Red Sea Global (RSG) announced the successful completion of an investment deal with Kingdom Holding Company (KHC). The SAR 2bn Joint Venture (JV) brings together RSG and KHC in a 50/50 partnership to develop and own the Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, expected to open in early 2025. The highly anticipated luxury resort is situated on Shura Island, the main hub island at The Red Sea destination. It will offer 149 rooms and suites, plus 31 residential properties, as well as six restaurants and lounge outlets, meeting and events spaces, a marine discovery center, and a Kids For All Seasons space. “This partnership strengthens our unwavering commitment to transforming the tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia. We share a common vision of creating extraordinary destinations that not only drive economic growth and job creation, but also preserve precious ecosystems, aligning perfectly with the aspirations outlined in Vision 2030,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. Eng. Talal Ibrahim Almaiman, CEO at Kingdom Holding Company, said: ” We are proud to partner with RSG in the execution of one of the Kingdom’s most exciting projects and look forward to creating value for our respective shareholders. This investment will form part of our broader strategy on further investments in the Saudi Arabian high growth market.” Shura Island will be home to 11 resorts in total, and will include residential properties, an 18-hole championship golf course, a 118-berth marina, and an exceptional retail, dining, and entertainment experience. The collaboration between RSG and KHC comes at a time when tourism in the Kingdom is experiencing remarkable growth. Tourism’s share of GDP has already shot from a modest 3% to an impressive 7% since …

ITB Asia came to a successful close with over 160 speakers delivered more than 4,000 minutes of speeches in over 100 sessions spanning 3 days in 3 conference theatres: the Knowledge Theatre, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia. TravTalkME was the media partner once again this year. Thousands of industry experts came together to celebrate travel and forge new connections at ITB Asia, co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia, and enriched by a multi-track conference. “The 2023 edition of ITB Asia sent a clear signal – the global travel industry is back on track. We were happy to see so many new players, so many fresh faces – that’s the guarantee of a sustainable future for the entire industry. I hope a lot of them will join the ranks of recurring ITB Asia guests, as we are starting preparations for the next year already”, says Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiser of MICE Show Asia, Travel Tech Asia and ITB Asia. Business Networking at Travel Tech Asia 2023 ITB Asia Conference – thousands of insightful minutes The rich conference agenda augmented the experience that attendees could get in the busy exhibition halls. Adopting the motto “Accelerating Growth: Paving the Way for New Opportunities in Travel & Tourism”, the ITB Asia Conference gathered global thought leaders from the entire industry, sparking lively discussions on topics critical to the future of MICE, corporate travel, leisure travel and travel technology. Over 160 speakers delivered more than 4,000 minutes of speeches in over 100 sessions spanning 3 days in 3 conference theatres: the Knowledge Theatre, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia. ITB Asia will return …

Cruise Saudi has renewed its ongoing collaboration with Discover Saudi. Following a highly successful third season for Cruise Saudi, which included Discover Saudi providing unique and memorable shore excursions to over 5,200 cruise passengers in the Two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, this collaboration will continue to provide a seamless and unforgettable journey with the highest standards for regional and international visitors. With the shared vision to promote domestic tourism in Saudi and enrich the nation’s growth as an international cruising destination, Discover Saudi’s shore excursion packages will offer Cruise Saudi’s passengers an authentic Saudi experience, enabling visitors to explore The Two Holy Cities’ rich history, culture, heritage and nature. Lars Clasen, Chief Executive Officer at Cruise Saudi said: “As we approach season four, we are delighted to renew our partnership with Discover Saudi, so that we can continue to ensure our guests experience the very best of what Saudi has to offer. These extraordinary experiences, created in collaboration with partners such as Discover Saudi, are a crucial part of Cruise Saudi’s attractive offering to both cruise lines and travellers alike, it is also in line with our mandate to develop a comprehensive cruising ecosystem in Saudi and promote Saudi as a distinct global cruise destination.” Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer at Almosafer, said: “We are excited to continue to build on our relationship with Cruise Saudi. Saudi has a plethora of incredible cultural, natural, historical and religious attractions that are drawing an increasing number of international tourists. As a leading integrated Destination Management Company, our local knowledge and passion for travel and tourism will provide an immersive and authentic experience for visitors and further fuel this upward growth …

dnata is partnering with Virgin Atlantic to support the airline’s highly anticipated return to Dubai this winter. dnata Representation Services has been selected to provide a comprehensive range of services to the airline as its general sales agent (GSA) in the UAE. The partnership establishes UAE-based infrastructure for local sales, marketing and distribution support, providing a full range of travel services for Virgin customers flying to and from Dubai. dnata’s services will support the airline as it gears up to resume flights between London Heathrow (LHR) and Dubai International (DXB) this month. Flights are now available for customers to book, and will operate from 30 October 2023 through to March 2024 with a four-times weekly seasonal service. Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, said: “dnata Representation Services previously served as Virgin Atlantic’s GSA in the UAE, and we are delighted to be working with this dynamic airline as it makes its exciting return to Dubai. Our experienced team will work hard to support Virgin Atlantic in achieving its business objectives and growth plans, as the UAE continues to prove a top destination of choice for UK travellers.” Liezl Gericke, Head of International at Virgin Atlantic, commented: “We’ve long wanted to return to Dubai when the time was right, and we know our customers will be over the moon with the reintroduction of this popular route. Nothing sets our hearts soaring like a new destination or reintroducing an old favourite. We look forward to welcoming our customers back on board, whether travelling for business or leisure or heading back to the United Kingdom to reconnect with friends and family.” The new service is set to offer …

ENVI Lodges has partnered with Oman’s Ministry of Defence Pension Fund to develop a sustainable mountain lodge in the heart of Al Jabel Al Akhdar. Marking ENVI’s foray in the Sultanate, the ecolodge will provide a unique mountain stay experience while promoting environmental conservation, a brand proposition aligned to the Oman National Tourism Strategy 2040 target of 11.7 million visitors and 80,000 hospitality keys focused on nature, adventure and sustainable initiatives. The Ministry of Defence Pension Fund’s representative said: “Partnering with ENVI Lodges to open the first ecolodge of its kind in Oman, is a strategic move that contributes to the responsible development of the Sultanate’s tourism industry. The lodge will appeal to the growing number of travellers seeking eco-friendly accommodation and authentic destination experiences, reinforcing Oman’s reputation as hotspot for nature and adventure.” When it opens in 2025, ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar will feature 40 luxury expedition tents designed by Tenthouse Structure, a renowned South African architect of tented wilderness developments. Each unit will overlook the Hajar mountain range and offer guests an elevated adventure experience while minimising environmental impact. These precision-engineered, hand-crafted tents will be insulated and include a heating system for the winter season, ideal for Al Jabel Al Akhdar, which sits at 2,000 metres above sea level. Facilities will include a farm-to-table restaurant, some private pools, fitness and wellness centre, library, guest arrival area, an Insta-worthy swimming pool, a kids club, and kitchen garden, while an adjacent events space will host community activities such as markets and food trucks. The lodge will offer guests the chance to explore nearby villages, interact with local farmers and hike to discover the hidden treasures the famous Omani mountain …

Travelport and Air India announced that they have extended and expanded their multi-year distribution agreement to include New Distribution Capability (NDC) content and servicing. The agreement further expands the collaboration between Travelport and Air India, confirming the future delivery of a complete NDC solution which will provide Travelport’s global network of travel agencies the ability to easily search, shop and service Air India’s product offerings. “Our valued partnership with Travelport is an important part of our growth and technology strategy as we prepare to deliver a complete solution that makes it easy for agents to access and service Air India’s content and offers,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial and Transformation Officer at Air India. “Travelport+ will elevate our technology investment and the future roll out of NDC-sourced content, so that together, we can ensure agents and travellers have a seamless, modern retailing experience.” Travelport and Air India remain committed to providing travel agencies worldwide with more choices and a fast, easy way to search and book the best options that meet travellers’ needs. This renewed agreement between Travelport and Air India ensures that Travelport subscribers continue to have simplified access to Air India’s extensive network of destinations, which will continue to expand and evolve. “Our expanded agreement with Air India positions Travelport and our operator partner ITQ to continue driving modern travel retailing as the leading travel technology partner of choice for travel agencies in India,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Airline Partners at Travelport. “As part of Air India’s future technology strategy, our collaboration on NDC will be complemented by the superior retailing and merchandizing solutions available in Travelport+, which ultimately make it easier for agents to operate …

It was announced that the Qatari government has appointed a new chairman for its tourism arm. HE Saad bin Ali bin Saad Al Kharji has been officially appointed as the new Chairman of Qatar Tourism.  According to QNA,  HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani issued the Amiri Decision No. 85 of 2023, appointing HE Saad bin Ali bin Saad Al Kharji as Chairman of Qatar Tourism. More details to be revealed soon.

With Germany as a prime destination for GCC tourists, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) is set to further captivate the Gulf region with its compelling roadshow. From October 29 to November 2, the GNTO, along with nine esteemed partners, will embark on a journey across major Gulf cities, including Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait City, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, strengthening ties, and sharing insights with local tourism professionals and media partners. Yamina Sofo, Director Marketing & Sales Office Gulf Countries at the German National Tourist Office (GNTO), elaborated on the roadshow’s goals: “Our aim is not only to introduce Germany to the local travel trade, but also to diversify our campaign offerings and share valuable knowledge with market experts.” Ongoing campaigns such as Simply Feel Good, Historic.Modern.Germany, and Embrace German Nature will take centre stage on the roadshow, aligning their various unique offerings with the Gulf market’s desires. Key stakeholders will convey essential messages to the audience. Participating in the roadshow are two prominent local tourism offices: visitBerlin and the Munich Tourist Office, spotlighting among other things next summer’s UEFA European Championship and the growing recognition as a medical tourism capital. Outletcity Metzingen, Europe’s largest retail outlet and renowned for hosting 170 premium and luxury brands, will make significant announcements at the roadshow. The recently inaugurated Eventspace in the historic BOSS factory building will also be unveiled, adding to the excitement. Under the theme “Luxury Reinterpreted for You”, the Hommage Luxury Hotels Collections will present its properties tailored for GCC guests. Steigenberger Hotels offer a diverse range of stays – from historic residences to serene retreats – and will showcase their rich heritage and modern amenities. The Meiser Design Hotel meanwhile …

Red Sea Global (RSG) revealed Thuwal Private Retreat, an exclusive, buy-out only island destination set to welcome guests next year. Located on a pristine 1.7-hectare sandy islet in a spectacular coral archipelago on the Red Sea coast, the intimate destination offers stunning natural beauty complemented by discreet architecture, offering ultimate luxury in complete privacy. The island resort boasts a spacious main three-bedroom villa, three one-bedroom suites, a beach club, gym and wellness center. The curated travel experience begins as soon as guests arrive, entering via a private jetty to be greeted by the guest experience team at a stunning welcome center. “Thuwal Private Retreat has been created to allow guests the chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and instead reconnect with their closest companions. Our belief is that the sublime Red Sea coast combined with tailored luxury experiences will deliver a peerless escape for the most discerning travelers,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. The creation of Thuwal Private Retreat represents a new phase for Red Sea Global, with the destination sitting separately to The Red Sea and Amaala, and as a wholly RSG-owned brand. There are no third-party hospitality or hotel operators involved for the first time in RSG’s development history. “This is a milestone for us personally. It is the latest project we can reveal since we announced our expanded portfolio of projects last year and it is significantly advanced in terms of delivery. It is also the first time we are creating a destination owned and operated end-to-end by the expert team here at Red Sea Global, from development and planning to accommodation and guest services,” added Mr. Pagano. In line …

The First Group partners with Charge&Go marking a significant milestone in sustainability, The Group will be installing Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at its six hotels, making it Dubai’s first hospitality company to embrace this forward-looking practice for the environment. Underpinned by a resolute dedication to environmental protection and guest comfort, the initiative solidifies The First Group hotels’ position as a premier destination for sustainable hospitality. By adopting eco-conscious measures, the Group caters to the growing desires of environmentally aware travellers. More than just a convenience, this endeavour underscores the brand’s pledge to a greener planet, further enhancing its reputation as an industry leader in responsible hospitality in a competitive market. The EV charging stations will be located across six of the brand’s properties – The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, The First Collection Business Bay, Tryp by Wyndham Dubai, Wyndham Dubai Marina, Citadines Metro Central Dubai, and Grand Heights. Muammar Nasir Al Rukhaimi, CEO, Etisalat Services Holding (ESH), subsidiary of e& said: “This partnership demonstrates our dedication to ‘Charge&Go’ and our support for electric mobility in UAE. We are committed to leading the conversations on sustainability and exploring the limitless possibilities with technology. Today, innovation goes beyond ground-breaking products and solutions; it also involves making choices that benefit the environment and generations that will inherit this planet from us.” “We take great pride in this significant milestone alongside our valued partner, Charge&Go as it exemplifies our commitment to sustainability within the dynamic realm of hospitality. As the UAE steers towards a sustainable economy, we acknowledge our key role as a partner in shaping an environmentally conscious future. This initiative underscores our commitment to being catalysts of positive change …