Farnek has witnessed major growth for its hospitality division, with outsourcing a driving factor. This year alone Farnek has won dozens of contracts worth in excess of AED 72 million, mobilising over 450 staff, with international hotel brands such as EMAAR, Millennium, Sheraton, Movenpick, Sofitel, Hilton and Kempinski, amongst others. The bulk of the demand has been for housekeeping, stewarding and security, as well as specialised cleaning and maintenance. Farnek’s growth in market share is consistent with the latest industry figures. Research by Mordor Intelligence has revealed that the UAE’s hospitality market is currently estimated to be worth over AED 27 billion and is predicted to grow to AED 34.7 billion within five years. Outsourcing staff is widely believed to be more cost-effective than hiring fulltime employees. Industry professionals estimate that hotels can reduce operating costs by more than 30%, but for many hotel managers, outsourcing is still confined to stewarding roles. That is even though typically, low salaries, long and often unsociable hours, repetitive duties and the lack of fast-track career advancement, often account for the reluctance of younger workers to take up fulltime positions in hospitality. However, according to Tamer Bishay, Director of Business Development, Farnek, even though the UAE is close to the enormous talent pools of MENA, South and South-East Asia, where workers can find better paid jobs here than similar ones at home, the exponential growth of tourism is still putting an added strain on hotel human resource departments. “Training of course is a key issue. This can take a considerable amount of time and effort to ensure that employees are trained to comply with operational standards. Then comes the issue of retention. Invariably it …

IHG Hotels & Resorts signed a management agreement with Maxim Hotels and Resorts Management to bring the Vignette Collection brand to Egypt with a signing in Port Said. Scheduled to open its doors in December 2027, Vignette Collection Hotel Royal Maxim Port Said will seamlessly blend heritage and contemporary hospitality, offering guests a luxurious yet authentic experience. The 140-key hotel will feature two distinct sections, each featuring 70 rooms. The first section restored from a heritage building that once housed the Suez Canal Authorities, will provide guests with beautiful views of the canal. The second section will be a newly constructed beachfront property, providing easy access to the shore. Vignette Collection is a family of one-of-a-kind, exclusive hotels curated for guests seeking rich and varied stay experiences in some of the most sought-after urban and resort locations and enriches IHG’s fast-growing Luxury & Lifestyle offer for both leisure and business travellers. The brand also gives owners of world-class independent hotels the opportunity to retain their distinctive identity, while benefitting from IHG’s global scale and luxury and lifestyle expertise. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East and Africa (IMEA) at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to partner with Maxim Hotels and Resorts to debut the Vignette Collection brand in Egypt. With its conversion friendly proposition and a promise to offer unique stays to guests in high-quality luxury and lifestyle hotels, Vignetter Collection brand has seen phenomenal success worldwide. Vignette Collection Hotel Royal Maxim Port Said will be situated in one of Egypt’s most historical landmarks, known for its association to the Suez Canal, and therefore will attract visitors for its strategic location steeped in rich history. He added: …

WTTC’s latest Environmental & Social Research (ESR), created in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, revealed that in 2023 travel & tourism accounted for 6.7% of all emissions globally, down from 7.8% in 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak. The research showcases a important achievement with the sector’s economic contribution growing faster than its environmental impact. Last year, Travel & Tourism’s contribution to global GDP almost reached pre-pandemic levels at US$9.9TN, just 4% shy of the sector’s peak. However, in 2023 global GHG emissions were 12% below the 2019 peak, with GHG intensity (emissions per unit of GDP) falling 8.4% during this period. This demonstrates the sector’s growth is becoming cleaner. “Our sector is proving that we can grow responsibly,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO. “We’re decoupling growth from emissions – Travel & Tourism is expanding economically while lowering its environmental footprint. “This is a defining moment, proving that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand in shaping the future of global tourism. However, while we are decoupling our sector’s growth from the increase in GHG, our aim is absolute reductions. We must accelerate this progress significantly to meet the Paris climate targets. We’re on the right track, but we need to up our game.” A key driver of Travel & Tourism’s emissions is the energy used to power its operations. Although 2023 showed positive trends compared to 2019, it’s clear that there are still significant opportunities to accelerate the green transition. The increases in renewable energy use and reductions in fossil fuel reliance remain relatively modest, highlighting the need for more decisive action. In 2023, the sector’s reliance on fossil fuel energy sources (oil, coal, and natural …

Hilton Riyadh Olaya officially opened its doors in Saudi Arabia offering towering views over Riyadh, the hotel blends premium hospitality with design and is in close proximity to key business hubs within the city. Hilton Riyadh Olaya features 239 contemporary guest rooms, one- and two- bedroom suites, and residential apartments. “We are excited to welcome guests to the highly anticipated Hilton Riyadh Olaya,” said Stephan Reiter, General Manager. “This opening marks the culmination of months of hard work and collaboration with city officials and local partners. We are deeply grateful for the support of the community and leadership, and we look forward to creating memorable experiences for our guests in this vibrant city.” The hotel seamlessly combines contemporary amenities and enduring charm, offering a unique experience for both business and leisure travellers. Hilton Riyadh Olaya places a strong emphasis on inspiring design, creating spaces that are modern, stylish, and sophisticated. Ideally situated just 18 minutes from the King Abdullah Financial District and 25 minutes from the Riyadh International Exhibition Centre. Additionally, the iconic Kingdom Tower is conveniently close by. The hotel’s architecture and design are inspired by the publishing world and evoke elements reminiscent of quills, pens, texts, and calligraphy. Hilton Riyadh Olaya offers signature amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the Executive Club Lounge, featuring complimentary refreshments and panoramic city views. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business center, and a well-equipped fitness center for all guests. The hotel also features an eforea Spa, offering a range of global spa experiences and locally inspired healing traditions. Each guestroom is equipped with modern conveniences such as an HDTV and a coffeemaker, ensuring a …

ADNEC Group’s Tourism 365 has achieved a new milestone with the launch of the first-ever weekly charter flight, operated by Air Samarkand, connecting Uzbekistan directly to Al Ain. The flight is part of Tourism 365’s expanded partnership with Uzbekistan-based tour operator EasyBooking, aimed at boosting tourism and fostering greater connectivity between the two destinations. This influx of tourists will provide a significant boost to Al Ain’s tourism industry, reinforcing the emirate’s broader vision of positioning the city as a premier destination for cultural and leisure tourism. Josep-Anton Grases, CEO of Tourism 365, said: “The launch of the first-ever charter flight from Uzbekistan to Al Ain, made possible through our strategic partnership with EasyBooking, represents a key step in expanding Al Ain’s international tourism reach. Together with EasyBooking, we are committed to unlocking new opportunities for travellers to explore Al Ain’s unique cultural heritage and natural wonders, positioning the city as an essential destination within the UAE.” Odil Khasanov, CEO of EasyBooking, said: “We are happy to expand our partnership with Tourism 365 to launch this direct weekly charter flight from Uzbekistan to Al Ain. This collaboration not only strengthens the tourism ties between Uzbekistan and the UAE but also offers our travellers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural richness and heritage of Al Ain. By providing seamless travel experiences and customised tour packages, we are confident this initiative will significantly enhance the travel experience for Uzbek tourists and support the growing demand for travel to the emirate.” Tourism 365 already supports EasyBooking in the operation of charter flights from Uzbekistan to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and the newly launched route to Al Ain complements these existing connections. As the …

Qatar Tourism held a special event to showcase the tourism roadmap, in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with a group of prominent partners and officials in the tourism industry in Qatar. The event began with an honorary speech by His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, President of Qatar Tourism and Chairman of Visit Qatar, during which he stressed the importance of the tourism industry as a key pillar of Qatar’s strategy to diversify the national economy and support the country’s sustainable development. His Excellency pointed out that Qatar Tourism pursues a modern vision and an advanced strategy through which it seeks to enhance the competitiveness of the tourism sector, encourage investment in the development of the infrastructure it requires, and provide an enabling environment that ensures its prosperity and contribution to supporting sustainable development and diversifying the resources of the national economy, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and its four pillars. He added that Qatar Tourism is working to make room for the private sector and overcome all obstacles that may prevent countries from activating its role in stimulating tourism activity, allowing it to contribute more to achieving our national ambitions for developing the tourism sector and consolidating Qatar’s position as a leading global tourism destination. This was followed by an opening speech by Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, in which he highlighted the vital role played by Visit Qatar in marketing the destination, promoting leisure and business events, and efforts in developing tourist attractions, and diversifying Qatar’s event calendar, with the aim of strengthening …

Strengthening business links between UAE and Nigeria, Emirates resumed operations to Lagos. Emirates provides frictionless connectivity to one of Africa’s major economic hubs, facilitating global trade and strengthening business ties, in line with the UAE and Nigeria’s strong bilateral trade relations. Soon after landing, the airline hosted an exclusive event for VIPs, government officials, key representatives from Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority, Federal Airports Authority, Customs, Police and the Airforce, as well as trade and industry partners and corporate clients. Commenting on the return of services, Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline said, “This has been a long-awaited moment, and we are excited to resume operations to Lagos, helping reconnect travellers seamlessly to and through Dubai, coupled with a consistent, world-class experience onboard. “We would like to thank the Nigerian authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, as well as the UAE authorities including His Excellency Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, and His Excellency Dr Abdulla Almandoos, Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates in Lagos, for their support. We are committed to making this route a success and look forward to contributing to the Nigerian aviation industry’s growth and offering travellers and businesses more choice and connectivity to key destination across our network.” His Excellency, Festus Keyamo, Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria said: “We are pleased to welcome Emirates back to Nigeria. Emirates has become a global brand and Nigeria, being the most populous black nation in the world, is the sure destination for all major airlines in the world. So, this is a mutually beneficial relationship …

The first ever promotion of Sri Lankan Indigenous medical system, `Hela Wedakama` treatment was launched in United Arab Emirates by the leading Sri Lankan traditional Ayurveda company, Siddhalepa Ayurveda at Novotel Hotel, World Trade Center, Dubai. The launch was initiated by Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort as the kick-off session of the awareness campaign of targeted the GCC region. A special promotional campaign is expected its widest reach with the assistance of Sri Lankan Airlines , the travel trade and travel media of the GCC region. The expectation of present international visitor has been expanded beyond the typical holidays and the travelling for medical purpose has become a boom at present. Thus, this initiative entails enormous `healthy` results for the medical-traveller who is exploring on alternative medical treatments. The main presentation of the session was conducted by Ayurveda Ratna, Mr. Asoka Hettigoda the Chairman and Managing Director of Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort (As well as Hettigoda Group of Companies). Mr. Hettigoda explained how Siddhalepa grew from the grass-root level and entered the Switzerland first in 19….. Further, he added presently Siddhalepa has attracted visitors from various parts of the world while exporting its authentic Ayurveda products to more than 40 countries. Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort aided by Siddhalepa Hospital is patronized by the visitors presently not only for their relaxation treatment but also medicament for various body abnormalities. The launch was well attended by about 45 persons comprising Arabian travel trade members and media based on the region. The Arabic travel trade members commended that they are happy to hear about the efforts to promote medical tourism by Siddhalepa this way effectively. Several travel companies added that Sri Lanka should continue …

Mohammed Abdullah Al Muhanna Hotels Ltd. signed a franchise agreement with Marriott International and a management agreement with Aleph Hospitality to open Four Points by Sheraton Jeddah in Saudi Arabia in the first quarter of 2025. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025, Four Points by Sheraton Jeddah is located in the Rabwah District of Jeddah with excellent connections to every part of the city and just 15 minutes from King Abdul Aziz International Airport. Featuring 112 well-appointed rooms and suites, food and beverage outlets and meeting facilities, the newly built hotel is anticipated to reflect the brand’s promise of ‘travel reinvented’, providing everything that matters most to today’s travellers seeking balance on the road, timeless style and comfort with genuine service. Tariq Dowidar, Vice President Saudi Arabia, Aleph Hospitality said, “I am thrilled that we have been entrusted with the management of the Four Points by Sheraton Jeddah and we look forward to a successful opening. Today, I am also proud to say that this is the second hotel under our management in Saudi Arabia, and the fourth hotel under the Marriott franchise. Our rapid expansion over the past year has made Aleph Hospitality the largest independent hospitality management company in the region.” “This project marks the starting point toward achieving great success in the hospitality sector and we are committed to providing a unique hospitality experience that caters to the needs of visitors from all over the world,” commented Saleh Abdulmohsin Al Sultan, Managing Director, Mohammed Abdullah Al Muhanna Hotels Ltd. “Supporting the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030 has been a key driver for our investment in the hospitality and tourism sector in the Kingdom and we …

Gulf Air has entered into a strategic partnership with Almatar to enhance digital operations between the two entities. As part of the partnership, Gulf Air will integrate its New Distribution Capability (NDC) API with Almatar’s booking platform, enabling Almatar to offer Gulf Air’s products and services, such as seat selection, additional baggage options, refunds, and reissue services. This will provide travelers with a more advanced, flexible, and seamless booking experience. This partnership shows both companies are committed to improve the customer experience and meeting the evolving needs of travelers in a rapidly growing travel and tourism sector. The partnership marks a key milestone in the digital transformation journeys of both Gulf Air and Almatar. It makes Almatar the first OTA company in Saudi Arabia to collaborate with Gulf Air, setting a new industry standard. Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group, said: “We are excited about this partnership that opens new digital distribution avenues for Gulf Air products. The integration of the NDC system with Almatar’s platform will enhance operational efficiency and improve the way the airline delivers exceptional services to our customers. Gulf Air is dedicated to adopting modern technology to offer flexible and user-friendly travel solutions, solidifying our competitive edge in regional and global markets.” Mr. Goh added that this partnership is a part of Gulf Air’s broader vision of achieving full digital transformation, improving the overall travel experience, and delivering innovative services that meet the expectations of modern travelers. The NDC integration will ensure easier and more transparent access to Gulf Air’s extensive range of services and products. Mr. Youssef Abdullah Al Rajhi, Chairman of Almatar, expressed pride in this partnership, …