According to IATA’s outlook report, the Middle East benefits from the strength of both the region’s economies and its global hubs. The United Arab Emirates continues to benefit from its attractiveness to both leisure and business travellers.  Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s massive investments in infrastructure and tourism are delivering robust growth in passenger and cargo volumes. Although airlines continue to add capacity, yields remain healthy and the demand for travel remains buoyant and looks set to continue apace. Geopolitical risks are the main threat, especially to the Levant carriers. The Gulf carriers are relatively less impacted unless tensions between Iran and Israel escalate.   2023 Net Profit (e) (margin) (per passenger) 2024 Net Profit (f) (margin) (per passenger) 2024 Demand (RPK) 2024 Capacity (ASK) $3.1 billion (4.9%) ($12.70) $3.8 billion (5.3%) ($15.20) +9.3% +10.8%

Etihad Airways and Royal Air Maroc are set to work more closely together for the benefit of their customers after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost commercial and operational ties. The agreement reflects a dedication to exploring enhanced cooperation, aiming to offer travellers expanded choices, superior services, and added value, all while fostering sustainable aviation. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This agreement covers a broad range of activities from exploring the expansion of existing codeshare arrangements to cover more domestic routes in Morocco and Africa, to looking at developing existing frequent flyer programme co-operation, and exploring collaborations on ground handling, maintenance and engineering.” Abdelhamid Addou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Air Maroc: “We are very proud to establish this important partnership with Etihad Airways, which aligns with our ambition to further enhance our connectivity and continue offering our passengers a more optimised and seamless travel experience through our respective hubs.” The existing codeshare agreement gives customers of both airlines enhanced connectivity to destinations across each other’s networks, between Morocco and the UAE as well, beyond Casablanca into Africa and beyond Abu Dhabi. The agreement enables guests to book their entire journey on a single ticket and have their baggage checked through seamlessly to their end destination.

FTI Touristik GmbH, the parent company of the FTI GROUP as the third largest tour operator in Europe, will file an application for the opening of insolvency proceedings at the Munich Local Court on Monday, 3 June 2024. Initially, only the tour operator brand FTI Touristik is directly affected by this. Subsequently, however, corresponding applications will also be filed for other Group companies. Windrose Finest Travel GmbH with the luxury brand WINDROSE will continue its business. The independent companies Euvia GmbH and its travel shopping channel sonnenklar.TV as well as the franchise system of Touristik Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH (TVG) with its brands sonnenklar.TV Reisebüros, 5vorFlug Reisebüros and Flugbörse do not belong to the FTI GROUP. After a lengthy and complex investor process, the entry of a consortium of investors was announced in April 2024. Since then, however, booking figures have fallen well short of expectations despite the positive news. In addition, numerous suppliers have insisted on advance payment. As a result, there was an increased need for liquidity, which could no longer be bridged until the closing of the investor process. The filing for insolvency has therefore become necessary for legal reasons. Information for customers of the FTI GROUP Supporting travelers affected by the consequences of the insolvency is now a top priority for the FTI GROUP. A support website has already been set up at www.fti-group.com/en/insolvency as well as a support hotline at +49 (0) 89 / 710 45 14 98. All relevant information can be accessed here and German- and English-speaking contact persons are available for individual questions. In addition to the full focus on customer support, the FTI GROUP will also keep its guests regularly informed together with …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced an agreement with Hilton to further enhance the emirate’s destination offering.  The agreement, which was signed at Arabian Travel Market 2024, will enable guests staying at Hilton hotels in Abu Dhabi this summer to enjoy special benefits and discounts at various iconic landmarks throughout the emirate. This initiative aims to enrich the stay experience for guests while showcasing the diverse cultural and leisure offerings Abu Dhabi has to offer. Additionally, Abu Dhabi’s vibrant events will be integrated into Hilton’s regional promotional activities, amplifying the visibility of the emirate’s cultural and tourism initiatives across a wider international audience base and giving Hilton guests insight into the Emirate’s exciting calendar of events. Abdullah Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Through our collaboration with Hilton, we are bridging the gap between visitors and their next wonderful experience in the Emirate, introducing them to enriching sights, landmarks, and events, and encouraging them to discover more about Abu Dhabi at their own pace. This partnership aligns with the objectives of our Tourism Strategy 2030, contributing to our goal of making Abu Dhabi a leading global destination and achieving sustainable tourism growth.” Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said, “We have a longstanding relationship with DCT Abu Dhabi and are delighted to sign this latest agreement, which will see us partner to amplify Abu Dhabi’s tourism initiatives and support Hilton’s properties in the emirate. Our four hotels in Abu Dhabi are the ideal base for visitors to enjoy all that the emirate has to offer including theme parks, world-class dining and pristine beaches. We look forward to building …

Etihad Airways and Beijing Daxing International Airport of Capital Airport Holding Company, signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aiming to strengthen the strategic cooperation between the two parties. According to the MoU, the parties will work together to enhance existing frequencies between the United Arab Emirates and Beijing and collaborate on joint marketing and sales activities to promote travel between the two countries. They will also jointly improve passenger services, and enhance baggage handling and lounge services. The milestone marks a further deepening of the partnership between Etihad Airways and Beijing Daxing International Airport in the aviation sector, opening a new chapter in aviation cooperation. Additionally, they will implement cargo development plans to boost cargo transportation efficiency and share information and collaborate on technology initiatives to improve operational efficiency. This cooperation will further strengthen Etihad Airways’ global influence, expand its route network, and enhance service levels, while providing new momentum in international aviation cooperation for Beijing Daxing International Airport, consolidating its position as a major aviation hub. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This MoU signifies more than just a cooperation between airline and airport; it marks a closer connection between the UAE and China. We look forward to promoting cultural exchanges and driving economic growth through this cooperation.” Mr. Kong Yue, Vice President, Beijing Daxing International Airport of Capital Airports Holdings, stated: “This cooperation will open a new chapter in the aviation sector between the Middle East and China. It is a model for promoting China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and also contributing to achieving Abu Dhabi’s 2030 Vision, further strengthening economic, trade, and cultural ties between the two countries.” Etihad was a member of …

Al Rais Travels owned Al Rais Rent A Car announced its latest strategic expansion by securing the master country franchise for U-Save Car & Truck Rental in the United Arab Emirates. The new partnership enhances Al Rais Rent A Car’s offerings and underscores its commitment to aligning with Dubai’s visionary economic and environmental goals. Established in 2002 as part of Al Rais Investment, Al Rais Rent A Car has distinguished itself in the UAE’s competitive car rental market. With its roots tracing back to the establishment of Al Rais Investment in 1976, the group has been at the forefront of various pivotal sectors such as general trade, travel and tourism, real estate, logistics, business services, and car rental. This rich history sets a robust foundation for Al Rais Rent A Car’s newest venture. U-Save Car & Truck Rental, a renowned American brand known for its comprehensive range of auto rental services, was acquired in 2022 by the environmentally-focused international car rental brand Green Motion. Al Rais Rent A Car has already been successfully operating as the master franchisee for Green Motion in the UAE since 2019. This addition of U-Save to its portfolio is expected to further enhance its market presence and appeal to a broader international customer base. Mohamed Jassim Al Rais, Chairman and CEO of Al Rais Investment, said: “Securing the U-Save master franchise aligns perfectly with our strategic vision to broaden our horizons while enhancing the mobility services we provide. “This partnership not only signifies growth but also reinforces our commitment to adopting sustainable practices that contribute positively to our community and the environment.” Richard Lowden, President of U-Save International, said: “We are thrilled to expand our …

At a special press briefing this morning, it was announced that Fiji Airways will now operate as a full partner at oneworld alliance ensuring seamless connectivity. Andre Viljoen, CEO and Managing Director Fiji Airways shared, “I’m extremely proud to announce our full membership in the award winning oneworld alliance. This is a significant step in our commitment to providing unparallel seamless connectivity.”

At the opening session of the special media briefing Kamil Alawadhi – Regional VP – Africa and Middle East shared that the Middle East passenger numbers will double reaching 530 million in 2043 and the traffic will grow at an average annual rate of 3.9% over the 2023 – 2043 period. He reiterated that the Middle East annual growth of 0/1% higher than global growth (3.8%). In his presentation he went on to also explain about blocked funds, harmonized regulations and safety and flight operations. In terms of the blocked funds – $1.8billion in blocked finds globally down from $2.3 billion in April 2023. $1.1 billion in AME down from $1.9 billion in April 2023.  

The Board of Directors of NEOM announced Jaumur, the largest cosmopolitan luxury community set on the coast of Gulf of Aqaba, designed to serve the highest standards of future livability and active lifestyle. Two distinctive destination hotels within Jaumur offer 350 luxurious rooms and suites, inviting guests to enjoy the breathtaking views and embrace all aspects of modern coastal hospitality and sporting activities.This new addition promises a unique blend of experiences on both land and sea, complementing NEOM’s evolving regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia. Jaumur is an exclusive residential community thoughtfully master planned around an inspiring marina for more than 6,000 residents. Embedded into the varied topography of the Gulf of Aqaba coast, it features 500 marina apartments and nearly 700 luxury villas, boasting waterfront access and private mooring. The marina serves as the focal point of the development, the beating heart around which the vibrant community of Jaumur thrives. A monumental 1.5-kilometer aerofoil rises above the largest of the yacht berths, providing year round protection for yacht owners and a haven for the marina’s residents and guests. The aerofoil incorporates a gravity-defying cantilever to form a stunning entrance to the marina, welcoming the world’s largest superyachts. The sculptural structure is a landmark that serves as the perfect base for all the marina attractions, for committed yachting enthusiasts and adventurers seeking personalized experiences. The marina promenade will be a place alive with entertainment, leisure and cultural experiences, hosting year-round arts events and performance programs, complemented by signature retail stores and world-class dining options. Jaumur’s commitment to innovation and learning is embodied in the development’s state-of-the-art deep-sea research center and top-tier international boarding school. The research institute is dedicated to …

Servantrip announced a global strategic partnership with Holidayme dedicated to empowering travel agents and service providers worldwide under the Traveazy Group. The partnership will provide Holidayme – which has 10,000+ travel agent clients in over 50 countries and is based in Dubai – with full access to Servantrip’s portfolio via an API connection. As such, the clients of Holidayme will have access to a portfolio of 100,000+ curated tours & activities experiences in the main destinations Holidayme is selling. In addition, users of Holidayme can gain access to the wider Servantrip portfolio of 700,000 exceptional experiences catering to diverse travelers. Meanwhile Servantrip’s many supplier partners benefit from strengthened distribution through Holidayme’s 10,000+ travel agencies, giving them access to incremental, hard-to-reach, real-time bookings. In addition, Holidayme’s travel agent clients gain a cross-selling opportunity through the functionality that Servantrip offers that allows users to make several bookings in the same reservation. Anand Srinivasan, Chief Business Officer, Holidayme said: “Our travel agents rely on us to deliver the finest and most exclusive products at competitive prices. After a thorough market evaluation, we found Servantrip to be the ideal partner. This collaboration ensures that our travel agents can access an unparalleled selection of tours and activities, enhancing the value and experience we offer to our clients.” Manuel Núñez, CEO at Servantrip added:  “We are hugely excited to be working with such a well-known brand that is so dedicated and passionate about giving its travel agent clients the best of everything. At Servantrip we understand the importance for frontline travel agents of having the right tours & activities products and how that in-destination part of the package can make or break a sale, whilst also making someone’s …