American Express Global Business Travel (“Amex GBT”) announced it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CWT  in a transaction that values CWT at approximately $570 million on a cash-free, debt-free basis, subject to certain assumptions and purchase price adjustments. The transaction will be funded by a combination of stock and cash and is expected to close in the second half of 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of certain regulatory approvals. CWT serves 4,000 customers and is expected to generate approximately $850 million of revenues and $70 million–$80 million of Adjusted EBITDA in 2024. Paul Abbott, Amex GBT’s CEO, said: “Bringing CWT onto the proven Amex GBT software and services model will create more choice for customers, more opportunities for people and more value for shareholders.” After the acquisition closes, CWT customers would have access to Amex GBT’s proprietary software and services for travel and expense, including Neo1, Neo and Egencia, in addition to Select, which enables customers to integrate with leading technology partners. Customers would have access to the broadest portfolio of professional services, including meetings and events, consulting and sustainability solutions and Amex GBT’s marketplace would provide access to the most comprehensive and competitive content in the industry. CWT CEO Patrick Andersen said: “Joining forces with Amex GBT helps accelerate our vision of a tech-enabled future for business travel, where people and technology combine to deliver an exceptional customer experience. We are highly confident in the value creation of the combined company.” Significant Shareholder Value Highly attractive valuation and financial return: Based on CWT estimated 2024 Adjusted EBITDA of $70 million–$80 million and $155 million of identified synergies, Amex GBT acquiring CWT for …

At the TravTalk ME International Women’s Day celebration, CEO Dar Alhai tourism Maitha Gobash delivered an insightful message to the audience of striving to achieve what you set your sights on.  She reiterated, ”as an avid traveller, I started my own business five years ago as I loved to travel around the world, although it was covid time, I managed to take many groups and travel to explore different destinations and provide unique experiences. There are different experiences by various ladies and families who have been travelling with me and its always a pleasure to create new and unique experiences according to the clientele.”  From her experience she shared that today travel has changed so much that the customers know what they want but yet they expect the agent to recommend unique experiences which will be memorable to them.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has marked a significant milestone in the development of the Sharaan Resort with the inaugural rock excavation for the much-anticipated project. With 38 custom suites carved into sandstone mountains, comprehensive wellness facilities, family-friendly amenities, diverse dining options, and unique panoramic views, the resort embodies tranquillity, luxury, and an immersive engagement with AlUla’s unparalleled beauty. The initial excavation symbolises the start of a mission that combines Jean Nouvel’s architectural innovation with Bouygues’ engineering expertise. This milestone is an important step forward in AlUla’s evolution into a premier destination for sustainable luxury tourism. Nestled within the ancient geological wonders of the Sharaan Nature Reserve, the Sharaan Resort will offer an experience unlike any other. RCU and its contractor partners have developed construction techniques that take the ancient Nabataean practice of creating spaces within rock, and then apply modern engineering methods to create habitable spaces that are more aligned to modern-day expectations. Part of the project’s uniqueness lies in having excavated areas one on top of the other. Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the AlUla Sustainability Charter, this project represents RCU’s dedication to pioneering sustainable development practices. It serves as a model for visionary planning, innovative construction techniques, and operational strategies designed to minimise environmental impact while enhancing the luxury tourism experience in north-west Arabia. Furthermore, the collaborative effort between RCU’s strategic direction and French expertise, particularly through the contributions of Jean Nouvel and Bouygues Construction, underscores the value of international cooperation in the sustainable development of AlUla. RCU’s commitment to this project underlines its resolve to safeguard AlUla’s natural beauty and historical importance for generations to come. It also cements RCU’s ambition to transform …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has extended the waiver of fees for issuing, distributing, and marketing event tickets in the emirate, to further encourage growth for the tourism sector. Event organisers will be exempt from paying the tourism fee of 10 per cent on tickets sold until 31 December 2024. His Excellency Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi’s year-round line-up of events consistently attracts visitors from around the globe. The extension of the tourism fee waiver until the end of the year is part of our efforts to accelerate our growth and provide continued support to our event partners and organisers, who are integral to the tourism and entertainment ecosystem of the emirate.” Event organisers must continue to obtain event licences through the Abu Dhabi Events Licensing System following specified regulations. Organisers are required to declare revenues generated from their events, submit supporting financial statements, and cooperate with revenue auditors or individuals designated by DCT Abu Dhabi to verify the accuracy of their declarations. The tourism tax waiver is among several recent measures aimed at fostering the expansion of the tourism and events industry in Abu Dhabi. Other incentives include the reduction of tourism and municipality fees for hotels in Abu Dhabi, as well as updates to the holiday homes policy. Within this policy, farmhouse owners can now acquire licences to convert their properties into holiday homes. Landlords and residential unit owners can obtain more than one holiday home license for multiple units.

SAUDIA signed an agreement with Tibah Airports to expand operational activities to and from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina. The agreement comes within Saudia’s efforts to enhance its operational capabilities, increase operational movement, and connect Medina with many capitals and cities worldwide, contributing to doubling the visitor rate, especially with the developmental and enriching projects taking place in Medina. This step aligns with Saudia’s ongoing transformation and expansion plan with many aircraft scheduled for delivery in the coming years. Furthermore, it underscores Saudia’s commitment to delivering best class services that elevate both ground and air travel experiences, in line with the latest advancements in the aviation sector. The agreement was signed by His Excellency the Director General of Saudia Group, Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, and the Chairman of Tibah Airports Operation Co, Dr. Ibrahim Alrajhi. His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar said: “This agreement is an extension of Saudia’s contributions and initiatives aimed at achieving the targets of Saudi Vision 2030, especially those related to hosting 30 million pilgrims by 2030. It also contributes to achieving the objectives of the Saudi Aviation Strategy to boost air connectivity to over 250 destinations. This agreement will help us expand on our services by providing greater air connectivity between Madinah and many destinations within and beyond Saudi Arabia.” Dr. Ibrahim Alrajhi stated, “We are delighted to welcome Saudia’s decision to expand its operation in Medina Airport. This strategic move will not only strengthen the airport’s position as a gateway to the holy city of Medina but also enhance the overall travel experience for pilgrims from around the world. The expansion of Saudia’s operations at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport will …

Discover and savor the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, where every dish tells a story of cultural heritage and innovation. Expect fresh seafood delights to bountiful tropical flavors, the Filipino cuisine offers an array of dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. The culinary landscape of the Philippines reflects diverse influences, shaped by its vibrant history. At the heart of Filipino cuisine is its ability to blend diverse flavors into harmonious culinary masterpieces. Think of contrasting tastes and textures served on a plate. Generations have passed down culinary traditions, resulting in the unique flavors found in authentic Filipino dishes that we enjoy today such as the hearty comfort of sinigang, the zesty tang of adobo, or the aromatic richness of the kare-kare. With over 7,000 islands, each region of the Philippines boasts its own culinary specialties, reflecting the unique ingredients and cultural influences of the area. In the northern region of Ilocos, diners indulge in the tangy flavors of pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew). In the Visayas, seafood takes center stage, with dishes like kinilaw (ceviche) and lechon (roast pig) drawing crowds of eager food enthusiasts. Meanwhile, in Mindanao, dishes like piyanggang (grilled chicken in coconut milk) and tiyula itum (black soup – braised beef or goat) showcase the region’s rich Muslim heritage. The country’s coastline treasures should not be missed. Delight in the freshness of grilled fish, succulent prawns, and mouthwatering squid dishes, each prepared with local herbs and spices to enhance their natural flavors. With the country’s numerous fishing communities and coastal towns, seafood is often caught and served on the same day, ensuring optimal flavor and quality. In Batangas, feast on tawilis, a type of freshwater sardine found only in Taal Lake, while in Cebu, savor the smoky flavors of …

At the recently concluded TravTalk ME’s celebration of International Women’s Day Mariam Farang – Vice President Corporate Communications – DAMAC started off her inspiring note with a quote  by the greatest Maya Angelou “Each time a woman stands up for herself without knowing it possibly without claiming it she stands up for all women.” She further reiterated the importance of building confidence and achieving your goals. “When I look at all the amazing names of speakers and guests attending the event I wanted to share something for these empowered women. My mother taught me strength, drive and resilience and that everyday is a new day and everyday you have a chance to renew yourself, you have a chance to start over even if you fall a thousand times a day you can still regain your strength overnight because the sun will always shine. So I have learnt a lot from her but mostly I have learnt to stand up for myself and like I always like to say if they don’t give you a seat at the table, then bring your own chair. As a woman in corporate and I’m sure that everyone in this room will agree with me that we have to fight not thrice but quadruple times as hard as other men, because sometimes we don’t know our worth, we don’t know our value, so if I’m going to leave you here today with something its that you must really know your value and your worth and don’t be afraid to have a voice, you should always have a voice no matter what, give your opinion even if they don’t ask for it, be assertive. If you don’t …

AlUla launched its first global campaign targeting travel trade and media partners in five major international cities -: Dubai, London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Mumbai, will kick start the “Forever Revitalising” campaign and tell a captivating story. The Forever Revitalising campaign encapsulates the essence of AlUla, presenting a refreshing and authentic perspective crafted to captivate travellers worldwide. With the ambition to be more than a traditional destination marketing campaign, the data-driven endeavour debuts across nine core global source markets in six languages, and will be integrated across multiple channels. Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer at Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), added, “In just a few years, AlUla has established itself as a destination on the global traveller’s wish list. However, Forever Revitalising marks the next chapter in this ever-evolving journey. Through this campaign, we can open up the dialogue even further on a global stage and communicate the full depth of AlUla’s appeal, attributes and ambition. The best is yet to come, and we extend an open invitation for all to be part of this extraordinary journey.” Melanie de Souza, Executive Director, Destination Marketing at RCU, commented, “Forever Revitalising is not only about driving global awareness of a destination that till recently was relatively unknown to most travellers, but it is also about communicating the breadth and depth of the programmes and initiatives designed to create a better future for all those who live, work and visit our ancient oasis.” “We hope that the film and creative assets do justice to a truly unique destination, capturing the essence of AlUla across our rich heritage, vibrant arts and culture, breath-taking natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and rejuvenating wellness experiences. This campaign …

Emirates has signed MoUs with Icelandair and travel technology and ticketing specialist GO7 to develop deeper commercial cooperation. The move comes as the airlines look to leverage each other’s networks, in addition to using modern tools for more efficient combined air and rail ticket connections. Both the MoUs will set the framework to establish potential codeshare cooperations across the networks of each respective airline in addition to expanding intermodal programmes offered by virtual interlines across the Emirates network. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline said: “We are pleased to deepen our partnerships with Icelandair and GO7. Their networks and intermodal capabilities complement our European presence, providing an array of connections for our customers to simplify their journeys. Together, we will open up new travel opportunities, and more choice for customers wishing to travel across Europe. We believe that these partnerships will bring real benefits to our customers and business, and we’re taking positive steps towards further strengthening our relationships in the future.” GO7 Emirates has partnered with travel technology and ticketing specialist GO7 to work on a holistic airline distribution approach, enabling Emirates to offer combined interline and rail tickets to worldwide destinations through Emirates’ direct and indirect channels, outside of the traditional booking ecosystem. Peer Winter, Chief Distribution Officer, GO7 said: We’re committed to providing airlines with innovative technology-led solutions that give them more control. We are delighted to sign this MoU with Emirates, building upon our successful history together. With Emirates already offering multimodal network connections through the GDS, including Rail & Fly via W2 by GO7, our new agreement takes it further. This partnership will provide a holistic approach to Airline Distribution for Emirates, …

Virgin Limited Edition is to open six brand new Riads at Sir Richard Branson’s magical Moroccan retreat, Kasbah Tamadot, from 1 July 2024. Furthermore, the hotel, synonymous for its incredible Berber hospitality, will re-open in its entirety on 15th October 2024, following a period of partial closure and restorations in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that occurred in the region last year. Riad and hotel bookings are now open for the award-winning Kasbah Tamadot, meaning ‘soft breeze’ in Berber, nestled in the Atlas Mountains, with stunning views over the majestic Mount Toubkal. Newly designed image renderings offer a sneak peak of the six new expansive three-bedroom Riads – featuring one further bedroom than originally planned – that can sleep up to 10 guests. Each bedroom has its own private bathroom, lounge area and terrace, with the latest unique addition – a showstopping Rooftop Tented Suite – comprising of two seamlessly connected tents and also featuring a hot tub on the spacious roof terrace, in a spectacular and modern take on a traditional Riad rooftop. Each Riad will also provide guests with their own private pool area, with all the luxuries and renowned-Berber hospitality of the main hotel equally available on their doorstep. Individually decorated in traditional Moroccan style, the interiors will feature soft-furnishings hand-made by artisans from the local Berber community supported by Kasbah Tamadot’s charitable arm, The Eve Branson Foundation. The Riad rooms and suites are available to book both individually and collectively, by booking an entire Riad for exclusive use and will make a welcome addition for families or groups looking for privacy, with all the benefits of staying at one of Morocco’s most authentic hotels – …