Speaking with TravelTV Middle East, Turab Saleem – Head of Hospitality – Knight Frank shared that 25million people in the region are somehow one way or another directly or indirectly engaged with travel and tourism sector, He further shared that in the UAE alone around 900,000 jobs are mainly in the travel, tourism and hospitality sector. He shared, “travel and tourism contributes to the revenue across the GCC with UAE  touching 220 billion worth towards the overall economy. The GDP contribution has now gone to 11.7 percent, which historically is one of the highest. Same goes to Saudi. Saudi has achieved milestone which has reached to 444 billion Saudi Riyal in 2023, which is also one of the highest one. And it is 11.7 percent of the total GDP contribution. So which shows how these economies are diversifying and moving towards hospitality and tourism reliance.” He further stated, “1 to 2 jobs out of every 10 jobs belongs to this sector. So this sector is helping in diversification overall in KSA, UAE, and rest of the region. Taking as an example of UAE, jobs around 890,000 to 900,000 jobs are contributed by travel and tourism. In Saudi, the numbers are very high. It’s now reached to 2.5 million of the jobs are from this sector. Regionally, it’s 25 million people in the region are somehow one way or another directly or indirectly engaged with travel and tourism sector.”

Speaking with TravelTV Middle East Paul Griffiths CEO Dubai Airports shared that they expect 93million passengers by the end of the year according to the latest forecast. “We’re ahead of schedule. And what we’re hoping is to see 93 million. That’s the projection. We’ve had a very strong first half this year. We’re hoping to get to 93 million by the end of the year. And 100 million, I think, may be a couple of years away. It’s interesting. Every time we revise our forecast, it’s always in the upward direction. So that’s a very positive trajectory. Well, I think the thing is the attractiveness of Dubai.” adding further on the future of travel, he reiterated, “If you can halve the time it takes a customer to get through the airport, you’ve got double the capacity without building anything, which is really good. And, of course, it’s a much better passenger experience. So the future of travel, I think, is about using technology to remove all of the legacy process that we all suffer when we go on plane trips. So that really is the key to the future of travel through airports.”  

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will underscore the pivotal role of connectivity in shaping the future of tourism with the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity” when it returns to Dubai World Trade Centre from 28 April to 1 May 2025. In light of the unprecedented growth within the global travel and tourism sector, ATM 2025 is set to play a pivotal role in shaping its future. Bringing together professionals and industry leaders from the leisure, MICE, luxury and corporate travel sectors, ATM provides a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business opportunities, allowing participants to explore the latest trends, innovations, and developments worldwide. This international presence enables diverse perspectives to come together, fostering a rich cross-border collaboration and innovation environment. Each year, ATM highlights specific aspects of travel that will shape the sector’s future, and this year’s theme will explore how the future of tourism is defined by connectivity across borders, industries and communities. Commenting on the theme for ATM 2025, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Connectivity extends beyond technology. It also involves creating communities that serve as important centres for trade and tourism. By working together and embracing innovation and better connectivity, ATM is paving the way for the future of travel. This ensures that tourism in the coming years is more sustainable, inclusive, and closely linked with global economic growth.” In July 2024, the Dubai Media Office (DMO) reported that the city had welcomed a record 9.31 million international overnight visitors in the first half of 2024. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this figure represents a 9% increase from the same period in 2023. Dubai’s tourism …

Over 850 Emirates commercial team members from around the world convened in Dubai this week for the airline’s Passenger Sales Conference 2024 under the banner of ‘Next Era – Equip, Embrace, Excel’. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline said: “We have big plans for Emirates, and the Passenger Sales Conference lays out the blueprint around how we will collectively activate commercial pathways and execute on the company’s strategic growth plans – through recalibrating our strategies, seizing emerging opportunities, developing new products, bolstering team dynamics and leveraging the latest technologies.” This biannual event was the airline’s largest ever commercial gathering. The Passenger Sales Conference has become a springboard for the airline’s executive commercial leadership to engage, embolden and inspire teams around their strategy and vision for the future, as Emirates ramps up its fleet, network, products, and readies itself for the next ‘era’ poised for even more growth. The packed programme of speakers representing the full spectrum of the airline’s business, aviation and tourism industry heavyweights, and a dose of inspiration from motivational speakers and best-selling authors set the tone for an extraordinary four days. Recognising individual and team achievements across the commercial organisation, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group also presented the coveted Chairman Sales Award. He continued: “We’ve stood in the face of unexpected business challenges together and turned disruption to our advantage by moving nimbly towards every opportunity available to achieve outstanding results. And we’re only getting started. Our growth trajectory will accelerate in the coming years in line with Dubai’s D33 ambitions, and our teams are focused and committed to continue generating extraordinary value for …

As travelers from the GCC seek new and extraordinary vacation destinations, Jamaica stands out as a haven of luxury, privacy, and unforgettable experiences. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality, Jamaica is the ultimate Caribbean destination for discerning travelers. From high-end resorts offering world-class amenities to exclusive cultural and historical experiences, Jamaica invites GCC travelers to discover a new level of luxury in the heart of the Caribbean. Luxury Stays in Jamaica For those seeking the pinnacle of exclusivity and comfort, Jamaica offers a selection of premier resorts tailored for luxury travelers: Round Hill Hotel and Villas is nestled along the coastline in Montego Bay and boasts of private villas with personal pools, beachfront views, and dedicated concierge service. With a history of hosting international celebrities, Round Hill combines understated elegance with modern luxury. Zoëtry Montego Bay is a tranquil sanctuary renowned for its holistic approach to luxury. This boutique resort offers a blend of modern wellness with timeless elegance, featuring private suites with plunge pools, gourmet dining, and rejuvenating spa experiences. With its beachfront setting and commitment to wellness, Zoetry provides a haven for travelers seeking relaxation in an opulent environment. Half Moon, Jamaica’s highest rated resort spans across 400 acres and offers unparalleled luxury with its beachfront suites, private villas, and championship gol f course. Guests can indulge in spa treatments at the award-winning Fern Tree Spa, take part in a variety of water sports, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea. Unforgettable Cultural Experiences Beyond the luxurious accommodations, Jamaica is a place where travelers get the unique vibe and heritage that the island has to offer: Luxury travelers to Jamaica …

Valor Hospitality Partners announced expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by extending its operations in the Kingdom, in line with its Vision 2030 in having tourism account for 10 percent of the GDP. “Expanding into Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone for Valor Hospitality Partners and presents an unparalleled opportunity for investors in the Kingdom,” stated Julien Bergue, Co-founder and Managing Partner for Valor Hospitality Partners, overseeing the Middle East, CIS, and Central Asia regions. “Our flexible and comprehensive management model is specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the Middle eastern and Saudi market. As the only international full-service firm in the Middle East, we empower investors to optimize their returns through cost-effective solutions, operational efficiencies, and our deep expertise in hospitality management.” With an estimated 600,000 hotel rooms in development across the GCC, the hospitality sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom. Valor Hospitality Partners is uniquely positioned to support investors, Funds, developers and hotel owners in this dynamic market. The company’s strategic approach not only elevates hospitality standards but also aligns Valor with the Vision 2030, enabling investors to capitalize on the rapid growth in tourism and hotel development in Saudi Arabia. “Our focus and our expertise help properties to distinguish themselves, attracting more guests and enhancing their asset visibility,” added Bergue. “By delivering exceptional quality standards and optimizing operational value, we ensure sustained growth and maximized returns for hotel owners. Our tailored solutions provide investors with the tools to navigate and excel in the evolving hospitality landscape of the GCC.” Tapan Piplani, Chief Operating Officer & Head of Business Development Director …

dnata Travel has reported a 21% increase in the average booking value for in-store services in 2024 compared to the previous year. Walk-in services at its 13 retail outlets across the UAE remain the most popular way for residents to book travel, driven by a rise in demand for more complex itineraries. This summer, multi-location trips across Europe were particularly popular, combining train and self-drive travel. France, Italy and Switzerland were frequently included in these itineraries, which featured multiple stops across one or several countries. Tailor-made itineraries in Asia also gained traction throughout the year, with bookings typically including multiple stops within a single country. Hotspots across Thailand and Sri Lanka are especially sought after, with a notable spike in demand for Vietnam compared to previous years. Cruise itineraries, offering multiple stops across different countries, are also seeing steady growth, with dnata Travel anticipating even higher demand as the GCC cruise season approaches this winter. Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “Multi-destination itineraries are trending, as travellers look to experience the best of a region or country in one extended trip. “Many of our customers prefer to book these complex journeys in-store, where our travel experts can provide personalised advice on destinations, hotels and the latest offers. We offer a one-stop solution, where travellers can book everything from flights and hotels to car rentals, tours and insurance. “One of the highest value in-store bookings in 2024 was a summer trip across France, taking in Paris and Cannes, then on to Monaco. Our travel experts arranged the flights, accommodation, private transport and guided tours, all with a fashion theme, in one sitting. This luxurious itinerary featured …

Air Samarkand has launched a new once-weekly service between the Uzbek capital of Tashkent and Al Ain. The aircraft offers 12 spacious business class seats and 182 comfortable economy class seats to ensure a pleasant travel experience. Al Ain is the fourth-largest city in the United Arab Emirates and the largest inland city in the UAE. It is a significant cultural center, playing an important role in the country’s history. “We are excited to add another destination and a new country to our flight map, which we are confident will become popular among both tourists and business travelers,” said Zafar Butaev, CEO of Air Samarkand. This latest development follows the expansion of services to Istanbul earlier in September, to three return flights a week, and marks the continued and steady expansion of Air Samarkand’s route network. In late July the carrier began flying to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to support religious pilgrims, increasing the frequency to five per week by September – with two services departing from Samarkand and one each week from the Uzbek cities of Termez, Fergana and Namangan. Air Samarkand also serves Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt and Nha Trang in Vietnam, using Airbus A321neo and A330-300 aircraft. Flights to Al Ain are operated in partnership with the tour operator EasyBooking, which is providing quick and convenient transfers from Al Ain Airport to selected hotels in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. At the initial stage, flights will operate once a week on Sundays: • Departure from Tashkent: 10:40, arrival in Al Ain: 13:20 (local time). • Departure from Al Ain: 15:00, arrival in Tashkent: 19:40 (local time). Known as the ‘Garden City’ because of its lush greenery, with city oases, …

Travelport announced it has signed a multi-year renewal agreement with Delta Air Lines, including NDC content. The top U.S. airline is collaborating with Travelport on the integration of its NDC solution into Travelport+ to support Delta’s selling and servicing transformation. “We value our long-term partnership with Travelport and are pleased to extend our full content agreement, as well as make Delta’s NDC technology solution available to all of Travelport’s agency customers,” said Jeff Lobl, Managing Director, Distribution Strategy and Agency Sales Programs at Delta Air Lines. “Together, we aim to create value by ensuring customers are presented with the best options to fit their needs for a better, more personalized shopping experience.” To help agencies solve challenges with comparing NDC offers alongside traditional content, Travelport recently debuted its Content Curation Layer (CCL). Travelport’s CCL uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine-learning (ML) to sift through aggregated, multi-source content and return the right range of accurate, highly intuitive search results that are normalized and easier for agents and travelers to understand. CCL is the latest enhancement to the Travelport+ platform, simplifying the delivery of retail-ready content from partners like Delta and presenting tailored options to agency customers and the end-traveler. “Our renewed agreement with Delta underscores our shared commitment to modernizing travel retail for agents and travelers with a seamless, personalized shopping and servicing experience,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Travel Partners at Travelport. “As we prepare for the future delivery of Delta’s NDC content, our ability to deliver multi-source content in a retail-ready way ensures that agents and travelers will be able to easily shop and compare all of Delta’s product offerings in one place.”

WeRide and Uber Technologies, Inc. announced a strategic partnership to bring WeRide’s autonomous vehicles onto the Uber platform, beginning in the United Arab Emirates. The partnership is expected to launch first in Abu Dhabi later this year. A dedicated number of WeRide vehicles will be made available to consumers using the Uber app. After launch, when a rider requests a qualifying ride on the Uber app, they may be presented with the option to have their trip fulfilled by a WeRide autonomous vehicle. The partnership does not contemplate any launches in the United States or China. The partnership agreement was signed by Andrew Macdonald, Senior Vice President of Mobility & Business operations of Uber, and Hua Zhong, Senior Vice President of WeRide. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and WeRide Founder and CEO Tony Han witnessed the signing ceremony of the agreement. WeRide currently operates the largest robotaxi fleet in the UAE, where residents can access its robotaxi services through the TXAI app. In addition, in July 2023, WeRide was granted the UAE’s first and only national license for self-driving vehicles, enabling it to test and operate its autonomous vehicles on public roads across the entire country. Tony Han, founder and CEO of WeRide said: “We are honored to partner with Uber to continue to bring our technology to global markets. Together, we aim to combine our collective experience and expertise to deliver much needed, affordable, sustainable and safe mobility solutions to a global audience.” Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber said: “Uber is very excited to partner with WeRide. It’s clear that the future of mobility will be increasingly shared, electric, and autonomous, and we look forward to working with leading AV companies …