Continuing its expansion in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Swiss-Belhotel International, announced the signing of an agreement for Swiss-Belresidences Rivan, an upscale new residential development, located in Cairo, Egypt. The agreement was formalised at the Swiss-Belhotel International’s regional headquarters in Dubai on May 14th and the official launch event took place in Cairo on 2nd June, 2024. This sealed the deal between the owning company Al Tameer Al Arabia for Real Estate Development and Investment Sae and Swiss-Belhotel International. Eng. Marzouk Mansour Abdelrazek Namnam, owner and CEO of Al Tameer Al Arabia for Real Estate Development and Investment Sae, said, “With our extensive experience in real estate and collaborations with major global companies and consultancy firms, we are unveiling a new vision to revolutionise real estate in Egypt. Our goal extends beyond creating residential, administrative, or commercial units; it is about crafting environments that enhance daily life through upscale and sustainable developments. Our collaboration with Swiss-Belhotel International for developing Swiss-Belresidences Rivan reflects our commitment to creating a new standard for high-end living in Cairo, while contributing positively to the city’s growth.” Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “We are glad to partner with Al Tameer Al Arabia for Real Estate Development and Investment Sae to bring this project to life. The Swiss-Belresidences Rivan in Cairo embodies our commitment to providing high-quality accommodation options in prime destinations. Our growth in the MENA region continues to be a key focus of our global expansion strategy. With our winning partnership philosophy, we work hand in hand with owners and investors to achieve the desired business objectives that the Swiss-Belhotel International is known for globally.” Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior …

After nine consecutive years of Green Globe certification, the Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites and Apartments has enhanced its sustainable credentials by achieving gold certification of the internationally renowned Green Globe Certification (GGC) programme, which is specifically designed for the travel & tourism industry. During a recent independent audit and assessment carried out by Green Globe’s preferred partner in the Middle East, Dubai-headquartered sustainability consultancy Farnek, the property achieved a rating of 96%, having complied with or exceeded more than 380 rigorous sustainability indicators. Farnek’s dedicated team also supported hotel management with its Hotel Optimizer, a comprehensive and data-driven energy performance monitoring software tool. Through efficient measuring, tracking, monitoring, and benchmarking of energy and water consumption, as well as waste management, the hotel was able to calculate its carbon footprint during 2023. Highlights of the recertification included an annual energy performance savings of 4.3% through multiple retrofits, such as chiller optimisation, frequency controls for fresh air handling units, and LED light installation. The hotel also managed to save 2.6% on water consumption by fitting 300 tap aerators and diverting 21% of its waste from landfills through innovative reduction and recycling initiatives. The hotel also offset 100% (19 tonnes) of the carbon emissions generated from business travel made by its management team and saved 12% of the carbon emissions generated by individual guests. Levent Tasbas, General Manager at Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights, said, “We are proud of our sustainability achievements over the past nine years. This year, we have achieved gold certification, and next year, we are aiming for platinum certification. Putting that into perspective, currently, only two hotels in the UAE hold that status within the GGC programme, underscoring our drive and …

SITA is partnering the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) to create new offsite passenger processing solutions that would provide airline passengers with a fresh experience of checking themselves and their luggage in from almost any location – even before they arrive at the airport. By providing SUTD with access to its SITA Flex solution, SUTD researchers will now have the necessary technology to turn their current physical, digital, and experiential off-airport designs into workable prototypes. When fully integrated and completed, passenger processing procedures – passport scanning, luggage weighing, and printing of luggage tags and boarding passes – which are usually done at airports, will be available offsite using these prototypes. In fact, tourists could experience a reimagined processing procedure right at their hotel room door, with their luggage being sent to the airport in advance. This will eliminate the need for them to leave their luggage with the hotel concierge should their flight depart hours after checking out of the hotel. They can simply carry on with their activities and head straight to the airport just an hour, instead of the usual two hours, before their flight departs – luggage free. The SUTD-SITA off-airport processing project kicked off in March this year and will run for a year. As the hardware and service design requirements are ironed out and the solution takes shape, the off-airport concept will be tested for seamless integration and optimal performance with various SITA partners, including airlines, airports and ground handlers. Singapore-based Sumesh Patel, SITA’s President for the Asia Pacific region, is upbeat about the tie-up. “This exciting partnership underscores our proactive stance when it comes to developing pioneering innovative solutions to take the air …

Emirates has started its highly-anticipated services to the Colombian capital of Bogotá, expanding the airline’s South American network to four destinations and reaching 19 points across the Americas. The daily service, via Miami, is operated with a Boeing 777 aircraft, which will offer premium passenger services on its daily services to Bogotá. Emirates also became the first airline to offer First Class services on the popular route between Miami and Bogotá. The launch of services to Emirates’ latest destination was celebrated at gate A14 at El Dorado International Airport upon arrival of EK213 from Miami, which was welcomed by traditional Colombian dancers. A cake-cutting ceremony and symbolic gift exchange commemorated the occasion in the presence of a delegation of VIPs including His Excellency Luis Miguel Merlano Hoyos, Colombian Ambassador to the UAE; His Excellency Mohamed Alshamsi, UAE Ambassador to Colombia: Sergio Paris Mendoza, Director General of Aeronáutica Civil de Colombia; and Natali Leal, OPAIN General Manager. Emirates executives who were onboard the flight and led the ceremony upon arrival included Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President Passenger Sales and Country Management and Salem Obaidalla, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Commercial Operations – Americas. Emirates’ senior executive delegation was also accompanied by international media, who flew from Dubai and Miami, and were joined at the airport event by Scott Lantz, Area Manager Mexico and Colombia as well as Colombian Vice Ministers, Ambassadors, and other distinguished guests. Following the welcome ceremony between the airline and airport officials, Emirates showcased its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in a three-class configuration* to dignitaries, government representatives, media, guests and members of the travel trade industry. The aircraft features eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie flat seats in …

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), Emirates, and Airbus have joined forces to deliver a Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) program for the Airbus A350 type rating, as Emirates prepares for the delivery of its fleet of 65 A350s from mid-2024. An initial cohort of 256 pilots will be trained as part of the new course at Emirates’ Training college in Dubai starting from July 2024. The joint work combines the respective expertise of the three organizations. IATA will focus on program design using its published guidance for CBTA. Airbus will contribute knowledge of the aircraft along with its own CBTA experience. Emirates will use its CBTA training and operational experience. This collaboration will create and deliver the first A350 type rating training in full alignment with the latest International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for CBTA training and with the best practices contained in the IATA CBTA Guide for Flight Crew Training. “Combining the expertise of Emirates, Airbus and IATA to design and deliver A350 type rating training is a unique opportunity. Our joint aim is to fully utilize the benefits of CBTA to qualify the pilots on the A350 in the most efficient and effective way possible. And by doing it together all three organizations will also gain valuable experience that can strengthen their other training activities,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s SVP for Operations, Safety and Security. “Emirates uses cutting-edge training programs so our pilots are among the most competent flight crew in the world. The tailored CBTA program for the A350 supports the integration of 65 new A350 aircraft, with 1,000 pilots set to complete the A350 Type Rating course. This commitment enhances passenger safety and comfort, …

Riyadh Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Eastern Airlines at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Dubai. This strategic partnership strengthens the growing economic and cultural ties between China and Saudi Arabia while unlocking new travel options for underserved markets. China Eastern Airlines recently launched direct flights from Shanghai to Riyadh, demonstrating a shared commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering collaboration in areas like trade, tourism, and culture. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air: “This MoU marks a significant milestone for Riyadh Air as China is a hugely important market for our future network. By closely collaborating with China Eastern Airlines, a leading player in the Chinese market, we can unlock new travel opportunities and drive economic growth across both countries. We are particularly excited to explore synergies in digital innovation, where both airlines share a commitment to the future of travel. “Our collaboration extends beyond conventional connectivity, fostering collaboration on digital transformation, a critical area for Chinese airlines. Recognizing China Eastern’s ongoing digitalization efforts, Riyadh Air sees immense potential for knowledge sharing and technology development. Riyadh Air’s pioneering approach perfectly aligns with China Eastern’s focus on digital transformation, creating a powerful partnership for the future.” Wang Zhiqing, Chairman of China Eastern Airlines: “Benefiting from the forward development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Saudi Arabia, China Eastern Airlines has reached a strategic cooperation with Riyadh Air focused on the future. The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding outlines the broad direction for cooperation between the two companies in areas such as business and promotes exchanges in information technology and digital operations. We are full of anticipation for the outcomes …

Rotana announced the opening of Al Manakha Rotana in Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Each of the hotel’s 512 rooms and suites is thoughtfully designed and equipped with modern fittings and furnishings. Many of the rooms also offer uplifting views of Madinah’s most sacred site, the Prophet’s Mosque, adding a touch of serenity to every stay. For guests looking to maintain their fitness, a fully equipped gym with sweeping vistas over the holy city’s landmarks is located on the 12th floor. To ensure a comfortable and inclusive environment, specific timings are allocated for male and female guests. With a landmark location in the centre of the holy city of Madinah, Al Manakha Rotana aims to serve travellers seeking a unique cultural experience, as well as the millions of pilgrims who partake in the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Madinah, home to Islam’s second holiest shrine, the Prophet’s Mosque. Commenting on the announcement, Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana, said: “We’re thrilled to inaugurate the new Al Manakha Rotana in the historic city of Madinah. Religious tourism remains a key pillar of Saudi’s economy and plays a vital role in supporting the Kingdom’s growth strategy. Marking our tenth property opening in Saudi Arabia is a proud milestone for Rotana, reinforcing our commitment to the country and serving all travellers to the holy city.” Situated in front of Islam’s second-holiest shrine, the Prophet’s Mosque, and surrounded by vibrant shops and cafes, as well as iconic historical sites such as Omar bin Khattab Mosque and Al Ghamamah, the four-star Al Manakha Rotana offers a haven of comfort and convenience for pilgrims and travellers alike. In addition, the property offers four distinctive dining venues, including two …

Aman Group announces Janu Dubai in DIFC, anticipated to open in 2027. The visionary hospitality group recently unveiled plans for Aman Dubai which will be set in a prime location directly on Jumeirah Beach. This announcement follows the successful launch in March 2024 of Janu’s inaugural property, Janu Tokyo, which made an indelible mark as the city’s newest luxury destination, captivating guests with the energetic spirit of its dining scene and landmark wellness centre, setting a new standard in hospitality. Janu Dubai, located in the business heart of Dubai International Financial District (DIFC), will sit in a key position close to world-class retail, restaurants, entertainment venues, and in close proximity to Downtown Dubai. It will offer sweeping views across the skyline towards the Burj Khalifa on one side and garden views on the other. A leading Pritzker Prize-winning architecture practice, Herzog & de Meuron has been appointed as the building’s architect, with plans to make the property the first of its kind in the UAE by embracing a connection to nature through expansive outdoor terraces and balconies with abundant planting and gardens. Janu Dubai is owned by Alia Developments, an investment vehicle backed by local and international investors. It will be led by H&H Development, a leading real estate developer with a proven track record in the UAE. H&H Development will serve as both a shareholder of the project and the development manager. Pioneering a new direction in luxury hospitality, Janu – derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘soul’ – is a hotel brand designed for a new era of restorative travel, enriching lives through transformative experiences, which celebrate genuine human interaction, playful expression, and social wellness. Janu Dubai will …

Qatar Airways officially touched down at Tashkent International Airport (TAS)  celebrating its inaugural flight of its new non-stop service to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The new route marks a significant milestone in Qatar Airways’ ambitious network expansion programme, which will see the airline operate four weekly flights to Tashkent onboard its state-of-the-art fleet, providing passengers seamless connectivity via Hamad International Airport (DOH), recently voted ‘World’s Best Airport’ by Skytrax. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are excited to introduce Tashkent as our latest destination, offering travellers convenient access to the cultural and economic heart of Uzbekistan. “This new route underscores our commitment to expanding our global network through Central Asia and providing our passengers with more travel options. We look forward to strengthening the ties between Qatar and Uzbekistan through enhanced connectivity and cultural exchange.” Mr. Mohamed Faleh Al Hajri, Acting President of the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA), added: “We congratulate Qatar Airways on this new achievement and commend its efforts to enhance passenger connectivity and provide top-tier services to over 170 destinations worldwide. Tashkent, with its rich natural and historical landmarks. “This new route will strengthen bilateral relations between Qatar and Uzbekistan, boosting economic, cultural, and tourism cooperation and highlighting the aviation sector’s role in economic development.” As a historic gateway to world-renowned Silk Road and a destination known for its breath-taking nature and one-of-a kind architecture, the inclusion of Tashkent to Qatar Airways’ extensive network of more than 170 destinations will pave the way for millions of passengers to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Uzbekistan. Flight schedule to Tashkent: Departing Doha every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday (all local time) – Doha …

Speaking on the sidelines of the IATA AGM in Dubai, Ahmet Bolat – Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Turkish Airlines shared that they received 83 million passengers in 2023 and they expect to welcome 90 million passengers by the end of this year with the momentum at present. There was an increase in passenger numbers from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia last year and they expect the rest of the year to be the same. Bolat also mentioned that there had been an increase of business class passengers over the last year as well in comparison to before and this trend seems to be continuing over the year. In terms of new routes, he reiterated that they added the sixth continent of Australia in 2023, with 3 flights per week and by end of this year they will increase to more cities in Australia. They increased operations in the US as well by adding their 13th destination – Detroit and they will start to Denver by next week. He further shared that within the next ten years they will double their fleet from 450 currently to 800 plus.