St. Petersburg City Tourist Information Bureau and Committee for tourism development of Saint Petersburg organize the roadshow: presentation of St. Petersburg tourist programs and hospitality industry services in the cities of the UAE on 20-21 September 2022. Dubai’s roadshow will take place on 20th September at Park Hyatt Dubai and the one in Abu Dhabi on 21st September at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful megalopolises in the world, which travelers from all over the world come to see. The list of attractions of St. Petersburg is so impressive that it is almost impossible to describe all of them in detail. According to statistics, in pre-pandemic times, the number of tourists in St. Petersburg reached 10 million people. And even more than 10 million! The goals of the event are to promote the potential of St. Petersburg as a world tourist center and to develop partnerships between St. Petersburg tourism enterprises and representatives of tour operators and travel agencies in the cities of the UAE. Presentation will feature new tourist and excursion programmes, standard and off-beat tourist sites, museums, historical and cultural monuments, events. Participants from St. Petersburg includes St. Petersburg tour operators, DMC, representatives of St. Petersburg hotels and representatives of cultural institutions and other tourist infrastructure of St. Petersburg.The program includes presentation of St. Petersburg’s tourism potential, B2B workshop and dinner with cultural program and raffle of prizes from St. Petersburg participants. To attend the “Visit Saint Petersburg!” roadshow, please register by this link: https://petersburg-roadshow.com Contact us: info@petersburg-roadshow.com +7 929 519-08-82 – Karina Rink; +7 903 665-12-52 – Julia Chibireva Contact in UAE: Jinki@gulfreps.com +971 47036333 – Jinkie Perez Official tourist portal …

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of the highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, a refined haven blending timeless elegance with modern sensibility and sincere service, situated in the heart of Kuwait City. Connected to The Avenues, the country’s largest retail, entertainment, and luxury lifestyle destination, and just 11 kilometres and a 15-minute drive from Kuwait International Airport, the property’s prime location offers guests convenient access to beloved local attractions such as the Kuwait Opera House, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and the Grand Mosque. Waldorf Astoria Kuwait features 200 magnificently adorned contemporary deluxe rooms and suites with panoramic views of the vibrant city skyline. Guests will enjoy a transformative journey of the senses, from exquisite dining venues and beautiful event spaces to the awe-inspiring Waldorf Astoria Spa. “We are very excited to be expanding our portfolio in Kuwait to include the iconic Waldorf Astoria, which brings an elevated luxury guest experience to the country,” said Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Hilton. “Waldorf Astoria Kuwait is Hilton’s third property in the country and brings a trusted brand to a community of discerning travellers who expect the highest levels of service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this outstanding property, which will no doubt be one of Kuwait’s most prestigious landmarks.” Timeless Luxury Upon arriving at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, guests step into a place where stories begin, and unforgettable memories are made. Interiors reflect a grand yet intimate sense of place, including traditional brand elements such as the iconic Waldorf Astoria Clock, which was adapted to reflect Kuwait’s cultural heritage, as well as The Library and Peacock Alley. “We see the hotel stay as an opportunity to …

The iconic and internationally renowned sports event, IRONMAN 70.3, will be hosted in Salalah, Sultanate of Oman, creating the ideal backdrop for this spectacular event. The event also provides attendees with the chance to explore Salalah and experience the hospitality of the city and the people of Oman. Oman Air’s Vice President – Marketing, Abdul Aziz bin Mohammad Al Rashdi, stated “Oman Air is delighted to join the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and other official partners in organising this worldwide triathlon competition in the Sultanate of Oman. It is with great pride that Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, will be supporting the event as the official carrier of IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, which aims to raise awareness of triathlon sports across the country and serves the vision of adding Oman to the global map as an international sporting event destination”. “Through this event, thousands of athletes and spectators are expected to flock to Salalah. Oman Air provides flexible travel and connecting flight options through its main hub in Muscat, which will ensure easy and seamless access to all those that are participating in the event”. Al Rashdi added, “The athletes and spectators will be able to enjoy the amazing scenery surrounding Salalah city while cheering on or completing a 1.9km (1.2-mile) swim, a 90.1km (56-mile) bike ride and a 21.1km (13.1-mile) run”. Mohamed Obaidani, Chief Executive Officer of Triathlon Middle East LLC the exclusive license for IRONMAN70.3 Oman, said, “Since the first IRONMAN70.3 was held in Oman in 2019, the Oman Air brand has become synonymous with this high-profile global sporting event. As the event’s reputation continues to grow in the international triathlon and endurance …

Royal Air Maroc will resume its services between Mohamed Fifth airport in Casablanca and Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha with one daily flight, starting from 12th September. It will operate a Boeing 787-9 which has a capacity of 302 seats, including 26 Business class seats. Royal Air Maroc’s operation to Doha was suspended since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Flights will depart from Casablanca at 14h45 arriving in DOH at 00h15 the next day and departing DOH at 02h15 arriving Casablanca at 08h10. The Chairman and CEO of Royal Air Maroc insists on “the importance of this strategic partnership which will provide our customers with more connections both to Asian destinations from the extensive network of our partner Qatar Airways, and to our African destinations”. Mr. Hamid ADDOU also indicates that “this partnership will allow us to offer additional benefits to our customers in terms of quality of travel and service on board the planes of both airlines and on the most prestigious oneworld alliance network to which we are affiliated”. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are pleased to further expand our strategic cooperation with the resumption of flights of our fellow oneworld member, Royal Air Maroc. Qatar Airways and Royal Air Maroc have enjoyed a strong relationship since 2015 that is driven by a determination to deliver a strong network. This deeper partnership further cements our commitment to our passengers as we connect them through the World’s Best Airport at Hamad International Airport. Doha is firmly positioned as a leading oneworld hub bringing more airline partners together than ever before, allowing passengers to enjoy seamless global connectivity to …

Etihad Airways is set to start flying to Guangzhou next month, becoming the first international airline to operate long-haul passenger services to the top three Chinese gateways since the start of the pandemic. Subject to regulatory approvals, the twice-weekly passenger service to Guangzhou will start on 10 October, initially using a two-class Boeing 777. The new route means Etihad will be offering guests convenient access to three Chinese gateways as Guangzhou is added to existing services to Shanghai which resumed in July 2020 and Beijing, which resumed in June 2022. Martin Drew, Etihad’s Senior Vice President Global Sales and Cargo, said: “We are proud to offer our guests a third destination in China as Etihad Airways begins flights to the pivotal and historic port city of Guangzhou. As well as being a modern and rapidly growing city itself, Guangzhou has excellent connections with the Greater Bay Area. “Our twice-weekly service will further address the huge demand for passenger travel between the UAE and China, as well as provide new cargo capacity, building on the formidable people and business ties between the two markets.” With the addition of these new services from 10 October, Etihad will offer four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and China: two services per week to Guangzhou and weekly services to Beijing and Shanghai. Those wishing to book are advised to visit Etihad.com, and to remain informed on the relevant entry regulations at their end destination. Flights are also available for booking through the Etihad mobile app, by calling the Etihad Airways Contact Centre on +971 600 555 666 (UAE) or +86 400 8822 050 (Mainland China), or through local or online travel agencies.  Abu Dhabi-Guangzhou flight …

SAUDIA has emblazoned the brand of NEOM on its aircraft, celebrating the project as the world’s most ambitious development. Part of a strategic partnership between the two entities, the initiative honors NEOM as a new model for sustainable living, working and prospering, and a hub that fosters innovation and attracts the world’s most brilliant minds to create the future. The joint venture forms just one of many projects that SAUDIA and NEOM are planning to collaborate on. Commenting on the partnership, SAUDIA Director General H.E. Eng. Ibrahim Abdulrahman Al Omar said: “This partnership paves the way for more cooperation in the future. Placing the NEOM and SAUDIA brands side by side delivers a meaningful message to the world, highlighting the unity and coordination between the sectors and the various vital economic projects which work closely on achieving the Kingdom’s strategies and ambitious plans.” Speaking on behalf of the NEOM giga-development, NEOM CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr stated: “Our partnership with SAUDIA Airlines, will carry our ambitious vision to the world, showcasing how NEOM is in service of humanity to ensure prosperity and offer real solutions to global challenges. We hope that our ideas and aspirations will reach all regions across the world so that everyone can take part in creating this global project. We are immensely proud of and have a vested interest in letting the world know about NEOM, a key project of Saudi Vision 2030 and the new future.” Last May, NEOM announced its strategic partnership with SAUDIA to conduct regular international flights from NEOM Bay Airport to selected destinations, and to help it roll out further commercial services. Distinguished for its strategic location at the crossroads of three continents, …

Hamad International Airport (HIA) has opened the “Oryx Garden Hotel”, the second airport hotel within its award-winning terminal. Situated in the North Plaza, this is the latest venue where passengers can unwind during a layover.  The Oryx Garden Hotel is one of many new experiences that are part of HIA’s airport expansion project, which is all set to be launched in time for the widely anticipated FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The airport expansion project significantly expands HIA’s state-of-the-art facilities, which will include more than 90 brands in one vast shopping area, a world-class art collection, a refreshing environment with lush greenery, and a 10,000 sqm indoor tropical garden with a 268-sqm water feature – a focal point for all travelers. Commenting on the opening of the Oryx Garden Hotel, HIA’s Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our second airport hotel at HIA. This is just one of the many new offerings our airport will be unveiling as part of our exciting expansion plans. The Oryx Garden Hotel adds yet another sustainable, world-class facility to the world’s best airport, offering a relaxing environment for guests to unwind and discover the extraordinary destination that is HIA.” Comprising of 100 rooms ranging from king to twin, as well as suites, the Oryx Garden Hotel offers guests complimentary new generation WIFI throughout the premises and ready access to a variety of retail and culinary options conveniently located nearby. All rooms are conveniently located within the terminal, moments away from boarding gates.  The hotel boasts a modern and contemporary design, appealing to both business and leisure travelers, and can be booked around the …

According to the latest news shared by Visit Qatar, it stated that “there will be no standard visas issued for the period between 1 November 2022 and 23 January 2023. Instead you must have an approved Hayya Card to enter Qatar, which you will also need to present at the stadium along with your match ticket. Apply for your Hayya Card as soon as possible. Apart from having an approved Hayya Card, you will also need it to enter the stadiums for matches and for access to free public transport from 10 November to 23 December 2022. The Ehteraz app is a Covid-19 notification app that is mandatory when you prepare for your immigration at the airport. Your host just needs to register your stay with the Hayya portal website,” states Visit Qatar, Visit the Hayya portal for more information. TravTalk ME spoke to Ayman Al Qudwa Manager Falcon Travel Qatar for further information. He shared, “Visa requirements and Visa Procedures are a major challenge for any passenger as well as the Travel Service Provider. In Qatar we are proud that we are more modest, and we are conservative. And that’s how we respect and welcome all Fans to enjoy watching FIFA World Cup 2022, understanding, and respecting the culture in Qatar is the most important subject. Therefore, the rules and process are very systematic and simple, it is only 3 simple steps for Regional and International FANs: Buy Your Ticket Match from FIFA Official Website, buy your accommodation during your stay in Qatar, complete your Hayya Fan Card Registration and then you can finalize your travel arrangements and come to Qatar.” He further reiterated about the UAE and KSA’s …

As part of its continued drive to ensure customers ‘fly better’, Emirates has selected the new Thales’ AVANT Up system for its incoming fleet of Airbus A350 aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2024. The airline’s investment of over US$ 350 million will see its 50-strong fleet of A350s equipped with next-generation inflight entertainment solutions that offer a memorable cinematic and personalised passenger experience. Adel al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer said: “Emirates has always regarded inflight entertainment as an essential aspect of our onboard experience, and we were in fact the first airline to put personal screens onto every single seat onboard when that was far from the norm over 30 years ago. Today, Emirates ice remains unmatched in inflight entertainment content and experience, having won best-in-the-sky awards consecutively for the past 14 years. Our investment in next-generation Thales systems for our new A350 fleet will further our lead, enabling us to deliver even better experiences to our customers. Watch this space.” Yannick Assouad, Executive Vice-President, Thales Avionics said: “At Thales we are proud to partner with Emirates in their mission to Fly Better. Thales’ AVANT Up brings to Emirates the latest consumer technologies and capabilities to the aircraft. Combining our Optiq 4K QLED HDR displays, award-winning dynamic power, and next generation digital services, Emirates customers can expect the extraordinary.” The game-changing technology in Thales’ AVANT Up system features Optiq 4k QLED HDR displays – the only aircraft displays using Samsung’s QLED technology to immerse viewers in more than a billion colors. This rich display capability provides the perfect medium for Emirates’ unmatched ice inflight entertainment product which delivers over 5,000 channels of multi-language content including live TV, the latest …

Etihad Airways continues to strengthen its commitment in the US market with increased flights from New York’s JFK International Airport on the heels of the launch of the airline’s new A350 aircraft, and an expanded partnership with JetBlue. Last night, Etihad invited friends and partners to an event in New York at Cipriani Downtown to celebrate the airline’s latest milestone and continued commitment to the US market and its North American partners. A number of key representatives from Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector joined the delegation, including Mohammed Al Zaabi, Chief Executive Officer of Miral Asset Management, Husain Al Hashmi, Regional Manager at Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, Francois Bourienne, Chief Commercial Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports. They were joined by executives from the hospitality and travel sectors, helping to strengthen the connections between the UAE and the US. At the gala event in New York recently, Tony Douglas, Etihad Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, commented: “The US remains one of our leading markets and that is why New York and Chicago were amongst the first destinations to be serviced by Etihad’s new A350. We are proud to continue to offer our guests a premier travel experience and enhanced connectivity through our growing partnership with JetBlue.” In June Etihad launched their new A350 aircraft, Sustainability50, which carries a unique livery in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the federation of the UAE and Etihad’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The new aircraft is currently serving two routes in the US with flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport to Chicago’s O’Hare International and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-powered Airbus A350 is one …