The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) launched the Arabic language version of the ‘Experience Abu Dhabi Experts’ e-learning platform, a tool designed to actively support partners in the travel ecosystem, including travel agents and tour operators. The platform equips travel professionals across the Gulf with the knowledge needed to showcase Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks and attractions and diverse accommodation options to their clients. Specialised content across nine modules covers various facets of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector, allowing participants to create more attractive and customised tourism products. Upon completion of the programme, participants will receive a certificate officially recognising them as ‘Experience Abu Dhabi Experts’, bolstering their credibility within the industry and providing them with the knowledge to craft personalised travel itineraries for the destination. Abdulla Yousuf, International Operations Director at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are committed to empowering our travel partners across the region by providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively showcase Abu Dhabi as an ideal destination for all types of visitors. By engaging directly with our partners, we collectively contribute to Abu Dhabi’s compelling growth story and ensure it remains a top choice for travellers seeking unique and enriching experiences.” The module is currently available in Arabic, English, Mandarin, German, Italian, Russian, French and Hindi and will be expanded to 13 languages, making it accessible to the global travel trade. Travel professionals can register for free at experienceabudhabiexperts.com and access the training content anytime, anywhere through mobile devices, tablets, or desktops, flexibly arranging their time and enjoying a convenient online learning experience. Domestic travel is expected to represent the bulk of the travel market in 2024, and …

Qatar Airways will launch a new service to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) starting on 11 December 2024, with three weekly non-stop flights from the World’s Best Airport – Hamad International Airport (DOH). As the airline’s fourteenth gateway to the Americas, the new Toronto route marks the airline’s second destination in Canada, joining Montréal which has served more than 1.6 million passengers across seven daily flights to and from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) since its launch. Operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, equipped with 42 award-winning Qsuite Business Class seats and 312 Economy Class seats, the new Toronto service will provide travellers from Canada and beyond with seamless access to destinations across Qatar Airways’ extensive global network, including Colombo (CMB), Bangkok (BKK), Delhi (DEL), Kathmandu (KTM) and Mumbai (BOM). Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “The Toronto route is a strong and enduring commitment towards providing Qatar Airways’ Canadian customers with the enhanced connectivity they deserve, as well as access to our world-leading service and Qsuite in-flight product. “The addition of a fourteenth gateway to our Americas network is also a testament to our aim in maintaining a key presence across the local market, and cements our reputation as a reliable global connector.” The World’s Best Airline, as voted by Skytrax in 2024, has provided Canada with extensive support and assistance over the years, including contributing critical diplomatic efforts across several challenging issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar Airways also assisted the country by establishing an air bridge to facilitate the repatriation of thousands of Canadians. Qatar Airways currently flies to more than 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport (DOH), and …

Sofitel announced 70 residences in Downtown Dubai with 6 exceptional penthouses and 64 residences offering a variety of premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a café, an immersive cinema room, and a health club with a stunning 15-meter swimming pool. Additional services such as 24/7 concierge, valet services, and à la carte options inspired by Sofitel’s French zest like personal chefs, childcare, and in-residence housekeeping are available to ensure that residents enjoy an elevated lifestyle. Located in the iconic Downtown Dubai district, just a stone’s throw from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Sofitel Residences Downtown Dubai provides unparalleled access to world-class restaurants, cultural attractions, and renowned boutiques. Residents will experience a unique blend of Middle Eastern culture and modern French aesthetics, seamlessly integrated into every living space. “As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Sofitel brand throughout 2024, this project marks an exciting new chapter for us, bringing our signature French zest and heartfelt service to the real estate market in Dubai. Sofitel Residences Downtown Dubai will set a new standard in luxury living, offering an unmatched lifestyle experience in one of the city’s most exclusive areas. With Sofitel’s rich heritage and our ongoing commitment to redefining luxury living, this project is the perfect fit for the branded residences market. We are thrilled to welcome future residents to this unparalleled living experience in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.” — Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems. This new residential development further strengthens Sofitel’s presence in the luxury segment in UAE, targeting the real estate business and diversifying its business lines. Jean-Baptiste Recher, Regional Vice President of Development for Accor’s Luxury Brands based in …

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 4.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 5.6% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.5% (-0.6ppt compared to August 2023).All regions showed growth for international passenger markets in August 2024 compared to August 2023. Ticket sales in May-July for travel in August-September showed a 6.6% year-on-year increase, which bodes well for further strong growth this year. Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 19.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 18.8% year-on-year and the load factor was 85.2% (+0.8ppt compared to August 2023). Asia-Pacific is still growing robustly and is now just 8 percentage points from full recovery to pre-pandemic volumes. European carriers saw a 9.1% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 8.5% year-on-year, and the load factor was 87.2% (+0.5ppt compared to August 2023). The Europe-Asia route was by far the fastest-growing, but it is still markedly below its 2019 peak.

Hyatt proudly announces plans for the debut of two Hyatt-branded hotels in Jaumur, one of Magna’s destinations, located on the coast of Gulf of Aqaba. Park Hyatt Jaumur and Andaz Jaumur Marina will mark a significant milestone in the expansion of Hyatt’s brand presence within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and solidify its strategic collaboration with NEOM, a beacon of future living and sustainable luxury. Jaumur offers a visionary blend of land and sea experiences, setting a new standard for coastal luxury living for residents and guests. This exclusive destination features a state-of-the-art 300-berth marina with a gravity-defying cantilever rising above the largest of super yachts, a sculptural landmark that serves as the perfect base for marina attractions. The marina promenade will be a place alive with entertainment, leisure, and cultural experiences alongside the deep-sea diving research centre, dedicated to deep-sea exploration. The brand-new Park Hyatt Jaumur and Andaz Jaumur Marina, set to open in 2027, will offer a combination of 350 luxurious rooms and suites, offering exceptional experiences for guests. Park Hyatt Jaumur will sit at the community’s vibrant epicenter, overlooking the bustling marina. Designed as an oasis of relaxation with 125 rooms, Park Hyatt Jaumur will serve as a home-away-from-home that seamlessly blends the very best entertainment, leisure, and cultural experiences, enabling guests to immerse themselves in unmatched offerings. Andaz Jaumur Marina, with 225 modern rooms and suites, will be a celebration of art and creativity, capturing the very soul of Jaumur. The hotel will inspire innovation while offering an eclectic allure, making it a luxury lifestyle destination for those seeking an escape from the ordinary. With a focus on personalized experiences, Andaz Jaumur Marina will envelop guests …

Kamah Hotels & Resorts announced their partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Together, they have signed a US$70 million deal to develop four new hotels—one in Dubai and three in India—under the Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The exclusive signing ceremony was attended by dignitaries from all parties, including Dimitris Manikis, President of EMEA, and Panos Loupasis, Market Managing Director of TMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; Govind Mundra, Head of Development for the Middle East and Africa at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; Dinesh Yadav, Director of Fine Acers & GBR and Imran Khan, CEO & Founder, PIXL Group, the exclusive global strategy & marketing partner for Kamah Hotels & Resorts. This partnership was formalised at the Future Hospitality Summit 2024 in Dubai and marks a significant expansion for Kamah’s portfolio, developed by Fine Acers Group in India and Global Branded Residences (GBR) internationally. “After our successful collaboration with Wyndham Grand Jaipur last year, we are thrilled to further strengthen our partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts,” said Mr. Dinesh Yadav, Managing Director of Fine Acers Group & GBR. “This partnership will see the launch of four hotels under the Kamah brand, offering an exclusive luxury and wellness experience under the Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The first set of properties will be located in Dubai, Coorg, Jawai and Udaipur with further expansions planned in global destinations across North America, Australia and Europe, as well as prominent leisure locations in the Indian subcontinent, such as Goa, Lonavala, and Dharamshala.” There seems to be a substantial gap in the global wellness hospitality sector. With this strategic partnership between Kamah and Wyndham, both companies aim to address this shortcoming with a well-curated hospitality project that …

According to a new report released by Kearney titled: “In the mind of global travelers: how travelers’ evolving expectations are reshaping tourism” which explores preferences and priorities as international tourism traffic is poised to outpace pre-pandemic levels this year. The Middle East, for example, is well poised to capitalize on this given the visionary projects and substantial investments in tourism infrastructure being made. “Tourism in the Middle East is still in its early stages and it takes time to build a strong reputation, so it’s encouraging to see emerging destinations like the Red Sea coastline, the Albanian Riviera, Patagonia, and Lijiang making tourists’ shortlists. This suggests that with continuous asset development and strategic marketing, countries in the region can position themselves as increasingly desirable global destinations,” commented Pascal Armoudom, Partner at Kearney Middle East & Africa. It was stated that emerging destinations are gaining ground on travelers’ preferred lists, signaling a significant shift in global tourism trends. The report released at the Future Hospitality Summit in Dubai highlights that while travelers still prefer iconic destinations, over-tourism remains a growing concern, presenting promising opportunities for emerging markets. When looking into evolving preferences, travelers are favoring destinations that offer both leisure and urban experiences. Sun, sea and lifestyle remain the top choice, with Dubai coming in fourth globally after Miami, Bahamas, and the Maldives. There is a notable shift towards ecotourism as more globetrotters – particularly millennials – seek sustainable experiences that connect them with nature while minimizing environmental impact. A significant 86% of respondents aged 25-34 expressed a strong preference for tourism destinations minimizing environmental impact, looking for green mobility at their destination, and supporting eco-friendly accommodations. This trend presents an enormous opportunity …

Speaking with TravelTV Middle East, Mohammed Al Athel – Managing Director – Amsa Hospitality shared that their aim is to deliver 500 keys over the next few years, focusing on the mid- scale within the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”Amsa hospitality’s mission is to be the leading company in the Kingdom, where we focus on mid-to-economy scale within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As we speak we have delivered an approximate 780 keys, and the aim is to deliver 5000 keys within the next 10 years.”

On 15th January, 2025, The Land of Legends will open its doors to its newest attractions: Türkiye’s first Nickelodeon Land, and first and only Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts in the country. With three brand-new, fun-filled areas, a new hotel and the chance to meet Nickelodeon characters, the new attractions will immerse guests in a Nickelodeon adventure. The new Nickelodeon Land will open at The Land of Legends, Antalya, which is a one-stop shop full of adventure, offering guests of all ages the chance to experience dizzying heights, thrilling rides, and top-class entertainment all in one place, whatever their age. The first Nickelodeon development in Türkiye marks a significant step forward for the Turkish tourism industry and The Land of Legends. The brand’s global significance means the new opening – earmarked for January 2025 – is a key project and investment for Türkiye. The collaboration between The Land of Legends and Paramount Global’s Nickelodeon, one of the world’s biggest entertainment brands, reflects the growth of the Turkish hospitality and entertainment industry. NEW for 2025 – The Land of Legends Nickelodeon Land and Nickelodeon Hotel & Resorts Antalya Opening 15th January 2025, Nickelodeon Land consists of three unique areas – the underwater Bikini Bottom from SpongeBob SquarePants, intergalactic Star Trek: Wild Galaxy, based on Star Trek: Prodigy, and the open-air Adventure Bay PAW Patrol. Across the new development, guests will experience thrilling experiences, from riding the giant Jellyfish Jam swing in Bikini Bottom, to experiencing an adventure through space in the Star Trek: Wild Galaxy 5D cinema and flying high in Skye’s Flyers helicopter-style ride. At Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Antalya, each guest will live out their own legend and have the …

Taiba Investments unveiled a strategic partnership with Hilton to bring the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand to the holy city of Madinah. Signed during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World in Dubai, this agreement underscores Taiba Investments’ ongoing expansion into the high-end hospitality market and further reinforces the company’s commitment to elevating Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector by partnering with world-renowned hospitality companies such as Hilton. Commenting on the partnership, Sultan Al Otaibi, CEO, Taiba Investments, said: “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our strategic growth, reflecting our unwavering commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering across diverse segments. Our collaboration with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts will elevate tourism and hospitality by delivering an extraordinary guest experience in line with the “Pilgrim Experience Program”. This project not only reaffirms our leadership in the sector but also highlights our dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 by providing world-class accommodation that honor the Kingdom’s rich heritage.” Set to open in 2028, Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will mark the debut of the award-winning brand in Madinah, introducing its unparalleled standards of luxury and signature service to the holy city. Uniquely situated on the northern side of the Prophet’s Mosque (PBUH), the hotel boasts exclusive, direct views of the holy site and is only a few minutes’ walk away. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Taiba Investments through this remarkable project. Saudi Arabia remains one of our fastest-growing markets where we plan to grow our footprint to exceed 100 hotels in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will bring the brand’s timeless hospitality and elegant service …