Tag Archives: Abu Dhabi

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced the expansion of its network with the launch of a new service between Zayed International Airport and Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport. Commencing on June 1st, 2025, the new route will operate 6 times a week, offering passengers seamless travel options to explore the rich cultural heritage of Armenia’s capital city. Schedule of flights, effective June 1st, 2025 (all times local), as follows: On Mondays and Wednesdays, flight 3L 441 will depart from Abu Dhabi at 14:05, arriving in Yerevan at 17:25. The return flight, 3L 442, will depart Yerevan at 18:15, landing in Abu Dhabi at 21:25. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, flight 3L 441 will depart Abu Dhabi at 09:00, reaching Yerevan at 12:20. The return flight 3L 442 will depart Yerevan at 13:10, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 16:20. All flights will be operated using the Airbus A320 aircraft. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “The launch of our new service to Yerevan underscores Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting the growth of the UAE capital’s travel and tourism sector. We remain dedicated to expanding our network with key international destinations directly from Abu Dhabi, while providing our customers with affordable and value-driven travel options” The new route to Yerevan marks the 29th destination in Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s growing network from Zayed International Airport, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and convenient travel solutions. The carrier currently serves key destinations directly from the capital Abu Dhabi including Ahmedabad, Alexandria, Amman, Baghdad, Bahrain, Baku, Beirut, Cairo, Chittagong, Chennai, Colombo, Dhaka, Faisalabad, Kathmandu, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Kuwait, Moscow, Multan, Muscat, Salalah, Sabiha, Tashkent, Tbilisi, Thiruvananthapuram, Trabzon …

The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) announced that its 19th annual conference will take place in Abu Dhabi  18-21 November 2025, at the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This milestone event is being held through a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Gate (ADIG) and Shura Global Consultancy (SGC) and with support from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. Bringing together government leaders and industry visionaries, the 2025 Global Wellness Summit will solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a prominent global wellness hub, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. This year’s Summit will introduce new platforms for collaboration and investment, and transformative ideas that will shape the future of the wellness economy worldwide. The Middle East’s wellness economy has been one of the recent global growth leaders, with the UAE playing a pivotal role as the largest market in the region. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the UAE’s wellness economy reached $34 billion in 2023, contributing approximately 5.5% to the national GDP and affirming its leading and collaborative role in the global wellness industry. “We’re thrilled to partner with Abu Dhabi Investment Gate and Shura Global Consultancy to bring this prestigious event to the UAE,” said Susie Ellis, chair and CEO of GWS. “Abu Dhabi is a natural choice to host our most ambitious Summit to date, and we look forward to giving delegates the opportunity to experience the rich landscape of the UAE, a country that has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty, pioneering preventative health and wellness solutions, and new luxury destinations.” The region’s momentum in wellness is so eye-opening that the GWS named “The Middle East’s Wellness Ambitions” as one …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is partnering with ITAKA, Poland’s largest tour operator, to host its Top Sellers Conference 2025. Announced at ITB Berlin, the world’s largest tourism trade fair, the partnership will foster deeper connections with travel trade professionals and increase awareness of the emirate of Abu Dhabi in the Polish market.Bringing together over 200 travel trade professionals from Poland, the conference will be hosted in Al Ain, the emirate’s “living oasis”, home to the UAE’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and a growing culture, wellness and adventure destination, recently selected as the Gulf Capital of Tourism for 2025. The programme will highlight Abu Dhabi’s range of itineraries and travel packages for both summer and winter, and attendees will also be able to participate in expert-led training sessions. Following the two-day event, the trade professionals will then embark on curated site visits and tours in Abu Dhabi City from 13 to 17 April, experiencing its leading cultural institutions and heritage sites, world-class hospitality infrastructure, and unique attractions firsthand. H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Welcoming ITAKA’s Top Sellers Conference to Abu Dhabi underscores our commitment to fostering strong ties with Poland’s travel trade community. Poland offers tremendous potential and this partnership highlights the unique blend of world-class experiences, cultural heritage, and warm Emirati hospitality that define Abu Dhabi as a destination. By offering leading travel professionals firsthand experience of Abu Dhabi, we strengthen their connection with the destination, inspiring more Polish travellers to explore diverse attractions and rich experiences.” Mariusz Janczuk, President of ITAKA, said: “It is extremely satisfying that ITAKA is working so …

Etihad Airways announced that its legendary A380 will serve the Abu Dhabi – Toronto route in time for Summer 2025. The famous double-decker will start flying between Zayed Abu Dhabi International (AUH) and Toronto Pearson International (YYZ) on June 24, 2025, perfectly timed for the busy summer travel period and key corporate market. It means the world’s only three-room suite in the sky, serving up the legendary flying experience, is on the way to the land of the maple leaf. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: “We’re delighted to start flying our remarkable A380 to Canada, and we know our guests love the onboard experience. Whether they are flying in Economy, Business, First or the three-room suite in the sky, The Residence, they will relish the attentive service from our dedicated crew. The timing and comfort provided by the A380 means they can arrive in Toronto fresh and ready for anything. “Deploying the A380 on the popular Toronto route is a strategic move to meet customer demand for increased capacity while expanding our network. Given Toronto’s popularity among Etihad’s customers, enhancing our capacity in the Canadian market is a logical step. This will strengthen connections to the broader GCC and Indian subcontinent and attract more visitors to experience the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi.” The increase in capacity on the Toronto route gives more opportunity for guests to visit Abu Dhabi, either as a stopover or a destination. Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Stopover programme further enhances connectivity, enabling travellers to extend their layovers into memorable stays with up to two complimentary nights at premium hotels in Abu Dhabi. To celebrate the launch of the A380, Etihad is launching a …

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi will officially open its doors to the public in Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi on 18 April 2025, announced by the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, and art collective teamLab. The 17,000 sqm multi-sensory art experience is operated by Miral Experiences, a subsidiary of Miral, and will include massive transformative exhibits that take guests on a sensory-rich journey that transcends the ordinary. The exhibits engage sight, sound, and touch, encouraging guests to expand the way they feel, connect and interact with the world around them. Sitting at the intersection of art, science, and technology, the artworks do not exist independently—the environment creates various phenomena that become the artwork, offering a dynamic, ever-evolving guest experience, and ensuring that no two visits will be the same. HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Saadiyat Cultural District is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving heritage while embracing a forward-looking vision. The District will convey a message of cultural diversity that will become more powerful over time, creating global connections, inspiring cultural exchange, and fostering new ways of thinking to support the region, the global South and the world. We believe in the diversity of artistic expression and teamLab is the perfect partner to provide immersive art experiences that push the boundaries of art and technology. Together, we are redefining what is possible expanding our horizons and forging deeper connections in ways never seen before.” HE added: “Once opened, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi will offer an immersive journey that sparks infinite curiosity and imagination in all who visit. At …

The National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCT&H)  announced the strategic expansion of its luxury hospitality portfolio through the addition of four world-class properties. The newly integrated properties include two of Abu Dhabi’s most distinguished luxury resorts—The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa—as well as two internationally renowned destinations: Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives and the newly opened Cheval Blanc Seychelles. These additions expand NCT&H’s portfolio, increasing its capacity to nearly 1,500 rooms and strengthening its presence in the ultra-luxury segment. This significant development strengthens NCT&H’s position as a leader in the domestic and international luxury hospitality sector and reaffirms its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to guests. H.E. Tareq Abdulraheem Al Hosani, Chairman of the Board – NCT&H, commented: “The integration of these prestigious assets marks a transformative chapter for NCT&H, positioning us as a key player in the global luxury hospitality market. Our expanded portfolio allows us to offer unparalleled guest experiences while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier destination for high-end tourism.” This transaction was made possible through a strategic partnership with Alpha Dhabi Holding, which acquired a controlling stake of 73.73% in NCT&H. This investment further strengthens NCT&H’s ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the luxury hospitality sector and reinforces Alpha Dhabi’s commitment to driving impactful growth in high-potential markets. With a legacy of excellence in hotel ownership, management, and operations, NCT&H continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality industry. The newly acquired properties complement NCT&H’s existing luxury assets, which include InterContinental Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Ain Resort, Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, and Dhafra …

Etihad Airways announce the launch of flights to Sochi, the gateway to the north-east coast of the Black Sea. The route debuts this summer, providing guests with nonstop access to the Krasnodar Krai region, home to stunning summer beaches and lush mountains, as well as winter skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Caucasus Mountains, made famous by the 2014 Winter Olympics. Etihad will fly three-times a week* between Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Sochi International Airport (AER), timed to optimise a leisure break in summer or winter. The Russian Riviera resort offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural history and will become a popular choice for guests seeking relaxation and adventure. This new route further underlines Etihad’s commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and expanding access to exciting new markets. The flights are on sale now and will operate three-times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays using one of the airline’s modern A320 family aircraft, with eight seats in Business and 150 in Economy, and all guests enjoying Etihad’s award-winning service onboard. The announcement is the latest new route unveiled by Etihad and is the fourteenth new destination the airline will add to its thriving network this year. Etihad will also commence flights to metropolises including Atlanta, Hanoi, Hong Kong and Taipei, as well as to the European capitals of Prague and Warsaw. Expanding its network across north Africa, Etihad will begin flying to Algiers, Tunis and Al Alamein. Additionally, Etihad will bolster its network across Southeast Asia, with new connections directly to stunning holiday locations including Chiang Mai and Krabi in Thailand, Medan on the island of Sumatra and the cultural city of Phnom Penh. …

Royal M Hotel By Gewan Abu Dhabi won the title ‘Best Business & Leisure Hotel, UAE’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Winning the Arabian Travel Awards is an incredible honour and a proud moment for everyone at Gewan Hotels & Resorts. It is a testament to our team’s hard work, passion, and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. This recognition fuels our confidence and inspires us to aim even higher, constantly innovating to delight those who choose us. It is also a moment to reflect, grow, and push the boundaries of excellence.” -Ahmed Hassib, CEO, Gewan Hotels & Resorts

Strengthening its position as a global leader in smart technologies and innovation, Dubai and Abu Dhabi announced a high-speed train project between the two emirates. The project will enable seamless connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, significantly reducing travel times. It will also enhance the quality of life for citizens, residents and visitors while strengthening socioeconomic ties between the two emirates. Additionally, the high-speed train will reinforce infrastructure to drive business growth and unlock new investment opportunities across key sectors such as logistics and tourism, contributing to sustainable development for generations to come. The project further strengthens the UAE’s position as a global leader in smart transportation. By integrating cutting-edge and innovative technologies, the project elevates the nation’s transport infrastructure, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship, while contributing significantly to achieving the objectives of the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, have witnessed the announcement of a new high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in an official ceremony organised by Etihad Rail at Al Faya Depot. H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised that this ambitious project reflects the UAE leadership’s vision to advance national infrastructure and elevate mobility services to the highest standards. He also underscored that the high-speed train aims to bolster the UAE’s global competitiveness, support sustainable …

The eighth edition of MOTN Festival(Mother of Nation Festival) wrapped up its largest season, with more than 259,000 visitors attending across Al Dhafra, Al Ain, and Abu Dhabi Corniche over the past one month. This year’s MOTN Festival, held under the theme Out of This World, featured various rides, engaging entertainment, diverse culinary cuisines and family-friendly games. The 31-day festival offered more than 350 experiences for its visitors. The eight edition of the MOTN featured the Out of This World Museum that aimed to provide young visitors an immersive journey through carefully curated and artistically designed rooms. The festival also included a Giant Ferris Wheel, a video game-inspired Five Nights at Freddy’s maze and the Space Flight wind tunnel. The festival also featured the MOTN Theatre, the MOTN Basketball Hub, the Ninja Kidz Action Park, Skill Games, a Community Stage, a DJ Booth, a Space Park, and arts and crafts stations. The festival showcased a diverse array of innovative and award-winning international and homegrown food concepts, with more than 30 vendors across Al Dhafra, Al Ain, and Abu Dhabi Corniche. Regional artists also performed at this year’s festival, including Hamad Al Ameri; Asaad Al Bathari; Balqees; Eida Al Menhali; Harbi Al Ameri; Oumaima Taleb; Ayed Youssef; Muslim; Siilawy; A5RASS; and Mohammad Hamaki, who closed the year with a New Year’s Eve concert.