will complement the airline’s current A380 daily flight to Glasgow – offering customers 14 weekly flights to/from the country. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “The UK is one of our most important markets, and we’re proud to reinstate our footprint in Scotland – a country that’s loved by visitors from around the world. Scottish customers can look forward to an elevated travel experience onboard, initially with our Boeing 777 ahead of our highly anticipated A350 arrival. With 14 weekly flights to and from the country – passengers can now easily connect to popular long-haul destinations such as Thailand, Australia, and of course, the vibrant city of Dubai.The Emirates Boeing 777 was welcomed by the celebrated Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, captivating passengers with an extraordinary display of musical prowess on the ground. The ample cargo capacity will also help support more industries across Scotland – offering more efficient and reliable transport solutions for businesses across the region to access international markets more quickly to meet demand. We’re excited to be back in Scotland’s capital and look forward to welcoming our passengers back onboard.” Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Emirates back to Edinburgh to resume that direct connection between Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s most sought out destinations in Dubai. Direct connectivity to Dubai is something that will be welcomed by both business and leisure passengers, while the onward connections through the vast Emirates network also opens up a plethora of opportunities for …

WTM London and its Global Travel Partner the Saudi Tourism Authority both hailed the economic and cultural importance of the sector as the event opened its doors on 5 November. Speaking at the WTM Global Welcome, Jonathan Heastie, WTM Portfolio Director, said: “The halls are packed already for what is the biggest WTM London to date. More than 4,000 exhibitors have joined us this year; there are delegates here from 184 countries around the world. “It is a remarkable turnout and I think it’s going to be a remarkable World Travel Market gathering. This time last year, £2.2 billion worth of travel deals were done in these halls, This year, you will hear from more than 200 world-class speakers in 70 enlightening sessions.” Fahd Hamidaddin, Chief Executive and Board member for Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “Tourism powers economies more than anything. The jobs we create are the jobs for the young, the entrepreneurs, for the remote, for the pop-and-mom shops and for the new rising talents. When we travel, we go with our best intentions. Our minds are the most open.” Many sessions at today’s show were devoted to the DEAI conference track. Speaking in one of the panels, LoAnn Halden VP of communications for IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association) urged travel companies not to merely pay lip service to diversity for Pride or Black History Month but to address longer term social inclusion. She recommended having ‘internal allies’ who understand under-represented groups. Jane Cunningham, director of European engagement for Destinations International noted that good diversity and inclusion was “not only [welcoming] for visitors but very much serving the citizens who live in that destination.” Commenting on stereotyping in advertising, …

Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White, recently concluded a successful visit to Bahrain, where he attended the prestigious Routes Conference, engaged with key travel agents and industry leaders, and held meetings with major regional airlines to explore enhanced connectivity and push for bilateral agreements. This visit is part of the Jamaica Tourist Board’s (JTB) ongoing strategy to strengthen its presence in the GCC market, positioning Jamaica as a premier travel destination while also boosting its attractiveness for foreign direct investments (FDIs). During his visit, White focused on promoting Jamaica as a premier travel destination to key representatives from travel agencies such as Orient Travel, Vacanza Bahrain, Dadabhai Travel, Bahrain International Travel, Akbar Travels, 24×7 Rooms.com, Farhat Tours & Transfers, and Travel Knits. These agencies were specifically selected for their expertise in catering to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and high-spending travelers. In a refined high-tea gathering at Café Segu, the meeting provided a valuable opportunity to discuss the travel patterns and preferences of Bahrain’s elite, particularly for destinations in the United States and the Caribbean. It also served as a platform to introduce Jamaica’s luxurious tourism offerings, including world-class resorts, exclusive villas, and unique cultural experiences, positioning the island as a top destination for the region’s discerning travelers. “Our goal is to establish long-lasting partnerships with key travel agents in Bahrain and we are committed to working closely with our partners,” said Donovan White. “By understanding the specific needs and travel preferences of its residents and citizens, we can tailor Jamaica’s tourism offerings to meet the growing demand for exclusive and luxurious experiences.” “The Middle Eastern market is increasingly looking beyond Europe for new travel experiences, and Jamaica offers exactly that—a blend …

Travelport and Transportes Aéreos Portugueses (TAP Air Portugal)  announced that they have signed a multi-source content distribution agreement that includes both NDC content and traditional content for Travelport’s agency customers. “This upcoming launch of our NDC content in Travelport+ will be a pivotal moment in our decades-long relationship,” said Mario Cruz, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer at TAP Air Portugal. “Together, we are looking to deliver a solution that makes it easy for agents to access, sell, and service tailored NDC content and offers from TAP Air Portugal through the Travelport+ marketplace.” TAP Air Portugal and Travelport are actively collaborating to deliver TAP Air Portugal’s NDC content so that agents can easily access its wide range of fares and offers in the Travelport+ platform. Agents using Travelport’s API, Smartpoint Cloud and Smartpoint Desktop solutions will be able to seamlessly view and compare the airline’s NDC offers alongside traditional content and book the best offers for their travelers. Travelport’s comprehensive solutions also enable agents to service NDC bookings for their travelers. “Our updated agreement with TAP Air Portugal highlights our mutual dedication to creating a modern, personalized shopping and service experience for agents and travelers with NDC,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Travel Partners at Travelport. “With the future delivery of TAP Air Portugal’s NDC content and servicing in Travelport+, we’re continuing our mission to ensure that agencies can easily shop, compare, book and service the best offerings from leading airlines, all in one place.” Travelport’s AI-powered Content Curation Layer (CCL) helps retailers minimize challenges with viewing and comparing multi-source content offers, enabling agents to easily compare both NDC and traditional content side-by-side in one place. Built into Travelport+, CCL …