As the UAE continues to cement its reputation as a global epicenter for both corporate and luxury leisure travel, UTRAVEL is highlighting a significant recognition received at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. At the record-breaking event, which drew over 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries, UTRAVEL’s Operations Manager Duleepa Naveen and Holidays Manager Fadi Abu Rashid were honored with the “Excellent Performance in Sales for 2024” award. This accolade celebrates their pivotal leadership and the company’s vital role in the sector’s transformation. This recognition comes as the GCC travel industry experiences unprecedented momentum, driven by surging demand for bespoke luxury holidays and the growing “bleisure” trend, where business and leisure travel seamlessly intersect. UTRAVEL’s standout sales performance in 2024, now validated on ATM’s global stage, directly reflects its ability to anticipate and meet the sophisticated needs of today’s travelers across both its B2B corporate travel solutions and through its dedicated luxury leisure arm, Jovial Travels. “Our recognition at ATM 2025 for ‘Excellent Performance in Sales for 2024’ is a powerful affirmation of our strategic direction and the collective effort behind it,” said Duleepa Naveen, Operations Manager at UTRAVEL. “UTRAVEL’s legacy in B2B travel has always been built on precision and collaboration. This very spirit, encapsulated by our philosophy ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,’ has been seamlessly extended to Jovial Travels, allowing us to connect with discerning leisure travelers seeking truly unique experiences.” Fadi Abu Rashid, Corporate Travel Manager, added: “This award is a shared triumph. It validates our team’s commitment to crafting tailor-made journeys that resonate with the evolving preferences of modern travelers in the UAE and beyond. …

According to statistics outlined by Tourism Economics (An Oxford Economics Company) at a recent cruise industry panel discussion, between 2019 and 2024, global deployment in the industry increased by 25%, with a further 5% expansion achieved in 2025 so far. In the Middle East the average number of cruise days spent in the region has increased by an impressive 125%. The Caribbean, Europe and Asia-Pacific lead in terms of cruise deployment. Angelo Capurro- Executive Director, MSC Group’s Cruise Division said: “Last year, we welcomed a record 150 different nationalities and saw a particular increase in passengers coming from central Asia, driven by increased connectivity and better access to visas, combined with the appeal of the Middle East as a travel destination.”

Speaking with TTME Elmira Heshmati – CEO – Elaxiom Travel and Tours UAE shared that this year there has been a slight shift in the summer travel plans as travellers are opting for staycations and outbound trips to southeast Asian destinations. “Travellers are splitting their summer plans between staycations and outbound trips. Demands for wellness retreats within the UAE and across GCC drives a booming domestic market, however, outbound travel remains robust.  It’s hard to ignore the rapid growth of staycations with the influences of the social media connection between local travels and social media which has made people’s strong reliance on their unique features; storytelling, sharing experiences, going live from different locations, receiving feedback through comments, and real-time interactions.

According to the latest report by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, 63% of Gen Z respondents in the UAE say they prefer accommodation that reflects the local culture, through design, food, or curated in-destination experiences. For this generation, travel is as much about understanding a place as it is about visiting it. They gravitate toward brands that feel rooted in the local community and hotels that reflect the identity of their surroundings. The research also indicates that Gen Z in the UAE are thinking beyond personal fulfilment. Environmental awareness is increasingly shaping their travel choices, with a growing preference for destinations and properties that align with their values. More than half (55%) of Gen Z respondents say they actively choose sustainable transport options, and over a third (36%) seek out eco-friendly hotels.

Gulf Air and CFM International have extended the airline’s long-term CFM LEAP-1A Services for A320neo family aircraft. This strategic extension, along with the purchase of additional spare engines, forms a strong and reliable foundation for comprehensive engine support, enhancing fleet reliability and operational continuity. Being the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air operates one of the region’s most modern and efficient fleets, which includes 29 LEAP-1A-powered A320neo family aircraft, continued collaboration with CFM is key to operational excellence; and a renewed affirmation of CFM’s support and technical expertise. “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with CFM, who have been a key partner of our growth since our first CFM engine operations in the 1990s”, said Dr. Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group. “This agreement will enable us to secure MRO capacity for our fleet and maintain our growth.” “It’s an honor to further expand our relationship with Gulf Air, a long-standing member of the CFM family”, said Gaël Meheust, President and CEO of CFM International. “This agreement commits us to provide Gulf Air with the best CFM standards in terms of support, reliability, and utilization for its LEAP fleet.”

Riyadh Air and Blacklane launch a strategic global partnership to provide premium chauffeur services to guests. The partnership sets a new benchmark for seamless, guest centric travel – marrying the ground and air experience of comfort and hospitality. Eligible guests will enjoy complementary luxury chauffeur services between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and within a 50km radius. Riyadh Air guests can also separately book Blacklane’s chauffeur services worldwide, integrated into their travel journey. The collaboration represents a significant step in Riyadh Air’s plan to deliver best-in-class services throughout the customer journey experience and brings together two companies committed to exceptional service. The new agreement sets new standards in the airline industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and around the world. Through this partnership guests travelling internationally in Riyadh Air Business Elite or Business Class, plus eligible loyalty members will enjoy complimentary luxury chauffeur services with Blacklane within 50 KM radius of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport in elegant, high-end vehicles. Integrated directly into Riyadh Air’s booking platform, guests will be able to arrange their Blacklane chauffeur as part of their travel experience where eligible. Guests also have the ability to enjoy seamless journeys, including airport transfers, city-to-city travel, in-city rides and chauffeurs by the hour in Riyadh and at any of the airline’s global destinations. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air said :  “Our partnership with Blacklane reinforces our ethos of ensuring our customers experience Saudi hospitality with world-class service standards, We revealed our stylish new Business Elite and Business Class seats recently, and this is the next step in keeping our promises to deliver an exceptional premium experience to our guests. Riyadh Air and Blacklane are two outstanding …

In a significant move to strengthen the UAE’s global economic position and future-readiness, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced a series of strategic changes in the federal government structure. The current Ministry of Economy will be renamed the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, highlighting the vital role tourism continues to play in the country’s economic diversification strategy. The ministry will continue to be headed by HE Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri. Among other key changes is the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Foreign Trade, with HE Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi appointed as its Minister. This new ministry reflects the UAE’s growing focus on expanding its global trade footprint and fostering international economic partnerships. Additionally, in a landmark development, Sheikh Mohammed also announced the integration of the National Artificial Intelligence System as an advisory member in the UAE Cabinet, the Ministerial Development Council, and all federal boards of directors, effective January 2026. The AI system will provide real-time analysis, technical advice, and policy insights to enhance government decision-making and overall efficiency across sectors.  

According to the latest research by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts it was shared that 54% of Gen Z women in the UAE travelled internationally in the last six months, compared to 34% of men. This trend reflects a growing sense of independence, mobility, and cultural engagement among young women in the region. Notably, more than half (51%) of female respondents said that safety and security risks are a key consideration when planning their travel, indicating that their choices are both adventurous and intentional. This reflects a generation that is confident in exploring, but conscious of the conditions that make them feel secure and supported while doing so.

IDeaS’ Cruise Revenue Management System (RMS) uses advanced data analytics and automation to predict demand, execute dynamic revenue strategies, boost profitability and maintain a competitive edge for cruise operators. By embracing cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies outlined in the eBook, cruise operators can optimize pricing and inventory management to increase profitability and outperform competitors. IDeaS announced its latest Lessons in Revenue eBook, “Data-Driven Revenue Management in the Cruise Industry: Navigating the Groundswell,” to help cruise organizations navigate today’s challenging operating environment while capitalizing on opportunities to optimize revenue.  The recent surge in cruise demand presents substantial opportunities for growth, yet cruise lines face significant challenges, including intensifying competition, labor shortages, inflated costs and delayed adoption of revenue technologies. The eBook highlights key capabilities and challenges facing cruise revenue leaders, and shares ways cruise organizations can leverage revenue management technology to maximize the potential of their voyages as they chart their course into the future. Crystal Pernici, global director – Cruise RMS, IDeaS, said: “Cruise operators are becoming increasingly aware of the potential—and the value—of revenue strategies guided by revenue optimization technology. By basing their decision-making on data-driven insights rather than personal experience or selective reporting, cruise leaders are opening up their vessels to a new range of revenue opportunities.”

Barceló Hotel Group announced the rebranding of Occidental Al Jaddaf to Barceló Al Jaddaf and its upgrade to 5-star. This rebrand marks the Spanish hospitality group’s first Barceló Hotel in the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the group’s focus on delivering exceptional guest services to the GCC market, characterised by the elevated service and personalised attention that defines the Barceló brand. Barceló Al Jaddaf ticks all the reasons why of the Barceló Hotels & Resorts DNA: an excellent location, a singular and purposeful design, a stay that never fails to surprise with all the must-haves and nice-to-haves, with a defined character, attitude and social vibes, healthy gastronomy with local flavours and genuinely local experiences. Ideally located just minutes from Dubai’s cultural and business landmarks and Dubai International Airport, Barceló Al Jaddaf caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate travellers. The property boasts 365 meticulously designed rooms and suites, each featuring contemporary interiors that blend elegance with modern amenities. Barceló Al Jaddaf stands out by offering guests a uniquely tailored experience through attentive service, curated dining and leisure offerings that reflect the vibrant energy of the city. The standout feature of the Barceló Al Jaddaf rebrand is B-Heaven, a chic Mediterranean fusion restaurant with arresting views, a carefully curated menu and a privileged location in the hotel, by the swimming pool, giving it an “urban beach club” vibe and ambience. B-Heaven is making its debut in the GCC, having already garnered acclaim at other Barceló properties worldwide. Offering a refined space for both relaxation and social gatherings, B-Heaven provides a 180-degree panorama of Dubai’s Skyline, serving as an urban retreat by day and an elegant and lively haven by night. …