Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau, has continued to accelerate the growth of Dubai’s business events ecosystem and support the city’s tourism growth in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, securing 249 successful bids in the first six months of 2025 to host events through 2025 till 2029, including major congresses and high-profile incentive programmes. This achievement marks a 29% increase in bid submissions compared to the same period last year, with a total of 391 bids submitted year-to-date and a conversion rate of 64%, up from 58% in H1 2024. These confirmed wins are expected to bring 127,087 delegates, a 35% year-on-year increase in delegate numbers, further enhancing Dubai’s global standing as a hub for international business events and the emirate’s knowledge economy. This performance underlines the overwhelmingly strong response to Dubai’s destination proposition and global MICE positioning. The successful bids will enable Dubai to host distinguished international conferences, congresses, and incentive meetings, with a pipeline extending into 2029. This growth reinforces the importance of business events to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which is focused on doubling the size of the city’s economy by 2033 and cementing its status among the world’s top three cities to visit, live, and work in. Through strategic collaboration, DBE, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, worked closely with stakeholders, partners, and local associations, including the Al Safeer Congress Ambassadors, a network of UAE-based key opinion leaders, industry professionals, and government representatives working to bring international business events within their sectors to Dubai and secure high-profile events. The Al Safeer Ambassador Programme, in partnership with the Dubai Association Centre, plays a vital role in strengthening the …

Her Excellency Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General elect of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, met with His Excellency Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the UAE, in Abu Dhabi. The meeting focused on advancing collaboration in the tourism sector and explored opportunities to forge partnerships that foster cultural and tourism initiatives supporting knowledge exchange and economic development in tourism and related sectors. Her Excellency Shaikha Al Nowais reaffirmed her commitment to working with global partners, particularly China, to develop strategic projects in sustainable and cultural tourism. She noted that China’s dynamic tourism industry is a key driver of tourism and cultural exchange, as well as the growth of global tourism markets. H.E. said: “We value China’s continuing efforts to drive tourism and promote partnerships in this field. We look forward to expanding collaboration in the areas of education, training, and tourism innovation through launching training programmes globally to elevate the preparedness of the tourism workforce, enrich cultural tourism experiences, and support rural community development through sustainable tourism.” During the meeting, both sides discussed several priority areas of mutual interest, including initiatives to empower local communities and opportunities to leverage China’s expertise and resources. They also explored ways to enhance tourism mobility across countries and regions through bilateral and multilateral collaboration, aligned with the United Nations’ global tourism frameworks. Both parties affirmed the importance of aligning international efforts to strengthen tourism’s role as a bridge between people and cultures, and as a catalyst for sustainable development and youth empowerment. They emphasized the need for renewed policies that embrace diversity, foster innovation, and ensure the sustainable use of resources.

In a significant enhancement to its Irish operations, Emirates is set to operate a third daily service to Dublin this winter starting from 26 October 2025. The world’s largest international airline will offer customers more travel choices to Dubai and beyond, as well as increased cargo capacity to/from Dublin. Emirates flight EK165 will depart Dubai at 02:10hrs and arrive in Dublin at 06:25hrs, local time. The return flight, EK166, will depart Dublin at 08:25hrs and arrive in Dubai at 20:00hrs local time. The additional flight will provide Irish travellers with an early morning departure option, complementing the existing afternoon and evening departures offered by the airline’s double daily service to the country. The third daily flight will operate utilising a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft set in a three-class configuration, offering customers 8 private suites in First Class, 42 lie flat seats in Business Class and 304 spacious seats in Economy Class. The added service will also provide travellers with enhanced connectivity to popular destinations across Emirates’ network including Sydney, Melbourne, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok. Last month, the airline officially introduced its newly retrofitted Boeing 777 on the Dubai to Dublin route, offering Irish passengers an upgraded experience with its four-class configuration, featuring its award-winning Premium Economy cabin and latest Business Class experience. The airline has also announced it will deploy its second refurbished Boeing 777 to Dublin starting from 16 October. Customers travelling with Emirates can look forward to the warm hospitality of the airline’s multinational crew, regionally inspired meals, and award-winning inflight entertainment system – ice – offering up to 6,500 channels of the best movies, TV shows, podcasts and more. Premium passengers will also experience an essence of Ireland onboard with …

 This summer, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) invites travellers from the GCC to discover thrilling new experiences across Germany’s great outdoors—where adventure, culture, and nature come together in unforgettable ways. Through its renewed “Embrace German Nature” campaign, GNTO spotlights Germany’s serene and lesser-known lakes, offering a refreshing escape where clear waters, alpine landscapes, and sustainable travel come together in perfect harmony. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, said, “Germany’s hidden lakes offer the perfect answer to the summer heat, with refreshing natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainable experiences that resonate deeply with GCC travellers. Our ‘Embrace German Nature’ campaign celebrates slowness, authenticity, and well-being. Whether you are exploring a forest-lined lake by paddleboard, relaxing in a spa town, or soaking up the calm from a houseboat, these are the journeys that stay with you.” From Lake Constance to Königssee and the vast Mecklenburg Lake District, Germany’s lakeside destinations provide ideal settings for family holidays, nature retreats, and wellness escapes. Whether paddling across calm waters, cycling through forested paths, or staying on a houseboat under starlit skies, these experiences offer a revitalising break from the heat while promoting a connection with nature and climate-friendly travel. With Germany ranking second as a nature travel destination among Europeans, holding a 14 per cent share of the nature-oriented holiday market, and with nature-based trips making up over 21 per cent of all European holiday travel to Germany in 2023, totalling 6.7 million trips, these destinations promise both broad appeal and accessibility to GCC visitors seeking an alternative to traditional summer travel. Travellers looking for breath taking mountain scenery will find inspiration in the journey along the Lake …

‘Emirates First’ was officially opened at Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB), offering a luxurious and unique airport experience for Emirates’ First Class customers and Skywards Platinum members. The check-in area has been meticulously upgraded with an opulent and refined private seating area, offering an exclusive check in process. As the world’s largest operator of international First Class travel – offering 26,800 seats a week and the largest inventory of international First Class seats in the industry, Emirates continues to invest and uplift its customers’ experience at every touchpoint on the ground and in the air. This is a clear demonstration of Emirates’ commitment to renovating its ground products and providing more comfort to its customers. Adel al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President & Chief Operating Officer remarked, “We invest heavily in upgrading our ground products, and Emirates First is one of the areas that will offer a unique and private environment to our First Class customers and Skywards Platinum members. We know our customers value privacy and convenience, and this will provide another level of hospitality to the check-in experience, as part of our efforts to continuously uplift the overall travel journey. Now, our customers can enjoy a sleek transfer with our Chauffeur Drive Service, a swift check-in at the exclusive Emirates First, explore a world-class lounge before boarding, and relax into a multi award-winning inflight experience with Emirates.” Emirates First has been reimagined with premium customers in mind, and every detail of the travel journey considered to ensure a ‘Fly Better’ experience. From the moment customers reach the dedicated Emirates Terminal 3 departures area, and just a few steps inside, a grand golden entryway now signifies the entrance the private space, …

Personalisation is emerging as a growing trend in travel and tourism, particularly within the luxury segment, as travellers increasingly seek experiences tailored to their individual preferences and lifestyles. According to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, developed by ATM in partnership with Tourism Economics, 85% of hoteliers now consider personalisation as a key driver of commercial value, with tailored experiences shown to generate additional revenue of up to 5%. Furthermore, insights by market intelligence firm Future Market Insight Inc, has revealed the global customisation and personalisation in travel market is expected to reach US$620.71 million by 2032. Senior executives from leading hotel groups, including Minor Hotels, Fairmont and Marriott, examined the rising influence of ‘hyper-personalisation’, which moves away from one-size-fits-all services to offering bespoke guest experiences. Leveraging tools such as AI-driven customisation and chatbots, as well as personalised welcome amenities and bespoke dining options, these brands are redefining the customer journey in the luxury travel segment, which is witnessing a continued surge worldwide at the Arabian Travel Market 2025. Speaking during the panel, experts defined hyper-personalisation as providing individualised experiences that anticipate both expressed and unspoken guest needs. While technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are instrumental in delivering customised offerings at scale, the panellists agreed that human connection remains essential for a truly personalised hospitality experience. Nicolas Hauvespre, VP of luxury brands at MEA Marriott, said: “When it comes to hyper-personalisation, for many brands, this goes far beyond traditional service. It’s about creating something highly tailored and curated through leveraging technology and building on your culture, so you can develop that anticipatory service and meet both the explicit and unspoken needs of your guests.” The panel, which also included Loay Nour, …

flyadeal opened a dedicated sales office in Dubai to support customers and the travel trade in the latest move to increase its presence in the Emirate. With the appointment of Orient Travel as the airline’s new General Sales Agent (GSA) responsible for overseeing flyadeal sales in the UAE, the airline has also recruited Mudassir Dhanse as its dedicated new UAE Country Sales Manager. The flyadeal office opening within the premises of Orient Travel on Sheikh Zayed Road was attended by key travel partners. His Excellency Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasmi, accompanied by Orient Travel co-owner Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasmi, presided over the opening that included Orient Travel’s CEO Asim Arshad and visiting senior management from flyadeal headquarters in Jeddah led by CEO Steven Greenway and Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, Rogier van Enk. To mark the official opening, flyadeal management also hosted an event in Dubai for the UAE travel trade to provide company updates. flyadeal currently operates up to six daily scheduled flights between Riyadh and Dubai International, a route launched just over two years ago. The airline also has a daily service linking the Saudi capital with Dubai World Central in southern Dubai that began in summer 2024. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “flyadeal has built up a successful split operation in Dubai to serve travellers in the heart of the city and the southern part to make accessibility easier for all. Of course we are looking to build capacity even further from up to seven daily flights across both Dubai airports as we induct new aircraft into the fleet. It’s just a matter of time before we …

Visit Qatar has announced a one-year partnership with Neta Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai, a first-of-its-kind multidisciplinary centre dedicated to celebrating arts and heritage, marking the beginning of a new chapter of global cultural encounter. This partnership reflects Visit Qatar’s commitment to establishing Qatar as a leading destination for visitors from India. Through this collaboration, Visit Qatar looks forward to welcoming Indian visitors and inviting them to discover exceptional experiences that blend luxury, heritage and world-class infrastructure. Thanks to its rich blend of authentic Arabian traditions and local heritage. Commenting on the partnership, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “India is one of the most strategic markets for the tourism sector, as it is the second largest source market for visitors to Qatar, and this partnership with the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre comes within the framework of our vision to establish Qatar as a preferred destination for visitors from India looking for high-end and integrated tourism experiences. Through these partnerships, we aim to expand our presence in priority markets and attract more visitors with Qatar’s unique blend of cultural depth, modernity and world-class hospitality.” Devendra Bharma, CEO of Geo World, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Visit Qatar and proud to extend the vision of our organisation and chairperson, Ms. Nita Ambani, to bring the best of India to the world and bring the best of the world to India. Through this collaboration, we aspire to transform the travel and tourism landscape by delivering a complete and enriching experience.” As part of this exceptional collaboration, a distinctive art sculpture will be launched at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, accompanied by a high-level …

Etihad Airways launched the Etihad for Business corporate portal, bringing the airline’s comprehensive business travel programme fully online. Companies can now access their complete corporate travel management suite through a single digital platform. The portal enables businesses to manage their travel programmes with enhanced tools, track performance data in real-time, and handle benefit redemptions with self-service capabilities. Corporate customers can now access contract details, monitor travel spend, and redeem Etihad for Business credits for a comprehensive suite of travel benefits. “We’ve created a platform that puts control directly in our corporate partners’ hands,” said Javier Alija, Vice President Global Sales & Distribution at Etihad Airways. “Companies can now manage everything from performance tracking to benefit redemptions through one simple interface.” The Etihad for Business programme rewards corporate customers for their business travel, allowing them to enhance their employees’ travel experience through a flexible credit system. Companies can use earned credits to purchase from a suite of benefits including seat upgrades, priority services, lounge access, and ground transportation. Key portal features include automated performance reports, transparent tiering requirements, and streamlined contract management. The platform eliminates administrative burdens while providing companies with clear visibility into their travel programme value. “Business travel management should be straightforward, not complicated,” Javier Alija added. “Our portal delivers exactly that: a user-friendly experience that makes it easy for companies to maximise the value of their travel programmes.” The platform offers different levels of support based on company needs. Enhanced analytics capabilities will follow shortly after launch, with additional features planned to expand the portal’s functionality over time. Corporate customers can also access dedicated support through the platform, from online assistance to account management services, ensuring comprehensive support throughout …

In its commitment to supporting inbound tourism to the island nation of Mauritius, Emirates has announced it will introduce a third daily flight, starting on 1 December. The additional service, to be operated by a Boeing 777 aircraft as EK709/710, will complement existing schedules and support the travel plans of Emirates customers planning trips to the popular destination from across its network of more than 140 points. Emirates currently serves Mauritius with two daily services aboard its flagship A380 aircraft, operating as EK701/702 and EK703/704.The addition of the third daily service, under a codeshare arrangement with Air Mauritius, will provide convenient flight timings to support travel itineraries and enable seamless connectivity for customers from the Middle East, Europe and the Americas travelling to the Indian Ocean holiday spot. The additional daily service will also provide seamless connections from and to Far East markets, where Emirates will actively promote the destination to audiences in Japan, China, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. Passengers can now book seats to the exotic island destination in First Class, Business Class and Economy Class on flight EK709, to operate daily and departing Dubai at 06:55 hrs and arriving in Mauritius at 13:40 hrs. Flights from Mauritius, operating as EK710, will depart Mauritius at 18:30 hrs and arrive in Dubai at 01:10 hrs the next day. All times are local. Tickets on the third daily service can be booked immediately by visiting emirates.com, for travel starting from 1 December. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “We would like to thank the Mauritian authorities for making an …