VFS Global’s Visa At Your Doorstep solution shared that it has witnessed a 20% growth in demand from travellers, both from Middle East and within the UAE, in the first half of 2024. This year, VFS Global added Bulgaria, Croatia and Japan to the list of countries it offers the service for. The service entails trained professionals visiting the applicant’s preferred location to accept the documents and enrol biometrics and has been popular globally among corporate and student groups, providing convenience to those applying with a higher number of co-passengers. However, this trend has recently been shifting towards families and individual travellers, with Dubai leading in demand from the UAE. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head, VFS Global, said, “The Visa At your Doorstep service witnessed an uptick in demand during the pandemic because of health and safety precautions, but today’s growing trend of families and individuals opting for Visa At Your Doorstep shows a shift in the traveller sentiment towards choosing comfort and convenience over cost. With demand for international travel ever-increasing, we look forward to providing all our customers best-in-class service.” The Visa At Your Doorstep solution is an optional service and can be booked online on www.vfsglobal.com. Opting for this service does not have any bearing on the processing timeline or decision made on a visa application. This remains the sole prerogative of the respective client governments. In the UAE, the service is available for Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Türkiye, Ukraine and UK visa services.

The Ministers’ Summit at World Travel Market in association with UN Tourism and WTTC will see more than 50 tourism dignitaries and leaders from across the globe debate the potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies to transform the tourism industry. With an increasing demand for innovative solutions that can revolutionize how we experience and interact with destinations, the industry is on the brink of profound change as a result of technological advancements. The Ministers’ Summit, which takes place on Wednesday 6th November, will debate the transformative potential of AI and emerging technologies in shaping the future of travel and hospitality against the ethical implications of its deployment. This year the Summit, run in association with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNTourism) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), will be moderated by a well-known BBC journalist, bringing together both the public and private sector, to ensure a fair but thought-provoking discussion. Now in its 18th year, this year’s Summit aligns with World Travel Market’s TravelPower campaign, which aims to convey the potential of tourism industry to drive positive change. Ministers will discuss how AI promises enhanced experiences and streamlined processes, and how to ensure that these advancements align with ethical standards. Another key discussion point will be how equitable access to AI technology is essential to prevent existing socio-economic disparities from becoming even further entrenched. Ministers will debate the best ways to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all stakeholders, regardless of their background or resources, have access to the benefits of AI in tourism, one of the main priorities laid out in the UN Secretary-General’s report on Science, Technology and Innovation for sustainable development. WTTC …

Etihad Airways announced it will start flying its A380 double-decker to Singapore (SIN) from 1 February, 2025 . The Asian-Pacific powerhouse becomes the fourth major city to enjoy the Etihad A380 experience in addition to London and New York, as well as Paris which will be served by the A380 from 1 November. It means Etihad will have its sixth A380 in operation by the start of 2025. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “We are thrilled to announce that our iconic A380 aircraft will begin serving the Singapore route early next year. This aircraft provides our business and leisure travellers with an exceptional flying experience and seamless connections to our Middle East, European, and North American networks. It highlights Etihad’s dedication to optimising travel to Abu Dhabi and beyond, ensuring more convenience and comfort for our guests. We will have our sixth A380 online next year as we build our capacity further to cater for the travel needs of our guests.” The A380 brings a special touch to air travel. Economy passengers enjoy a warm welcome with comfortable seating arrangements, including 68 seats offering four inches more legroom and 337 Smart seats featuring Etihad’s innovative fixed-wing headrests and large pillows. On the upper deck, Business Studios™ feature 70 private spots, complemented by The Lobby lounge area. Each Business Studio is equipped with premium amenities designed with Armani/Casa and Wi Fi connectivity, ensuring a productive and luxurious travel experience. First Apartments are luxurious with nine private spaces, designer tableware, leather chairs, and a large ottoman-bed. First-class guests also receive personal amenities and can enjoy an exclusive shower room.  

The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) announced that the number of visitors to events during the second quarter of this year reached more than 16 million visitors, an increase of about 130% over the same period last year, when the number of visitors reached 7 million visitors. The total number of licenses reached 1,529, an increase of 7.3 percent compared to the second quarter of last year 2023, when the total number of licenses issued reached 1,425. The largest number of licenses was for live shows in restaurants and cafes with 523 licenses, followed by entertainment events with 433 licenses, then entertainment shows with 322 licenses, 93 licenses for entertainment cities, and then crowd organization and management with 60 licenses. In its second quarter report, the Authority stated that the number of licensed entertainment destinations reached 97 in the second quarter. In terms of oversight, the number of field visits for the year 2024 achieved a 301% jump compared to the second quarter of 2023, when the number of visits was 5,200 visits, while the number of visits in the second quarter reached 20,880 field visits during the second quarter of 2024. Those wishing to issue licenses of various types can access the “Entertainment Portal,” which facilitates the provision of entertainment services. It can also be used to view the requirements and controls necessary to work in the sector. The Authority issues licenses for entertainment centers, operating entertainment facilities, certificates of accreditation for selling tickets for entertainment activities, managing and developing entertainment artistic talents, and certificates of accreditation for organizing and managing crowds. Entertainment event permits, entertainment show permits, live show permits in restaurants and cafes, in addition to entertainment city licenses.

Accor together with executive travel managers and buyers from 17 leading international corporations, have launched the Accor Global Leadership Council (GLC), an innovative advisory board aimed at reimagining the future of corporate travel and meetings. Established to create a forward-looking vision for business travel and corporate meetings, the GLC connects business leaders responsible for corporate travel across diverse industries with senior executives from Accor. Council delegates include representatives from sectors such as financial services, engineering, manufacturing, transportation, energy, professional services and technology. The GLC discussed shifting corporate and traveller expectations; the importance of recognition, personalisation and B2B-focused loyalty; the evolving importance of sustainability; emerging traveller trends; the role and impact of distribution and pricing; and a deep-dive on areas of Accor’s business and brands. The Global Leadership Council delegates, who have a combined employee base of over 2.7 million travellers, unanimously agreed the top three priorities for business travel are: 1. Traveler experience and well-being – including corporate employee engagement, wellness, traveller security and digital efficiencies. 2. Cost management and optimization – including program compliance, pricing, cost-reduction and cost avoidance. 3. Sustainability – including sustainable action, carbon budgets and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) Antony Meguerdijian, SVP Sales, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific at Accor said: “The dynamics of international and corporate travel in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific region are evolving rapidly. It is essential for both our clients and hospitality businesses to adapt to new demands and priorities. The new GLC, and the program of client and commercial partner events we host across the region, are critical forums for sharing insights and collaborating on solutions that meet the changing needs of travellers and delegates. Travel and tourism …

Riyadh Air fully committed to sustainable aviation practices launched the first in a fleet of electric coaches for employee transport. These efforts reflect the carrier’s firm commitment to adopt all 17 of the United Nations Sustainable Development goals having signed up to the UN Global Compact earlier in 2024. Launched in partnership with National Transportation Solutions Company, “NTSC,” a division of the Petromin Corporation and TAM-Europe, a provider of digital solutions to enable sustainable public transport. The fleet of electric buses will facilitate the convenient and eco-friendly daily commute of Riyadh Air staff and aircrew across the Saudi capital as part of an effort to lower the airline’s environmental footprint. The launch of the state-of-the-art fleet was attended by Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air; Mr. Kalyana Sivagnanam, Group CEO of Petromin Corporations; and Gary B. Flom, CEO of Petromin National Transportation Solutions Company. Every effort we make to champion sustainable practices counts in our collective fight against climate change, said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. Sustainability is embedded in our DNA and we will reflect this across all Riyadh Air’s operations, from managing fuel efficiency in the sky to reducing carbon emissions on the ground. Investing in electric coaches is just one early initiative we can introduce to offset our environmental footprint as we demonstrate we will be a leader in helping achieve the aviation industry’s global net-zero agenda. Mr. Kalyana Sivagnanam, the Group CEO of Petromin Corporation, voiced his pride in the strategic partnership with Riyadh Air and stated: We are proud to have this partnership for sustainable mobility with Riyadh Air and contribute to their efforts to reach sustainability goals. This is a remarkable airline with environmental responsibility embedded …

Oman Airports launched new e-gate system at Muscat International Airport to enhance the travel experience and streamline travel procedures in collaboration with Royal Oman Police. This includes smart electronic gates for departing and arriving passengers so that it will significantly improve and smoothen the travel experience. This project comes within the plans of Oman Airports to accelerate travel operations and procedures as part of its goal for Oman Vision 2040.

Reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the travel experience, Oman Air has resumed three seasonal routes for winter; Zurich (starting 5 October), Malé (starting 27 October) and Moscow (starting 29 October). With fares starting from just OMR 88 one-way, it’s the perfect time for travelers to start planning their winter getaway. With direct flights from Muscat to over 40 destinations across Europe, the Far East, Indian Subcontinent, Africa and Middle East, and more frequencies than any other airline, guests can enjoy unmatched choice and convenience. Oman Air is also looking into increasing frequencies on its most popular routes, which will be announced soon. Gearing up for the peak winter season, the airline offers an exciting range of travel experiences for the whole family, from the sun-soaked shores of the Maldives to the snow-capped slopes of Switzerland and the cultural and historical riches of Russia, as well as many more. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can take advantage of affordable fares, seamless connectivity and award-winning service.

With TravTalk ME as media partner for China Visitors Summit, more partners have joined in for this year’s event as travellers from China increase to the emirate of Dubai for its flexibility and visa on arrival. Dubai Entertainment Holdings joins CVS, China Visitors Summit as a golden sponsor from 5- 6 September at SO/Uptown Dubai.  As part of their sponsorship, they will host all 120 participating Chinese buyers for a day of thrilling adventures at Real Madrid World and a dinner reception at the magnificent LAPITA Hotel and Resort. Dubai Holding Entertainment is one of the largest and most diversified entertainment groups in the region, dedicated to cementing the Emirate as one of the world’s most desirable tourist destinations. Real Madrid World Adventures: All 120 Chinese buyers from mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong will experience a day at Real Madrid World (RMW), the first-ever Real Madrid-themed park celebrating football and basketball.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and SETI Institute announced their collaboration agreement as part of a long-term vision to further the development of AlUla Manara Observatory as a leading destination of the future, for space research, discovery and astro-tourism. AlUla is an ancient desert oasis located in North West Saudi Arabia with more than 200,000 years of recorded human history and ancient heritage sites with 7000 years of successive civilisations. The AlUla Manara Observatory is part of an ambitious plan to develop AlUla into a premier destination with a focus on sustainability, community and cultural and knowledge enrichment. As part of the agreement, the SETI Institute will facilitate installation of a Laser SETI instrument at AlUla Manara Observatory. LaserSETI, an optical SETI project, monitors the sky for laser flashes that could indicate the presence of extra-terrestrial technology. The LaserSETI station would be part of a broader network scanning the entire northern hemisphere night sky from various locations. Naif Almalik, AlUla Manara’s Executive Programme Director, said, “This collaboration enhances AlUla’s evolving role as a dynamic hub for science and knowledge exchange. It will equip AlUla Manara with the instruments needed to observe the cosmos in extraordinary detail and establish AlUla as a premier destination for research and astro-tourism. Just an hour’s drive from AlUla’s center, the observatory will inspire local youth to pursue diverse careers in advanced STEM fields, supporting the growth and economic diversification of Saudi Arabia in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions. “ Additionally, the SETI Institute will support in developing data analysis systems for some of the telescopes housed at AlUla Manara Observatory and provide expertise in hardware and instrument development. The SETI Institute’s Centre …