Tag Archives: 2025

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has partnered with Le Cordon Bleu to open the first-ever Le Cordon Bleu Institute in the UAE on the emirate’s Saadiyat Island. Launching in the first quarter of 2025, Le Cordon Bleu Abu Dhabi is set to elevate the epicurean scene in the region and position Abu Dhabi as a centre for culinary talent, innovation, and development. Situated in the heart of Aldar Properties’ The Grove, the state-of-the-art Saadiyat Island campus will attract local and international students aspiring to refine their skills and broaden their horizons within one of the world’s most revered institutions. Notably, Le Cordon Bleu Abu Dhabi will be developing Le Cordon Bleu specialisations in two pioneering fields – maritime sustainability and food security. His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “At DCT Abu Dhabi, we pursue excellence across all our activities by collaborating with world-leading organisations and top talent. This collaboration with the globally renowned Le Cordon Bleu will enable us to redefine culinary education in the region, nurturing creative talent while shaping the future of food to advance the emirate’s status as a hub of diverse gastronomic experiences.” The announcement comes following the launch earlier this year of the AED 360 million Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund, which will introduce leading brands to the UAE capital over five years and accelerate Abu Dhabi’s development as a rapidly growing gastronomical hub. André J. Cointreau, President of Le Cordon Bleu, commented: “Founded in 1895 in Paris, Le Cordon Bleu is recognised worldwide for its excellence in education, with programmes ranging from diploma level up to Bachelor’s, Master’s …

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is to host its 26th General Assembly, taking place in 2025. The news follows the recent hosting of the United Nations Environment Program’s (UNEP’s) MENA Climate Week, held in Riyadh in October 2023. The UNWTO announcement was made during the participation of HE Ahmed Al-Khatib, Minister of Tourism, at the 25th General Assembly, held in the city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from October 16-20, 2023. As a distinguished member of the General Assembly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plays a significant role on the international stage, and will now prepare for its next meeting in 2025. The General Assembly is the governing body of the UNWTO, established in 1975, and featuring representatives from 159 Member States, alongside private sector representatives and non-governmental organizations. HE Ahmed Al-Khatib, Minister of Tourism, said: “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince, may God protect them, for their unwavering support of the Kingdom’s tourism sector. Our hosting of the 26th General Assembly underscores our commitment to lead global tourism towards a brighter and more collaborative future. It also highlights our significant achievements in the Executive Council, which the Kingdom assumed leadership of in 2023.” The hosting of the 26th General Assembly in 2025 will be a momentous celebration, supported by various activities aimed at raising awareness of tourism’s role in promoting sustainable development and global peace. The event will provide an opportunity for the Kingdom to showcase its unparalleled tourism and cultural developments, and bolster international cooperation in this vital sector. The Kingdom’s selection as host is a testament …

One of the key outbound destinations for Middle East travellers, Thailand held its press conference at the opening of Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. Speaking to media, Yuthasak Supasorn – TAT Governor reiterated, that responsible tourism and sustainability in tourism will be the main direction in the future. “Earlier this year, Thailand Tourism announced 17 sustainable tourism goals divided into four main categories to be incorporated and serviced over the year and beyond. From sustainable development goals it goes on to sustainable tourism goals, which focus on awareness, education and accessibility, the second main criteria is the socio-economic way in which the inclusivity and development of local sourcing to waste management play a key role. Thirdly the aspect of developing cultural strategies such as promoting sustainable destinations and local communities and the last segment which is the impact of environment a key factor in supporting tourism climate action and promoting land tourism ecosystems. The growing interest of the Middle East market in sustainable travel, shopping, health and wellness activities, we wish to deliver fresh travel experiences through Thailand soft power 5F: Food, Fight, Fashion, Film, and Festival, while highlighting Thailand’s strength in nature, and Thainess. TAT aims to create a meaningful travel experience that will not only be meaningful for travelers, but also for the local communities and the environment. In terms of the ATM exhibitors, we will have a total of 46 exhibitors from Thailand participating in the event.” He further shared the visitor numbers from the region, “In 2022, Thailand welcomed approximately 314,882 Middle East visitors, with nearly 100,000 visitors from Saudi Arabia, and around 66,000 visitors from the UAE. Visitors from the Gulf countries have a high average length …

Kinan International and Elaf Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a management agreement in addition to supervising the preparation of designs for the construction of the hotel within the Aliat Mall project in Medina for 15 years. The mall also includes an area of modern retail stores, restaurants and a cinema, in addition to the hotel. The key goals of the MoU between Elaf Group and Kinan International Real Estate Development Company includes overseeing the implementation of 230 rooms and suites in line with the highest standards set out by the Ministry of Tourism, as well as demands of the visitors of Medina, with an investment of more than 220 million Saudi Riyals. The project is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of 2025. Eng. Jamjoom, said: “We are delighted to partner with Elaf Group, a prominent company in the hospitality and tourism sector of Saudi Arabia. We anticipate the MoU with Elaf Group to significantly contribute to the national strategies of enhancing the standards of living by boosting the quality of hospitality services offered to pilgrims and Umrah performers, which will further give them the opportunity to enjoy the one-of-its-kind Saudi Arabian hospitality. The new project will feature unique and remarkable architecture in Medina. It is expected to be a vital addition to the tourism and hospitality sector of the Kingdom, as it expects to witness massive growth. Our MoU with Elaf Group will contribute to this growth, by providing exceptional services to pilgrims and visitors through this new hotel.” Dr. Ezzat, said: “We are happy to sign this MoU with Kinan International Real Estate Development Company. In line with the MoU, we seek to …

VistaJet, the first and only global business aviation company, continues to push forward with its plan for more sustainable aviation solutions and announces an agreement with AEG Fuels to purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced by OMV at Vienna International Airport. Leading the industry by integrating a series of environmental initiatives throughout its operations, the agreement accelerates VistaJet’s journey to carbon neutrality by 2025. VistaJet’s commitment to replace over 200,000 USG of conventional jet fuel consumption with a blended SAF is expected to generate over 165,000 kg of CO2 reduction — an 80% emissions improvement over the lifecycle of the fuel compared to conventional jet fuel. This SAF is produced in compliance with the EU Renewable Energy Directive (EU RED). Thomas Flohr, Founder and Chairman, VistaJet said: “Together as an industry we can reshape the way we conduct business. At VistaJet, we are very proud of the progress we have made and we hope that others will adopt our recommendations. Businesses are rightfully being held accountable for their environmental impact and our agreement with AEG Fuels not only helps in reducing GHG emissions, but goes hand in hand with our ongoing efforts to practice higher sustainability to protect the local communities in the countries we operate, spanning 96% of the world.” Stephen J. Leonard, Vice President of Global Supply, AEG Fuels said: “Business and corporate jet operators are going to be key stakeholders in aviation’s decarbonization plans as we work to achieve net-zero. We’re very excited to support VistaJet’s efforts to push our industry forward and provide a framework for future SAF agreements. Their individual efforts are supporting critical investments in sustainable solutions for producers and consumers in the space.” …

Hyatt announces continued global growth of it’s luxury brand portfolio with a robust pipeline of highly anticipated openings over the next three years across Europe, Africa and the Middle East (EAME). The 13 hotels set to join Hyatt’s esteemed brands including Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Thompson Hotels, Miraval Resorts & Spas, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt will debut in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations including the U.K., Spain, South Africa, Austria, Finland and more. By 2026, these hotels will increase Hyatt’s luxury brand footprint in EAME by over 30% in key growth markets that matter most to guests, World of Hyatt loyalty program members, customers and owners. As leisure travel continues to drive recovery in many parts of the world, Hyatt remains committed to catering to high-end travelers to meet the rising demand for luxury travel experiences. Following a strong year of luxury hotel openings in 2022, including La Zambra, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in Costa Del Sol, 7Pines Resort Sardinia, part of the Destination by Hyatt portfolio, and the debut of the Thompson Hotels brand in Spain with Thompson Madrid, Hyatt’s luxury inventory currently accounts for approximately 25% of Hyatt’s distribution in EAME. Hyatt’s anticipated openings through 2025 signal its commitment to creating more story-worthy experiences and unforgettable stays that exceed the expectations of the luxury traveler. “Hyatt’s heritage is luxury; it is in our DNA. Our luxury brands across Europe, Africa and the Middle East set a global benchmark for delivering personalized and engaged service, and world-class offerings that cater to the high-end traveller,” said Javier Águila, Group President, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Hyatt. “The global luxury travel …

Marriott International, Inc. announced plans to debut the Fairfield by Marriott brand in Europe and the Middle East by 2025 in Middle East and late 2023 in Europe. Fairfield is the second largest brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, with a global footprint of more than 1,230 open hotels. Fairfield by Marriott Makkah Al Naseem, Saudi Arabia – Expected to open Q1 2025; located in the Al Naseem district and set to rise in five towers, the 2,600-guestroom Fairfield by Marriott Makkah Al Naseem will be a fantastic property for those looking to visit cultural sites, such as Mina, Muzdalifa, Al Jamarat Bridge and Arafat. Makkah is known as the birthplace of the prophet Mohammed and is considered Islam’s holiest city. Situated in Makkah city centre, the hotel will provide a convenient base for those visiting on pilgrimage or business. Fairfield by Marriott Makkah Ibrahim Al Khalil Road, Saudi Arabia – Expected to open Q4 2025;  set to be the second Fairfield property in Makkah, the Fairfield by Marriott Makkah Ibrahim Al Khalil Road will look to offer guests a prime location just walking distance of the Grand Mosque. Every year, more than two million people visit Makkah for Hajj, the pilgrimage to Kaaba and with 1,376 expected guestrooms outlined in the design plans, the hotel will be the perfect destination for those visiting. From its innovative design to adapting each property to be locally relevant and its ability to cater to the needs for today’s traveller, Fairfield by Marriott is expected to see continued owner demand. Fairfield celebrates the beauty of simplicity with an effortless hotel experience focused on bringing value, productivity, and a great …