H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Tourism Authority, has launched the 2025 edition of the “Saudi Summer” program, themed Colour Your Summer, at a workshop gathering over 120 public and private sector partners. Running from May to September, the initiative spans six destinations, from Jeddah’s coastal retreats to the highlands of Taif, Al-Baha, and Aseer. Highlights include the Esports World Cup in Riyadh and seasonal events in Jeddah and Aseer, aimed at boosting tourism and economic growth. H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Tourism Authority, stated, “Bringing together our partners each year through this workshop is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping the future of the Saudi tourism industry. This year, we are encouraged to see the private sector contributing over SAR300 million in preparation for what promises to be an incredible summer season. With its rich culture and breathtaking diversity, Saudi Arabia’s destinations continue to inspire travelers from around the world while fueling a dynamic domestic tourism scene.” The theme ‘Colour Your Summer’ highlights the rich diversity of Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings, catering to a wide range of visitor preferences. The program features coastal and mountain destinations, global events, exclusive deals, and a broad selection of tourism experiences across the Kingdom.

Continuing to redefine in-flight dining, Oman Air has partnered with long-term collaborator Amouage to introduce an exclusive sweet creation for Business Class guests. In a shared celebration of artistry and tradition, the national airline and iconic fragrance house have unveiled a bespoke dessert featuring the treasured Omani Rock Rose, grown on the slopes of Al Jabal Al Akhdar (the ‘Green Mountain’). Available for a limited time only, this exquisite floral dish, created by Michelin-starred Chef Peter Gast and inspired by Amouage’s Guidance Eau de Parfum, brings a new dimension of storytelling and sensory delight to the airline’s award-winning Business Class menu, offering guests a refined taste of Oman at 30,000 feet. The carefully crafted, seven-petal creation is a refined balance of delicate textures and layered depth, revealing unexpected contrasts with every bite. Beneath its soft pink exterior and crisp chocolate shell, its petals part to unveil a velvety cream and a delicate crunch that lingers on the palate. Flavour is never static and evolves with its surroundings. During flight, where perception shifts, this delicacy is designed to hold its integrity, allowing each nuance to unfold effortlessly, just as intended. Guests will receive one composition intertwining raspberry, pear, and saffron on inbound flights. From May 2025, the signature rose-inspired dessert can be experienced on all Oman Air Business Class long and medium-haul inbound routes.

In an exclusive interview with TravTalk Middle East, Naif Hassan Awlia, Tourism and Engagement Director of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, shared insights into the destination’s debut at ITB China. Representing Diriyah for the first time at the event, Awlia emphasized the strategic importance of China as a key source market, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader tourism vision. “As part of Diriyah’s tourism ecosystem, we closely follow the National Tourism Strategy,” Awlia explained. “China is a priority market for us. With the Kingdom targeting 150 million visitors annually by 2030, 5 million of those are expected to come from China—and we intend to play a significant role in achieving that goal.” He highlighted the purpose of their participation at ITB China: to connect with leading travel trade partners, including platforms such as Alibaba and Trip.com, and tailor their offerings to resonate with Chinese travellers. “We’re here not only to tell our story but to understand and align with the narrative that appeals to the Chinese market,” he concluded.

Abu Dhabi Airports has officially announced the launch of a new passenger flight service by Air Seychelles, connecting Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Seychelles International Airport (SEZ). Operating six times a week, the newly introduced route is set to strengthen travel ties between the UAE’s capital and the idyllic island nation of Seychelles. The initiative not only enhances tourism and business links but also offers UAE-based travellers and international visitors increased access to the pristine beaches and vibrant culture of the Seychelles. In a significant move to elevate passenger experience, the route is part of a codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways. This partnership enables Air Seychelles passengers to connect seamlessly to Etihad’s extensive global network, providing convenient travel options to Europe, Asia, and other key destinations. Travellers will also benefit from expanded regional connectivity, including flights to Mauritius three times a week and domestic services within Seychelles to Praslin, the archipelago’s second-largest island. These additions further position Seychelles as a vital tourism and travel hub in the Indian Ocean. Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “This new flight service not only bolsters Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub, but also strengthens the ties between the UAE and Seychelles. The launch offers increased accessibility for both UAE residents and international visitors, opening the door for them to experience the unparalleled beauty, culture, and hospitality of the Seychelles.”

Dalands Holding, in collaboration with Marriott International and with the support of ‘Marjan’, the master developer of freehold property in Ras Al Khaimah, has announced the signing of W Residences Al Marjan Island, valued at AED 1.5 billion. Set to open in Q4 2027, W Residences Al Marjan Island will be co-located with the W Al Marjan Island hotel, introducing a bold fusion of vibrant hospitality and elevated residential living to one of the UAE’s most iconic beachfront destinations.This milestone marks a new chapter in Dalands Holding’s expansion into the UAE, building on its successful track record of developing boutique resorts and high-end residences. Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan, added: “W Residences Al Marjan Island is a significant addition to our expanding portfolio of world-class developments on the island. We are pleased to welcome global brands like W Hotels and leading developers like Dalands Holding who have long-standing credibility as a hospitality-focused developer. This project will further enhance our position as a preferred destination for luxury living and investment, while enriching the cultural and economic landscape of Ras Al Khaimah.” Saurabh Gupta, CEO of Dalands Holding, said, “We are delighted to introduce W Residences to Al Marjan Island; a development that embodies our vision for creating iconic destinations rooted in design, service, and a vibrant sense of place. Co-locating these 201 W Residences with W Al Marjan Island ensures an unmatched lifestyle offering, combining private, luxury living with access to exceptional hospitality services. These fully furnished residences, supported by a world-class hotel experience and direct access to the beach, is what sets this project apart.” The residences will feature a range of exquisitely designed luxury homes, offering sweeping …

Almosafer entered into a partnership with Hotel Management Company “Adeera” to promote world-class Saudi Arabian hospitality to domestic and inbound tourists. The MoU aims to enhance the Kingdom’s thriving hospitality and tourism sector in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. As part of the newly signed partnership, Almosafer, as the first global travel agency, will integrate Adeera’s hospitality brands across its portfolio of B2B and B2C travel & tourism businesses to offer domestic and international travellers seamless access to top-of-the-range Saudi Arabian hospitality. The significant collaboration between the PIF entity and the national champion of Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism sector marks a milestone for the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality sector. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said, “As a homegrown company catering to the growing needs of domestic and international travellers, we are proud to connect the world to the unique culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia. Our expansive digital reach and integrated platforms make us the perfect partner to showcase PIF company Adeera’s authentic Saudi hospitality brand and services to the world, and we look forward to enabling a seamless booking experience for more people to enjoy Saudi Arabian hospitality at its best.” Stefan Leser, CEO, Adeera: “Saudi Arabia’s unique hospitality culture is an essential part of its identity and integral to the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism goals. At Adeera, we are committed to bringing this same spirit of warmth and luxury and further elevating it through our carefully curated selection of homegrown hospitality brands in our role as the national champion of the Saudi hospitality sector. Through our partnership with a leading brand like Almosafer and its immense digital reach, we hope to connect tourists further to authentic …

Seven Tides has signed a strategic hotel management agreement with Minor Hotels as the new operator of its five-star DUKES The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, which is located on the west trunk of Palm Jumeirah, effective from 1st August 2025. “This is a strategic appointment as Minor Hotels already successfully manages our existing asset, the neighbouring NH Collection Dubai The Palm, and the agreement will provide enhanced synergy between the hotels,” said Abdulla Bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides. “Furthermore, the proven track record of Minor Hotels in delivering elevated guest experiences, combined with their operational expertise makes them the ideal partner to manage this property. We look forward to a successful collaboration that heightens the appeal of Palm West Beach as one of Dubai’s premier hospitality destinations. “The Barcelo Hotel Group has been managing DUKES for the past six years and has fulfilled all of its contractual obligations to a very high standard. We wish to thank Barcelo Hotel Group for their contribution and wish them success in their future endeavors,” added Bin Sulayem. Delivering an upscale blend of cosmopolitan luxury twinned with tradition, DUKES offers 273 hotel rooms and suite options and 287 serviced apartments with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Guests can enjoy six distinctive dining venues, from a specialty restaurant and pool bar to a beachside lounge and bar, along with a stunning private beach, indoor pool, outdoor infinity pool, lazy river, fully equipped gym and extensive wellness and family-friendly facilities. Located on the vibrant Palm West Beach, one of Dubai’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, DUKES’ prime location also places guests within easy reach of major attractions such as Nakheel Mall, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Ain Dubai, …

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed three usufruct contracts valued at over RO 56 million to develop major tourism projects aimed at boosting Oman’s hospitality and adventure tourism sectors. The contracts cover the development of integrated tourism complexes in the Wilayats of Khasab and Nakhl, and the transformation of Wadi Al Shab in Sur into a premier adventure tourism destination. The agreements were signed under the patronage of H.E. Salim Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. The first project focuses on the enhancement of Wadi Al Shab, a prominent natural attraction in the Wilayat of Sur, South Al Sharqiyah Governorate. The initiative includes the construction of an adventure park featuring zip lines, mountain climbing trails, suspension bridges, swimming areas for both adults and children, as well as restaurants and cafés. The project is designed to attract both local and international tourists year-round while promoting environmental sustainability. The second contract was signed with Khasab Development and Investment Company for the establishment of the “Sandan – Khasab Pearl” integrated tourism complex. Spanning 43,658 square meters in the Wilayat of Khasab, the project will feature a 4-star hotel with 200 rooms and 450 residential units available for ownership by Omanis and foreign nationals. The third project, “Hamyan Village,” will be developed by Hamyan Investment and Project Development Company on a 201,031 square meter plot in Halban, Wilayat of Nakhl, South Al Batinah Governorate. Represented by Saud Hamad Al Ta’ei, the company will build a 4-star hotel with 156 rooms, 535 residential units including apartments and villas, and a variety of amenities such as a market, restaurants, water park, and other recreational services.

ITB China officially opened last evening withTravTalk ME as media partner and Malaysia tourism as the destination partner. Speaking at the opening dinner last evening, David Ruetz, Senior Vice President Messe Berlin shared that they anticipate over 700 exhibitors from around 90 countries and regions, while the number of buyers is set to increase by 30%, reflecting the growing global interest in the event. The Honourable Dato Sri Tiong King Sing – Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia shared the importance of ITB China as they become destination partner promoting 2026 as Visit Malaysia year. Ruetz addressing the audience reiterated, ” We are truly honored to be celebrating this evening with over 700 esteemed representatives from across the travel industry – all united under one roof. The global travel industry is on an exciting trajectory, full of dynamism and renewed energy. The momentum is especially felt and vibrant here in China. We are witnessing not just a mere recovery, but a reimagining of the sector. Chinese travelers are maturing, seeking deeper, more meaningful journeys. And destinations respond by offering more immersive and personalized experiences. Travel is evolving, and China is at the forefront of these new and exciting trends. The 6th edition of ITB China is a clear reflection of that momentum. We are thrilled to announce that ITB China has expanded by an impressive 30% compared to last year, underscoring the growing relevance and confidence in this market. Over the next three days, we will bring together more than 700 exhibitors from 85 countries, and 1,400 hosted buyers from every province in China and across the globe. This is a powerful signal of trust in the market, in the …

SalamAir announced its partnership with Booking.com. This collaboration aims to offer SalamAir passengers an enhanced travel experience by providing seamless access to a variety of accommodation and car rental options through SalamAir`s website. With the wide variety of hotels, resorts, car rental services, and more offered by Booking.com, SalamAir now offers a trustworthy one-stop channel to book an entire holiday experience, all in one place. Passengers can seamlessly plan their trip, from flights to accommodation and transportation, via the “Book a Hotel and Rent a Car” widgets on the SalamAir website. This initiative reinforces SalamAir’s commitment to providing greater convenience, flexibility, and value while delivering a fully integrated travel experience tailored to the diverse needs of its passengers. Steve Allen, Chief Commercial Officer at SalamAir, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “At SalamAir, we continuously seek innovative ways to improve the travel experience for our passengers. Our partnership with Booking.com marks an additional step in providing a seamless and more enjoyable journey by offering a wide range of accommodation and transportation solutions alongside our various travel options. We believe this collaboration will add substantial value to our passengers and further enhance our commitment to affordability and convenience.” Mark van der Linden, VP Partnerships, at Booking.com said of the collaboration: “We are delighted to partner with SalamAir in bringing more travel solutions to its passengers. Our mission at Booking.com is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, and by working with SalamAir, we can ensure that more passengers will have access to diverse accommodation and car rental options that suit their travel needs.” Through this partnership, SalamAir passengers can conveniently book hotels and car rentals alongside their …