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 – …

Riyadh Air announced it has joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative that promotes responsible business practices and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In a letter to António Guterres UN Secretary General, Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas officially committed Riyadh Air to implementing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. As active participants of the UNGC, Riyadh Air will adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies in areas such as human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption and report on progress on these efforts regularly. As part of its aim to support the advancement of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) working alongside partners and stakeholders to drive progress towards these goals by 2030. Riyadh Air will also publish its first Sustainability Report in advance of its maiden in mid-2025. Tony Douglas CEO Riyadh Air said, At Riyadh Air, we are conscious of our environmental impact and committed to actively contributing to the Kingdom’s sustainability goals, adopting world-class practices and leading our industry in integrating ESG into every area of our business. Our modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and GeNX 1B engine are widely acknowledged for their improved environmental impact considerations, and more broadly ESG strategies are front and center to every aspect of how Riyadh Air operates. We pledge to take no shortcuts and sustainability will run throughout the airline, from flight and ground operations to the office culture, to transportation and even to Riyadh Air employees at home. As a start-up airline this a golden opportunity to do the right thing in the right way, from Day 1 continued Douglas. Launched in July 2000 the UNGC is a voluntary UN agreement …

NEOM’s Board of Directors unveiled Treyam, a premier 250-room luxury resort positioned where the spectacular desert landscape meets the sea. Boasting an audacious design with minimal land intervention, Treyam offers guests an elevated haven in which to unwind, re-energize and enjoy majestic natural surroundings. The resort is the latest addition to NEOM, the evolving regional development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia. Strategically located across the opening of one of the most beautiful, azure lagoons at the southern end of the Gulf of Aqaba, Treyam stands as a luxury gateway inviting guests to experiment with active lifestyles. Its striking bridge-like architecture connects the northern and southern shores, hosting a 250-room luxury resort. The innovative façade of the bridge creates a sunset-like illusion from a distance. Its upper and lower floors offer panoramic views of the tidal lagoon below and vast skies above, merging into the landscape whilst maintaining the natural integrity of the shoreline. The visual splendor of Treyam extends further, with a 450-meter-long rooftop infinity pool. From this elevated vantage point 36 meters above the sea, guests are treated to an awe-inspiring experience, seemingly floating, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the lagoon, the vibrant corals and the tranquil, uninterrupted waters extending to the horizon. Treyam is designed for adventure and endeavor. The resort boasts a variety of exhilarating pursuits, such as sailing, diving and other water sports, along a range of exciting land-based activities. Guests will also enjoy extensive technology-enhanced health and wellness offerings and fitness amenities, alongside luxury spa treatments accompanied by a selection of epicurean cuisines and fine dining options. Treyam’s fusion of futuristic architecture with the region’s natural beauty delivers an unparalleled visitor experience, just …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral announced 65% completion of the overall development of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. Located within Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum is set to be the largest of its kind in the region, once construction is completed by the end of 2025. Upon completion, the museum will take visitors on a 13.8-billion-year journey through time and space – from the earliest origins of our universe, exploring the abundance of life on Earth today, and looking into the future. Structural works of the 35,000 sqm museum is largely complete with a current focus on the installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), building fit-out, and exhibition works. The museum was topped out by H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi and Miral, H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi and Mohamed Abdallah Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, which was followed by a visit of the development to check construction progress. H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will play a key role in advancing science and inspiring environmental stewardship in our children while furthering Abu Dhabi as a global centre for research and collaboration. By cultivating a generation passionate about the natural sciences, we seek to enrich lives through education and scientific discovery, in turn encouraging people to actively care for the planet’s future. Set to inspire visitors of all ages by unlocking billions of years of knowledge about our planet, this progress update is an indication of concrete steps towards curating a thought-provoking …

With an impressive 15% increase in overnight stays from GCC travellers in 2023, totalling 1,297,256, Germany reinforces its position as a premier global destination. The fourth quarter of 2023 alone showcased a remarkable resurgence to near pre-pandemic activity levels, with 263,985 overnight stays, mirroring 97.44% of the figures from 2019. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) announced a stellar performance for Destination Germany, reflecting a robust recovery trajectory and heightened appeal among travellers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.  2023’s success builds on the momentum from 2022, when GCC visitors to Germany more than doubled, underscoring the region’s growing fascination with Germany’s cultural and sustainable tourism offerings. Germany’s rich calendar of events, including the eagerly anticipated European Championship 2024 from June 14 to July 14, promises to further elevate its status as a premier cultural travel destination. The championship, along with more than 300 cultural events themed around football, exemplifies Germany’s innovative approach to blending sports, culture, and sustainability, aiming to attract even more international visitors in the current year. Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office – GNTO GCC, shares her optimism: “Our 2023 performance is a testament to Germany’s magnetic appeal and our steadfast commitment to hospitality. Our growth from the GCC region, our third-largest overseas market, highlights the multifaceted appeal of Germany. “Germany’s allure for travellers from GCC is multifaceted, offering an enriching blend of stunning natural scenery, exclusive shopping experiences, and dynamic urban environments. This diversity not only underscores Germany’s universal appeal but also speaks volumes of our commitment to hospitality and inclusiveness.” Building on the momentum of the previous year’s remarkable performance, GNTO is eager to advance its sustainable tourism initiatives under …

According to research by Oxford Economics, outbound travel from China is estimated to almost double this year, compared with 2023 and will only be 22% below its peak pre-pandemic numbers of 155 million tourists in 2019, who spent over $250 billion overseas. Full recovery is expected to materialise in 2025, with the Middle East being the first region globally to recover its Chinese inbound market. Underscoring that prediction, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 6-9 May, is set to welcome twice the number of Chinese exhibitors and travel professionals, compared with its 2019 show. China lifted its covid-related travel restrictions on 8th January 2023, allowing Chinese tourists to travel abroad, without having to quarantine upon their return. Bookings for overseas travel during Chinese New Year, soared by 540% compared with the same period in 2022, according to data from the Chinese travel site Trip.com. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market commented, “Last year, some analysts were predicting that the Chinese outbound market would recover to around six million per month by the summer of 2023, driven in part by the pent-up demand especially from young, affluent Chinese. “However, that rebound wasn’t as great as many tourism professionals had hoped for and now analysts are confident that this year, we could see Chinese visitor numbers double year-on-year, with major destinations in the Middle East recovering quicker than any other internationally, especially for luxury travel. “That sentiment has also been borne out by the latest spending data for the 2024 Chinese New Year. According to Chinese payment platform Alipay, the number of Chinese overseas transactions were 7% higher than those recorded in 2019. …

Dubai Holding announced that it has partnered with leading global lifestyle and leisure hospitality company Ennismore to introduce its iconic Delano brand to the UAE. Opening later this year at the waterfront destination Bluewaters Dubai, Delano Dubai will be a luxurious destination marked by attention to detail, craftsmanship and personalised experiences. The launch of Delano Dubai forms part of a landmark agreement signed between Dubai Holding and Ennismore in 2023 to introduce a unique luxury lifestyle experience in Dubai, and follows the opening of Banyan Tree Dubai at Bluewaters Dubai late last year. Amit Kaushal, Group Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Holding, said: “The launch of Delano Dubai underscores our commitment to setting new standards of excellence in luxury hospitality and strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading international tourism hub. Together with the recent opening of Banyan Tree Dubai, we are proud to mark another milestone in the evolution of Bluewaters Dubai as a luxury lifestyle destination. Our collaboration with market leaders like Ennismore and Banyan Group will continue to focus on welcoming new brands to Dubai and further enrich the city’s vibrant hospitality landscape.” Delano Dubai will feature 251 guestrooms, including 84 suites, some with private pools, exceptional culinary and mixology experiences, an ocean-front swimming pool, and ultimate discretion on a secluded corner of this island retreat. Guests will be able to discover four distinctive food and beverage concepts, including a collaboration with Paris Society for a unique restaurant and pool club, a patisserie, and a Levantine-inspired destination restaurant. Sharan Pasricha, Founder & Co-CEO, and, Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO of Ennismore, said: “When Delano launched in Miami in 1995, it traded traditional, gilded luxury for something far more modern and understated, …