Amsa Hospitality Academy announced a new partnership with King Khalid University for the launch of a joint training program. Launched in November, an inaugural cohort of 20 university graduates has begun vocational training at the soon-to-open Mercure Khamis Mushait, the first internationally branded hotel in the Aseer Province city of Khamis Mushait. The agreement, signed by Dr. Reham Mashat, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism at King Khalid University, and Mohammad Mandili, Chief People Officer at Amsa Hospitality, marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between academia and the private industry. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing graduates with hands-on experience. Amsa Hospitality Academy, the vocational training arm of the eponymous Riyadh-based hospitality company, made its debut earlier this year. It was developed in partnership with Luxury Hotelschool Paris, a globally recognized institution known for its pedagogical excellence and collaborations with leading hotel brands. The training materials, certified and reviewed by Luxury Hotelschool Paris, help aspiring Saudi hoteliers develop the skills needed to excel in the hospitality industry. Muin Serhan, Chief Executive Officer of Amsa Hospitality, commented, “We are delighted to pilot our training program with such a prestigious institution as King Khalid University. This partnership demonstrates how the public and private sectors can work together to nurture Saudi talent and contribute to the goals of Vision 2030.” Through its collaborations with various institutions, Amsa Hospitality Academy aims to train over 400 individuals by the summer of 2025.

marhaba has seen the biggest, 65% growth in passengers travelling to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, demonstrating a solid demand from business travellers this year. marhaba is gearing up to assist a record 500,000 travellers at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports this festive season, offering a range of convenient services to ease their journeys*. Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President, UAE Airport Operations, said: “As more travellers head home or embark on holiday trips this festive season, demand for seamless airport services continues to rise. Whether reuniting with loved ones or heading off on new adventures, our marhaba team is here to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable with our range of personalised services. Our helpful agents look forward to contributing to a memorable experience for both leisure and business travellers, at every stage of their journey.” In 2024, marhaba has experienced a significant surge in demand for its premium airport hospitality services, with passengers from the UAE, UK, India and USA leading the way in enhancing their airport journeys. Key highlights include a 43% increase in USA passengers choosing marhaba’s Meet & Greet, Lounge, and Chauffeur Services, reflecting a growing preference for convenience among long-haul travellers who prioritise time and comfort. marhaba’s personalised approach to hospitality also continues to resonate with elderly passengers and families, particularly among UAE customers travelling in large groups. marhaba’s services are often booked by relatives eager to provide their loved ones with a smooth airport experience. Key markets for such bookings include India with over 20,000 passengers taking advantage of marhaba’s services every month. marhaba’s services are designed to offer maximum convenience …

Etihad Airways celebrated the launch of its new service to Nairobi marking the airline’s latest milestone in a remarkable year of network expansion. Operating through the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport, the service creates a vital connection between the UAE’s capital and one of Africa’s most dynamic cities. “The introduction of our Nairobi service enhances our growing network while responding to strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as demonstrated by today’s completely full inaugural flight,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways. “As both Abu Dhabi and Kenya experience remarkable tourism growth and set ambitious targets for the future, this route creates valuable opportunities for both destinations. The service strengthens the important ties between our regions, supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while providing enhanced access to Kenya’s thriving tourism market.” The launch comes at a significant time for Kenya’s tourism sector. With visitor numbers expected to reach 3 million in 2024 and targets of 5 million visitors in the coming years, Kenya’s tourism industry is on a strong growth trajectory. The Nairobi launch follows the successful introduction of services to Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim, and Thiruvananthapuram in 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, Etihad will continue its expansion with thirteen new destinations: Warsaw and Prague in June; Al Alamein and Atlanta in July; Taipei in September; Medan, Phnom Penh, and Krabi in October; and Tunis, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Algiers in November. The Abu Dhabi-Nairobi route connects two destinations known for their distinctive offerings. Abu Dhabi welcomes visitors with its blend of modern attractions and rich heritage, from the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Louvre Abu …

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranked third globally in the growth rate of international tourist arrivals with over 61% in the first eight to nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019, according to a press release issued by UN Tourism in December 2024. Through the Ministry of Tourism’s plans and strategies, this consistent performance and continued success in the tourism sector underlines the efforts of all stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem aimed at achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The significant increase in the number of inbound tourists also reflects travelers’ confidence in the Kingdom’s attractive and diverse tourism offering, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s standing as a leading global tourist destination. Earlier, Saudi Arabia had advanced 15 positions in the global ranking of inbound tourist spending, leading the upward movement among the top 50 countries and ranking 12th globally in 2023 compared to 2019. Additionally, the Kingdom led the G20 countries in the growth of international tourist arrivals in the first seven months of 2024 compared to 2019.

Qatar Airways is set to re-launch daily flights to Canberra driving connectivity and increased competition for the benefit of Canberrans and Australian customers. The daily flights to Canberra will operate via Melbourne to the airline’s hub, Hamad International Airport, in Doha, which has consistently been voted the World’s Best Airport, as well as offering travellers a world-class stopover experience with seamless connections to more than 170 destinations across the Qatar Airways global network. The flights, commencing in December 2025, will be operated by Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring the airline’s award-winning Q-suite Business Class cabin* and complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi for all passengers. Qatar Airways ceased operations to Canberra during the global pandemic, making this announcement a significant milestone for the airline as it reconnects to the city, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the surrounding regions. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are delighted to be able to serve Canberra once again. The nation’s capital, the political heart of Australia, rightly expects to be served by a range of international airlines, and I am proud that we are able to play our part in that. Whether travelling for business, government services or leisure, our commitment to Australia, and to Canberra, is one that we know will bring much needed healthy competition to the market and greater choice for passengers.” Canberra Airport CEO, Mr. Stephen Byron, highlighted the significance of the recommencement of services, highlighting its importance for the region. “The return of Qatar Airways marks an exciting and pivotal moment for Canberra and our surrounding regions. This service not only provides over a million residents access to a global network spanning more than 170 destinations but also …

Dan Company announced the signing of a contract with Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company to develop Dan’s flagship destination in the Al-Ahsa Governorate, under its local hospitality brand “Tuaja Luxury Resorts”. Spanning 1.8 million square metres, the resort will feature 201 accommodation units, from hotel rooms to high-end villas, some with private pools. Every aspect of the resort is carefully designed to reflect the unique character of Al-Ahsa, offering diverse experiences catering to guests’ needs in agri tourism, ecotourism, and Adventure tourism.  The project marks a milestone in the company’s mission to enhance the tourism sector and elevate the quality of services in the hospitality sector in the Kingdom by developing resorts that combine sustainability, innovation, and authentic hospitality. The project also contributes to strengthening Al-Ahsa’s position as an attractive destination for both local and international tourism. On this occasion, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kroud said “We are pleased to announce the new resort, which aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance its hospitality and tourism offerings locally and internationally and reaffirms our commitment to contribute to the development of the tourism sector by leveraging the Kingdom’s enchanting natural landscapes and showcasing it’s rich natural diversity through agri, eco, and adventure tourism.” He added: “It is our pleasure to partner with Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company, a leading company in the Eastern province to develop our flagship project under the TUAJA LUXURY RESORTS brand. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for the future and commitment to excellence. Together, we look forward to Tuaja Resorts becoming a symbol of sustainability and innovation in the Kingdom.” The project is a pioneering initiative that highlights the Al-Ahsa region’s stunning natural beauty and rich …

December marks the arrival of the festive season, where traditions, celebrations, and shared joy shape the essence of destinations worldwide. While some cherish the warmth of home, others are drawn to the allure of exploring new cultures and vibrant holiday experiences. Jamaica emerges as the ultimate destination for those seeking a tropical twist to their festive celebrations. Renowned for its lively spirit, exquisite cuisine, unparalleled hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking natural beauty, the island promises a delightful escape. As holiday events light up the country, celebrate the merry season with lively beachfront parties pulsing with island beats or with soulful gospel concerts and heartwarming church services that highlight the island’s rich traditions and cultural heritage. For families, activities like Christmas light displays and carol singing infused with reggae rhythms create magical moments to cherish. Tourists can also attend midnight mass services across the island to experience the spiritual warmth of the season. Boxing Day Celebrations include cricket matches, family gatherings, and outdoor concerts. Christmas markets and fairs are a great avenue to experience the local culture and connect with the people of Jamaica. December also heralds the much-anticipated 2025 Kingston Biennial, hosted by the National Gallery of Jamaica—the Caribbean’s largest and oldest public art museum. This prestigious event highlights leading artistic talent from Jamaica and the broader region, celebrating the vibrant creative heritage of the island. No Jamaican Christmas is complete without indulging in the island’s culinary delights. Guests can savor dishes like curried goat, roasted breadfruit, Gungo rice and peas, and escovitch fish, paired with Christmas favorites like rich Jamaican Christmas Cake soaked in a mix of spices and the refreshing sorrel drink – a hibiscus-infused beverage spiced with …

FITUR 2025, taking place from 22 to 26 January, organised by IFEMA MADRID, will be highlighting the strong tourism potential between Spain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where around ten companies will be exhibiting their tourism offers at the trade fair, mainly tour operators and Dubai’s iconic Atlantis Hotel, among others. The recovery of the Persian Gulf has been faster and stronger than that of other markets, with an economy that is growing above the OECD average and with higher spending and disposable income per consumer. Thus, the tourism sector in both territories has significant potential for developing specialised products. Spain experienced a record year for tourism in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2023 with unprecedented growth in both the number of travellers and tourism expenditure. The total number of GCC residents visiting Spain in 2023 reached 434,000, 33% more than in 2022, with an average stay of 8.6 days. Specifically, visitors from the UAE totalled more than 140,000 and spending grew by 37.8%, with an average spend of 2,668 euros, 26% more than in 2022. According to industry sources, around 200,000 Spanish tourists visit Dubai every year. In 2023, tourists from the Gulf region spent more than 1.138 billion euros in Spain, 64.7% more than in 2022, according to Turespaña estimates based on INE data (Frontur and Egatur). These travellers are considered as “large consumers”, with spending well above their European counterparts. Connectivity with Spain is very good and airlines have increased in all the countries of the Persian Gulf, both in terms of frequency and new routes. In the forecasts for flights from the UAE between 1 October 2024 and 31 March 2025, capacity to Spain has …

Hilton is on track to triple its presence in Egypt with plans to open 25 hotels across the country, including the signing of more than ten new properties under the global hospitality company’s award-winning brands. Hilton’s growing pipeline brings it closer to its aim of exceeding 40 hotels operating in Egypt over the coming years. New signings include the debut of Hilton’s lifestyle brand, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, on the African continent, as well as Egypt’s first Curio Collection by Hilton, and an all-inclusive resort under the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand. Hilton is also set to open the highly anticipated Hilton Cairo Nile Maadi, located in the capital’s upscale Maadi district. The hotel is slated to open in early 2025 and will feature contemporary rooms with panoramic views of iconic landmarks like the Nile and the Pyramids. Commenting on Hilton’s growth in Egypt, Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East & Africa (MEA), Hilton, said: “Egypt is our longest standing market in the MEA region, where we’ve been operating for more than 60 years. We are excited to continue building on this legacy as we accelerate our growth, and we look forward to working closely with our valued owners to provide guests with reliable and friendly stays across the country. The debut of our lifestyle brands in Egypt marks an important milestone, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the rich experiences the country has to offer.”

Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel will open in Diriyah, amidst a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Riyadh with 134 guestrooms including 23 suites. Nestled within a labyrinth of alleyways, the hotel is the first to open in Diriyah and captures the region’s low-contour, mudbrick architecture with open courtyards and spaces to gather. Sand-hued walls and graceful arches showcase local artwork, rugs and hand-crafted artifacts that flow through into the 134 guestrooms including 23 suites. The guestrooms reflect Nadji design with light cream hues and geometrical patterns complimented by local art, books and artifacts. Ancestral poetry pays homage to the cherished Arabian art of storytelling and enhances every turn down service. Guests are invited to explore the ancient roots of Saudi Arabia through guided tours of the nearby UNESCO site, attend storytelling sessions, poetry readings, and culinary tours, each crafted to provide a deep connection to the local heritage.