The wait is finally over; with the Expo 2020 taking place from 1st October 2021 to 31st March 2022, Rove Hotels is excited to invite Rovers (guests) to grab the best seats in the house at the event’s only on-site hotel: Rove Expo 2020 – now open. Located adjacent to Al Wasl Plaza, Rove Expo 2020 will offer Rovers (guests) from across the globe, the perfect gateway to regroup, recharge and re-think the future, completed with all of the Rove-brand favourites under one roof. Bookings can be made via www.rovehotels.com, or by calling +971 4 561 9999 and are inclusive of Expo 2020 tickets, which can be used for the full duration of the stay. Funky interiors, sustainable amenities, and fuss-free hospitality entails the entire #RoveExperience. Rove Expo 2020 features 312 king, twin and accessible Rover Rooms, as well as 19 Rover suites. It will also boast of several dining and social outlets, including The Daily, a grab&go Rove Café and The Bar, along with a rooftop swimming pool and sundeck overlooking Al Wasl Plaza. Hosting a District 2020 space showcasing the future of the Expo 2020 Dubai site and the MENASA Emirati design platform featuring contemporary design products. Rovers can expect 100% sustainable in-room amenities, late check out times, self-service locker rooms, and much more. Recipient of the prestigious Green Key certification, Rove Expo 2020 has been built with strict environmental guidelines as well as the latest technologies in energy efficiency, food waste reduction solutions and so much more – all in line with Rove’s strong spirit of #sustainability. Connectivity as a cornerstone of the brand, The Expo 2020 Dubai site is very well connected to the rest of …

BTB Tours celebrates its fifth anniversary this month. With tailored group and individual tours facilitates leisure travel in UAE, Czech Republic, Turkey, Egypt and Azerbaijan. Since the inauguration in 2016 in Dubai by Salih Gozcu, the company welcomed around 300,000 guests coming from 23 countries. BTB partners with 500 hotels and resorts in the UAE alone and over 2,000 hotels across the all other destinations. Even during the challenging times of the pandemic, BTB Tours welcomed 150,000 guests that position themselves as the no. 1 inbound producer to the UAE.  Next year they are planning to bring 200,000 guests, as BTB Tours is entering two new markets – Hungary and Israel. In just five years, BTB Tours has bagged the prestigious Arabian Travel Awards as Best Innovative DMC and The Face of the Future award for their chairman, Salih Gozcu. Salih Gozcu, Chairman of BTB Tours, said: “Here at BTB Tours, we celebrate diversity and are inspired every traveling season by the seemingly limitless creativity of the people we welcome to the UAE from around the globe. That’s why we want to ensure that we celebrate our 5th anniversary with the best travel packages that we will offer our guests. As part of the celebrations, BTB Tours has launched new offerings to accommodate the continuous increase of the travel demand to the UAE” In the last year during the pandemic, BTB Tours growth rate was by 300% and to expand their team to 150 employees across all their 5 offices worldwide. To add to the celebrations, BTB Tours has announced the launch of “BTB Luxury” to cater to high-end guests to Dubai and the UAE.

Qatar Airways resumed services to Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina starting 1 October 2021 with four weekly flights. The Medina services will be operated by the airline’s state-of-the-art Airbus A320 featuring 12 seats in First Class and 132 seats in Economy Class. The resumption of services will enable passengers flying from and to Medina to enjoy seamless connectivity to over 140 destinations of the airline’s extensive global network in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas via the best airport in the world, Hamad International Airport. Qatar Airways flight QR 1174, will depart from Hamad International Airport at 01:00, arriving at 03:15 to Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Qatar Airways flight QR1175, will depart from Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport at 04:15, and arrive to Hamad International Airport at 06:25. The national carrier of the State of Qatar continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 140 destinations. Qatar Airways also features flexible booking policies that offer unlimited changes in travel dates and destinations, and fee-free refunds for all tickets issued for travel completed by 31 May 2022. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ at the 2021 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. It was also named ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering’ and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. The airline continues to stand alone at the top of the industry having now won the main prize for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and now 2021). The airline’s hub, Hamad International …

Centara Hotels & Resorts will expand its global collection of world-class resorts with the opening of Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai on 14th October 2021, a fantastic new family-friendly destination which is inspired by mythical Thai and Arabian adventures and promises fun-filled, activity-packed stays for all ages. The new resort – a joint venture with world-leading master developer Nakheel, creator of the award-winning Palm Jumeirah and the new Deira Islands waterfront city – will bring a new concept in hospitality to Dubai, in line with the emirate’s tourism strategy. To celebrate its launch, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai has created an opening offer with rates starting from just AED 499++ per night, including daily breakfast. Up to two children stay and dine for free when ordering from the kids’ menu. Nestled in a prime waterfront setting on the Deira Islands, overlooking the Arabian Gulf just 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and just minutes away from the newly opened Souk Al Marfa seafront souk and marketplace, this brand-new themed resort offers 607 rooms and suites, ranging from Superior, Family and Mirage Rooms to Junior and Two-Bedroom Suites with 32 to 95 square metres of bright, contemporary space and panoramic city or sea views. Mirage represents Centara’s themed family resort concept, where the whole family’s, and especially the children’s, happiness is at the heart of the experience. Parents can rest assured that their youngsters will enjoy unforgettable, inspiring stays, with a wonderful water park, multiple kids’ clubs, a colourful candy-themed children’s spa, and the dedicated Mirage Family Lounge, a club lounge experience for all the family. The rooms are perfectly suited to families, with flexible bedding options including bunk beds that …

Etihad Airways announced three new quarantine-free destinations for the coming winter season. This November, the airline will begin flying to Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa, and the beautiful Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar. The new additions to Etihad’s network mean the UAE’s national carrier will be operating to 70 destinations across 47 countries. Etihad Airways has launched a sale on fares to Johannesburg, Cape Town and Zanzibar, valid until midnight on 6 October 2021. Available on a first come, first served basis, guests can enjoy return fares starting from AED 995 in Economy and AED 3995 in Business class. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad, said: “We’re proud to be launching Etihad’s newest destinations in Africa this winter and we’re confident our guests will find they are all incredible places to visit. “Johannesburg is an important route on our network and offers vital connectivity to and from the southern African region. On the southern coast, Cape Town is a breathtaking part of the world, with something to offer the most discerning traveller. Likewise, the beautiful island of Zanzibar will complement our network to the Maldives and Seychelles offering more choice for leisure travellers looking to enjoy the glorious Indian ocean. “We are also thrilled to offer connectivity for travellers from both countries to visit our home the UAE over the winter months. With the world’s greatest show, Expo 2020, opening now there has never been a better time to visit Abu Dhabi and the UAE.” Etihad will start flights to Johannesburg, South Africa’s biggest city, from 25 November. At the same time, Etihad will launch its operation to the stunning coastal city of Cape Town. Both destinations …

Welcoming visitors from around the globe, His Excellency Sultan bin Rashid Al Khater, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, inaugurated the Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai on October 1st. The opening was attended by General Commissioners from GCC participating countries as well as a number of dignitaries, officials and partners. Following the inauguration, His Excellency toured the Qatar Pavilion which highlights the country’s achievements across various fields, showcases the most pioneering projects that are being developed in accordance with the National Vision 2030, and spotlights Qatar as the upcoming host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also visited the pavilions of participating GCC countries, where each country’s most prominent achievements were showcased. The Qatar Pavilion was designed by internationally-renowned architect, Santiago Calatrava, who represented a modern interpretation of the four elements presented in the Coat of Arms of Qatar. Its architectural composition draws inspiration from the two crossed and curved swords, encompassing a Dhow and island with two palm trees, that are at the core of the national emblem of the state of Qatar. Santiago Calatrava said: “We are honoured to have been chosen for the design of the Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2020. Our relationship with the State of Qatar and its people lies very close to our heart. The Qatar Pavilion’s design draws inspiration from the four elements represented on the Coat of Arms of Qatar and pays tribute to the nation’s cultural heritage.” The coinciding pair of buildings of the Qatar Pavilion consist of two main galleries of exhibition spaces. Gallery 1 serves as an introductory space and invites visitors to explore the past, present, and future of Qatar through visual arts, sound …

Weather admiring the vibrant colors along the scenic country lanes or enjoying breezy and live evenings in the capital, autumn is a wonderful time to visit Azerbaijan. Summers in the country last right-up till the end of September, following colorful and chilly Autumn. With local residents returning to the city from the coast, life begins to bustle again in Baku. Mid-September is a perfect time to enjoy long walks along the Caspian Sea admiring the perfect scenery on the Seaside Boulevard or end up in the world-class museums or galleries of the capital. You might as well choose to get away from the busy city life and take either a road trip across different routes in Azerbaijan or join a hiking group, promising for a day of fun and fulfilment brought by conquering the magnificent Caucasus mountains. Either way, you will find yourself in a fairy-tale environment coloured with autumn shades of amber, gold or scarlet around lakes and waterfalls as well as the scenic mountain roads and pristine woodlands. While out in the wild, you might explore quaint villages like Khinalig and Lahij in the northern part of Azerbaijan, get to know locals and learn about their traditions. Autumn is also the perfect season for grape harvesting. When you combine this with Azerbaijan’s little-known winemaking traditions dating back centuries, you have a perfect chance of visiting some of the best wineries of the country. Meysari in Shamakhi, Chabiant in Ismayilli or Savalan in Gabala will certainly surprise you with their perfect climate and vineyards located at the hilltops of the Caucasus, producing high-level wines made from both European and endemic grape varieties.

Inmarsat unveiled the United Arab Emirates (UAE) results from its Passenger Confidence Tracker 2021 — the largest and most comprehensive global survey of airline passengers since the pandemic began. The research reveals that passengers in the UAE are amongst the most confident in the world to fly again. In fact, only those from China were more likely to have taken a short or long haul flight since the onset of Covid-19, with 79% having done so, compared to the UAE’s 75%. 56% of UAE passengers surveyed said they had travelled to international destinations, and expressed that their overall confidence in air travel had not waned — with 42% confident about taking their next flight within six months. This sentiment was reflected in the responses of fellow travellers from Spain (43%), India (43%) and Mexico (46%), who have similar levels of confidence to fly during the same  time period. Neale Faulkner, Regional Vice President for Inmarsat Aviation, said: “Although airlines have faced unprecedented challenges over the past 18 months, they have once again shown their resilience and met those challenges head on. And the dark clouds are starting to clear, with the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) figures showing significant momentum for international and domestic travel. “This news will be welcomed by UAE airlines. However, to maintain and even accelerate this growth, it’s essential to rebuild passenger confidence and ensure their evolving needs are met in a post pandemic world. Our latest Passenger Confidence Tracker offers detailed insights into the main areas of confidence and concern around air travel, direct from UAE passengers themselves. Such findings will allow airlines to increase their focus on key priorities and seize the exciting opportunities ahead.” Flying …

flydubai has launched flights to Warsaw and Budapest from 30 September. The carrier will operate four weekly flights from Dubai International (DXB) to Budapest International Airport (BUD) and daily flights to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW). This will be the carrier’s second destination in Poland after Krakow (KRK). Representative of this new direct airlink, the first flight to Budapest was piloted by Captain Fabian Laszlo from Hungary and First Officer Eisa Al Suwaidi from the UAE. In addition, among the Hungarian cabin crew operating the inaugural flight was the Captain’s daughter, Senior Cabin Crew Cserne Fabiana Rebeka and Cabin Crew Toth Reka.  The inaugural flight to Warsaw was operated with Polish nationals including Senior Cabin Crew Agata Samborska and Cabin Crew members Katarzyna Boryna and Paulina Kaniowska. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “we have seen growing demand for travel this summer and with the start of flights to Budapest and Warsaw, we are expanding our network over the winter schedule to offer our passengers more choice for travel. Our newly launched operations to Hungary and Poland will also strengthen links with the UAE.” Warsaw is the capital and largest city in Poland. It is known for its beautiful architecture as well as its vibrant café and restaurant culture. Situated on the Vistula River and offering numerous green outdoor spaces, Warsaw has become a popular destination especially among those seeking an experience that is steeped in history. Located on both sides of the Danube River Budapest is a popular leisure destination and can be explored by bike, boat, bus or on foot. Visitors to the Hungarian capital can explore a wide variety of museums and galleries, impressive architecture and the well-known thermal …

Qatar Airways announced that it will launch a new service to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt on 3 December with twice weekly flights, this new route will follow the resumption of operations to Luxor on 23 November with four weekly flights. In a further expansion of services to Egypt, Qatar Airways will also increase its Cairo service starting from 1 October 2021, increasing flights to the capital to triple daily. The resumption of operations to Luxor and launching of flights to Sharm El-Sheikh sees Qatar Airways now operate a total of 34 weekly flights to Egypt via the World’s Best Airport, Hamad International Airport (HIA) as voted by Skytrax. The new services will be operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft, featuring 12 seats in First Class and 132 seats in Economy Class. The resumption of operations to Luxor and the launch of flights to Sharm El-Sheikh will enable passengers flying to and from these destinations to enjoy seamless connectivity to over 140 destinations in Asia, Europe, Middle East and the Americas. Qatar Airways also features flexible booking policies that offer unlimited changes in travel dates and destinations, and fee-free refunds for all tickets issued for travel completed by 31 May 2022. The upcoming expansion of services in Egypt will further provide Egyptian football fans more travel options to attend the FIFA Arab Cup 2021™ in Qatar, enjoy the finest Qatari hospitality and follow their national team in person. The region’s showpiece tournament will take place from 30 November to 18 December 2021. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ at the 2021 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. It was also named …