Qatar Airways has signed a deal with Shell to source 3,000 metric tonnes of neat Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Amsterdam Schiphol airport. It encompasses the existing jet fuel contract with Shell at Amsterdam which will now see Qatar Airways using at least a 5 per cent SAF blend over the contract period for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The Qatar Airways bilateral agreement with Shell is part of a wider effort initiated by the oneworld alliance, which has a set target of using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for 10% of combined fuel volumes by 2030. Qatar Airways is the first carrier in the Middle East and Africa to procure a large SAF amount in Europe beyond government SAF mandates. SAF offers significant potential for decarbonisation as neat SAF can reduce full lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.[1] This means that Qatar Airways will be reducing its emissions on flights from Amsterdam by approximately 7,500 tonnes of CO2 for the fiscal year. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “At Qatar Airways, we are strongly committed to supporting the industry’s effort to ramp-up the use of sustainable aviation fuel, as one of the key pillars to decarbonise the aviation industry. Last year, we signed our first offtake agreement in the US, and now we are placing a multi-million US dollar SAF deal in Amsterdam to illustrate our SAF commitment and reiterate our calls for a more robust SAF supply chain across our global network”. “We remain steadfast in our ambitious target of 10 per cent SAF use by 2030 and this  announcement, establishes another landmark for Qatar Airways that underlines the positive …

The Hajj Committee at Dubai Airports convened recently to discuss comprehensive preparations to facilitate the smooth and seamless travel of Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year. The committee, which comprises key service partners including Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Health Authority, flydubai, Emirates, Saudi Airlines, and flynas, among others, aims to deliver an exceptional airport experience for the pilgrims across all terminals at DXB. Mohammad Al Marzouqi, Head of the Hajj Committee, emphasised on the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders and service partners as the key to maintaining service quality especially during annual peak travel seasons. Dubai Airports is committed to providing world-class passenger facilities and services, to ensure the comfort, convenience, and safety of all guests arriving at and departing from DXB.

Hyatt announced that affiliates of Hyatt and ALDAU Development have entered into a franchise agreement to bring the full-service lifestyle brand, Hyatt Centric, to Egypt, with Hyatt Centric Cairo West. The 283-key lifestyle hotel will become the second Hyatt-branded hotel in Cairo’s well-established Pyramids Heights Business Park, following the opening of Hyatt Regency Cairo West in 2021, further demonstrating Hyatt’s intentional brand growth in the Europe, Africa and Middle East region. “We are proud to work with ALDAU Development to bring the Hyatt Centric brand to Egypt, “said Ludwig Bouldoukian, regional vice president of development, Middle East and Africa, at Hyatt. “This signing is an exciting milestone as the hotel will mark the Hyatt Centric brand debut in Africa, showcasing our commitment to enhancing our lifestyle portfolio, and growing our brand presence in markets that matter most to our guests and World of Hyatt members.” With a prime location at Cairo’s western end, by the city’s major business hubs and key tourist attractions, Hyatt Centric Cairo West will offer travellers a new way to stay in the Egyptian capital and provide a perfect launchpad to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. Creating an art journey for the guest from the moment they arrive, the urban hotel’s design will blend cultural elements through the lens of local contemporary artists, incorporating décor that refers to Egyptian crafts, pharaonic heritage and the country’s pop culture. The property will also feature landscaped gardens, a heated outdoor pool, an art wall and inspiring indoor social spaces. Eng. Bassel Sami Saad, Chairman of ALDAU Development, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Hyatt to deliver our second distinctive hotel experience in this prime location. With the city’s key …

Thailand’s leading B2B travel industry show, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2023, kicked off in Bangkok attended by key agents in the Middle East. Hon. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, opened the event welcoming everyone. “It is indeed an honour and pleasure for me to meet everyone of you, who have travelled from around the world and entrepreneurs living in Thailand who have come to participate in the Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2023 in Bangkok today. After covid-19 pandemic, ‘shaping supply’ is what Thailand’s tourism has put in mind and has been increasingly concerned about. In other words, we realize that developing the quality of tourism products and services and most importantly experiences for the entire journey are key to meet the demand of quality travellers. Meanwhile, sustainability is playing a crucial role in improving the supply side. Thus, it has been addressed in our strategy that implements the “Bio-Circular-Green” economy concept to design travel experiences and deliver meaningful trips to travellers, as well as initiate and implement the sustainable tourism goals to set a frame work advocating sustainability in the environment, socio-economy, management, and culture for tourism related businesses in Thailand. In order to successfully drive Thailand towards sustainable tourism and being a quality destination, we cannot do it alone. However, we need support from you and the stakeholders in the tourism industry to make it happen.” Last year, Thailand received 96,389 travellers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 65,857 from the UAE, Kuwait came in next with 44,566 travellers followed by Oman with 26,745 travellers and Qatar with 23,170. Last month at the Arabian Travel Market, Yuthasak Supasorn – TAT Governor reiterated, that they expect …

The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Radisson Hotel Group to develop hospitality and tourism projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first project under this memorandum is expected to be announced in H2 of 2023. The strategic partnership between the two parties will see the development of several properties focused on urban hotels, resorts, serviced apartments and other unique assets with the objective of enhancing the tourism offering in the country. The properties will be developed over the next several years in the targeted destinations under the Saudi National Tourism Strategy and in line with the Saudi Vision 2030. The developments will be under Radisson’s leading brands, to be agreed upon by the parties, it is worth noting that the work of the strategic partnership has been already started between the two parties. The TDF enables world-class companies to invest in, develop, and operate high-quality hospitality, lifestyle, entertainment, and other iconic projects within Saudi Arabia. These investments provide nationals, residents and visitors with more tourism and leisure options, enhancing the quality of life across the Kingdom. Radisson Hotel Group is a leading international hotel group, already present with 26 hotels and resorts and more than 20 properties under development in the country, across several of its leading brands such as Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson which can be found in key urban and coastal locations. Under this agreement with the TDF, Radisson plans to grow its portfolio by a further several hotels to a total portfolio of over 50 hotels in the Kingdom. Commenting on the agreement, Qusai Al-Fakhri, CEO of the Tourism …

Hilton announced its debut in Tunisia with the opening of the highly anticipated Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort – a unique property set close to historical cultural landmarks, offering panoramic Mediterranean views, world-class dining, and a destination-worthy wellness centre. Located six miles from Monastir downtown and eight miles from Sousse, Skanes is a highly sought-after resort destination on Tunisia’s coastline, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort is close to the Monastir-Habib Bourguiba International Airport, making it easily accessible to major attractions such as the Ribat of Monastir, Mausoleum of Bourguiba, Medina of Sousse, and other cultural attractions, visited and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Golfers can enjoy their favourite sport on the Monastir Flamingo Golf Course located within the immediate vicinity of the resort. Jan van der Putten, vice president, operations, Africa and Indian Ocean, Hilton said: “We’re excited to be opening Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort, bringing Hilton’s world-class hospitality to Tunisia once again. This new resort offers guests a blend of Tunisian heritage, modern sophistication, culinary excellence, and Hilton hospitality – creating the perfect beachside stay. By growing our portfolio of wonderful resort hotels across the African continent, we are providing new holiday choices for travellers in outstanding destinations like Tunisia, as well as creating career opportunities for residents in the travel and tourism industry.” The resort’s interiors offer a unique interpretation of Tunisian culture, creating an exclusive sense of place, where designs tell a story and spaces have meaning. Guests are welcomed into the lobby with warm marine colours – white and turquoise – transporting them into a world of calm. Meanwhile, the 346-rooms and suites are …

Kuwait Airways announced the inauguration of its Elite Lounge at the Terminal 4, designated for Royal and First Class passengers, in addition to Platinum Card holders of the Oasis Club. The Elite Lounge was inaugurated by Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Ali M. Al-Dukhan, KAC’s Board Members, and the Chief Executive Officer of Kuwait Airways, Eng. Maen Razouqi, in the presence of the Acting Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Mr. Saleh Al-Fadaghi, the Director General of the General Department of Airport Security at the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier General Essa Al-Failakawi, the CEO of Incheon Korea Airports Management Company, Mr. Jung June Ahn and various officials representing Kuwait Airways, Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Interior.  As part of the inauguration, a tour of the lounge was conducted for the officials, highlighting the various services available to the customers. On the side lines of the inauguration, Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Ali Al-Dukhan felicitated the attendees on the opening of the Elite Lounge at Terminal 4, revealing the new image of the Blue Bird, which was announced in the beginning of this year. At the same time, Al-Dukhan also commended the efforts extended by Kuwait Airways’ employees in implementing and completing the preparations of the lounge with a high level of efficiency and in a short time, to provide distinguished services to the passengers of Royal and First Class. Moreover, Al-Dukhan expressed his happiness at the opening of the Elite Lounge, held in the presence of officials from Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Interior and extended appreciations to them for their continuous support and cooperation. He indicated that the opening of the Elite Lounge comes within the …

Home grown brand, Rotana announced the agreement signing for Pontus Rotana Resort & Spa Gonio, with one of the largest developers in Georgia, Pontus Capital. The luxury property located in the beach suburb of famous Batumi, is expected to open in 2026, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Integrating traditional architecture with modern living, Pontus Rotana Resort & Spa boasts 600 spacious rooms offering unobstructed views of the natural landscape. Guests staying at the property will also enjoy access to world-class gaming at the grand casino. The five-star property will offer an additional range of services and amenities including a private beach, exquisite dining venues, a serene spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fully equipped wellness and fitness center as well as a dedicated interactive kids play zone. Commenting on the announcement, Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO of Rotana, said: “We are excited to be partnering with Pontus Capital to debut the first Rotana branded five-star property in Georgia. Complete with glamourous architecture, a variety of fine-dining venues and elevated recreation facilities, Pontus Rotana Resort & Spa will deliver on our singular brand promise of ‘Treasured Time’ for guests and visitors alike. The 600-key property marks a significant milestone for Rotana as we continue to expand our footprint internationally with new regions in the pipeline, and we look forward to the property’s successful launch.” A beautiful coastal town nestled along the Black Sea coast, Gonio is renowned for its picturesque beaches and luscious green mountains. Pontus Rotana Resort & Spa will provide a beautiful backdrop for visitors to enjoy while they relax on the private beach or explore the local town. Batumi International Airport is only seven minutes …

The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the UAE travel & tourism sector is projected to meet the 2019 peak this year. The sector is set to contribute AED 180.6 billion to the UAE economy by the end of 2023, almost matching the 2019 high AED 183.4 billion, only 1.5% behind pre-pandemic levels. This represents nearly 10% of the total economy. WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create nearly 7,000 jobs this year, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 745,100, to reach more than 758,000 employed by travel & tourism. Last year, the travel & tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew more than 60% to reach nearly AED 167 billion, representing 9% of the country’s economy. The sector also created more than 89,000 more jobs from the previous year to reach more than 751,000 jobs nationally, surpassing 2019 levels by an additional 6,000 jobs. 2022 saw the return of international travellers to the UAE, with India (13%), Oman (8%), Saudi Arabia (8%), and UK (7%) leading as source markets for international arrivals. According to the data, in 2022, international visitors contributed AED 117.6 billion to the national economy, representing a year-on-year growth of 65.3%, although 19% behind 2019 levels. In terms of domestic spend, 2022 saw a 35.7% year-on-year jump, reaching AED 46.9 billion, 10.6% above its pre-pandemic counterpart. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The national Travel & Tourism sector is recovering at a rapid pace, proving the UAE continues to grow in popularity amongst international travellers. The UAE is home to one of the world’s busiest and successful airports, Dubai International, which acts as a gateway to the Middle East. “The …

Google Cloud and Qatar Airways have agreed to collaborate to set out the airline’s intention to explore leveraging Google Cloud’s data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to create superior customer experiences for its passengers. In 2022, Qatar Airways carried 18.5 million passengers across 150 destinations worldwide. This large volume of passengers drives an abundance of structured and unstructured data to the airline’s digital transformation unit. The proposed collaboration with Google Cloud is intended to help bring deeper meaning to Qatar Airways’ customer data through the power of Google’s data analytics, AI and machine learning (ML) solutions, including BigQuery and Vertex AI. This, in turn, will enable the airline to enhance the travel experience for passengers, providing them with offerings personalized to their individual needs, travel trends, and past travel history. Qatar Airways Chief Information Officer, Mr. A.T. Srinivasan, said, “Qatar Airways is a highly respected aviation leader which has always set benchmarks with its globally recognised and award-winning customer service. Google Cloud brings us the opportunity to build elasticity and scalability on demand, as we increasingly look to leverage both structured and unstructured data to personalise customer and employee experience. We will also leverage Google’s highly secure and diverse set of Cloud service offerings for optimising our airline and airport operations particularly in the areas of aircraft inventory, flight operations both on ground and in the air, as well as airport operations. We also look forward to collaborating with Google Cloud to try out some of their cutting-edge technology through this long-term partnership. The presence of a Cloud in Qatar gives us the assurance that our data stays in-country and we can focus on data and AI/ML led innovation …