As Travel & Tourism enters the height of the summer season, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a new report calling for a more balanced approach to managing tourism in popular destinations. While overcrowding is often seen as a tourism problem, many of the real pressures come from deeper issues such as underinvestment in infrastructure, poor planning, and fragmented decision-making. These challenges affect both residents and visitors and need joined-up solutions. Travel & Tourism supports one in every 10 jobs and nearly 10% of global GDP and is set to support one in three new jobs over the next decade. When managed well, it also fosters cultural exchange, global understanding, and environmental protection. But without smart planning, the benefits it brings could be at risk. WTTC’s paper, Managing Destination Overcrowding: A Call to Action, explains that there’s no simple fix to the problem and urges governments, local leaders, and businesses to work together to support both communities and visitors. In 2024, Travel & Tourism is expected to contribute nearly $11TN to the global economy and support 357MN jobs. That’s a huge success but it also means destinations must plan to manage growth responsibly. Annually, governments around the world accrue more than $3.3TN from Travel & Tourism businesses, equivalent to 9.6% of global tax revenues. The global tourism body urges governments to reinvest this sum in vital infrastructure, and solutions to relieve pressures on already very popular destinations. The report looks at some of the root causes of overcrowding in a small number of increasingly popular destinations across Europe and offers real-world solutions that can be tailored to local needs. From using better data and planning tools, to …

Dubai Travel & Tour Agents Group (DTTAG) has partnered with WingsWay Training Institute (IATA Authorized Training Center) to introduce a dynamic series of monthly Skill Enhancement Programs tailored exclusively for DTTAG members. This initiative aims to enable travel professionals in Dubai with skills and insights to be at the forefront of the competitive travel and tourism industry in the region. These monthly sessions are free for all DTTAG members. The inaugural session, “Top 5 Keys to Delight Your Customers,” is being followed by a program on “Strategic Negotiation Skills”. Both have received an enthusiastic response from attendees. The interactive workshops provide actionable strategies to the participants to elevate customer service and foster client loyalty. Every registered participant eagerly shows up and we saw a full house of excited learners. “DTTAG continues with its effort to bring value for its members and hence have collaborated with the award-winning team of WingsWay Training Institute” said Asim Arshad, President, at Dubai Travel & Tour agents Group. “This collaboration with DTTAG is a significant step towards our shared vision of continuous professional development,” said Shakir Kantawala, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, at WingsWay Training Institute. “By combining our expertise in skill-based training with DTTAG’s commitment to excellence in the travel sector, we are creating valuable opportunities for professionals to upskill, adapt, and lead in this competitive market.” This annual calendar of complimentary sessions, exclusively for DTTAG members, will be conducted monthly and will cover a diverse range of topics, including customer experience, digital transformation, sales strategies, negotiation skills, contract management and operational excellence. Each program is designed to provide immediate, real-world application to help participants drive performance and innovation within their organisations.

Miral signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Canadian University Dubai (CUD), marking a new milestone in fostering academic exchange and practical learning in the leisure, entertainment, and tourism sector. The collaboration will offer Canadian University Dubai students exclusive access to volunteering, internship, and research opportunities at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center. These hands-on learning experiences will be complemented by community-led initiatives that nurture real-world skills and industry readiness. The MoU was signed at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, by Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral, Iain Wilson, Senior Vice President Finance at Miral Experiences, and Dr. Adam Fenech, Provost of Canadian University Dubai. With its strong emphasis on environmental studies, this partnership with the Canadian University Dubai aligns perfectly with Miral’s CSR strategy of delivering meaningful, purpose-driven impact through education and community collaboration. Julien Kauffmann, CEO of Miral Experiences, said: “At Miral Experiences, we are proud to support initiatives that empower young talent by providing meaningful exposure to the entertainment industry. This partnership with Canadian University Dubai reflects our commitment to fostering future leaders through real-world experience, innovation, and purpose-led collaboration across our world-class attractions.” Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral, said: “We are proud of our collaboration with Canadian University Dubai that aims to nurture talent through enriching initiatives. It demonstrates our commitment to driving meaningful partnerships that create long-term impact through real-world work experience, educational entertainment and social initiatives. This aligns with our ongoing efforts to drive sustainable value within our community.” Dr. Adam Fenech, Provost of Canadian University Dubai, said:” We are delighted to embark on this …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has successfully concluded the “Future Investment Pioneers” program, a pioneering initiative aimed at equipping a select group of Omani students with the skills and knowledge needed to understand investment dynamics in the tourism sector. The 12-week program brought together 16 students from six leading academic institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, and offered them a rich learning experience through interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, and hands-on activities. By nurturing their entrepreneurial mindset and innovative thinking, the program supports the broader vision of building a national talent pool capable of shaping the future of Oman’s tourism industry. Participants developed practical skills in product development, entrepreneurial thinking, and professional communication, while also exploring key topics such as investment analyzing and attraction, mechanisms of entering strategic partnerships, tourism product innovation, and return on investment analysis from an investor’s perspective. Commenting on the program, Mundher Al Moosawi, Director of Business Development at OMRAN Group, said: “This program reflects our commitment to nurturing future tourism leaders by offering a comprehensive experience that blends practical learning with investment thinking. We strive to inspire and empower youth to actively contribute to the sector’s sustainable growth and position Oman as a promising investment destination.” The program concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion that brought together experts from tourism, investment, and academia to explore opportunities for innovation in the sector, the importance of aligning education with market needs, and the critical role of young investors in shaping Oman’s economic future. As part of the closing ceremony, the winners of the program’s accompanying competitions were honored in recognition of student projects that stood out for their spirit of innovation and healthy competition. The winning participants received …

Etihad Airways announced three additional new destinations to further expand its global network. The airline will add seasonal flights to Kazan, Russia from December this year. Krakow, Poland; and Salalah, Oman will be added in the summer of 2026. These new routes offer guests more opportunities to discover unique cities across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Krakow, Salalah and Kazan each bring something special to our network – from UNESCO-listed heritage in Poland, and refreshing green landscapes in Oman, to a vibrant Volga-side city in Russia. “As we continue to grow Etihad’s footprint globally, our focus remains simple: to directly link Abu Dhabi with places people want to visit, and warmly welcome more visitors to experience our beautiful home and the UAE’s capital. We’ve already celebrated inaugural flights to four new destinations this year and set to add another 13 routes before the year closes – it’s a remarkable year for Etihad.” Krakow, Poland: launching 16 June 2026, Krakow will be Etihad’s second destination in Poland, following the airline’s successful route launch to Warsaw in June this year. Visitors to Krakow will enjoy a city of Gothic towers, Renaissance palaces and lively café culture. Travellers can wander the mediaeval Main Square, visit Wawel Castle, or use Krakow as a springboard to access the stunning Tatra Mountains. Salalah, Oman: launching 21 May 2026, the Arabian Peninsula’s summer oasis. During the Khareef monsoon the region turns an emerald green, with mist-shrouded mountains, waterfalls, and cool coastal air. An ideal escape for families across the Gulf and a hidden gem for travellers from Europe or Asia looking to explore somewhere new. Kazan, …

This summer, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach invites UAE residents to escape the ordinary and enjoy a well-deserved School Break Staycation with the Kids, available from June 30 to September 30, 2025, with rates starting from AED 450 per night. The package includes AED 200 in F&B credit to enjoy the hotel’s renowned dining experiences. With direct access to Dubai’s most exciting beachside destination, families can soak up the sun by the infinity pool, stroll along The Walk’s vibrant promenade, and spend quality time together in one of the city’s most scenic coastal spots. As closer-to-home escapes grow increasingly popular, this limited-time offer gives UAE residents the ideal opportunity to relax, recharge, and reconnect — all within a refined, resort-style setting in the heart of Dubai Marina. “As a family-first destination, we understand the importance of creating moments that matter,” said Gopi Joghee, General Manager of Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach. “Our summer staycation offer combines panoramic views, generous dining credit, and a warm welcome for UAE residents looking to relax and reconnect.” Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a mid-week breather, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach promises a staycation that feels like a true escape — just minutes from home. Reservations & Information: For reservations call: +971 4 448 4848 Email: H6146-RE3@sofitel.com Visit: www.sofitel-dubai-jumeirahbeach.com

New research by PwC Middle East, in collaboration with Mabrian Technologies reveals that visitor preferences across the Gulf region are undergoing a fundamental shift. Arts and culture rank as the top visitor motivators across Qatar (28.5%), UAE (26.6%) and KSA (24.5%)Visitors are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer cultural meaning and emotional resonance. In response to these findings, PwC Middle East developed a strategic framework detailed in their latest report, Stay Play Shop: Shaping Integrated Destinations for Connected Visitor Experiences. The report presents a clear approach for destination development companies, tourism authorities, destination managers and operators across the Gulf Cooperation Council to accelerate the evolution of destination strategies. It advocates a shift away from static, asset-led development towards dynamic, visitor-centric ecosystems that drive longer stays, deeper engagement and increased economic impact. Nicolas Mayer, Destinations Consulting Lead Partner at PwC Middle East, said, “This thought leadership aims to reframe how we think about destination value by integrating visitor behaviour with the realities of destination planning and placemaking. Stay Play Shop is more than a slogan. It is a robust framework backed by visitor insights and evolving needs offering development companies a strategic framework to drive visitation spending and loyalty.” Building on this idea of redefining destination value, Philippe Najjar, Destinations Consulting Partner at PwC Middle East, added, “By embracing the Stay Play Shop model leaders can shape not just where people go but how deeply they connect and experience places. This goes beyond destination development to crafting generational legacies that fuel cultural pride visitor loyalty and sustained economic return.” Emphasising a crucial prerequisite for success, Sonia Huerta, Vice President Advisory at Mabrian Technologies, highlighted, “Public-private partnerships among Destination Management Office, hoteliers, …

ELEVATE and Ennismore signed an agreement to introduce the region’s first-ever beachfront Mondrian residences in the UAE. The landmark $500 million project will be situated on the rapidly growing Al Marjan Island, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of branded living experiences on the island and in the region. The grand opening is anticipated to be in Q4 2028. This partnership unites the strengths of two globally respected leaders, collaborating to champion bold design, authentic community experiences, and purposeful living. ELEVATE is setting new benchmarks for intentional and design-forward living, rooted in the UAE with a deep understanding of the region’s evolving cultural and lifestyle ambitions. It offers the perfect counterpart: local insight, real estate expertise, and a vision for redefining modern luxury. Ennismore is a powerhouse in luxury lifestyle hospitality, comprising a collective of 16 globally celebrated brands and two F&B groups—including Delano, SLS, 25hours Hotels, SO/, and Rikas—as well as over 500 restaurants and bars. Together, the two are set to create transformative destinations that resonate far beyond the traditional hospitality model. Commenting on the signing, Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan said: “We are delighted to welcome the Mondrian Residences to Al Marjan Island as part of our ongoing commitment to elevating Marjan’s global stature, which is increasingly being famed as a lifestyle-led development. This collaboration between ELEVATE and Ennismore adds a new layer of depth and creativity to our growing portfolio of branded residences on the island. We are proud to welcome Mondrian Beach Residences to Al Marjan Island, which is slated to mark a global expansion for the hospitality giant, showcasing the draw and relevance of Marjan today”. With this landmark project, ELEVATE …

Etihad Airways touched down in Atlanta for the first time, expanding its U.S. footprint and connecting the cultural and commercial heart of the U.S. Southeast with Abu Dhabi and beyond. The launch marks another milestone in Etihad’s North American expansion. Etihad’s first flight from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport made Atlanta the fifth U.S. gateway in Etihad’s global network, joining New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Boston. Guests travelling from Abu Dhabi benefit from the convenience of the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport – the only one of its kind in the region. This allows passengers to clear U.S. immigration and customs before departure, arriving in the United States as domestic travellers and saving valuable time on arrival. The newly launched route meets the growing appetite for travel between the UAE and the US, catering to business travellers, vacationers, and those visiting friends and family. It also makes it easier for guests from across the southeastern U.S. to visit Abu Dhabi and experience a city where modernity meets rich heritage, offering a vibrant mix of culture, adventure, relaxation and stunning beaches. The new service is operated using Etihad’s next-generation Airbus A350-1000, a fuel-efficient, environmentally advanced aircraft offering a quieter ride, and the airline’s latest onboard product on key long-haul routes. The Atlanta route launched with four flights per week, but record-high load factors and remarkable early bookings have prompted Etihad to fast-track expansion, with daily flights set to commence from November 2025. Demand from both leisure and corporate segments has exceeded expectations, firmly validating Atlanta’s position as a key market for Etihad. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive …

Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), confirming the intention to enter a strategic partnership which will include a comprehensive codeshare agreement and increased flights between the East African state and Qatar Airways’ award-winning Doha hub, Hamad International Airport. The partnership will see Qatar Airways introducing a third daily frequency between Doha and Nairobi in codeshare with Kenya Airways, with flights due to be available for booking over the coming days. The new offering will be complemented by the launch of Kenya Airways operated, and Qatar Airways marketed, flights between Mombasa and Doha during the coming winter season. The two airlines will also codeshare on both networks to offer seamless connections and greater choice for travellers from around the world. Additionally, both Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways will look to develop collaboration in other parts of the business, including cargo, airport and ground services, product development, loyalty programmes, procurement as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “This partnership is yet another demonstration of our deepening ties with the African region. Today’s agreement – which comes as we celebrate 20 years of flying to Kenya – is coupled with our recognisable record of partnerships across the continent, most recently through our investment in Airlink. Our growing collaboration with our African counterparts ensures that Qatar Airways continues to contribute to the continent’s rapidly evolving aviation and economic ecosystem.” Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, said: “This partnership perfectly aligns with our airline’s robust turnaround strategy, which saw Kenya Airways’ return to profit for the first time in more than a decade earlier this year. The …