Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal, in Saudi Arabia’s northern region. The hotel features 245 rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites that offer an exceptional blend of comfort and modern design. The hotel also offers 18 state-of-the-art meeting rooms and expansive banqueting facilities, creating the ideal destination for conferences, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. Whether for business or leisure, guests will find a setting crafted to inspire and connect.A beacon of elevated hospitality, this property brings Mövenpick’s signature service excellence to Wa’ad Al Shamal, a strategic economic and industrial hub that plays a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions. Dining at Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal offers a culinary journey through five distinct experiences.Yasmeen Restaurant offers a vibrant selection of Saudi and international cuisines, celebrating the flavors of the region with a contemporary twist. Zafaran Restaurant immerses guests in the rich culinary traditions of Türkiye, providing a truly authentic dining journey. For a refreshing retreat, the Oasis Pool Bar serves signature drinks and light bites in a relaxed poolside setting. The Flora Lobby Lounge provides a welcoming space for guests to unwind with Mövenpick’s signature coffee blends and pastries and invites guests to indulge in the celebrated Mövenpick Chocolate Hour, a daily immersive chocolate tasting experience that delights visitors of all ages. With its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering connections, Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal marks a transformative step in the region’s hospitality landscape. Over 55% of the workforce are Saudi nationals, reinforcing the hotel’s alignment with the national goal of empowering the local workforce. Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Middle East, Africa & Türkiye …

It was announced that The Red Sea EDITION is slated to open by summer 2025 in Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. EDITION Hotels is launching its second outpost in Saudi Arabia with the opening of The Red Sea EDITION. Nestled on the enchanting Shura Island, this new resort is part of the Kingdom’s visionary Red Sea Project, blending cultural richness with modern sophistication. The hotel will feature 240 meticulously designed guestrooms, including an array of spacious suites. Multiple restaurants and bars set the stage for curated lifestyle experiences the brand is known for globally, while amenities including the spa, swimming pool, and state-of-the-art gym create the ideal setting for a serene, relaxing retreat. As the latest addition to EDITION Hotels’ collection of individualised, one-of-a-kind properties, The Red Sea EDITION exemplifies the brand’s commitment to taste-making design, innovation and a new generation of luxury hospitality.

Etihad Airways and Air Seychelles have entered into a codeshare agreement, allowing customers to travel seamlessly on a single booking between all of Etihad’s destinations and Mahe, Seychelles connecting via the impressive Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, Etihad customers will have access to exotic destinations such as Praslin and Mauritius via Air Seychelles direct service beyond Mahe.  Etihad and Air Seychelles will collaborate on the six flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Mahe starting May 2025. Under the codeshare agreement, travellers can look forward to a great flight experience with the same baggage allowance and a choice of complimentary food and drink, as well as inflight entertainment, with members of Etihad Guest earning miles on each flight. Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: “This exciting agreement offers Etihad Airways’ guests increased frequency and convenience for travel between Abu Dhabi and Seychelles, and onward to Mauritius. The flights will integrate seamlessly with Etihad’s global network, enhancing connectivity for passengers of both airlines. “This collaboration not only enhances travel options but also strengthens the relationship between the two airlines, promising a superior travel experience for all passengers.” Charles Johnson, Air Seychelles’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We’re excited to be launching our nonstop flights between Abu Dhabi and Seychelles, with continuing same-plane service to Mauritius. With a schedule designed to optimize time in our tropical paradise, guests will feel the warmth of the Creole Spirit from the moment they board.”

Visit Qatar is launching a first-of-its-kind desert activation at Ras Abrouq, a new premium destination set to run from 18th December until 18th January that caters to the entire family, offering adventure, relaxation and cultural enrichment. Situated on the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve in north-west Qatar, these activations present a new desert experience for visitors and residents alike. The Visit Qatar activation at Ras Abrouq offers a collection of immersive zones. Families can enjoy a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquillity, complemented by premium offerings that are accessible at affordable prices. Highlights include Our Habitas Resort, The Desert Escape, Film City, Wildlife Park, and the Glamping Zone. Ahmed Hamad Al Binali, the Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, said, “At Visit Qatar, our goal is to diversify our offering ensuring that every visitor, regardless of age, can enjoy a range of interactive and engaging experiences. From entertaining activities at the Film City zone, to the excitement of the Desert Escape with hot air balloon rides and a wide range of activations, every element is tailored to offer something for everyone.” He added, “We’ve also incorporated cultural installations, live performances, and educational workshops and daily camel parades enabling families to connect with Qatar’s heritage while immersing themselves in its desert landscapes. This activation reflects our commitment to offering premium experiences that create unforgettable memories for families.” The Film City zone will offer a variety of family-oriented activities, including a coffee shop, a gift shop, and an exhibition in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife park rides, camel, pony, and horse rides, as well as a unique photo activation. …

Dubai International (DXB) is set to welcome a surge in travellers as the winter holiday season unfolds, with over 5.2 million guests expected between  13 and 31 December. The daily average is projected at 274,000 guests, with Friday, 20 December, anticipated to be the busiest day of the period, hosting nearly 296,000 guests. The weekend from 20 to 22 December will also see peak activity, with an estimated 880,000 guests passing through. Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, said: “Delivering the exceptional experience that DXB is known for during peak travel periods is always a challenge, but one we are well-prepared to meet with collaboration across the oneDXB family. This year, we are excited to welcome millions of guests while also creating moments of joy through festive activations. The Family Zone at Terminal 3 will transform into a winter wonderland featuring a unique fusion performance of carollers and beatboxers, a Magic Station offering gift-wrapping and photo opportunities, a Nutcracker marching band, and more. These activities are designed to surprise and delight, making every journey through DXB truly memorable.” This season’s traffic surge reflects Dubai’s global appeal, with visitors drawn to its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings, as well as the city’s amazing winter weather. Of the projected traffic, 1.7 million guests will arrive in Dubai, and 1.5 million will depart, underscoring Dubai’s rising position as a premier destination for international travellers. Travel Tips for Guests Dubai Airports is committed to ensuring a seamless travel experience for all guests during this peak period. Here are some tips for those travelling during the coming weeks to make their journey as smooth as possible: • Check-in …

Paramount Hotel Dubai has been honored with the Best 5-Star Lifestyle Hotel award at the prestigious seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards. The event celebrated the visionaries and pioneers driving excellence in the Middle East’s travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors, underscoring the region’s commitment to becoming a global tourism leader while balancing luxury and sustainability. This award celebrates Paramount Hotel Dubai’s unique approach to luxury, blending Hollywood-inspired artistry with exceptional service to create a cinematic experience that’s both immersive and memorable. It reflects Paramount Hotels’ dedication to building a legacy that redefines hospitality—where every guest is celebrated as a “star” within an ambiance that captures the magic of Hollywood. A statement by Dean, SVP of Hospitality for DAMAC Hotels and Resorts, “It’s a great honor to be recognized among industry leaders. This award is a tribute to the creativity, hard work, and commitment of our exceptional teams at Paramount Hotel Dubai. It reinforces our vision to redefine luxury and elevate the art of hospitality, delivering experiences that resonate long after our guests have left.” Pascal, General Manager of Paramount Hotel Dubai, added, ‘We are proud to be recognized among leaders in travel and tourism. This accolade reaffirms our commitment to ‘for the creative, by the creative’—crafting extraordinary experiences where every detail, from cinematic design elements to immersive moments, transports our guests from the silver screen to real-life wonder. We are thrilled to bring this recognition home and will continue to set the stage for unforgettable stays, where our guests are the stars of their own Hollywood-inspired journeys’. With 2025 on the horizon, Paramount Hotels is set to continue its ascent in the luxury hospitality space. Paramount Hotel Dubai will …

Celestyal marked its maiden call in Dubai this week entering the emirate’s waters with a dhow escort, the line’s newest ship, Celestyal Journey, hosted a plaque exchange ceremony and a star-studded party to kick off the ship’s first week-long ‘Desert Days’ itinerary, which includes sailing roundtrip from Dubai and calling at Bahrain, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. The result of a collaboration between Greek company Celestyal and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that aims to share the region’s extraordinary offerings with the wider world, Celestyal Journey will homeport from the city for the next three years, with passengers already able to book trips. Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season sails until March 2025.

Key industry trends – including innovation, connectivity and customisation – will be front and centre at the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 28 April to 1 May 2025. Each year, ATM addresses issues reshaping the international travel landscape, and 2025 will be no exception. In line with its theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, ATM 2025’s extensive conference programme and exhibition will explore how contemporary shifts in technology and traveller behaviour can both contribute to and benefit from enhanced connectivity. Commenting on the changing face of global travel, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Connectivity through technology is obviously a key growth area in travel and tourism, but it is also about the seamless flow and interaction of people, goods and ideas, which support businesses worldwide. So, if you are looking to engage with the global trends, cultural shifts and traveller behaviours shaping the future of the tourism sector, there is no better place than ATM.” One of the trends expected to shape the market in 2025 and beyond is so-called nostalgia travel. From remakes of 1990s films to early 2000s music acts on tour, the pull of the past is strong for the Millennial generation. Many of today’s travellers, including those from the UAE, are seeking to reconnect with their youth by recreating special trips or childhood dreams. Some are also looking to connect with their own children by sharing nostalgic experiences in familiar places, providing myriad opportunities for enterprising travel companies. Sports and music tourism is also experiencing significant growth, with the former expected to be worth $1.33 trillion …

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced that bookings are now open for its third self-operated property, Desert Rock. Nestled in the heart of an untouched desert landscape where the mountains meet the sands, Desert Rock offers a timeless luxury experience designed to immerse guests in the raw beauty of the natural world. “We are ready to welcome guests to Desert Rock, our third self-operated hotel in the Red Sea Global hospitality portfolio. This is more than just a hotel — it is a unique property, crafted into the rock face, offering a truly immersive experience where luxury and nature come together to create a truly unforgettable escape,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “Whether you are looking to explore the desert and mountains with our adventure team at Akun, unwind in total privacy, or indulge in world-class dining and wellness, Desert Rock offers something extraordinary for every guest.” Desert Rock spans 30,000 square meters of unspoiled land, where architectural mastery meets ancient rocky outcrops. The resort is located just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport, making it a convenient yet remote escape for those seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a blend of both. Designed with seamless integration into the rugged terrain, Desert Rock features a variety of accommodations, including pool villas, luxury suites, and private retreats, each offering a unique way to experience the splendor of the surrounding landscape. Villas and Suites Each villa and suite at Desert Rock have been thoughtfully crafted to embrace the natural surroundings, offering an atmosphere of serene luxury. Guests can choose from a range of options, including: Wadi Villas: Ideal for families, these spacious, desert-inspired one- and two-bedroom villas offer private pools and expansive …

A Qatari delegation, led by representatives from Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Interior, and members of the Permanent Committee for the Management of Sea Ports and Passports, Mwani Qatar and the General Authority of Customs, concluded a visit to Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat recently. These meetings provided a platform to explore ways of collaboration, exchange best practices in logistics and port management, and discuss strategies to enhance the cruise tourism experience. Commenting on the visit, Omar Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism, said: “Our visit to Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat was an opportunity to network with our Omani counterparts and exchange in-depth knowledge in key operational areas including immigration and customs, terminal logistics and passenger services. By sharing experiences and consolidating best practices, we are committed to improving Qatar’s cruise experience and strengthening regional cooperation to achieve sustainable growth in the cruise tourism sector.” During the discussions, the Qatari delegation addressed key operational areas, including passport and customs procedures, station operations and logistics, and the roles and responsibilities of tour operators and ship agents. The attendees also discussed ways to enhance cooperation, strengthen bilateral relations and develop the cruise sector in both countries. The visit was carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman, where the delegation held high-level meetings with Omani officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Transport, the Royal Oman Police and the port operator (Asyad).  Qatar’s cruise sector has become a key focus of Qatar Tourism’s strategy, with consistently strong growth rates in recent years. During the 2024-2025 season alone, Doha Port is expected to welcome …