Millennium Place Mirdif won the title of ‘Best 4 Star lifestyle hotel’ at the seventh Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Best 4-star Lifestyle Hotel award for Millennium Place Mirdif at the Arabian Travel Awards 2024 is a tremendous honour that validates our commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and setting new standards in the hospitality industry.”- Shady Dawad, General Manager, Millennium Place Mirdif.

Etihad Airways announces the roll out of its new and elevated digital experience across etihad.com and the mobile app. The new digital experience offers a modern and inviting platform to book travel and gain inspiration for upcoming journeys. The website navigation is re-engineered as a standout left-side menu allowing users to move seamlessly and efficiently through the site; while the bold colour of ‘midnight dune’ from Etihad’s newly integrated colour palette, gives an enticing first impression. A strong emphasis on enhanced digital self-service options makes the user experience easier and more personalised. During the online check-in process many new features have been added including pre-populated data to save time, an improved seat map and streamlined access to travel extras all within a simple three-step process. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “In our commitment to delivering an extraordinary customer experience, we’ve completely redesigned the digital experience ensuring that our guests enjoy engaging with us from the very first touch of a screen until reaching their destination and beyond. Furthermore, we’ve made sure our valued Etihad Guest members can enjoy the benefits of a more personalised experience now conveniently in the one app or website.” Adding to this, Etihad Airways’ Chief Digital Officer, Frank Meyer, said: “At Etihad, we are constantly evolving and innovating the digital experience in line with customer preferences and industry trends. In our commitment to innovation and improvement, we will continue to go beyond expectations by delivering a more personalised and seamless online experience for our guests.” The Etihad Airways mobile app, on both Android and iOS, now also serves as a digital travel assistant with booking, trip management and loyalty member profiles …

Al Nakhla Investment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed an agreement with Marriott International to open a Residence Inn by Marriott in Riyadh. This development marks a significant milestone in Al Nakhla Investment’s ongoing efforts to diversify and expand its regional hospitality portfolio. The new Residence Inn by Marriott Riyadh will be strategically located in one of the city’s most vibrant and rapidly developing areas, offering long-term travelers and business professionals an exceptional blend of comfort, convenience, and modern amenities. The property will feature a selection of spacious suites and units designed to cater to guests seeking short or long stays, with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and state-of-the-art facilities. This agreement is part of a broader strategic collaboration between Al Nakhla Investment and Marriott International to bring world-class hospitality experiences to the Kingdom. The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to boost tourism, attract international investment, and develop the Kingdom’s hospitality sector. Speaking on the occasion, Momen Dowji, Business Development Manager of Al Nakhla Investment, said, “We are thrilled to work with Marriott International to bring the Residence Inn by Marriott brand to Riyadh. This agreement aligns with our strategy to expand our footprint in the hospitality sector and contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and business travel markets. We believe that the Residence Inn will offer a unique value proposition to both business and leisure travelers seeking high-quality, longer-stay accommodation in the heart of Riyadh.” Introducing Residence Inn by Marriott in Riyadh will add to the city’s growing array of hospitality options, catering to a diverse range of travelers. With its focus on long-term stays, Residence …

Akbar Travels, through its medical tourism division, TravoCure, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Thumbay Medical Tourism (TMT), a unit of the renowned Thumbay Healthcare Division. This collaboration aims to strengthen medical tourism services and provide seamless healthcare solutions for international patients. Thumbay Medical Tourism has been a leading provider of affordable and high-quality healthcare to patients from over 175 nationalities, offering top-tier medical services through its network of hospitals and specialized healthcare facilities in the UAE. TravoCure, owned by Akbar Travels, is dedicated to facilitating medical travel for patients seeking advanced treatments and wellness solutions globally. Under this partnership, Thumbay Healthcare will extend exclusive benefits to TravoCure-referred patients, including an exclusive discount on medical treatments. Additionally, the agreement covers the promotion of Thumbay University Hospitals’ services, organization of medical check-up camps, and collaboration on academic and clinical research initiatives. “This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing medical travel services for international patients,” said Ms. Ashiya Nazar, Chief Executive Officer of Akbar Travels. “Through this collaboration, we aim to provide world-class healthcare solutions with seamless travel arrangements for patients worldwide.” Mr. Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of Thumbay Medical Tourism, emphasized, “Thumbay Healthcare has always been at the forefront of medical tourism in the region. Partnering with Akbar Travels will further expand our reach and enable patients to access high-quality and affordable healthcare with greater convenience.” A dedicated collaboration committee will oversee the implementation of this agreement, ensuring the smooth activation of joint projects and services. The MOU is reinforcing the long-term commitment of both organizations to developing the medical tourism sector.

Emaar Hospitality Group announces the opening of Vida Dubai Mall located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this 195-key property, inclusive of 620 residence units, is poised to be the ultimate destination for urban explorers, leisure seekers, and business travelers. With direct access to Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest retail and entertainment hubs, and breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, this property represents a new chapter for the Vida brand in Dubai’s most iconic destination. Situated in the bustling heart of Downtown Dubai, Vida Dubai Mall offers unparalleled convenience and connectivity. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from Dubai’s top attractions, including the world-renowned Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and several cultural hotspots. With seamless direct access to Dubai Mall and a direct link to Chinatown in Dubai Mall, guests are just steps away from a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, all within the largest mall in the world. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Vida Dubai Mall offers easy access to key business districts and top attractions, positioning guests at the center of everything this vibrant city has to offer. Towering above the Dubai skyline, Vida Dubai Mall blends modern architecture with rich cultural influences, ensuring that every stay is a memorable experience. The hotel’s sleek, stylish interiors provide a perfect balance between comfort and elegance, offering rooms with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Each room is meticulously designed, showcasing Vida’s signature style with soothing color palettes, trendy furnishings, and thoughtfully curated details. The rooms deliver an immersive environment that seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetic pleasure. Vida Dubai Mall is more than just a hotel—it’s a lifestyle destination. …

ITVAR GSA Travel LLC walked away with the title ‘Fastest growing GSA’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning this award is an incredible milestone for us as a team. It reaffirms our dedication to excellence and motivates our team to continue innovating. This recognition highlights the trust our clients and partners place in us, strengthening our position in the industry. The award has elevated our credibility, opened new opportunities, and inspired others in the industry to aim higher and keep improving travel and trade industry to make sure we provide excellent service to our clients.”-Pier Angeli Astano, Head of Representations, Non Air, ITVAR GSA LLC

Minor Hotels announces it is bringing its NH Collection brand to Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Slated to launch in early 2028, the announcement about the 156-key NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments was made during a ceremony at THINC Middle East. The new hotel will be located on Al Marjan Island in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, one of the premier and rapidly growing travel destinations in the UAE. Just one hour from Dubai International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, the property will feature 120 beach-facing guest rooms and suites, in addition to 36 branded serviced apartments. Facilities will include four restaurants and bars, a gym and an outdoor swimming pool, a kids club and games room, a retail shop and a co-working space. The property is owned by RRS International Development FZ-LLC, a premier real estate developer with over two decades of experience in the UAE’s high-end real estate market. RRS has a dedicated focus on Ras Al Khaimah’s fast-growing real estate sector and with Minor Hotels plans to develop this new NH Collection property on Al Marjan Island, one of the hottest destinations in the region, with major upcoming developments including the UAE’s first integrated resort. As one of the pioneering forces behind the branded residences concept, this latest announcement by Minor Hotels demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to growing through mixed use properties with a residential component. It also showcases Minor Hotels continued commitment to growth in the region, including in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, where it already operates the Anantara in Mina Al Arab and the upcoming Anantara Residences. …

The Legian Seminyak and The Club by The Legian Seminyak, two of Bali’s most coveted luxury boutique hotels, are proudly managed by LHM (Legian Hotels Management). Both properties epitomize refined elegance, offering guests an unparalleled experience that blends the island’s rich cultural heritage with a contemporary twist. The Legian Seminyak, Bali, a distinguished icon of luxury hospitality in Indonesia, is proud to announce its expansion into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by appointing Gulf Reps as its sales and marketing representatives. This strategic partnership underscores the resort’s commitment to delivering its exceptional experiences to discerning GCC travellers. Situated on one of Bali’s most pristine beaches, The Legian Seminyak, Bali has been a hallmark of luxury since its opening in 1996. Designed by the legendary Indonesian designer Jaya Ibrahim, whose accolades include the design of the prestigious Aman Summer Palace in Beijing – The Legian Seminyak, Bali stand as true icons of luxury and architectural beauty. Jaya Ibrahim’s vision for both hotels incorporates Bali’s distinct sense of place, masterfully combining traditional Balinese aesthetics with modern design elements, creating an inviting sanctuary in the heart of vibrant Seminyak. the property seamlessly blends timeless Indonesian aesthetics with contemporary elegance. With 66 sea-facing suites and the exclusive three-bedroom Beach House—the only private villa with direct beach access in Seminyak—the resort offers an unmatched sanctuary for travellers seeking tranquility and sophistication. A Tailored Experience for GCC Travellers Recognizing the unique preferences of its GCC clientele, The Legian Seminyak, Bali offers an array of amenities and services designed to cater to their needs: • Strategic Location: A mere 35–45 minutes from Bali’s international airport, the resort is nestled in the vibrant heart of Seminyak, renowned …

Tourism Ministers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries met in Kuwait within the framework of joint efforts to enhance tourism cooperation among the GCC countries, as it represents an important preparatory step aimed at coordinating tourism policies and enhancing integration among member states, which will positively reflect on the development of the Gulf tourism sector. The meeting was a platform for dialogue and exchange of experiences, which contributes to the development of joint tourism strategies that support tourism diversity and enhance cooperation in organizing events and activities that highlight the tourism potential of the GCC countries. The meeting discussed ways to develop joint tourism events among the GCC countries, enhance efforts to stimulate inter-tourism and raise the rates of demand for Gulf destinations. This meeting comes as part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the integration of Gulf tourism, by launching strategic initiatives that contribute to the development of the sector and enhance the position of the GCC countries as integrated tourism destinations that attract visitors from around the world.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach bagged ‘Best Urban Lifestyle Hotel’ at the seventh edition of Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Best Urban Lifestyle Hotel UAE, 2024 at the Arabian Travel Awards is a huge honour for us. It reflects our commitment to offering best-in-class experiences to our guests. This achievement is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our incredible team. We will continue to innovate and build on this success by further enhancing our guest experiences, while maintaining our best-in-class standards. This win fuels our drive to set even higher expectations for the future.”-Michael Goetz, General Manager, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach