Al Hamra announced partnership with Dubai-based RIKAS Hospitality Group to bring a prestigious beach club for the first time to Ras Al Khaimah. The beach club will be located between Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah and the upcoming Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort. Set to open in Q4 2024, the exclusive beach club will provide a luxurious hospitality experience along with a wide range of waterfront leisure and entertainment options for both residents and visitors. This addition to Al Hamra’s integrated tourism destination promises to become the premier hotspot in the Emirate. Visitors and guests can look forward to gourmet dining experiences, including relaxed brunches, luxurious lunches, and extravagant dinners, all accompanied by live performances and curated events, making it a destination for unforgettable experiences. The launching of the exclusive beach club comes as another step forward in Al Hamra’s legacy of introducing world class experiences in Ras Al Khaimah. Aligned with company’s five-year growth strategy, addition of diverse experiences perfectly caters to the Emirate’s mission to strengthen its appeal as an attractive tourism destination. Benoy Kurien, Group CEO of Al Hamra commenting on the collaboration, said: “Al Hamra’s partnership with RIKAS Hospitality underscores its dedication to delivering top-tier and diverse experiences to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. By combining Al Hamra’s vision with RIKAS Hospitality’s expertise, this collaboration not only enhances the destination’s allure but also meets the needs of a wide range of guests, residents, and visitors, positioning itself as a leading lifestyle destination in the Emirate. Rizwan Kassim, the founder at RIKAS Hospitality Group, added: “We’re delighted to have partnered with Al Hamra on the launch of the exclusive beach club – an upscale beach club to …

Dadabhai Travel in the Middle East, announces the renewal of its primary strategic GDS technology partnership with Sabre Corporation reaffirming their position as strategic contributors in shaping the future of the travel industry. This renewed commitment underscores Dadabhai Travel’s dedication to providing enriched customer experiences across multiple verticals, including Leisure, meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), business to business (B2B), and business to consumer (B2C). Sabre’s suite of products, including Sabre Red 360 (SR360), Content Services for Lodging (CSL), Sabre APIs, Sabre Virtual Payments (SVP), and Automation Hub, has played a pivotal role in empowering Dadabhai Travel to provide consistent and seamless services to its clients across its expansive network. The renowned SR360 platform, a cornerstone of this partnership, offers a customizable user experience that enables Dadabhai Travel to achieve product differentiation, selling branded content, add-ons, dynamic upsell options, and personalized offers. “Sabre’s continuous commitment to future investments and technology roadmaps aligns seamlessly with our vision of being the technology partner of choice,” said Aziz Gilitwala, Managing Director, Dadabhai Travel. “As a prominent TMC brand with diverse offerings, Dadabhai Travel relies on Sabre’s technology as our trusted partner. Sabre’s products and solutions have been instrumental in enhancing our capabilities and delivering on our commitment to offering unrivaled service levels, state-of-the-art technology, and providing competitive global travel options.” Sabre’s role extends beyond technology, with a critical contribution to enabling Dadabhai Travel to increase productivity and achieve ambitious growth objectives. This renewed collaboration marks a significant milestone setting the stage for continued innovation and excellence in the travel industry. “Our partnership with Dadabhai Travel goes beyond technology—it’s about collaboration, shared knowledge, and a joint commitment to driving innovation in the travel industry,” …

Victor announced the relocation of its headquarters to the iconic Erth Abu Dhabi: a beacon of Emirati hospitality in the heart of the capital. The move follows the recent acquisition of Victor by an investment group in Abu Dhabi and marks a significant milestone for business aviation in Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. Founded in 2011 in the UK, Victor has a legacy of innovation within the aircraft charter marketplace by providing a unique global platform with unprecedented transparency. Its HQ move to Abu Dhabi will provide the Emirate with its first on-demand jet charter platform, opening up the market to a greater selection of choices when chartering and offering Victor’s sophisticated, high-touch service to Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals, government and corporate private aviation flyers. Aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic target, Victor will contribute to the nation’s sustainability objectives through its climate action initiatives – namely its pioneering partnership with Neste, the world’s leading producer of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). With its backing by Abu Dhabi, Victor is perfectly positioned to achieve its ambition of becoming the number one choice for private jet flyers – not only in the MENA region, but worldwide. “We are thrilled to establish our headquarters in Abu Dhabi and embark on this exciting new chapter in Victor’s journey,” said James Farley, co-CEO of Victor. “Abu Dhabi’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure and supportive business environment make it the ideal base for expanding our operations and serving our customer base across MENA. The business aviation market is growing faster in the region than the rest of the world and Victor can uniquely service this market by offering more choice, transparency and best-in-class customer service.” …

Hamad International Airport (DOH) announces the commencement of four weekly flights from Guangzhou to Doha by China Southern Airlines, further enhancing connectivity between China and Qatar. Commenced on 22 April, 2024, the route was operated by a Boeing B787-9 aircraft with a capacity of 203 seats from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to Hamad International Airport (DOH). This new service by China Southern Airlines supplements Qatar Airways’ existing operations to seven major cities in China – Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xiamen, offering over 27,000 weekly seats to and from Doha through Hamad International Airport. This was following the codeshare announcement between Qatar Airways and China Southern Airlines in February this year. As one of China’s largest airlines, China Southern Airlines operates around 3,000 daily flights to more than 200 destinations globally. It joined Hamad International Airport as the second Chinese airline, following Xiamen Airlines, and marks the fourth airline to commence operations to the airport in 2024, after Akasa Air, Japan Airlines, and Garuda Indonesia. Commenting on the new partnership, Sujata Suri, Senior Vice President of Finance and Procurement at Hamad International Airport, said: “China is one of our strategic markets and plays a crucial role in the aviation and tourism industry. The commencement of China Southern Airlines’ flights to Hamad International Airport will bolster tradelines between both countries, cater to the anticipated growth in traffic movement and offer better connectivity for millions of travelers. This partnership will strengthen our position in becoming the preferred hub to connect China with Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.” The extensive network between China and Qatar underscores the importance of robust connectivity to facilitate travel demand, as travel recovery is expected …

Since the launch of Saudi Green initiative in 2021, 77 initiatives, with an investment of over US$186 billion, have been activated to drive sustainable growth in line with Vision 2030.ESG is a key focus of the Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia, taking place at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, 29 April – 1 May, with TravTalkME as media partner and a range of panel debates, expert opinion and initiatives on how KSA’s hospitality and tourism industry of today can play a pivotal role in a sustainable tomorrow. The Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021 by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, focuses on combating climate change, improving quality of life and protecting the environment for future generations, all in support of Saudi Arabia’s ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2060. “ESG plays such a critical role in the future of hospitality, which is why it’s at the forefront of the FHS programme again this year. It’s vital that we come together as an industry and engage in dialogue to drive sustainable development and investment, and integrate sustainable practices in our business strategies,” said Jonathan Worsley, Chairman, The Bench, organisers of the Future Hospitality Summit. Ahead of FHS Saudi Arabia, key leaders in the country’s hospitality and tourism sector share insight on how the Kingdom aims to meet its ESG goals, and what their organisation is doing to play its part. With input from Qusai Al-Fakhri, Chief Executive Officer, TDF; Elie Milky, Vice President Business Development Middle East, Pakistan, Cyprus, and Greece, Radisson Hotel Group; Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO, Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA; Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer Middle East, Marriott …

The CVS, China Visitors Summit with TravTalkME as media partner, slated for Dubai on September 5-6 and Doha on September 9-10. They announced its expanded itinerary, offering extra events and site inspections for Chinese buyers. This unique opportunity allows buyers to explore neighboring countries in the region, including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Maldives, and beyond. As the sole regional event exclusively dedicated to Chinese inbound tourism business development, the CVS stands out with flagship events in Dubai and Doha. Over two days of face-to-face meetings, travel suppliers from across the region have the chance to select and schedule 54 pre-confirmed meetings with Chinese buyers of their choice in each city. Hosting Chinese buyers in the cities and across the region presents an unparalleled chance for suppliers to showcase hotel properties, attractions, museums, and local experiences directly to these highly qualified individuals. Industry suppliers can opt to host subsections and segments of Chinese buyers for breakfast meetings, luncheons, afternoon teas, and site inspections, enriching their experience with tailored experiences. In September, the Middle East CVS will welcome 140 Chinese buyers, including mainland Chinese, Taiwanese, and Hong Kong travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers, luxury agencies, online travel agents, corporate travel planners, business travel agencies, and specialty tour operators focusing on unique experiences and specialty tourism. Every Chinese buyer undergoes meticulous vetting and qualification based on their business in the region, with each delegate identified for their role in product procurement and development within their company. With each Chinese buyer investing approximately $2000 per person and committing to over 10 days in the region, hosting them during CVS promises significant business opportunities. For more information on hosting Chinese buyers during the upcoming CVS and becoming a …

After the heaviest rainfall the UAE experienced in 75 years Dubai Airports is making remarkable strides in restoring and normalising operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said since yesterday, ahead of its recovery schedule, DXB returned to its normal flight schedule and is back to operating around 1,400 flight movements a day. “With roads in and around the airport 100% clear of water accumulation, our manpower, logistics and facilities are operating as usual again. To have the airport back up and running is no small feat. 2,155 flights were cancelled and 115 were diverted. We had to work closely with our airline partners and service providers to rework schedules, boost manpower and look after all those who had been disrupted. “I’m continuously amazed with the unwavering dedication of our Dubai Airports employees, airline partners, government agencies, commercial partners and service partners. It has been the most challenging adverse weather event we’ve had to navigate, and our people and partners worked tirelessly to keep the operation running and to assist our guests.” 31 flights were diverted to Dubai World Central (DWC) and by 19 April, all guests at the airport were successfully supported and continued onwards to complete their travel plans. Guest welfare remained a key priority throughout the disruption and although there were initial challenges in transporting supplies with road closures around DXB and DWC, over 75,000 food packs were delivered across both airports. “While certain challenges remain, including processing the baggage backlog, we’re working closely with our service partners but know there’s still more work to be done and once again thank guests for their patience while we work through this,” added Mr. Griffiths. “We’re …

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced its participation in the Arabian Travel Market, set to take place in Dubai between May 6th and 9th. The company will highlight its latest achievements in the industry, which span recent and upcoming property openings, elevated culinary and wellbeing experiences, new summer offerings, and more. The Arabian Travel Market has been a pivotal gateway to global travel and tourism growth for over three decades, bringing together industry leaders and innovators from around the world. With a focus on unlocking business potential across all travel sectors, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and luxury travel, Arabian Travel Market stands as the premier event that unites the entire industry. During the event, Adrian Messerli, Four Seasons’ President of Hotel Operations, EMEA, will take part in the “Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East” session, having an in-depth discussion with other executives in the industry. Hotel Openings Four Seasons participation at the event shines a spotlight on its newest hotel openings, marking the brand’s strategic expansions into iconic destinations in the MENA region and beyond. This includes the launch of Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar, which is now welcoming international travellers and local guests with an all-new luxury lifestyle offering. The brand has also announced new destinations set to open in 2024, such as Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr and Mumbai Private Residences, in addition to Ocean Club Private Residences in the Bahamas, which will start welcoming guests in 2027. Upgrades and Renovations Committed to elevating the standards of luxury hospitality, the company has also been upgrading its rooms and amenities across various properties. At Four Seasons adria, …

Cayan Group continues its partnership with NEOM – a giga project spanning 26,500 square kilometres in northwest Saudi Arabia – for a second Hampton by Hilton at NEOM Community. A signing ceremony between Cayan Group and Hilton for the second Hampton by Hilton took place at the International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) in Berlin in the presence of Hilton’s President & CEO, Chris Nassetta, and Cayan Group’s Chairman, Ahmed Alhatti. Under the agreement, Cayan Group will fully fund and develop a 201-key Hampton by Hilton situated at the NEOM Community to meet the rising construction demand – a critical component to further progress earthworks at the site. With construction soon starting, the Hilton-managed hotel is expected to open at the beginning of 2025. The hotel will be the second property for the brand at NEOM Community, delivering the seamless experience and thoughtful amenities and interiors that the Hampton by Hilton brand is known for. Ahmed Alhatti, Chairman of Cayan Group, said, “Further to the recent opening of Hampton by Hilton Sharma at NEOM’s Community site, we are excited to continue with our participation of being part of this visionary and unique project alongside Hilton, our globally recognised hospitality partner. We believe in the vision of His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and we remain focused to continue investing within NEOM projects and securing more opportunities in the future.” Further to the success of the previous agreement, this is the second hotel project at NEOM to be fully funded by the private sector, and Cayan Group’s investment further highlights the private sector’s interest in Saudi Arabia. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, …

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) launched on Earth Day 2024, “Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action” is the creation of the high-level ‘Nature Positive Tourism Partnership. Developed in collaboration with specialist consultancy ANIMONDIAL, the report is the sector’s pledge to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the UN’s Biodiversity Plan. It presents more than 30 case studies of inspiring and progressive actions from around the world involving large and small businesses, national and local government agencies, civil society groups, and inter-sectoral partnerships. By offering actionable guidance and insights, this report not only highlights the intrinsic link between biodiversity and tourism’s resilience, but also empowers businesses to become stewards of nature. Historic partnership for nature Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This historic partnership with Travel & Tourism heavyweights is a significant step in our collective journey towards a more sustainable and responsible sector. “This report is not merely a publication but a movement towards integrating environmental stewardship into the core of travel experiences. “As we celebrate Earth Day, let us heed the call to nurture and protect our destinations. Our sector’s reliance on nature, coupled with our expertise in creating inspiring and memorable experiences, means we are ideally placed to be “Guardians of Nature”.” Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, said: “For years, UN Tourism has been at the forefront of integrating tourism into the broader UN biodiversity agenda, including supporting the work of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). “This pivotal new collaboration among key global players sets a robust framework for sustainable practices that …