The Retail Summit, an annual event for leaders providing unprecedented access to hear from global retail giants on the future and movement of the retail industry, announces its notable speaker lineup and agenda for 2023. The highly-anticipated two-day Summit remains the ultimate face-to-face, industry networking event, hosted at two iconic locations including Atlantis, The Palm and the soon-to-open Atlantis, The Royal on the 14 and 15 of March. Over the course of two days, the top echelon of both locally and internationally-renowned retailers will disperse into a two-stream agenda focusing on the critical issues within the global retailer’s boardrooms. The retail visionary speakers will include icon Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Ward, CEO of Harrods, Kristina Blahnik, CEO of Manolo Blahnik, Jo Malone, Founder of Jo Loves, Tom Athron, CEO of Fortnum & Mason, and Seth Ellison, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer of Levi Strauss & Co., to name a few. The third edition of the event will see these retail trailblazers on stage sharing their pioneering stories, paired with insight and innovative concepts through panel discussions dedicated to creating engaging, high-level learning experiences. Dishing details and debating matters of the retail industry, the speakers will focus on three agenda pillars of the event; sustainability, customer engagement and new technologies. Session spotlight topics include keynote presentations on “Cultivating Communities” led by Katrine Lee Larson, CEO of Copenhagen Cartel, “Company Culture” led by Rodney Lam, CEO of Daily Paper, and “Customer Centricity” led by Michael Kliger, CEO of Mytheresa. Panel discussions will open up the floor to conversations on “Customer Centricity” led by Marcella Wartenbergh, CEO of AWWG, “Sustainability” led by Livia Lee, CEO of lala Berlin; and also Victoria Prew, Founder & …

Dubai International (DXB) added a new African destination to its network of 200 plus international destinations on Friday with the launch of Kenya Airways’ inaugural service from the coastal city of Mombasa. Kenya Airways will be operating four weekly flights between Mombasa and DXB’s Terminal 1 on a B737-800 aircraft, increasing the carrier’s frequency to Dubai to 14 round trips a week. The airline already operates 10 weekly flights to Nairobi and will be adding 4 weekly flights to Mombasa, which was an unserved destination at DXB. The new service is expected to enhance tourism and trade on both sides and offer additional options for the thousands of travellers who fly between Dubai and Kenya each month. Nearly 650,000 passengers flew between DXB and Kenyan destinations in 2019.

At the annual ‘city briefing’ His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Inspired by our visionary leadership, 2022 has been a transformative year for developing and broadening Dubai’s global appeal, designed to keep the destination top-of-mind and to cater to the varied needs and tastes of international travellers. With the world on the move again, our ability to quickly react, adapt, evolve and tap into existing and new segments of travellers is key to Dubai’s efforts to leverage and benefit from a rapidly and radically evolving global tourism landscape. We have ensured a steady influx of international visitors by offering more value than any comparable destination. We will maintain our competitive edge through our strong public-private partnerships, expansion of the diverse destination offering and constant launching of innovative initiatives and international campaigns to showcase Dubai as a ‘must-visit’ destination, as well as cement its position as one of the most accessible and liveable cities in the world.” Data showed that Dubai welcomed 11.4 million international overnight visitors between January and October, an impressive year-on-year increase of 134%, taking the city further on its journey to becoming the world’s most visited destination. 11.4 million international overnight visitors who arrived in Dubai between January and October 2022 represented a quantum leap over the 4.88 million visitors that the city welcomed for the same period in 2021. The numbers are close to the pre-pandemic record of 13.50 million international visitors in the first ten months of 2019. Dubai’s international tourism arrivals significantly outperformed other major global destinations, giving Dubai a head start on post-pandemic recovery. Average hotel occupancy in Dubai between January-October 2022 stood at …

Celebrating the re-opening of the Emirates Lounge in Concourse C, Dubai International Airport – the 7th Dubai lounge to reopen after the pandemic, premium passengers can look forward to an exceptionally comfortable travel experience during the upcoming peak travel period, as more than 30 Emirates Lounges around the world have returned to full service. Located in Concourse C, adjacent to Gates C09, the newly re-opened Emirates Lounge is a 1308 square metre and 265- seat dedicated space for rest, relaxation, and refreshment before travel. First and Business Class customers can access the lounge on a complimentary basis, as well as Silver, Gold and Platinum Skywards members. Premium Economy and Economy passengers can enjoy paid access at $150 exclusive of taxes, or just $125 for Emirates Skywards members. Currently open 24/7 to service the high demand of festive season, passengers can relax in the lounges for up to 4 hours before a flight. With elegant design and décor including Italian marble floors, leather sofas, water features and eye-catching Rolex clocks – Emirates Lounges are purpose built for comfort with multiple chaise longue,’ pillows and blankets, complimentary premium wines, spirits, champagne, and dedicated dining areas with gourmet cuisine designed by award-winning chefs. To renew and refresh, there are dedicated shower spas with bathrooms and baby changing facilities, TVs dotted around the lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout, PCs and printers, and an area to charge devices. A fully equipped business centre is also available, including meeting rooms with projectors and individual touch screen workstations. Emirates has a vast network of 39 dedicated airport lounges, including 7 in Dubai and 32 located within major airports around the globe, all designed with the same attention to …

Marriott Hotels announced the debut of its first resort in the United Arab Emirates: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. The resort also marks the 50th property to join Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio in Dubai. Situated along the island’s golden Palm West Beach, spread across 7,000 square meters of white sand seafront, the beachside haven is a sophisticated destination for travellers seeking exclusive escapism, featuring 10 dining concepts, a shimmering 75-metre pool with four jacuzzis, a kids club, spa, fitness centre, water sports, and marine activities. “As one of the world’s most vibrant holiday destinations and a hub for business travellers Dubai is an ideal location for a flagship Marriott Hotels property,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President – Premium and Select Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “Set along an idyllic stretch of white sand beach with turquoise waters and stunning views, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah is a place for leisure seekers to make memories, discover new cuisines and unwind.” Reflecting Marriott Hotels’ continued evolution, guests are welcomed into sophisticated, comfortable spaces beginning with the Greatroom lobby – a stylish hub where guests can connect and relax. Featuring ocean and sand hues transitioning seamlessly from the outside inwards, the resort’s 608 contemporary guestrooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling ocean views, private balconies, and thoughtful in-room comforts including a pillow menu, mood lighting, a top-of-the-range entertainment system, and large bathtubs. Interconnecting rooms reflect the resort’s flexibility and focus on family stays, and the spacious two-bedroom suites offer separate living, sleeping, and dining spaces. With an eclectic mix of new-to-the-region global brands, born-in-the-UAE concepts, and signature Marriott Hotel offerings, the resort’s 10 dining venues bring flavours, influences, and ideas from Japan, Peru, Italy, …

Costa Cruises is consolidating its presence in Dubai with the arrival of Costa Toscana. The Italian company’s latest flagship, which entered service last March, called today for the first time at Dubai Harbour, an extraordinary seafront district designed for a maritime lifestyle, set against the district’s unique backdrop, iconic vista and accessible location. On the occasion of this first call, an event was held on board the ship, attended by local and Italian authorities. Throughout the winter of 2022/23, Costa Toscana will offer itineraries of different duration – 3, 4 or 7 days – to discover the Arabian Gulf. In total, there will be 13 cruises, from 17 December 2022 to 11 March 2023, also available with the ‘flight+cruise’ package, which guarantees maximum comfort, without having to worry about transfers to the ship or luggage at the arrival at the airport. To mark the arrival, Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal Management along with public and private sector stakeholders will exchange plaques with the Ship Captain, a maritime tradition, to commemorate the ship’s arrival. Throughout the season, more than 300,000 passengers are expected to arrive at the Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal, which reaffirms the bounce back of the cruise business after the pandemic. Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding said: “We are delighted to welcome our second LNG powered cruise ship for the season with the arrival of Costa Toscana. Dubai is a city where cruise ships play a crucial role in boosting the overall tourism strategy. Cruises provide distinct choices to experience the city from a unique perspective. We believe these shorter itineraries from Costa will offer tourists and residents a chance to experience maritime lifestyle, set against our …

Diriyah Square is more than just retail, with an offering that makes it the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s most anticipated retail and lifestyle mixed-use development. Diriyah Square will offer the very finest in culture, hospitality, retail, leisure and entertainment, bringing together over 400 of the world’s finest luxury and lifestyle brands complemented by an additional 100 Saudi concepts in a new 180,000 sqm (GLA) scheme. It is a crucial pillar in the $63.2 billion transformation of Diriyah, the Kingdom’s foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination. DGDA’s development journey for Diriyah Square has recently achieved a number of major milestones, including the signing of Time Out Market Riyadh, a new 9,000 sqm food and cultural market forecast to open in 2027. DGDA has also announced the signing of 16 new hotel brands within its hospitality portfolio, with hotels from Armani, Baccarat, Corinthia, Fauchon le Hotel, Orient Express and Rosewood set to be major additions to Diriyah Square. Mohamed Saad, Vice President – Diriyah Development Company, said: “Diriyah Square is about bringing together all elements of a modern scheme – from retail and leisure options to a cultural and lifestyle offer – to create a destination that caters holistically to residents’ needs, and welcomes visitors and tourists from all walks of life. Truly, it represents the future of retail in Saudi Arabia and the GCC.” Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, DGDA, stated: “Diriyah Square is an important part of  the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, and the mix of retail, leisure, cultural and lifestyle options it will offer is an illustration of the ambitious national transformation which we are all excited and honoured to contribute to. The mix of local Saudi and internationally renowned …

AYA – Dubai’s nextgen adventure park using the latest technology will open its doors on Saturday December 17 2022. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the busiest time of year, then this could be the perfect place for an out-of-this-world experience. Dubai may already offer more than many other cities in the world at this time of year, with great weather, beaches, attractions, and shopping malls – however, a new sensory escape will provide something a little different for intrepid explorers in search of a new adventure. The wonder of exploring a remote universe and the beauty of modern immersive design have combined at AYA; offering visitors an opportunity to live out their dreams on a visit to WAFI City. Launched by parent company HyperSpace, a Future Forward Entertainment company that builds and operates physical parks for a digital world, the 40,000 square foot futurist entertainment playground, AYA, invites intrepid travellers to step foot into a huge expanse of vibrant, interactive experiences across 12 different zones, each with its own unique theme and interactive elements. At AYA, travellers will leave the real world behind to create memories of the future in a vibrant and colourful cosmos. The transformative journey begins by entering the world of Aurora, followed by The Source, Drift, Outland and The Pool zones. Cosmic stars, pools, lush hills and waterfalls of The River zone, The Falls, Celestia, Flora, Tides and Harmonia complete the spectacular experience. Along the way, travellers to AYA will dance with avatars and unlock new characters to interact with as part of the totally immersive experience. Witness the wonderment of the future, wander through mystical chambers, experience interactive domes, transport …

In its efforts of enhancing customer experience and travel experience in terms of international connectivity, India’s leading carrier, IndiGo, announced a shift of its flight operations to terminal 2 of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. IndiGo has moved its daily scheduled flights to Terminal-2 of King Khalid International Airport from Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi effective December 12, 2022. The terminal change will offer better customer service and flyer footfall. These flights are being introduced in response to increasing demand and to improve accessibility between these regions during the peak season. With this move, IndiGo took a step forward in improving the travel experience of its customers by offering better international connectivity. Currently, IndiGo operates in 3 cities of Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah. These flights are designed to cater to business and leisure travellers who are constantly on the lookout for new and affordable flying options to access destinations which help in building businesses and are known for their tourist attractions. Customers who wish to plan their travel can book tickets via our official website https://www.goindigo.in/. The introduction of these flights will further bolster the airline’s international connectivity. Flight schedule:   Flight No. Origin Destination Frequency Effective Departure Arrival 6E 1804 Hyderabad Riyadh Mon December 12, 2022 00:55 07:45 6E 1825 Mumbai Riyadh Daily December 12, 2022 04:30 06:45 6E 1826 Riyadh Mumbai Daily December 12, 2022 07:45 14:05 6E 1839 Delhi Riyadh Daily December 12, 2022 18:40 21:45 6E 1841 Riyadh Delhi Daily December 12, 2022 22:45 05:30 6E 1803 Hyderabad Riyadh Fri, Sun December 16, 2022 21:00 23:55 6E 1804 Riyadh Hyderabad Mon, Sat December 17, 2022 00:55 08:00

Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), responsible for the transformation of Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, into one of the greatest gathering places in the world, today announces adding 16 new global hotel brands to its already impressive hospitality portfolio which includes 16 additional global brands. Bringing the total to 32 hotel management agreements with the world’s most prestigious hotel brands, with our first hotel planned to open in 2023. The signing of these new hotel brands is testament to the pace of development being witnessed in Diriyah, which will be the first giga project in the world to simultaneously open, ground-break and announce world class assets every year from 2022 until completion. To this end, Diriyah has just announced the opening of two of its most significant locations: At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most important historical sites and a symbol of Saudi identity, as well as Bujairi Terrace, the Kingdom’s most anticipated premium dining destination overlooking the majestic At-Turaif. The 16 hotel brands slated to open will be situated across two of DGDA’s masterplan areas – Diriyah and Wadi Safar. The infrastructure of Diriyah’s first phase of hotel construction will feature an interpretation of the local landscape and traditional Najdi design themes, whereas the next phase will offer visitors a more evolved Najdi design experience. Both phases of Diriyah’s hospitality development plans will see a variety of luxury hotels open, characterized by their cutting-edge design, top-class amenities, and superb customer service. Thai-rooted brand Anantara, part of Minor Hotels, will provide a window into the destination through its authentic experience-led hospitality. Corinthia Hotels seeks to build upon its hospitality legacy by …