The First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific will take place in Cebu, The Philippines, on 26-27 June 2024. Organized in conjunction with the 36th Joint Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific & the UN Tourism Commission for South Asia (36th CAP-CSA), it will mark the first time that the Gastronomy Forum is taken to the regional level. First Regional Forum on Gastronomy Forum for Asia and the Pacific Following its global success, the Forum, annually organized by UN Tourism and its Affiliate Member, the Basque Culinary Center (BCC), is now set to make its regional debut. Hosted by the Government of the Philippines, this inaugural regional edition promises to serve as a meeting point for experts and member states dedicated to enhancing the role of gastronomy tourism in destination development. The Forum will host a Ministerial dialogue to discuss policies to advance a roadmap on gastronomy tourism in the region. Underscoring the significance of preserving local traditions and protecting the land and products for the development of sustainable gastronomy tourism, a panel debate will discuss innovative strategies with examples from Japan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka. The event will also welcome the participation of destinations and experts actively engaged in the advancement of gastronomy tourism as a tool for social inclusiveness, such as UN Tourism Ambassador Chef Margarita Fores, as well as Chef Vicky Cheng from Hong Kong (China); Lionel Dabbadie, the FAO representative for the Philippines, along with representatives from JTB Corporation – the largest travel agency in Japan – and representatives from Jeju Tourism Organization (Republic of Korea), to present on two of the Best …

Gulf Air has launched its newest seasonal flights to Rhodes, Greece. The airline’s flight to Rhodes was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute and a host of celebratory activities upon its arrival at Rhodes Airport. The airline will operate two weekly flights from Bahrain International Airport (BIA) to Rhodes Airport (RHO) from June 1st to September 28th, on Airbus 320neo aircraft. This new route enhances Gulf Air’s connectivity and provides passengers with more flexibility in their summer travel plans. Flight no. Frequency Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time GF 0050 Thu & Sat BAH 09:40 JMK 13:55 GF 0050 Thu & Sat JMK 14:55 RHO 15:45 GF 0051 Thu & Sat RHO 16:45 BAH 20:25 **All times are local Commenting on the new seasonal destination, a Gulf Air spokesperson said, “We are pleased to add Rhodes to Gulf Air’s dynamic network, increasing the connectivity between Bahrain and Greece to three destinations: Athens as a scheduled destination and Mykonos as a seasonal destination, and now celebrating the inaugural flight to Rhodes. This new route is an integral part of Gulf Air’s strategic commitment to enhance its European network, offering passengers a wider choice of leisure destinations in Europe like Rhodes.” This move further aligns with Gulf Air’s commitment to high-quality passenger travel experiences and enhanced services operating from Bahrain International Airport, connecting to over 60 destinations. Gulf Air passengers can stay updated on flight timings by downloading the Gulf Air mobile application or by visiting Gulf Air’s website gulfair.com.

DXB will welcome over 3.7 million guests in the period from 12 to 25 June, with an average daily traffic of 264,000. June 22 is expected to be the busiest day with guest numbers likely to exceed 287,000. With the summer break in full swing and schools letting out for vacation, Dubai International (DXB) gears up to accommodate the surge in travel during this peak season. As families embark on their summer adventures, DXB is prepared to ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. The priority is to expedite guest formalities, allowing ample time to enjoy the diverse offerings at DXB. From international cuisine to world-class retail, lounges, spas and hospitality services, guests can commence their journey in style and comfort. DXB has curated a range of exciting offers to enhance the travel experience from the get-go. To ensure a hassle-free journey, Dubai Airports offers tips for guests who are travelling in the coming weeks: Emirates passengers can take advantage of the airline’s convenient home, early and self-check-in facilities, including city check-in options. flydubai passengers are advised to arrive at least four hours prior to departure. Guests flying with other airlines should aim to arrive at DXB no earlier than three hours before their scheduled departure time, utilising online check-in where available to save time. Familiarise yourself with your airline’s baggage allowance and packing regulations. Avoid last-minute surprises by checking in advance. Save time at security screening by being prepared. Place metal items— watch, jewellery, mobile phone, coins, belt— in your hand luggage and follow the directed guidelines for carrying liquids, aerosols, and gels. Families with children over 12 can expedite the passport control process by using Smart Gates. Keep …

Qatar Airways’ resumed services to Venice with non-stop daily flights between Hamad International Airport (DOH), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE) Airport. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “As we enter the summer season, we are excited to resume our daily service to Venice. Italy is a key market for Qatar Airways, and we are committed to providing our passengers with more travel opportunities and seamless connections to explore this wonderful country.” He added, “In addition to Venice, Qatar Airways already serves two other major Italian cities, Rome and Milan. These flights have been incredibly popular among our passengers, and we are thrilled to expand our Italian offerings with the inclusion of Venice, through our world-class award-winning hub in Doha, Hamad International Airport.” To celebrate this latest network expansion, a  ceremony was held at the departure gate for passengers  at Hamad International Airport (DOH). Qatar Airways’ flights to Venice comes as part of the airline’s 2024 network expansion, which bolsters the airline’s existing Milan and Rome services. The new schedule ensures that passengers can easily travel to these iconic cities and experience the best of Italy. Venice is a highly sought-after destination, captivating travellers with its stunning canals, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. With daily flights, Qatar Airways aims to offer its passengers the convenience and flexibility they need to explore this beautiful city at their leisure. Flight schedule to Venice: The new daily flights to Venice will operate using Qatar Airways’ modern fleet, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers. Daily flights – all local time ·         Doha (DOH) to Venice (VCE) – departing at 09:00 and arriving at 14:20. ·         Venice (VCE) to Doha …

Gewan Hotels & Resorts (GHR), a subsidiary of Gewan Holding unveiled its latest accomplishments: managing three luxurious 5-star hotels and two hotel apartment complexes. Marking a significant stride in its strategic expansion across the hospitality industry, Gewan Hotels & Resorts emerges as a symbol of innovation and excellence in the region’s hospitality landscape. With this latest unveiling, GHR extends its reach beyond Abu Dhabi, with its property portfolio now embracing other emirates within the UAE. This announcement highlights the three new opulent five-star hotels, each ready to enchant and delight guests: Royal M Hotel by Gewan Abu Dhabi, Royal M Hotel by Gewan Fujairah, and the splendid Royal M Hotel by Gewan Al Aqah. Additionally, GHR proudly presents two new additions to its portfolio – The Uptown Hotel Apartments by Gewan Abu Dhabi and The Uptown Hotel Apartments by Gewan Fujairah, promising unparalleled comfort and luxury. In a further development on day one of the conference, GHR reveals its ambitious plans for the future teasing the anticipation of new Gewan hotels set to grace the landscapes of North Africa, South Africa, and the wider Middle East. This consolidates its position as a frontrunner in the international hospitality industry. Commenting on the launch of the new properties, Gewan Hotels & Resorts CEO, Ahmed Hassib, said: “I’m thrilled to announce the expansion of Gewan Hotels & Resorts with the introduction of our five newest hotel and hotel apartment properties at ATM 2024, one of the most significant events in the global travel industry. Today’s announcement marks a significant and strategic milestone in Gewan Hotels & Resorts’ pursuit of delivering new levels of excellence to our guests and foreshadows our ambition of continued expansion …

Front End announced that the company enabled a successful demonstration of the first unmanned air taxi trial in Mecca, supported by its partner, EHang, the world’s leading urban air mobility (UAM) technology platform company. Front End’s commitment to bringing the latest technology to the Kingdom along with EHang’s guidance in the adoption of urban air mobility, together with the leadership of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Ministry of Hajj, the Ministry of Interior, marked a pivotal step towards a faster, more efficient, and sustainable Hajj. This collaboration unlocked a truly innovative solution, showcasing the remarkable potential of government-private partnerships to drive advancements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA said: “The trial marks a major advancement in integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions into Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape. We are committed to the highest safety standards and seamless integration into existing air traffic systems. This trial acts as a proof of concept for multiple use cases and contributes to various AAM roadmap initiatives. We appreciate the instrumental support of Front End and EHang to mark this historic milestone for Saudi Arabia.” The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a monumental gathering of diverse nationalities, presents unique logistical challenges. This innovative demonstration aims to streamline transportation during this sacred event, by efficiently moving pilgrims faster between key locations, ensuring a smoother and safer Hajj experience. Commenting on the demonstration, Mr. Majid Alghaslan, Chairman and CEO of Front End Limited Company, said: “Front End is at the forefront of this trailblazing trial, paving the way to a new era in smart mobility solutions, potentially revolutionizing Hajj …

Etihad Airways expects to welcome around five million guests to Zayed International Airport across the peak summer period. Shaeb Alnuaimi, Etihad’s Director Airports Operation said: “We are looking forward to hosting guests as they journey on their summer holidays, including those going on our newly launched routes to Malaga, Antalya, Santorini, Nice, Jaipur, Al Qassim, Mykonos and Bali. Thanks to Etihad’s award-winning cabin crew, family-friendly offerings, and cabin choices, guests can expect remarkable travel experiences. And this is our first summer season in our new home at Zayed International Airport which has added a new dimension of seamless travel and world-class customer experience. To ensure guests enjoy a convenient and safe travel experience during this busy summer period, all travellers are encouraged to arrive early and allow plenty of time at the airport. Etihad Airways has a number of travel tips and reminders to make it easier.” Guests can easily check-in online using etihad.com or the mobile app, and then take their luggage to one of the many automated and easy-to-use self-service bag drops at the terminal. The facility allows you to weigh and tag your bags and collect your boarding pass quickly and easily. For added convenience over the summer, a number of offsite check-in and bag-drop facilities are available. Customers using these will be offered 2,000 Etihad Guest Miles from 10 June to 15 August. • Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (open 24-hours) • The Fountains – YAS Mall (open from 10am to 10pm) • Mussafah (open from 10am to 10pm) 38 Al Arzaq Street, Mussafah Shabia-11, Behind Al Madina Hypermarket • Al Ain (open from 10am till 10pm) Lulu Hypermarket Kuwaitat, Shakhboot Bin Sultan St, Central District Guests are advised …

Formula E announced that Liberty Global Ltd. (“Liberty Global”) is to acquire shares held by Warner Bros. Discovery in the all-electric racing series. The acquisition of shares held by Warner Bros. Discovery will, on completion, bring Liberty Global’s total share of ownership in Formula E to 65% and mean that Liberty Global will take a controlling interest in the world’s fastest-growing motorsport. Formula E is the only FIA sanctioned all-electric world motor racing championship, the world’s No.1 rated ESG sport and the first net zero carbon sport from inception. In its 10th season of all-electric city racing, Formula E boasts one of the best and most diverse sporting calendars in the world, with 16 races in some of the world’s most iconic city locations, covering four continents. Now, with almost 400m fans around the world, 11 teams and 22 world-class drivers on the grid, Formula E has become a destination for the best motorsport talent on the planet, including racing teams Jaguar TCS Racing, TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team and NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. At the recent Monaco E-Prix, Formula E revealed its new car for Season 11, the GEN3 EVO, capable of accelerating to 60mph in an incredible 1.82 seconds, around 30% faster than a current Formula 1 car. Jeff Dodds, CEO, Formula E, said: “First of all I’d like to offer my thanks to Warner Bros. Discovery for the support and guidance they’ve provided Formula E over the past nine years. Liberty Global have a proven track record of building and growing businesses and their investment in us comes at the perfect time as we plan for a period of exponential growth. Having personally known and …

Sabre Hospitality and Uplift announced a strategic partnership that leverages Sabre’s SynXis to offer unparalleled payment flexibility to hotels and guests alike. Under this agreement, Sabre Hospitality will integrate the Uplift dynamic pay monthly option into the Sabre SynXis platform, enabling properties across all market tiers to seamlessly adopt a versatile payment model that resonates with guests at every price point. This collaboration underscores Sabre’s commitment to revolutionizing the guest experience by harnessing innovative solutions that enhance payment options and drive customer satisfaction. “At Sabre Hospitality, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of technology trends and meeting the dynamic needs of our partners and their customers in an ever-evolving industry,” said Scott Wilson President, Sabre Hospitality. “Our collaboration with Uplift underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation and responsiveness to market demands. By embracing Uplift’s cutting-edge technology, we surpass expectations, providing our clients and their guests with unparalleled convenience and flexibility.” Uplift partners with over 350 of the world’s leading airlines, cruise lines, resorts, and other major travel providers to help more consumers make meaningful purchases and experience the travel they deserve. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Sabre Hospitality, a true leader in the hospitality B2B technology space. The travel landscape is constantly evolving, and consumers increasingly seek flexibility in payment options,” said Tom Botts, Chief Commercial Officer, Uplift.” Our partnership with Sabre Hospitality is a testament to our shared vision of addressing these evolving needs. By integrating Uplift into the SynXis platform, we empower hotels to provide their guests with a seamless and convenient payment experience, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.” This partnership enables Sabre to expand payment flexibility options for their extensive network …

This Hajj season, Emirates is geared up to serve the large volume of pilgrims making their way from the airline’s global network through Dubai, to Jeddah and Medina to perform the once in a lifetime Muslim pilgrimage. Emirates has deployed 10 additional flights between 7 Jun and 10 June, and between 21 June and 26 June to carry pilgrims to Jeddah and Medina. These flights have been carefully timed to meet the flight schedules from key markets for Hajj, including Indonesia, Thailand, Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritius, South Africa, Senegal and Pakistan. Emirates has been working hard throughout every travel touchpoint of the journey to ensure comfortable experience, both in the air and on the ground for pilgrims heading to Makkah for this significant trip. The additional flights are operated alongside Emirates’ scheduled services to the two Saudi gateways, and provide increased choice and options for thousands of travellers from across the airline’s global network to carry out one of the key pillars of Islam. The airline has further deployed 19 flights to cities including Amman, Dammam, Kuwait Beirut among others to meet high demand during Eid Al-Adha in mid-June. From arriving to Dubai International, to stopping over in the city and connecting onwards to Jeddah and Medina, Emirates has extended its onboard hospitality to the ground through a carefully planned airport experience. Emirates’ dedicated teams will guide pilgrims during their airport journey to ensure a seamless process of connecting to their onwards flights. Airport Service teams have been tasked with meeting, greeting and escorting all pilgrims from arrival to departure. Travellers are welcomed at the arrival gate by dedicated Emirates Airport Service personnel, holding signs with special greetings for pilgrims, where they are escorted …